Chaweng Night Market, known locally as Chaweng Walking Street, is an evening street market in the heart of Koh Samui's busiest beach town. From late afternoon until around 11 pm, stalls line the stree
Chaweng Night Market, known locally as Chaweng Walking Street, is an evening street market in the heart of Koh Samui's busiest beach town. From late afternoon until around 11 pm, stalls line the street with Thai street food, grilled seafood, clothes, souvenirs and local handicrafts, making it a lively nightly gathering for locals and travellers alike.
The story
A little history
Chaweng Night Market is a relatively modern addition to Koh Samui's nightlife, evolving organically as tourist demand for local evening experiences grew. Chaweng itself was once a quiet fishing village whose beachfront later became lined with resorts and restaurants; the night market emerged as a nocturnal complement to the daytime beach scene and has become a staple for evening dining and entertainment, offering a mix of Southern Thai dishes and international food.
What to look for
Why it stays with you
- Street food staples like satay, pad Thai and grilled seafood
- Clothes, souvenirs and local handicraft stalls
- Coconut ice cream served in a real coconut
- Live music and an upbeat evening atmosphere
- Vegetarian and vegan food options
- Kid-friendly night out in central Chaweng
Before you go
Plan your visit
Entrance fee
Free (food and goods vary by stall)
Opening hours
Daily from around 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How long
1-2 hours
Best time
After 8:30 PM when the crowds thin out and stallholders often discount food
Parking
Limited roadside parking nearby; taxis and songthaews drop off at the market edge
Accessibility
Flat street level, though it gets very crowded in the evening
From the field
Tips & notes
- Visit after 8:30 PM when crowds thin out and vendors often discount food as the night winds down.
- Try the coconut ice cream served in a real coconut - a local favourite.
- Bring cash; most stalls don't accept cards.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available.
- It is kid-friendly but crowded, so keep an eye on children.
- Bargaining is expected for clothes and souvenirs.
The place