Koh Samui's shopping is spread across its main beach towns rather than concentrated in one place. Bophut Plaza, which opens around 6pm at Bophut Beach, is the best general market for souvenirs — fake designer goods, handicrafts, and cheap clothing, all open to bargaining. Chaweng's beach road has a similar strip of stalls, and the fresh market at Lamai is worth a look for local produce and food alongside the usual souvenirs.
For anything more conventional, Chaweng has both a Lotus's and a Big C, the two big malls on the island, with clothing, electronics, and a scattering of restaurants and a cinema inside. Bophut's old town has the more upmarket end of things — boutiques like Siddharta sell beachwear and dresses, and Chaweng's Beach Road has a handful of fashion boutiques as well.
Jewellery shoppers have real choice: My Jewel International in Nathon is good value, Classic Gems near Chaweng's Centara resort has a large selection and does custom pieces, and Silvermania at Lamai specialises in silverware. For handicrafts, About Arts and Crafts on Chonwithee Road in Nathon sells handmade ceramics and watercolours from a small shopfront café.