The last word record of all the very best issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.
Planning a visit by the various islands of Thailand can appear overwhelming.
There are over a thousand Thai islands and so they all have one thing totally different to supply.
The massive developed islands have a number of accessible vacationer points of interest, and the small uninhabited islands have uncooked, untouched pure magnificence.
To make your trip-planning simpler, go to the larger islands which have a various vary of landscapes and actions and discover them completely.
Some of the rewarding islands to go to is Koh Samui, the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket (click on the hyperlink to learn our detailed itinerary posts).
Positioned within the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a large island lined in forest and fringed with white sandy seashores.
Koh Samui has had a repute for being fairly ritzy and costly.
There are many luxurious resorts, fancy inns and trip packages that attraction to the rich, however lately the extra native, inexpensive aspect of Koh Samui is starting to floor.
Backpacker hostels, road markets, low cost excursions and a protracted record of points of interest are beginning to pull extra younger funds travellers to Koh Samui, Thailand.
The Greatest Issues to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand
The traditional touristy Thai tradition, with its Buddhist temples, Muay Thai boxing matches, and Ladyboy cabarets, is inexpensive sufficient that backpackers are capable of journey Koh Samui with out spending a fortune.
Gentle white sand, glowing turquoise water, and towering coconut palms make Koh Samui seem like a postcard, and now the island is extra inexpensive and accessible than ever.
There are many issues to do in Koh Samui on a funds, and loads of good inns and eating places to swimsuit these with more cash to spend.
The island’s pure magnificence will amaze anybody, and there may be a lot Koh Samui sightseeing to do to fill a schedule of some days or perhaps a few weeks.
So here’s a record of the very best issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.
READ MORE: Take a look at our information to our high 5 Koh Samui day journeys too!
1) Guide a Tour to Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park
That is simply top-of-the-line issues to do in Koh Samui, and in the entire Gulf of Thailand.
Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park is an archipelago of 42 islands, each rugged and distinctive.
All through the park you will discover limestone cliffs, rocky caves, thick jungle, lakes and rivers, waterfalls, coral reefs, lagoons, climbing trails and sandy seashores, all linked by the colourful blue ocean.
Highlights within the park embrace the Emerald Lake, or “Thale Nai”, a inexperienced saltwater lake within the midst of the jungle, Koh Sam Sao, an island with wonderful snorkelling, and Koh Mae, an island with a steep hike that results in a scenic viewpoint.
Fortunately, Ang Thong Marine Park is nicely protected as a nationwide park, so unique wildlife can thrive and human improvement by no means oversteps its boundaries.
Solely tour boats which are accepted by the federal government are allowed to enter, so travellers can not entry Ang Thong Marine Park with out reserving a tour.
However there are many respected tour corporations providing inexpensive and tremendous enjoyable excursions round Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park that embrace snorkelling, kayaking, and enjoyable.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get the very best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, if you happen to use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when trying out, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
2) See a Mummified Monk
Wat Khunaram is a Buddhist temple in Koh Samui well-known for its mummified monk.
This sight isn’t for the faint-hearted, as it’s actually a lifeless physique on show in a glass case. However it’s fairly fascinating for individuals who have an interest.
Buddhist monk, Luang Pho Daeng, died in 1973 and his physique is now a supply of marvel for native Thais and Buddhists within the space.
He died whereas sitting in a meditative place and his corpse is in surprisingly good condition for somebody who died over forty years in the past.
You should definitely observe correct gown code when visiting any temples in Thailand (no shoulders or knees displaying).
- Location: Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140
- Hours: 7 am to five pm, open day-after-day
- Value: Free
READ MORE: This submit tells you every part you’ll ever have to learn about travelling to Thailand!
3) Go to the Large Buddha
The Large Buddha ought to undoubtedly have a spot on any record of issues to see in Koh Samui.
Formally generally known as Wat Phra Yai, this Buddhist temple advanced is situated on a small island off of Koh Samui’s northeastern coast.
