If you’re planning a trip to Koh Samui, Fisherman’s Village needs to be on your list. It’s the perfect place to wander, shop, eat, enjoy cocktails by the sea, catch live music, and experience one of the island’s best-loved fire shows.
From high-end restaurants to street food snacks, boutique shops to bustling market stalls, it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon (and evening) here soaking up the atmosphere.
One thing to note is that the village is a walking street from 6 pm – 10 pm daily. Just ask your taxi or songthaew driver to drop you at the entrance. If you’re riding a bike or car, there’s plenty of parking nearby, but be sure to follow the signs and avoid restricted zones.
Our Favourite Travel Tools
Before we get started, we like to share a few of our favourite travel tools to help you plan your trip.
- Book ferries & transfers → 12Go Asia
- Find the best hotel rates → Booking.com
- Stay connected → Airalo eSIM
- Best travel card for Thailand → Wise
- Book activities & ours → GetYourGuide
A Little History & Famous Filming Spots
Once a quiet fishing community, Fisherman’s Village has grown into something much bigger, filled with boutique stores, beachfront restaurants, lively bars and more. The rustic wooden shopfronts and French-Chinese-influenced buildings still offer a stark contrast to some other, more modern areas of Koh Samui, such as Chaweng.
If you’re a fan of Mike White’s ‘The White Lotus‘, then you might recognise some of the filming locations here in Fisherman’s Village. Filming took place around the village streets, in the swimming pool area of the Anantara Bophut (with plenty of extras as sunbathing retirees, Carl included), and even inside the Anantara’s jewellery shop (where the robbery takes place). The Songkran water fight scene was filmed right here, too, from the corner of Karma Sutra to the shop next door to the Frog & Gecko Pub. So if you’re thinking the village feels familiar, that’s probably why!
Despite its recent fame, Fisherman’s Village hasn’t lost its charm. The mix of chilled beach bars, incredible restaurants, friendly locals and quirky shops makes it one of the most loved destinations in Samui, day or night.
Shopping & the Fisherman’s Village Night Market
Fisherman’s Village is a shopper’s paradise. A colourful blend of stylish boutiques, local handicrafts, quirky souvenirs, and beach essentials. Whether you’re after a cute beach dress, handcrafted jewellery, or the perfect souvenir to take home, you’ll find it in Fisherman’s Village.
Some of our favourite stores and boutiques:
- Cute women’s clothing: Island Fashion and Saona Collection – both have two stores in the village.
- Souvenirs: Coconut bowls, magnets, beer holders, accessories and more at The Souvenir Shop next to the boat on the main street.
- Jewellery: Head to Nature Jewelry for affordable silver and semi-precious stone pieces. Here you can find earrings and rings starting from just a few hundred baht.
- Thai spa products & soaps: Samui Soap House is perfect for little soap souvenirs to take home, all made with natural and organic ingredients.
- Beachwear & football shirts: No shortage of places to grab swimwear, sunnies, hats, or a Thailand footy top.
You can spend hours just wandering and browsing, popping in and out of shops between coffee stops or cocktail breaks.
Fisherman’s Village Night Market
The famous Fisherman’s Village Night Market takes place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, starting from around 4:00 PM until late. It’s easily one of the best night markets in Koh Samui.
Here’s what to expect:
- ฿99 cocktails and beer at pop-up bars
- Street food heaven: Noodles, satay, sushi, samosas, roti pancakes, kebabs, fresh fruit, and even fried insects
- Clothes and accessories: Maxi dresses, sandals, cute bags, sunglasses and more
- Electronics & gadgets: Bluetooth speakers, LED lights, travel plugs and cables
- Toys, trinkets & souvenirs: Coconut monkeys, cute lighting, candles, soaps, stuffed teddies, spinning toys & decorative magnets. They’ve got it all.
💡 Tip: It gets very busy on Friday nights, so arrive early if you want to beat the crowds. It also gets incredibly hot, so wear something breathable and bring plenty of cash.
Where to Eat in Fisherman’s Village
One thing Fisherman’s Village does exceptionally well is food. Whether you’re in the mood for beachfront barbecued seafood, authentic Thai dishes, wood-fired pizza, or fine dining, there’s something here for every taste and every budget.
If you’re hungry for the full foodie scoop, head to my detailed guide to The Best Restaurants in Fisherman’s Village, Koh Samui. It’s packed with up-to-date recommendations, must-try dishes, and insider tips to help you plan the perfect night out.
Must-Try Street Eats
- Banana & Nutella Roti from the walking street vendors – they have so many flavour combos, but I don’t think you can beat a classic banana/nutella.
- Mango Sticky Rice you’ll find this on most restaurant menus, but often with a high price tag. Head to Family Restaurant where it’s just ฿70.
