Koh Samui has been named the World's Best Island for 2026 by Travel + Leisure, placing Thailand's Gulf island ahead of the Maldives, Bali and Milos.

The Surat Thani island received a reader score of 95.64 in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards. The Maldives came a close second with 95.38, while the Galapagos Islands ranked third, Bali fourth and Phuket fifth.

The result gives Thailand two of the five highest-ranked island destinations in the 2026 list, with Koh Samui and Phuket both featuring in the top five.

Reader score puts Samui ahead

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports said the recognition reflected Koh Samui's appeal beyond its beaches. It cited the island's scenery, cultural heritage, local character and range of food experiences.

Koh Samui is expected to gain further standing in the premium international travel market following the award, while the recognition also supports Thailand's wider position as a global tourism destination.

For foreign residents, repeat visitors and prospective holidaymakers, the accolade may bring greater international attention to Samui. The government has indicated that its response will focus not only on attracting more visitors, but also on how the island manages tourism over the longer term.

Government promises tourism improvements

Rather than viewing the award as an endpoint, authorities said they would use it to improve tourism quality and long-term management on Koh Samui.

The stated priorities include stronger visitor safety measures, public-infrastructure improvements and tighter action against illegal businesses which could undermine confidence in the destination.

These areas are particularly relevant to foreigners who live on the island or visit regularly, as safety standards, transport and other public facilities form part of daily life as well as the holiday experience. The government has not set out specific measures or a timetable in the announcement.

Authorities also plan to improve tourism services and support development intended to protect Koh Samui's environment and distinctive identity, while benefiting local communities and the wider economy.

Thailand has two islands in the top five

Koh Samui's first-place finish narrowly edged the Maldives, while the Galapagos Islands, Bali and Phuket completed the top five.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports said the result underlined Thailand's continued ability to draw travellers through its mix of natural scenery, culture, food and hospitality. For Samui, the challenge outlined by the government is to preserve those qualities while improving services, infrastructure and visitor confidence.

Picture courtesy of The Nation

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18 July 2026

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The top island* is amazing if you are from a country with absolutely zero nice beaches like the UK and Canada.

Samui is probably the best beach you've ever seen in your entire life if it's your first time to Thailand. ✅

*with brown pebble beaches

Edited 59 minutes ago59 min by SiSePuede419
Perspective