The large golden Buddha sitting on the high of the temple stairs is 12 meters tall and was inbuilt 1972.
If you happen to’re flying into Koh Samui you’ll be able to typically see the large Buddha from the airplane.
The Wat Phra Yai temple grounds additionally host a small market with souvenirs, fascinating garments and spiritual ornaments on sale.
- Location: Large Buddha Seashore, off Route 4171, Bophut
- Hours: Open all day, day-after-day
- Value: Free
4) Bask in a Thai Therapeutic massage
Thai therapeutic massage is an historical therapeutic apply that’s revered throughout Thailand.
Although the therapeutic massage isn’t as enjoyable as conventional massages, it’s presupposed to rejuvenate the physique and really feel wonderful afterwards.
Educated Thai masseuses bend and twist your physique into odd positions throughout a therapeutic massage, and this will get the blood flowing and soothes in addition to strengthens your muscle groups.
There are many spas throughout Koh Samui, so test them out if you happen to really feel like treating your self.
READ MORE: Maintain your exploration of the Gulf of Thailand going with our curated record of the greatest issues to do in Koh Tao!
5) Attempt Stand Up Paddleboarding
With ocean surroundings as gorgeous as Koh Samui, do your greatest to spend as a lot time within the water as doable.
For a calming and laid-back but energetic day in Koh Samui strive get up paddleboarding. (You may e-book your SUP expertise right here.)
Paddleboards are heavy and durable, so they’re straightforward to stability on even when it’s your first time.
It is a nice approach to soak within the views and spend high quality time with the ocean, and it’s a family-friendly exercise as nicely.
Attempt paddling at dawn or sundown to beat the warmth and see the sky’s pure colors dancing above the water.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get the very best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, if you happen to use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when trying out, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
6) Laze Away on certainly one of Koh Samui’s Lovely Seashores
You merely can’t go to Koh Samui with out visiting just a few of the island’s picturesque seashores.
Chaweng Seashore is the preferred place on the island, with tons of Koh Samui points of interest and nightlife surrounding the seaside.
So if you happen to’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui, hit Chaweng Seashore first, then determine the remaining out from there.
Lamai Seashore is the second hottest seaside, and however it’s much less crowded and way more enjoyable than Chaweng Seashore.
Coral Cove Seashore is beautiful for snorkelling and is hidden in a small bay behind a lodge.
Choeng Mon Seashore is situated on the north of the island close to the Large Buddha, and there are many good inns and seaside bars up right here.
Lipa Noi Seashore is probably the most kid-friendly of Koh Samui’s seashores, because it has shallow, clear water and barely any coral or rocks.
Just about each seaside right here has velvety white sand and coconut palm timber offering shade, and the water is evident and refreshing all over the place too.
So choose any seaside on Koh Samui and also you’ll really feel such as you’re in paradise.
7) Discover the Secret Buddha Backyard
The Secret Buddha Backyard is among the most fascinating Koh Samui points of interest.
Again in 1976, an area farmer named Nim Thongsuk started making a backyard by organising statues round his land.
Years later, the statues of Buddhas, different deities, animals and random creatures have taken over and the plush jungle gardens present a pleasant background to all of the paintings.
Spend an hour strolling by the peaceable inexperienced forest and admiring all of the fascinating statues; there’s a sense of thriller right here on the Secret Buddha Backyard that’s intriguing.
Some journey excursions round Koh Samui cease on the Secret Buddha Backyard as a part of their itinerary, although you too can drive by yourself.
Although it’s known as the SECRET Buddha Backyard, this stunning place has turn out to be one of the crucial well-known Koh Samui points of interest.
READ MORE: Don’t miss out on all of the greatest issues to do in Ao Nang if you find yourself in southern Thailand!
8) Style Native Meals on the Chaweng Night time Market
For a few of the greatest road meals in Koh Samui, head to the Chaweng Night time Market.
