Fisherman’s Village, Bophut
Fisherman’s Village, Bophut
Conveniently located on Koh Samui’s beautiful north coast, yet close to Chaweng and all the action, you’ll find Fisherman’s Village, a once-traditional place of boats, nets and daily fish hauls that has now morphed into a very international hub of restaurants, bars and small resorts. Extremely popular with vacationers and foreign residents alike, the village is a magnet and draws crowds every evening who walk along its single street browsing menus before settling on their choice. With quality food and many different cuisines represented, the choice can be a difficult one. The rest is easy: Fisherman’s Village exudes a laid-back vibe that is ideal for any holiday.
Fisherman’s Village follows the line of a bay and its single street is perfect if you don’t feel like hiring a bike or a car. It takes some 20 minutes to walk from end to end and vehicles are banned. It’s the closest thing to a Mediterranean promenade that Koh Samui offers, and is similarly indolent.
Fisherman’s Village doesn’t really come into its own until evening when everything starts to happen at once. One of the best areas for dinner, you’ll find a variety of cuisines but most especially Thai, French and Italian. Since many of the restaurants front the beach, it’s relatively easy to get a table that overlooks the sea. The beach road is definitely not as noisy as Chaweng and it’s a delight to be here.
The Beach
It’s easy to get to the beach here – there’s plenty of access from the beach road. The sand shelves quite rapidly, however, so caution is always important. At times in the year there may be jellyfish. Sometimes yachts and boats are anchored a little way out to sea but these won’t distract you from swimming.
Restaurants
CoCo Tam’s: A relatively recent addition, this restaurant garners rave reviews and is extremely popular. Right by the water and entirely open air there are plenty of reasons for coming here. Sit out on bean bags on the beach or by the terrace and enjoy a well-curated mix of yummy international food, along with Thai treats. Don’t forget to enjoy one of the delicious cocktails.
Happy Elephant: check out the wonderful interior and get a seat on the terrace or at a table on the beach itself. Well-known for its mix of Thai and western dishes, prices remain reasonable and guests return over and over again.
Chez François: Chef François Porte throws open the doors to what is basically his home and serves you exquisite international dishes in a very convivial setting. Expect to be wowed, yet without going over your budget. expect the very best of international food – but at prices that remain really affordable. Make sure you book ahead, as Francois will get a chance to ask you your preferences – eating here is a very personalized experience. Call: 096 071 1800.
Fisherman’s Village keeps late hours even if there are no nightclubs. Its numerous bars won’t ever disappoint, however. Try The Frog and Gecko for excellent drinks and food. Head for Karma Sutra Bar & Kitchen with its laid-back ambiance and great fare. For some homemade ice cream head to Link Cuisine & Lounge and enjoy a cocktail on the second-floor lounge. There are simply too many places to include in this short article.
Walking Street
Every Friday Fisherman’s Village hosts a massive night market with dozens of stalls selling souvenirs, clothes, jewelry and food. Enjoy live music and a fiesta ambiance close to The Wharf and expect to find crowds. Always fun and atmospheric, the market has become an enduring island favorite.
Where to stay
Fisherman’s Village has a love affair with small resorts, either on the beach or nearby. Try Smile House Resort or The Waterfront; both offer excellent accommodation. On the western side of the village, you’ll find the Hansar Samui Resort and just nearby the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort.
Parking: Free parking is to be found at The Wharf. Since Fisherman’s Village is largely pedestrianized but you’ll find small car parks closer to town as well as just a few minutes’ walk away.