Koh Samui history

Settlement and First Mentions

The history of the settlement of Koh Samui is rooted in deep antiquity. Although the exact date of the founding of the first settlements is unknown, historians believe that the island was inhabited around 15 centuries ago. The first inhabitants were fishermen from the Malay Peninsula and navigators from Southern China.

• Cartography: The island was first documented on Chinese maps of the Ming Dynasty, dating back to 1687, under the name Pulo Cornam.
• Etymology: The origin of the name "Samui" remains a mystery. One theory links it to the name of a local tree, mui, while another connects it to a Chinese word meaning "first island," or the Malay word saboey ("safe haven").

Key Factors of Formation

The development of the island took place for a long time in conditions of relative isolation from mainland Thailand. The following factors contributed to the formation of a unique way of life:

• Geography and Navigation: Its location in the Gulf of Thailand made the island a convenient stopover for merchant ships seeking shelter from storms and replenishing supplies of fresh water.
• Autonomy: Due to its remoteness from the central authority (Bangkok), the island lived according to its own internal laws, forming an independent and close-knit community.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Before the beginning of the tourism boom in the late 20th century, Samui was known as a quiet agrarian community with strong Chinese roots.

• "Coconut Island": The backbone of the economy for centuries was coconut cultivation. Plantations occupied most of the territory, and coconuts from Samui were considered some of the best in the region.
• Chinese Heritage: Migrants from Hainan Island brought their traditions, architecture, and farming methods, which are still noticeable in old districts such as Nathon.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Up until the mid-20th century, there were practically no roads on the island. Moving between villages required a long journey through the jungle, which helped preserve the pristine nature.

Major Milestones in the History of Koh Samui

The history of the island is a journey from an isolated coconut plantation to a world-class resort. Below are the key dates that determined the fate of Samui.

• 6th Century AD — The estimated time of the founding of the first permanent settlements by fishermen from the Malay Peninsula and traders from China.
• 1687 — The island is first documented on Chinese maritime maps of the Ming Dynasty under the name Pulo Cornam.
• 1897 — During the administrative reform of King Rama V, the island is officially included in the Surat Thani province.
• 1942–1945 — During World War II, the island was under Japanese control but avoided active combat operations.
• 1967 — The head of the local community, Khun Dilok, initiates an ambitious project to build a road around the island.
• 1971 — The first Western backpacker tourists arrive on the island, travelling on cargo ships carrying coconuts.
• 1973 — Construction of the 52-kilometre concrete ring road is completed, connecting scattered beaches and villages for the first time.
• 1980 — Launch of a regular ferry service, allowing the transport of cars and goods from the mainland.
• 1989 — Opening of the private Samui International Airport, built in a unique open-air style, which kickstarted mass tourism.
• 2004 — The island remained practically unaffected by the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami thanks to its location within the Gulf of Thailand.
• 2012 — Koh Samui officially receives city status (Thesaban Nakhon), reflecting significant growth in population and economy.
• 2018 — Introduction of strict environmental construction regulations to preserve the natural landscape amidst the rapid development of the hotel industry.

Key Stages of the Island's Transformation

The development of Koh Samui is an example of rapid urbanisation and a shift in the economic system. In half a century, the isolated "coconut island" has turned into one of the most developed tourist centres in Thailand. Below are the main milestones that defined the modern look of the resort.

• Construction of the Ring Road (1973)
  Before the appearance of this 52-kilometre highway, movement between beaches was possible only by boat or on foot through the jungle. The road united scattered villages into a single system, giving a powerful impetus to internal trade and the development of new territories.
• Launch of Passenger and Cargo Ferries (1980)
  Establishing a regular crossing for vehicles allowed heavy construction machinery and materials to be delivered to the island. This event became a catalyst for the large-scale construction of hotels and the improvement of living conditions for the local population.
• Opening of the Airport (1989)
  The appearance of its own air harbour fundamentally changed the profile of the tourist. While Samui was previously the domain of backpackers ready for long journeys, direct flights from Bangkok opened the doors for mass and luxury tourism, attracting international hotel chains.
• Laying of the Underwater Power Cable
  Connection to the mainland power grid ensured a stable electricity supply. This allowed for the development of modern infrastructure, including 24-hour shops, hospitals with high-tech equipment, and air-conditioned hotels.
• Change of Economic Model (1990s — 2000s)
  During this period, tourism finally displaced coconut exports and fishing as the main source of income. Agricultural land began to be massively repurposed for resort real estate, villas, and commercial centres.
• Granting of City Status (2012)
  The official recognition of Samui as a city (Thesaban Nakhon) consolidated its urban status. This allowed for increased budget funding for the development of the urban environment: drainage systems, waste management, and road safety, which is critically important given the high population density.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of Koh Samui does not fit into the framework of classical European styles. It is an eclectic mix of traditional Thai architecture, Chinese trading heritage, and modern "tropical modernism," dictated by the rapid development of tourism. The island's urban planning is linear: life is concentrated along the ring road and the coast, while the central part remains mountainous and difficult to access.