This is among the busiest areas on the island, so the market is stuffed with issues to see and is packed each evening with locals and vacationers alike.
Pattern flavorful native snacks for insanely low cost costs, and even get a full meal for lower than 2 USD.
The market is generally comprised of meals, however you too can discover some garments, jewelry, and different traditional souvenirs on sale as nicely.
- Location: 14/102 Moo 2, Chaweng Seashore Highway, Chaweng, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, open day-after-day
READ MORE: Plan your journey to Thailand with our record of the greatest locations to go to within the nation!
9) Go to Wat Plai Laem
One other top-of-the-line Koh Samui points of interest is Wat Plai Laem, a Buddhist temple on the northeast coast of the island.
The temple is legendary for its statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion.
Bathed in white and sporting 18 arms, the Guanyin statue towers over the temple grounds and the encircling lake.
Wat Plai Laem is near the Large Buddha, so you’ll be able to simply cease by each throughout your Koh Samui sightseeing.
10) Hike to the Hilltop Temple, Khao Hua Jook Chedi
For a little bit of train and panoramic views, go to Koh Samui’s hilltop temple generally known as Khao Hua Jook Chedi.
You’ll need to drive or take a taxi to Khao Hua Jook Chedi as there isn’t any public transport working on to this attraction.
The mountain on which the temple lies is named Chom Daow Mountain, and there’s a shimmering gold pagoda in addition to statues and Buddhist artworks within the temple advanced.
The viewing platform gives an exquisite view over Chaweng Lake, so ensure to carry your digital camera to Khao Hua Jook Chedi.
- Location: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320
- Hours: 8 am to five pm, open day-after-day
- Value: Free
11) Cool Down on the Na Muang Waterfalls
These two waterfalls are a few of the greatest pure sights in Koh Samui.
They’re situated solely a five-minute drive away from one another and they’re each extremely picturesque.
Na Muang Waterfall One is tremendous straightforward to entry as a result of you’ll be able to mainly drive proper as much as the doorway.
And it has a large pure pool that’s excellent for swimming (particularly in the course of the wet season).
Attending to Waterfall Two requires a little bit climbing, so put on sturdy, waterproof footwear.
The thick jungle gives beautiful pure surroundings, and the view from the highest of Waterfall Two is kind of well-known amongst backpackers.
- Location: Off Route 4169, Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140
- Hours: 9 am to five:30 pm, open day-after-day
- Value: Waterfall One has no entrance price, Waterfall Two prices 30 Baht. You additionally need to pay for parking at Waterfall Two, 20 Baht for scooters and 60 Baht for automobiles.
READ MORE: Absolutely the greatest issues to do in Thailand!
12) See the Mysterious Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
Of all of the issues to do in Koh Samui, that is in all probability the oddest.
Set on a rocky seaside on the island’s southeast coast, the Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks are well-known as a result of they resemble female and male genitalia.
They’re additionally known as the Grandfather’s and Grandmother’s Rocks, and there are just a few native myths about how the rocks got here to be.
Whether or not you have an interest within the tales behind the landmarks or not, the close by seashores are stunning so it’s price stopping at Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks.
13) Take a look at the Guan Yu Shrine
Symbolic of the Chinese language tradition that has unfold all through Thailand, the Guan Yu Shrine is a strong landmark in Koh Samui.
There’s a 16-meter excessive statue of Guan Yu, the Chinese language God of Warfare and an emblem of braveness, loyalty, and bravado.
You in all probability received’t discover too many different vacationers right here, so you’ll be able to take pleasure in a little bit little bit of peace and quiet whereas studying concerning the shrine’s historical past.
If you wish to proceed your training about Chinese language tradition after visiting the statue, there are some native Chinese language eating places out entrance.
- Location: 190/1 Moo 1, Tambon Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84310
- Hours: 8 am to five pm, open day-after-day
- Value: Free
14) Attend a Ladyboy Cabaret
Probably the greatest issues to do in Koh Samui, or wherever in Thailand, goes to a ladyboy cabaret.
