Ko Samui: a guide to local bars

Ko Samui: a guide to local bars

April 11, 2025

Ko Samui, a tropical paradise on the Gulf of Thailand, is not just about beautiful beaches and azure waters. It's also a vibrant bar scene that attracts tourists from all over the world. In this guide, we'll take you on a tour of the island's best bars, where you can enjoy delicious cocktails, enjoy the unique atmosphere and learn about the local culture. From upscale hotel bars to cozy pubs, Ko Samui has something to offer for every lover of a good drink and an unforgettable experience.

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Exclusive Ko Samui cocktail bars

Start our journey with the most sophisticated cocktail bars on the island. Bar Bohem is the place that sets the standard for cocktail preparation on Ko Samui. Located in the heart of the island, it offers not only delicious drinks, but also an unforgettable atmosphere. The bartenders at Bar Bohem are true artists who create cocktails beyond all imagination. Each drink is a symphony of flavors and precision. Cocktail prices hover around $10, which, considering the quality, is a very attractive deal. The bar exudes an atmosphere of discreet elegance and refined decadence, making it the perfect place for a night out.

Another must-visit spot is Suvarn Bar, located at Chaweng Garden beach Resort. It's a bar that brings the atmosphere of a big city to a tropical island. Suvarn Bar is famous for its wide selection of whiskey, tequila, gin and rum. All cocktails are prepared with extreme care by experienced bartenders. The atmosphere is inviting and comfortable, with quieter music compared to other bars in the area, making it an ideal place for relaxation and casual conversation. Prices are a bit higher than average, but the quality of drinks, service and cozy atmosphere fully compensate for this.

For those looking for something truly special, we recommend a visit to Woobar. This upscale bar offers unforgettable views of the sunset and the beach. Cocktails at Woobar are true works of art - from expertly prepared classic drinks to original compositions. Prices are higher than in other bars on the island, but this is ensured by high-quality drinks, service and a unique atmosphere. Woobar also organizes fire shows that add magic to evening gatherings.

LANAI Bar & Lounge is another gem among Ko Samui's exclusive bars. Located on the second floor of the luxury hotel, it offers a spectacular view of the pool and ocean. The bar is famous for its original cocktails, which guests can prepare themselves in a shaker. The atmosphere is relaxed, with good music and atmospheric lighting. LANAI Bar & Lounge is the perfect place for a quiet evening with a drink in hand and a breathtaking view.

Local bars with character

If you are looking for a more authentic experience, Ko Samui offers a number of bars with a unique local flair. One such place is Bear Cocktails, located on Lamai Beach. This unassuming bar is famous for its strong and delicious cocktails, prepared by the owner nicknamed 'Bear'. The atmosphere here is extremely friendly and family-oriented, and the prices are very affordable - each drink costs 89 baht. Bear Cocktails is a place where you can meet both tourists and locals, which creates an opportunity for fascinating conversations and exchange of experiences.

On Street Bar is another place worth visiting. Located on Chaweng Beach, this bar stands out for its fresh, fruity cocktails made with real fruit. The owners are extremely friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is conducive to relaxation. On Street Bar also offers board games, which adds fun to an evening out. On Saturdays, there is live music, which makes the place even more appealing.

For those who appreciate the views, we recommend the Rock Bar. This bar, built into the rock formations by the sea, offers an amazing atmosphere and views. The decor is very original - everything is made of wood thrown by the waves and fragments of the reef. Rock Bar is famous for its delicious drinks and friendly atmosphere. It's the perfect place to relax and watch the sunset.

Samui Mojito Lab is a place that, as the name suggests, specializes in mojitos. This small, cozy bar offers a wide variety of variations of this popular cocktail. Guests especially praise the mojito with lychee and passion fruit. The bar is equipped with a pool table, which adds entertainment to an evening out. Prices are very reasonable, especially during happy hours, when cocktails cost 99 THB.

Cool Bar is another gem among Ko Samui's local bars. Located directly on the beach, it offers not only delicious drinks, but also an amazing view of the sea. The atmosphere here is very relaxing and the prices are affordable. Cool Bar is famous for its fruity cocktails and pad thai. It's the perfect place for a quiet evening with a drink in hand and your feet in the sand.

Pubs and themed bars

For those who yearn for the atmosphere of a traditional pub, Ko Samui has some interesting offerings. The Shakespeare pub is a place that brings a piece of England to the tropical island. The pub is famous for its excellent food, including the traditional Sunday roast. The interior of the pub has been carefully designed to reflect the atmosphere of a British pub. The Shakespeare pub is the perfect place for those who are homesick or want to experience something different from typical Thai bars.

Tropical Murphy's is another pub worth visiting. It offers the atmosphere of a typical Irish pub, with cold Guinness and traditional dishes. The interior is cozy and the terrace offers a view of the bustling Chaweng Road. Tropical Murphy's is the perfect place to watch a soccer or rugby match in the company of other fans.

For those looking for something more exotic, Cocktail King&Kiin Restaurant is the place to try unique Thai versions of classic cocktails. The bar is famous for its cocktails made with local fruits and herbs. Prices are affordable and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed.

All in all, Ko Samui's bar scene is extremely diverse and offers something for everyone. From upscale cocktail bars to local, cozy spots to traditional pubs, there is something for everyone. It's worth remembering that prices and opening hours can change depending on the season, so it's always a good idea to check up-to-date information before visiting.

When visiting bars on Ko Samui, remember a few important things. First, always carry cash - many smaller bars do not accept credit cards. Second, respect the local culture and customs - Thais value politeness and calmness. Third, don't forget mosquito repellent, especially in beach bars.

Whether you choose an upscale cocktail bar with a sunset view, a cozy local beach bar or a traditional pub, Ko Samui offers an unforgettable experience for any lover of a good drink and a unique atmosphere. Explore, taste and enjoy the richness of this tropical island's bar scene!

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