In case you’re searching for a spot that has massive metropolis facilities, gorgeous Buddhist temples, and a chilled-out island vibe, then look no additional than Koh Samui.
Thailand’s 2nd largest island (#1 is Phuket) has quite a bit to supply vacationers. Whether or not you’re into nature, tradition, journey, partying, or simply some good old style R&R, you’ll discover issues to do in Koh Samui to fit your vibe.
Days could be spent lounging on the seashore, doing a wide range of water sports activities, mountaineering to viewpoints, or visiting a really Massive Buddha. Evenings in Koh Samui are all about sunsets, tropical cocktails, recent seafood, and sure, a bit of untamed nightlife.
That is additionally an important island for digital nomads and we spent a month chillin’ out right here. Learn on for a better have a look at my record of the highest issues to do in Koh Samui — one of many finest locations to go to in Thailand.
1. Seaside Bumming
Whereas there are many enjoyable and thrilling issues to do in Koh Samui, let’s face it — you most likely got here right here for a calming seashore trip. Fortunately you’ve acquired a number of selections for solar and sand when visiting this fashionable Thai island.
Situated close to the airport on the northeast aspect of the island, Chaweng is the principle seashore in Koh Samui.
Whereas it’s undoubtedly essentially the most developed and most crowded of the seashores right here, it’s nonetheless stunningly lovely. Go forward and hire a lounger and umbrella, order a fruity cocktail, and revel in your self!
The second largest seashore in Koh Samui is Lamai. It’s not as busy as Chaweng, however you’ve nonetheless acquired plenty of choices for locations to sit back, eat, and drink. Lamai is a good place to go for a swim, as the ocean is obvious and calm right here.
Whereas these are essentially the most well-known and largest seashores, there are numerous others to select from in Koh Samui.
Different beautiful seashores it is best to spend a while on embody Lipa Noi, Bang Por, and Massive Buddha seashore. Talking of a Massive Buddha, that brings us to the following merchandise on our record.
2. Go to the Massive Buddha
One of the crucial well-known Koh Samui sights is the Massive Buddha. It’s positioned on the Wat Phra Yai temple, which is definitely on a a lot smaller island simply off the northeast coast of Samui.
Due to its location close to the airport, it’s one of many first issues many individuals see when touring to Koh Samui by aircraft.
The spotlight of Wat Phra Yai is the 12-meter seated golden Buddha. This explicit posture depicts a time in Buddha’s quest for enlightenment when he needed to keep away from all of the temptations that had been being compelled upon him.
With the event of tourism and the thriving occasion scene that adopted it right here, it’s fascinating to see Buddha remaining steadfast and pure on this peaceable pose whereas backpackers guzzle down buckets of booze round him.
Whereas the temple is open all day, it is best to attempt to get there within the morning to see it at its busiest. With monks chanting and locals making choices, it’s an interesting cultural expertise. You could find the Koh Samui Massive Buddha on the map right here.
Notice: When visiting this and some other Buddhist temple in Thailand, it’s essential to observe the correct etiquette. It’s sizzling and humid on the Thai islands, however you must cowl up when visiting non secular websites like this. Don’t be that farang who reveals up right here carrying a Full Moon Social gathering tank-top and booty shorts.
3. Watersports Galore
Since it’s a tropical island, it ought to come as no shock that watersports are among the many hottest issues to do in Koh Samui. Right here you possibly can participate in scuba diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, kayaking, crusing, kiteboarding, and extra.
On this half-day journey, you’ll discover the shoreline by jet-ski, together with stops on the Massive Buddha (see above), and Fisherman’s Village, adopted by a sundown dinner on the seashore. Take a look at that journey right here.
Whereas close by Koh Tao often is the diving Mecca of Thailand, Koh Samui can also be a superb place to discover beneath the ocean.
The water is heat and clear right here, with visibility between 3 and 30 meters. These situations let you study proper off the shore quite than in a swimming pool, making Koh Samui an important place to lastly get scuba-certified.
Even in case you’re not into the concept of scuba diving, you possibly can nonetheless take pleasure in recognizing the ample marine life by snorkeling. It’s simple to seek out gear for hire on the seashore, or you possibly can join a ship tour to go to a number of completely different spots. Many excursions take a mixture of divers and snorkelers, which is nice in case you’re in a break up group.
That’s not all there may be to do within the water right here, although. It’s also possible to hire kayaks or SUPs for a pleasant leisurely paddle, or jet-skis in case you want a bit extra velocity. Crusing excursions are additionally fairly fashionable right here, particularly to see the sundown.
