A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Atami for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Families

Should you visit Koh Samui or Atami?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Koh Samui or Atami? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a laid back, beautiful, and tropical resort island. Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Atami

Atami is a authentic, overlooked, and nostalgic town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Atami travel costs.

Koh Samui and Atami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Atami?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Atami are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Atami is known for its museums and attractions. Koh Samui is more touristy than Atami and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Atami is popular for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

How is Koh Samui different from Atami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Atami and Koh Samui. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Atami?

Atami is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Atami. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Atami? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Koh Samui has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole-in-the-wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not-to-be-missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Atami area. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Atami is not a resort destination.

Koh Samui is a world class resort vacation destination. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Atami is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Samui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Atami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is renowned for the beach. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Koh Samui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Atami offers a nice beach destination. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Atami is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Samui. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Atami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Atami?

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Samui and Atami both offer plenty of good spots.

Koh Samui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Atami is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Is Koh Samui or Atami More Beautiful?

Koh Samui is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

Atami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Families?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Samui is very family-friendly. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Samui makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Atami is a good resort island for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Is Koh Samui or Atami Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Samui and Atami both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Atami has a few public transit options. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Is Koh Samui or Atami a more walkable city?

Atami is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Atami is a somewhat walkable town. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Atami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atami or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Atami?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Samui or Atami to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Samui than Atami because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 1-2 days is enough time in Atami.

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Atami. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Koh Samui, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Samui than Atami. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Samui that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Atami if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Koh Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Atami?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this tropical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Atami. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atami has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Atami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the nostalgic destination of Atami. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Atami?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the overlooked town of Atami. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Atami?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this rainforest-covered destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Atami is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Atami, we can see that Atami is more expensive. And not only is Koh Samui much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Samui would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Samui and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Atami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atami than you might in Koh Samui.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Samui Expensive? and Is Atami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Atami?

Atami has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Atami, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Koh Samui or Atami?

Atami has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Samui experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Atami in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Atami. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, most visitors come to Atami for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Koh Samui is generally around the same temperature as Atami. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Atami fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Atami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Atami. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Atami receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Atami in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Atami. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Atami because of the shopping scene.

Koh Samui is a little warmer than Atami in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Atami fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Atami. Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Atami. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Atami receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. October to December in Koh Samui is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Atami in the Winter?

Both Atami and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atami this time of year.

In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Atami. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Atami averages at about 5°C (42°F).

In January, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Atami. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Atami receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Atami in the Spring?

Both Atami and Koh Samui during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Atami for the beaches.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Atami. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Atami fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Atami. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Atami receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atami and Koh Samui