The most famous of all the islands in Thailand is Koh Samui. This beautiful island is on every traveller’s bucket list. Most famous for its stunning palm tree edged beaches and crystal clear waters, the island has something to offer everyone from budget backpackers to A-list celebrities.
With so much to do here, we have made it easy for you and narrowed it down to our top things to do in Koh Samui…
MUST-DO
Visit Koh Samui’s Famous Big Buddha
The Famous Big Buddha (or Wat Phra Yai as it’s known locally) is one of the most famous landmarks in Koh Samui. Located on its tiny rocky island, this giant 12-meter tall golden buddha is usually the first thing that you’ll see when flying into Koh Samui. The Buddha is seated in the Mara position and represents a time when Buddha was rejecting all temptations that were forced upon him.
Explore Hin Ta And Hin Yai
It may be hard to believe that some natural rock formations shaped like male and female genitalia are one of the top things to see in Koh Samui. But these rocks have become a famous part of folklore over the years on the island (and now a famous selfie spot amongst tourists).
Discovered by locals many years ago, it’s said that an old couple called Ta Kreng and Yai Riem was travelling to a neighbouring province many years ago. They were going to see a man called Ta Mong Lai to ask that his daughter marry their son. On the way there, the boat they were travelling on ran into a storm and they died at sea. The couple then turned into rocks as a symbol of their intentions. The rocks have been fondly named Ta (Grandpa) and Yai (Grandma).
Visit Namuang Waterfall
For a nice change from Koh Samui’s beaches, be sure to spend the day exploring the two waterfalls at Na Muang Park. Located in a lush jungle, the first waterfall flows into a small pool which is perfect for swimming. The second waterfall is about thirty minutes further uphill and is just as stunning. The park is completely free to visit and there are some great food spots to sit and enjoy some lunch.
Feel Your Zen at Secret Buddha Garden
Also known as the Magic Garden, this beautifully landscaped garden has become a famous attraction in Koh Samui. The oasis was created in 1976 by local durian farmer, Nim Thongsuk. His tomb sits among the carvings of Buddhist spirits, musicians, and animals. The garden is also famous for the viewpoint here which offers stunning panoramic views over the island.
Explore Nathon Town
Nathon, Koh Samui’s capital town, is one of the first places you’ll see if you arrive into the island by ferry. Otherwise, if flying in and out, you might never see it at all. The town offers a taste of real Thai life. There are walking food tours to join which explore the local delicacies and history of the capital.
Visit The Fisherman’s Village
The Fisherman’s Village is a historic village to Koh Samui and still holds a lot of importance to the island. Also known as Bophut, this beautiful village features a walking street of hipster cafes and endless boutique shops. It has become a popular tourist spot in recent years but is still quiet enough to enjoy the beach or coffee in a nearby cafe in peace. In the village, you’ll find original wooden homes that were built in the 19th century by a group of Chinese immigrants.
BEACHES
Chaweng Beach
Chaweng beach is on the east coast of Koh Samui and has a reputation for a pristine white beach and turquoise waters. It is located on the front of the largest town, making it one of the busiest beaches in Koh Samui. Nevertheless, it still manages to maintain its chilled out atmosphere by day.
The strip in Chaweng is nearly three kilometres long and is where the main nightlife happens. It’s most famous for its cheap drinks, loud music, and ladyboys. Or, if you fancy a drink in quieter surroundings or have children with you, then there are also some great beachfront bars that offer gorgeous views and a chilled-out atmosphere.
Lamai Beach
Lamai Beach is Samui’s second-largest resort area after Chaweng. It is just as beautiful as Chaweng but tends to be a lot quieter. So it’s perfect if you prefer a more chilled-out beach or have children with you. The water at Lamai beach is a little too deeper, making it great for swimming or diving. You’ll never have to wander far if you’re thirsty or hungry. There is an excellent selection of beach bars and restaurants selling killer cocktails and amazing food.
Along with the rest of Samui, there is a steady trend away from the ‘cheap and cheerful’ towards high-end accommodation, dining facilities and resorts in Lamai.
Maenam Beach
Maenam Beach is a lovely beach for travellers seeking relaxation and tranquillity. The beach itself is about 7km long and in many places is still undeveloped; giving it that natural untouched feel. From the elongated golden beach, you have a beautiful view of the island of Koh Phangan. The nightlife is a lot quieter and cheaper in these parts with many bars shutting fairly early.
Lipa Noi Beach
By far the most child-friendly beach in Koh Samui, Lipa Noi boasts beautiful white sands and shallow turquoise waters that are completely free of rocks. If you swim more than 100m then the water starts to get deep. The area is quite remote and is more of a chill-out area than a party town. There is a great selection of restaurants near the beach which sell amazing seafood.
