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Loy Krathong 2026 on Koh Samui: Date and Where to Go
· Luxy Samui
Loy Krathong is expected on 24 November 2026, a Samui guide says. Here are the bays where people float krathongs and simple tips for joining in.
Loy Krathong, the Thai festival of floating lights, is expected on 24 November 2026. That is the date given by the Samui property and travel site Mykeythai in a guide published on 4 September 2026. The site adds that the date moves every year and should be confirmed before you book flights around it. For visitors on Koh Samui, it is one of the calmest and most photogenic evenings of the year.
What happens on the night
People make or buy a small float called a krathong, light a candle on it and set it on the water. According to Mykeythai, the festival is a way of thanking the water goddess and of letting go of bad things from the past year. The Koh Samui Travel Hub guide says many people make a wish as the float leaves, and some add a coin for good luck.
The two guides differ on timing. Koh Samui Travel Hub says events start at dusk and run for a few hours, and that start and finish times are not exact. Mykeythai says the evening activity begins at around 8 pm. It is safest to ask locally on the day.
Where to go on Koh Samui
Koh Samui Travel Hub says events take place at various lakes and rivers around the island, and that each place has its own programme. Mykeythai describes these beach areas:
- Choeng Mon: a sheltered bay with very little swell in November, and the easiest place for a first float.
- Bophut and Fisherman's Village: the liveliest choice, with a night market and food stalls.
- Maenam: long, quiet and shallow, with a strong local turnout.
- Nathon: the most traditional celebration on the island.
- Central Chaweng and Lamai: bigger crowds and a busier shore.
Joining in with respect
Both guides ask visitors to think about the sea. Mykeythai recommends floats made from banana trunk, banana leaf and real flowers, with one small candle and no plastic, foil, glitter or staples. Koh Samui Travel Hub also says plastic krathongs are discouraged because of pollution.
Mykeythai adds that sky lanterns should not be released, and says they are restricted because of the airport and the risk of fire. We have not seen the official rule itself, so please check the current local rule before the festival. At temples, the guide advises covered shoulders and knees, shoes off, and asking before taking photos of monks.
What it means for your stay
If you want to be on the island for Loy Krathong, plan to arrive a day or two before 24 November and confirm the date closer to the time. Have an early dinner, then head to your chosen bay before the crowds. To plan your dates, you can check villa availability.