Main Architectural Styles and Eras

The development of the island's buildings can be roughly divided into three key stages, each of which has left its mark on the appearance of the settlements.

• Sino-Thai Style (Late 19th — Mid 20th Century)
  The era of the island's settlement by traders from Hainan. Characterised by wooden two-storey buildings ("shophouses"), where the ground floor was used for trade and the upper floor for housing.
  Example: The old part of Nathon town with its teak houses along Middle Street.
• Traditional Temple Architecture (Timeless)
  Religious structures combining elements of the Rattanakosin and Srivijaya styles. Distinguished by multi-tiered roofs, an abundance of gold decor, mirror mosaics, and statues of mythical creatures (Nagas, Yakshas).
  Example: The Wat Plai Laem temple complex and the famous Big Buddha statue.
• Tropical Eco-Modernism (From 1989 to Present)
  A style that emerged with the arrival of mass tourism. Main principles: open spaces, use of natural materials (bamboo, thatch, stone), integration of buildings into the landscape, and minimalism.
  Example: Samui Airport — a unique complex without walls under thatched roofs, considered one of the most beautiful airports in the world.

Features of Modern Development

Modern urban planning on Samui is strictly regulated by environmental standards. To preserve the visual appeal of the island, the construction of high-rise buildings (higher than palm trees, typically 12 metres) near the beach line is prohibited.

The densest and most chaotic development is observed in the Chaweng area, which has turned from a fishing village into a bustling tourist hub with concrete hotels and shopping centres. At the same time, elite districts with villas are developing on the hillsides, the architecture of which gravitates towards high-tech and panoramic glazing.

Notable Figures of Koh Samui

The history of the island is inextricably linked with the people who turned it from an isolated plantation into a world-class resort, as well as those who strengthened its spiritual and cultural significance.

• Khun Dilokritthikan

  Role: District Head and local leader.

  Significance: Known as the "Father of the Samui Road." In the 1960s, he initiated an ambitious project to build a 52-kilometre ring road. Before this moment, movement between villages was possible only by boat or on foot through the jungle. His efforts put an end to the island's internal isolation and created the foundation for future tourism infrastructure.

• Luang Pho Daeng

  Role: Buddhist monk, abbot of Wat Khunaram temple.

  Significance: The most revered spiritual figure on the island. Known for his incredible discipline in meditation and the prediction of his own passing. His preserved body, remaining in the lotus position since 1973, is one of the main shrines of Samui, symbolising the strength of the spirit and victory over decay. For local residents, he remains a protector and spiritual mentor.

• Prasert Prasarttong-Osoth

  Role: Business magnate, founder of Bangkok Airways.

  Significance: The man who opened Samui to the world. In 1989, he built the first private airport on the island, despite the scepticism of critics. This decision radically changed the region's economy, transforming it from a haven for backpackers into an elite international resort. The airport is still considered one of the most beautiful and eco-friendly in the world.

• King Chulalongkorn (Rama V)

  Role: King of Siam (Thailand).

  Significance: Visited the island in 1888 and left detailed records about the lives of local residents, nature, and the Hin Lad waterfall. His visit attracted the attention of the central authorities to this remote region and cemented the island's status on the map of the kingdom. A monument has been erected on the island in honour of his stay.

• Keith Floyd

  Role: Famous British chef and television presenter.

  Significance: In the 1990s, he opened his restaurant "Floyd’s Beach Bistro" on Samui. His presence and the filming of culinary programmes on the island played a significant role in popularising Samui among European tourists, adding a touch of gastronomic chic and bohemian flair to the resort.