The native Thai ladyboys are males that change their look to seem like glamorous ladies, and so they typically placed on wonderful performances across the nation.
Koh Samui’s greatest location for watching a blinding ladyboy efficiency is the Paris Follies Cabaret in Chaweng Seashore.
There are three exhibits each evening right here, and totally different dances and songs from everywhere in the world are included into the units.
So for an evening stuffed with tune, dance, and charisma, go to the Paris Follies Cabaret and put together to be entertained by Koh Samui’s greatest ladyboys.
- Location: 166/92 Moo 2, off Chaweng Seashore Highway
- Hours: Performances at 8 pm, 9:30 pm and 11 pm, each evening.
- Value: Free entry, however you might be anticipated to purchase a drink on the bar which might be over 200 Baht
READ MORE: Plan for all the thrilling issues to do in Phuket!
15) Stroll By means of the Fisherman’s Village Strolling Avenue Market
Bophut is an space on the northern coast of Koh Samui recognized for its native fisherman’s village.
The village is among the oldest areas of the island, with rustic previous buildings and charming native tradition.
Each Friday evening beginning at 5 pm, Bophut Seashore Highway turns right into a vigorous strolling road market stuffed with souvenirs, paintings, road meals, and reside music.
Among the native outlets carry their merchandise to the streets whereas different distributors arrange new stalls and road performers placed on a present.
- Location: Bophut Seashore Highway, Bophut 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, each Friday
16) Hike the Elephant Rock close to Lamai Seashore
These searching for energetic issues to do in Koh Samui can head to the Elephant Rock, situated between Chaweng and Lamai Seashore.
This large rock formation is called “Elephant Rock” just because it appears like a large boulder the identical dimension as an Asian Elephant.
You may climb Elephant Rock to get an excellent aerial view of the encircling ocean and seashores.
It is a good outdoorsy exercise to do whereas hanging out close to Chaweng or Lamai Seashore; simply ensure you put on sturdy climbing footwear.
17) Watch a Muay Thai Boxing Match
Muay Thai is a significant a part of Thai tradition that travellers ought to attempt to expertise in Thailand.
Koh Samui’s greatest place to observe a Muay Thai boxing match is Chaweng Boxing Stadium, which can be the oldest stadium on the island.
Right here you’ll be able to observe the gifted native athletes as they have interaction in fight, the strategies and tips of which developed from the traditional combating strategies of the Siamese Empire.
Chaweng Boxing Stadium even has a program the place they take youths off the streets and practice them to struggle Muay Thai in a secure and safe place.
So fighters it’s possible you’ll watch throughout a match can vary from younger children to skilled adults, male or feminine.
This boxing stadium stays true to native traditions and nonetheless makes the fights partaking and thrilling for vacationers.
- Location: 166/16, Moo 2, Chaweng, Tambon Bo Put, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320
- Hours: Fights each Tuesday and Friday beginning at 9 pm
- Value: Tickets vary from 1,500 to 2,000 Baht
18) Take a Thai Cooking Class
The meals is certainly one of many highlights of travelling by Thailand.
Thai meals is so stuffed with flavour and contemporary elements, and each meal seems like an journey to your style buds.
The native delicacies differs barely relying on which area of Thailand you might be in.
So if you happen to’re a real foodie it’s possible you’ll need to take just a few totally different Thai cooking courses all through the nation.
Koh Samui has a number of cooking faculties that supply full-day excursions cooking courses, most of which embrace a tour of the native market adopted by guided directions for making traditional dishes.
This one although is the very best rated, so ensure you e-book it forward of time.
The meals you put together your self could also be a few of the greatest you eat in Thailand.
So dedicate a minimum of someday in Koh Samui to a enjoyable Thai cooking class.
