Koh Samui in Surat Thani has been ranked the top island in Asia-Pacific in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2026.
Deputy government spokeswoman Ploythalay Laksameesaengjan said the recognition reinforces Koh Samui's status as a world-class destination, reflecting strong destination management and its ability to welcome international visitors with luxury service standards alongside well-preserved natural surroundings.
She said Koh Samui also performed strongly in other categories. Samui International Airport was ranked second in the "Best Airports" category in Asia-Pacific, behind Singapore's Changi Airport, with praise for its design that blends with nature and its passenger-friendly services.
In the "Best Beach + Island Resorts in Thailand" category, five Koh Samui resorts were listed among the region's top 10. Cape Fahn Hotel ranked second, followed by Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui in fifth, Kimpton Kitalay Samui in seventh, Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort in eighth, and Centara Reserve Samui in ninth.
She said the government supports island tourism development policies aimed at distributing income to local communities while improving safety and travel convenience.
She added that infrastructure upgrades are being promoted to strengthen air connectivity to island destinations and support wider tourism growth.
She said efforts are also focused on sustainable tourism, positioning Koh Samui as a model for eco-friendly island development that balances economic opportunity with environmental protection and long-term conservation of natural resources.