4. Follow Yoga
In case you really feel the necessity to do some solar salutations or bust out your finest downward-facing canine in your trip, you’ll be pleased to listen to that yoga is sort of fashionable right here on Koh Samui.
I’m normally extra of a “Namaste in mattress” sort of man, however even I’ll rise up for some dawn yoga on a Thai island!
In case you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui on a wet day, or in case you simply really feel like practising, many resorts on the island provide yoga lessons and there are additionally loads of devoted yoga studios right here.
Your choices right here vary from informal drop-in lessons to intense yoga retreats. Whether or not you’re a complete beginner or an knowledgeable, there’s a yoga class for you in Koh Samui.
One of the crucial fashionable spots to do yoga in Koh Samui is Shahda — a boutique resort. Click on right here for costs and particulars and to e book your spot.
☞ See Additionally: Issues To Do in Pai: 21 Issues You Don’t Need to Miss
5. Day Journey to Ang Thong Marine Park
One of the crucial enjoyable issues to do in Koh Samui is to affix a day journey out to the gorgeous Ang Thong Marine Park. This archipelago consists of 42 pristine islands with towering limestone mountains and postcard-worthy seashores.
Most excursions to Ang Thong embody a go to to the Emerald Lagoon, chilling out on the seashore, and a little bit of snorkeling/kayaking. You’ll seemingly spot some wildlife on land and within the sea on this journey, together with dusky langurs and hawksbill turtles.
Ang Thong is only a quick boat trip away from Koh Samui, and nearly each tour operator on the island can get you arrange on a visit there. These enjoyable journeys embody lunch, resort switch, meals, snorkelling tools and extra. Take a look at this highly-rated day tour for particulars, or this superb sundown cruise!
If a day journey simply isn’t sufficient for you, there’s fundamental lodging out there at Koh Wua Ta Lap the place the park headquarters are positioned.
You’ll be able to select between easy bungalows or simply hire a tent to camp on the seashore. There’s additionally a fundamental restaurant right here the place you possibly can have your meals. For all the data on staying at Ang Thong, try the park’s web site.
6. Take a Hike
In case you can pull your self out of your seashore lounger, there are some nice alternatives for mountaineering in Koh Samui. Whereas the shoreline has been developed for tourism, a lot of the island stays untouched jungle.
There are numerous choices for hikes on Koh Samui, from comparatively simple and quick trails resulting in speeding waterfalls to steep and strenuous hikes as much as some incredible viewpoints. After a troublesome, sweaty hike, you’ll have earned that ice-cold Chang beer and that tasty bowl of Pad Thai!
Take a look at the hike to Nathon Mountain Ridge Path or the Maenam Viewpoint.
Since Koh Samui could be fairly sizzling and humid, the very best time to hike is both early within the morning or late within the afternoon. Everytime you go, you should definitely carry loads of water together with some sunscreen and bug spray.
In case you’d quite go together with a gaggle than by yourself, you should definitely try the numerous choices supplied by Climbing on Samui. These excursions are run by a long-time Samui expat from the Netherlands who has tons of expertise mountaineering.
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If you wish to see most of the “must-sees” in Koh Samui, however don’t have a number of time, or don’t wish to spend greater than a half-day doing so, try this fashionable, extremely rated tour:
7. Take a Thai Cooking Class
I don’t learn about you, however I’m completely in love with Thai meals. I’m not joking after I say I might eat Thai meals day-after-day and by no means get bored. It’s simply that good!
In case you’re as loopy about Thai delicacies as I’m, why not learn to make it your self? Taking a Thai cooking class is definitely one of many tastiest issues you are able to do in Koh Samui.
In most cooking lessons, you’ll first go to an area market to buy recent components. Again within the kitchen, it’s time to cook dinner up Thai classics like papaya salad, inexperienced curry, or tom yam. After all, the very best a part of the category is having fun with the fruits of your labor with a scrumptious meal on the finish.
The most effective place to take a cooking class in Koh Samui is with Island Organics. In the course of the highly-rated class, Chef Lat teaches you make 4 tasty Thai dishes, plus genuine curry pastes, and a dessert. What makes the category additional particular is that most of the components are grown of their onsite backyard. Click on right here to study extra.
8. See Some Fascinating Rocks
Maybe one of the crucial fascinating issues to do in Koh Samui is taking a look at rocks. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? Effectively, my associates, these are not any extraordinary rocks…
Hin Ta (Grandpa Rock) and Hin Yai (Grandma Rock) had been naturally carved through the years to resemble female and male genitalia. As with many issues in Southeast Asia, there’s a incredible legend behind the rocks.
