Nathon
Nathon is in Ko Samui on the western shore and is the main ferry port to the mainland and Ko Tao.
Get in
Nathon is connected via the Ko Samui ring road with the other villages on the island. More importantly, many tourists arrive in Samui via ferry at Nathon pier.
Get around
From the pier there are brown songthaews which go north to Bophut and Chaweng.
These are local taxis which cost about 50 baht for a local trip of about 5 km. You can hire any taxi to get anywhere on the island. Negotiate beforehand because they do not have/use meters.
See
Nathon is known for its very picture-perfect sunsets. Most tourists come specifically to enjoy the spectacular views and the quaint little shops and restaurants that line the ocean front. The town itself is quite picturesque and is fast becoming a shopping and dining destination.
Best Mountain View is the place to be if you really want to get an eyeful of the grand views from 142 m. It's quite an arduous trek to Best Mountain View but it is worth it.
Do
Nathon Walking Street every Saturday. Vendors selling local foods and local products.
Sleep
- Chytalai Palace Hotel (300 m to the right from the pier). Hotel is dated, but has air-con and hot water. Fan rooms are cheaper. Breakfast is not included, but there are plenty of nearby restaurants. 550 baht.