- Coconut Ice Cream served in a fresh coconut shell, you can find this near Happy Elephant Square
➡️ For more info on these restaurants, check out our blog post: Best Restaurants in Fisherman’s Village
Where to Drink
Whether you’re after an ice-cold beer with your feet in the sand, live music and good vibes, or a stylish cocktail with sea views, Fisherman’s Village has it all. We think it’s one of the best areas on the island to go bar-hopping.
Here are some of our go-to spots:
- Karma Sutra – A buzzing venue right in the heart of the village, known for its live music and great cocktails. You’ll find different bands playing almost every night.
- The Frog & Gecko – One of the longest-running pubs on the island, with beachfront tables, pool tables, live sports on the big screen, and a brilliant weekly quiz every Wednesday night.
- Wave Bar (tucked behind The Bay Ink Tattoo Studio) – A cute beachfront spot with chilled vibes. Perfect for enjoying a few beers or a quiet cocktail before or after dinner.
- QR Bar (just outside the main village entrance) – A relaxed, down-to-earth local bar with a pool table, cheap drinks and a big personality.
- Happy Elephant Square – This central square turns into a laid-back live music venue in the evenings, with a mix of cover bands and acoustic sets. You’ll find craft beers, classic cocktails, and Frozee – frozen wine based cocktails – they are delicious and you should definitely try one.
Watch Fisherman’s Village Famous Fire Show
If there’s one thing you have to see in Fisherman’s Village, it’s the legendary fire show at Coco Tam’s. Nightly performances take place at 7:15 PM and 9:00 PM, right on the beach, and they’re genuinely spectacular. Fire dancers spin, flip, and breathe flames in an energetic performance set to booming music, all under the stars.
There are no reservations, so you’ll want to arrive early if you’re hoping for a beachfront beanbag. Despite the sea of seating (over 200 beanbags!), they fill up fast. If you’re not able to snag one, you can also enjoy the show from Coco Tam’s restaurant, which has a great view of the beach.
A few tips:
- Cocktails here are on the pricier side, but they’re well-made and beautifully presented.
- Service can be a little slow due to how busy it gets.
- Cash only on the beach area (last time we visited), but the restaurant accepts cards.
- Expect to see beach vendors wandering around selling all sorts of light-up toys and flashy gadgets, especially fun for kids, so bring some small change.
Wellness, Tattoos & More in Fisherman’s Village
Fisherman’s Village isn’t just about food, markets, and cocktails. It’s also a great place to unwind, get pampered, or even tick off a bucket list experience like getting a traditional bamboo tattoo!
Spa & Wellness
Cyan Spa is our go-to for all things relaxation in Fisherman’s Village. This traditional Thai spa offers a full menu of massages, body scrubs, facials, and beauty treatments, including some more unique options like CBD oil massages. Facilities include a jacuzzi, sauna, and spacious private rooms, so whether you’re going solo or as a couple, you’re in good hands.
You’ll also find plenty of casual massage shops dotted along the village, offering everything from classic Thai massage to foot reflexology. Expect prices to range from 300–600 THB, and don’t forget to tip your therapist if you’ve had a great experience. You can read more on tipping in Thailand here.
Tattoos: Bamboo & Machine
If you’ve been thinking about getting inked in Thailand, The Bay Ink is the place to go. This is our most trusted tattoo studio in Koh Samui. A family-run studio, where the artists are talented, hygienic, and professional, offering both traditional bamboo tattoos and modern machine work.
We’ve had tattoos done here ourselves and wouldn’t go anywhere else. Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, they’ll help you feel relaxed and confident. Just pop in for a consultation or message them on Instagram in advance to discuss your design.
Pool Tables, Coffee & Chill Time
You’ll find pool tables at a few of the bars we mentioned earlier, The Frog & Gecko and QR Bar, but you’ll also find one at Eden Bungalows.
If you’re in need of a caffeine fix, there are plenty of coffee shops and breakfast spots around the village. Our personal favourites are Good Things Cafe & Hotel, a cute little spot inside the village serving epic coffees and desserts, and Sasatorn, just outside the village, serving up seriously good coffee and Australian-style breakfasts.
We’ve covered all our breakfast and brunch recommendations in more detail in our guide: The best breakfasts in Fisherman’s Village.
Water Activities
Just outside of the Hansar you’ll find Orange Wave Water Sports, offering a whole heap of watersports activities, from stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking to more adventurous activities like flyboarding and jet skiing.
You don’t need to book in advance, just walk up and choose your adventure.
Practical Tips & Need-to-Know Info
Before you head off to explore Fisherman’s Village, here are a few practical tips to make your visit smooth, fun, and stress-free.
How to Get There
Fisherman’s Village is located in Bophut, on the north coast of Koh Samui, about 15 minutes from Chaweng, and 20–25 minutes from Lamai, depending on traffic.