19) Marvel at Laem Sor Pagoda
One other certainly one of Koh Samui’s greatest landmarks, Laem Sor Pagoda is situated on a quiet seaside removed from the favored vacationer areas.
Down within the southwest nook of the island, the Laem Sor Pagoda stands tall as a part of the Wat Laem Sor temple advanced.
The Pagoda seems to be absolutely coated in gold, although it’s really tiny yellow tiles that give it that glowing look.
Close to the pagoda is a small forest with a lake and picnic benches, in addition to one other Pagoda known as Khao Chedi, situated atop a hill that provides panoramic views.
So there are some things to do down on this nook of the island, and this space makes a pleasant escape from the extra crowded, touristy elements of Koh Samui.
- Location: Off Route 4170, previous Bang Kao village on a small seaside
- Hours: Open all day, day-after-day
- Value: Free
READ MORE: Plan for the highest 10 issues to do in Bangkok!
20) Go Diving or Snorkeling
The Gulf of Thailand is thought for a few of the greatest snorkelling and diving in Southeast Asia.
The waters are crystal clear and the wildlife is vibrant and energetic.
Koh Samui has just a few good snorkelling spots, however the very best places for snorkelling or diving are subsequent to different close by islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.
The best choice is to e-book a day tour by an area tourism firm, to allow them to take you round the very best snorkelling spots by speedboat.
Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan are two common sights for snorkelling or scuba diving, and so they can simply be reached by speedboat from Koh Samui.
Skilled licensed divers can discover the waters deeply and swim down by coral reefs.
Whereas different travellers can go for snorkelling, which doesn’t require any certifications and is a bit simpler.
Whether or not scuba diving or snorkelling close to the floor, you might be positive to identify some unique fish and sea creatures whereas exploring the oceans.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get the very best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, if you happen to use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when trying out, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
21) Watch the Sundown from the West Aspect of the Island
Tropical islands supply a few of the most majestic sunsets.
Nothing says makes a trip memorable like watching the sky change colors because the solar slowly slips behind the horizon, with the waves crashing and the palm timber swaying within the breeze.
Among the greatest seashores to go watch the sundown are Lipa Noi Seashore, Taling Ngam Seashore or Nathon City Seashore.
They’re all situated on the island’s west coast so that they face the setting solar.
This aspect of the island can be far much less touristy than the east aspect, so that you’ll most definitely have the seaside to your self aside from just a few locals.
On an analogous notice, head to any seaside on the east aspect of the island for a spectacular dawn view!
22) Attempt a Fruit Carving Class
If you happen to’ve ever been to any kind of fancy lodge or restaurant in Thailand, you will have seen unbelievable artwork shows made solely out of fruit.
The artwork of fruit carving is a standard Thai ability that originated within the ornament of occasions for the Thai royal household.
Fruit carving is extra accessible nowadays, however it’s nonetheless thought of a good ability.
You may take a fruit carving class on the Intercontinental the place professionals will educate you how you can carve stunning designs into fruit and greens.
It is a very hands-on expertise, and you might be positive to be taught rather a lot about this conventional type of Thai artwork.
Koh Samui Journey Information
Now that you understand what to do in Koh Sumai, we need to provide help to make your different plans as nicely by sharing the very best lodging and locations to eat within the metropolis.
Our Favorite Native Tour Information – Mr Pek
On my most up-to-date journey to the island in 2023, I had the prospect to discover the place and do some airport/ferry transfers with a incredible native, licensed tour information, Mr. Pek.
Mr Pek has speaks wonderful English, owns a very nice, air-conditioned trendy automobile, and has in depth data of the island.
Belief me after I say Mr. Pek is the proper information to take you to each the favored vacationer spots and the key, hidden gems of Koh Samui.
He’s very happy to show you concerning the island’s wealthy historical past, take you to bask in scrumptious native delicacies, and discover probably the most breathtaking views.
He additionally does airport, lodge and ferry terminal transfers and may be very dependable.