OUTDOORS/ADVENTURE
Visit Angthong Marine Park
Ang Thong National Marine Park is one of the top things to do whilst in Koh Samui. This stunning collection of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand features towering limestone mountains, thick jungle, white-sand beaches, waterfalls and hidden coves and lakes to explore. Activities include kayaking along the coastline, hiking to the top of Mae Koh for views of the Emerald Lagoon, and diving and snorkelling at Wua Talap Island.
The best way to fully experience Angthong Marine Park is via a big tour boat. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hire a speed boat to take you from Koh Samui to Angthong where you’ll have the freedom to explore for yourself.
Suggested tour: Ang Thong Marine Park: Full-Day Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour
Join A Jungle Safari Tour
Experience all of Koh Samui’s top attractions on the famous jungle safari tour. On this half-day tour, you’ll cruise the island on a 4×4 army jeep with a local guide who will educate you on all of the amazing sites you’ll see, such as the Grandfather/Grandmother rocks, Mummified Monk, Namuang Waterfall and Buddha’s Magic Garden. It’s the perfect way to experience the island!
Recommended tour: 7-Hour 4WD Wild Jungle Safari Tour Including Lunch
Zipline Through The Jungle
What better way to take in Koh Samui’s beautiful scenery than flying through the sky at fifty miles an hour on a zipline? Get an adrenaline kick as your soar through the jungle at Sky Fox. Most tours here include the option to swim at Samui’s largest waterfall afterwards.
Go Scuba Diving
Lovers of adventure and nature will not regret a day spent snorkelling and soaking up the exotic beauty of the colourful coral reefs in the Gulf of Thailand.
Most of the snorkelling tours take you to the best diving spot which is around 60 kilometres out from Koh Samui. There is a great selection of PADI-certified instructors available who will take you on a boat trip to see the marine life for yourself on a two-dive course. Each dive usually lasts about 40 to 50 minutes and is suitable for complete beginners.
Tip: The best time to snorkel in Koh Samui is between April and October when the waters are calmer.
Take A Shot at the Shooting Range
If adrenaline’s your thing, be sure to check out The Koh Samui Shooting Range. After a short training session with a trained professional, you’ll be given a gun that you can then fire at various targets. The bullets are real but don’t worry, your fully licenced instructor is there to guide you, improve your accuracy, and keep you safe. Guns available vary from pistols, rifles, revolvers and some semi-automatic weapons.
Tip: Prices start from approximately 800 Baht for 10 rounds with a 9 mm pistol up to 1300 Baht for 10 rounds with a shotgun. The range is suitable for beginners as well as advanced shooters.
CULTURAL/TEMPLES
Khao Hua Jook Chedi
Khao Hua Jook Chedi is a beautiful temple (also known as a Stupa) and is located close to Chaweng Lake. Sitting atop a hilly terrain, this awe-inspiring temple overlooks the coast as well as the valleys below. The temple has some intricate carvings to marvel at as well as many golden sculptures of Lord Buddha. The view from the top is stunning – you can see Koh Phangan (and the Big Buddha) in the distance.
Wat Jee Kong
Learn about the Chinese-Thai culture at Wat Jee Kong. This beautiful temple on Chaweng Beach was built by the Chinese immigrants who chose to live here when they settled on the island many years ago. The temple stands out for the unique ornate sculptures and golden decorations. There is also a market nearby that sells traditional items as well as various crafts and fabrics.
Wat Khunaram
Away from the beaches and the crowds lies one of Koh Samui’s most remarkable and eye-opening temples, Wat Khunaram. This temple has become famous for the mummified monk that is kept on display here.
Luong Pordaeng was a Buddhist monk who died in 1973 whilst in the seated meditation position. His body was preserved and has been on display in a glass case ever since.
For many Westerners, this might be an uncomfortable or even disturbing sight. For Thai people though, they are not afraid as they believe death to be one step closer to enlightenment. seeing the dead body gives them something to reflect on.
Laem Sor Pagoda
The Laem Sor pagoda sits in the south-west corner of Koh Samui, at the end of the rocky beach of Bang Kao. It is guarded by two colourful yaks that each carries a sword to protect the pagoda. The building itself is made up of yellow tiles which glitter as the sun reflects off the sea and onto them, giving the illusion that the pagoda is glowing gold from a distance.
It is guarded by two colourful yaks that each carries a sword to protect the pagoda. Near the pagoda, there is a wax casting of the monk that built the pagoda. He is sitting inside a boat and locals come and prey here as he is seen as highly sacred.
Wat Plai Laem
Like the nearby Wat Phra Yai or “Big Buddha Temple”, Wat Plai Laem is a modern Buddhist temple. Designed by Thai artist Jarit Phumdonming, the temple’s design incorporates elements of Chinese and Thai traditions. The main statue here is a form of the bodhisattva of compassion and mercy, Avalokiteśvara, called Cundi. This form of the deity is known in Chinese as “Guanyin with eighteen arms”.