- By Taxi or Songthaew: Ask your driver to drop you at the entrance to Fisherman’s Village. From 6 PM to 10 PM, the road becomes a walking street, so cars and bikes are not allowed to enter.
- By Scooter or Car: There’s plenty of parking available around the village. We recommend parking at Fisherman’s Wharf or the nearby paid lots. Just be mindful of signs, restricted zones for buses and taxis are enforced, and if you park in the wrong spot, your bike may be chained up (with a 500 THB+ release fine).
💡 Motorbike parking is usually around 20 THB, cars from 40 THB and up.
Best Time to Visit
- Shops and cafes generally open from 11 AM, but the village really comes alive after 5 PM.
- The busiest night is Friday from 6 PM–10 PM, thanks to the lively night market.
- For the fire show at Coco Tams, arrive early to grab a beanbag on the beach, there are hundreds of seats, but they fill fast, especially in peak season.
- Want to avoid the crowds? Wednesday is a quieter night market day and a great time to enjoy the village at a slower pace.
Money & Payments
- Very few restaurants and shops accept card payments here, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash. For street food, cocktails, and small souvenir stalls it’s cash only.
- There are ATMs everywhere in the village, just note that they will charge a 250 THB withdrawal fee for international cards.
- There are also Forex booths dotted all around the village for changing up foreign currency.
Booking Restaurants & Activities
- If there’s a restaurant you’re dying to try, we recommend making a reservation. Many places take bookings via Facebook or Instagram. During high season, many of the popular restaurants will be booked up in advance, so try and reserve at least 3 – 5 days in advance.
- For tours and excursions, many companies have offices or reps inside the village, so you can compare prices and book on the spot.
Local Tips
- Respect the walking street – it’s foot traffic only from 6 PM–10 PM. Don’t try to ride your bike through; it’s dangerous and makes you look like a t*t.
- Bring small notes for market vendors or to tip performers.
- Don’t be afraid to haggle a little at the night market, but keep it friendly.
- If you love the beach vibes but want to escape the crowds, come by in the early afternoon for a completely different, more relaxed atmosphere.
Where to Stay in & Near Fisherman’s Village
If you want to wake up just steps from the beach, sip your morning coffee with a sea view, and stroll straight out into one of Koh Samui’s most charming areas, then Fisherman’s Village is an ideal base. There’s something for every budget, from simple guesthouses to romantic beachfront suites.
In the heart of the village
- Eden Bungalows – A quiet little hideaway right in the middle of the village. Around 20 charming bungalows (not beachside), a small pool, tropical garden setting, friendly staff, a casual restaurant, and even a pool table.
- The Villager – One of the best cheap hotels in Fisherman’s Village. No-frills, but clean and central with everything you need for a comfy night’s sleep after market strolls or a few cocktails on the beach.
- Hansar Samui – If you’re looking for barefoot luxury, this 5-star beachfront hotel is a dream. Infinity pool, spa, beach access, and elegant rooms with open-plan bathrooms and sea-view balconies.
- Anantara Bophut – Another luxury option with beautiful Thai-inspired architecture, tropical gardens, and a high-end restaurant for upscale South American cuisine.
- Holiday Inn Resort Samui Bophut Beach – Great for families with young kids. Large pools, beachfront access, kids club, and plenty of space to relax. You’ll find more on this in our family-friendly Samui guide.
Just outside the village (still walkable)
Want a slightly more peaceful base, while staying close to all the action? These three are just a short beachfront stroll away:
- Karma Resort – French-owned, beautifully designed with a stylish pool, and a French/Thai-inspired restaurant.
- Cielo Boutique Hotel – Another lovely beachfront property with Mediterranean-style decor and a quality on-site restaurant. Chic, understated, and well located.
- Pico Beach Bungalows – Family-run and more affordable than the other two. Expect authentic Thai hospitality, rustic-style rooms, and those stunning sea views from the pool and restaurant.
Booking tip: Fisherman’s Village hotels do fill up quickly in high season (December – March & July – August), especially on weekends and holidays. Book in advance to get your top pick, and don’t forget to check if breakfast or airport transfers are included.
Why Fisherman’s Village is a Must Visit
It’s effortlessly charming, with a blend of Thai heritage and relaxed island vibes, where boutique shops, beach bars, fire shows, and foodie gems line a lantern-lit beachfront.
You can enjoy cocktails on beanbags under the stars, sample mountains of street food at the night market, dance to live music, explore art galleries, get pampered at a spa, or simply wander and window shop in the sunshine.
No matter your travel style, solo adventurer, romantic couple, fun-loving family, or foodie explorer, Fisherman’s Village has something for you.
Planning your trip? Check out these helpful guides:
- The Best Boat Trips from Koh Samui
- How to get around Koh Samui
- The Best Breakfasts in Fisherman’s Village
- A Family-Friendly Guide to Koh Samui
- 15 Packing Essentials for Thailand
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