Whether or not you’re desirous about visiting waterfalls, temples, lounging on a secluded seaside, or simply want a trip from a pleasant, sincere and hard-working native information, Mr. Pek has bought you lined.
Don’t hesitate to get in contact with him for an unforgettable journey on this stunning island. His official firm identify is ViVa Tour.
- WhatsApp: +66 (0) 894 699 968
- Electronic mail: vivatour999@gmail.com
Lodging in Koh Samui, Thailand
After studying the very best issues to do in Koh Samui, take into account the place you’re going to keep.
Regardless of the island’s repute as being a bit costly and catering solely in direction of luxurious travellers, Koh Samui has loads of funds and mid-range lodging choices as nicely.
Greatest Finances Hostel on Koh Samui: Timeless Hostel
Keep in Timeless Hostel if you wish to lower your expenses and keep proper in the course of the motion.
Only a brief stroll from Chaweng Seashore and near all of the nightlife and leisure of the Chaweng neighbourhood, there may be a lot to do right here and plenty of fellow travellers to hang around with.
The hostel has a comfortable widespread room that’s nice for socializing, and all the standard facilities like free wifi, scorching showers, metropolis maps and a journey desk that can assist you plan your adventures.
It prices solely 10 USD per evening for a dorm mattress and 30 USD per evening for the standard personal room.
Greatest Mid-Vary Resort on Koh Samui: Promtsuk Buri Resort
For a sense of luxurious that doesn’t break the financial institution, Promtsuk Buri Resort is the proper choice proper on Lamai Seashore.
Positioned solely 80 meters away from the small, personal Silver Seashore, and simply 2km away from the beautiful however peaceable Lamai Seashore, this a part of the island is quiet but stuffed with issues to do.
Company rave concerning the useful and pleasant workers and the clear rooms, so travellers ought to have all their wants taken care of throughout their keep.
This three-star lodge gives free breakfast for company in addition to airport transfers and excursions out there.
There are solely 17 rooms right here, so it’s smaller and cozier than your common lodge.
You may get personal bungalows close to Lamai Seashore for a extremely good value!
Greatest Luxurious Resort on Koh Samui: Cape Fahn Resort
With no shadow of a doubt, the very best luxurious lodge on Koh Samui Thailand is Cape Fahn Resort.
This boutique 5-star resort is discovered on a non-public island only a brief boat trip away from Choeng Mon Seashore.
Each certainly one of their award-winning villas comes with its personal personal infinity pool, so you’ll be able to sip a cocktail in peace whereas staring out on the ocean beneath.
We wrote a full Cape Fahn Resort assessment which you’ll try. Be sure to e-book forward of time although, as that is additionally the primary spot for celebrities to remain on Koh Samui.
What to Eat in Koh Samui, Thailand
There are many locations to style conventional Thai delicacies in Koh Samui Thailand.
Listed below are just a few suggestions for some eating places which have both funds, mid-range or costly menu costs on Koh Samui.
Finances – Guay Tiew Noodle Store
For a brilliant low cost and genuine native meal on Koh Samui, go to Guay Tiew Noodle Store close to Wat Phra Yai (Large Buddha).
This restaurant may be very localized, with a brief and easy menu. However the delectable noodle and rice dishes are tremendous low cost so it’s nice for funds vacationers.
Mid-Vary – The Jungle Membership
The Jungle Membership is a moderately-priced hilltop restaurant with a shocking view over Chaweng Seashore.
Eat scrumptious traditional Thai meals or worldwide delicacies whereas enjoyable in cozy bean bag chairs atop their stylish wood deck.
Luxurious – Peak Restaurant
Head out to the Peak Restaurant situated on a rocky headland on the east of the island, as a part of Silavadee Pool Spa Resort in Koh Samui Thailand.
The fine-dining restaurant is called as a result of it’s arrange excessive so that you get a stunning view, and there are many good wines and cocktails to accompany your trendy Thai meals.
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