Pack your sunglasses and get ready to trade the bustling concrete jungle of Orchard Road for some serious beachfront bliss. If you’ve been wondering where to book for your next long weekend getaway out of Changi, Travel + Leisure has just dropped the ultimate travel list. The premier magazine officially crowned Koh Samui in Thailand as the absolute Best Island in Asia Pacific in their Luxury Awards 2026. Riding high on its glamorous starring in The White Lotus, this stunning gem in Southeast Thailand proves it’s much more than a pretty television backdrop. And lucky for you, it’s just a one hour and 50 minutes flight from Singapore. Here’s why Koh Samui is the best island in Asia 2026.
Why is Koh Samui the no.1 island in Asia Pacific?
The tropical paradise has evolved into a world-renowned luxury destination without sacrificing its authentic soul. Indeed, the island is famous for its five-star resorts, sophisticated dining, and polished beachside pampering that caters to travellers. Although, the original charms of the island remain beautifully intact beyond the glamour you see in shows such as The White Lotus.
Visitors love to explore lush coconut groves, hidden jungle trails, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant local fishing communities that offer a glimpse into a slower, more traditional way of life.
Meanwhile, Koh Samui has plenty of attractions to keep your itinerary packed. From marvelling at the iconic Big Buddha to exploring colourful goddess statues, renting scooters, indulging on sizzling street food, and relaxing at beachfront bars at sunset…it’s the perfect holiday destination.
Interestingly, the rest of region brought some serious competition to the table, alongside Koh Samui. Singaporeans are spoiled for choice when it comes to short flights to some of the world’s best islands. From the cultural pulse of Bali to affordable luxury in Vietnam’s Phu Quoc, and the pristine waters of Palawan…there are beautiful getaways on our doorstep.
Here’s Asia Pacific’s top 10 Best Islands for 2026:
- Koh Samui, Thailand
- Phu Quoc, Vietnam
- Bali, Indonesia
- Palawan, The Phillipines
- Penang, Malaysia
- Phuket, Thailand
- Langkawi, Malaysia
- Boracay, The Philippines
- Sumba, Indonesia
- Koh Chang, Thailand
Additionally, the island’s tourism infrastructure received praise with Samui International Airport named the 2nd best airport in Asia Pacific—just after Singapore Changi Airport.