Because the story goes, an previous couple was touring by sea to go to their son for his wedding ceremony. Sadly, their boat flipped over in a nasty storm and the couple was unable to swim. They tragically drowned that day, however they remodeled into these rocks to show to their son and his new household that they’d tried to make it for what would have been a joyous event, and maybe as a little bit of a sensible joke.
Whether or not you imagine the city legend or not it’s price a go to to the rocks, if solely to snap some foolish images and giggle. The view from the rocks is superb as properly. You will get instructions to the naughty-bits-shaped rocks on the map right here. Or, take today journey of Koh Samui, which takes within the rocks as properly.
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9. Get a Therapeutic massage
Strolling down the streets of Koh Samui – or any Thai island, for that matter – you’re positive to listen to calls of “Whats up! Maasssaaagggee?” It appears as if everybody on this island needs to provide you a therapeutic massage. I say take them up on it. You’re on trip in spite of everything!
On the subject of getting a therapeutic massage right here, you may have loads of choices. There are wandering masseuses on the seashore who will fortunately offer you a therapeutic massage from the consolation of your solar lounger. Don’t count on a life-changing therapeutic massage from them, however for only a few bucks why not?
In case you want one thing a bit of nicer, spas are a dime a dozen in Koh Samui. These vary from quite simple to extremely fancy. All of it depends upon your price range and what you’re searching for. For an in depth have a look at a few of Koh Samui’s finest spas, head right here.
10. Swim in Waterfalls
Whereas swimming within the sea is at all times enjoyable, that’s not the one option to cool off on a sizzling day in Koh Samui. The island is residence to a number of waterfalls the place you possibly can take a refreshing dip in lovely environment.
The preferred waterfalls to go to are the Na Muang falls — two cascading waterfalls set within the lush jungle of central Koh Samui. Na Muang 1 is well accessible by automobile and thus generally is a bit crowded. In case you’re up for a bit of problem, it’s a few 20-30 minute hike uphill to achieve Na Muang 2.
It’s free to go to the waterfalls, however you’ll have to pay a small charge to park your motorcycle right here. There are some small meals stalls right here in addition to distributors promoting drinks in case you forgot to carry snacks or water. You could find Na Muang 1 on the map and get instructions right here.
11. Go On An ATV Tour
For the adrenaline junkies on the market, an ATV tour is unquestionably one of many high issues to do in Koh Samui. On a typical ATV tour, you’ll trip by means of the jungle to take a look at some superb viewpoints and waterfalls.
There are a number of completely different choices for ATV excursions in Koh Samui. Some are as quick as one hour, whereas others final half a day. One tour operator that’s extremely advisable is X-Quad Samui.
Earlier than you go driving an ATV into the jungle of a Thai island, ensure you have some first rate worldwide journey insurance coverage. Not all insurance policies cowl excessive actions corresponding to this, so examine yours rigorously!
☞ In case you’re into motorcycle journeys, try this information to driving the Mae Hong Son Loop!
12. Hit The Night time Markets (among the finest issues to do in Koh Samui!)
Night time markets in Thailand are one in every of my favourite issues on the planet. It simply by no means will get previous sampling low-cost and engaging Thai meals whereas perusing the colourful handicrafts on provide.
In case you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui within the evenings, there are a number of completely different night time markets in Koh Samui which are price trying out. Totally different cities host an evening market on completely different days of the week. There’s Mae Nam on Thursdays, Bophut on Fridays, and Lamai on Sundays.
The night time markets normally get going round 5PM and keep open till 11. Make sure you add at the least one in every of these superior night time markets to your record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
13. Discover Nathon City
In case you arrive in Koh Samui by way of the ferry from Surat Thani, your level of entry will probably be Nathon City. That is the business and administrative heart of the island and a spot that many locals name residence.
Most vacationers skip over Koh Samui’s fundamental city solely, nevertheless it’s undoubtedly price it to spend a while visiting Nathon. On a brief journey right here, you possibly can try the colourful Chinese language shophouses, eat some scrumptious native meals at a cut price value, and stick round for a picture-perfect sundown.
Nathon City is positioned on the northwest coast of Koh Samui. You could find it on the map and get instructions right here.
14. Test Out the Secret Buddha Backyard
Tucked away within the heart of the island is a Secret Buddha Backyard surrounded by lush jungle. It’s a stupendous and peaceable place to discover, and will undoubtedly make it in your record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
It was began by a fruit farmer named Nim Tongsuk again in 1976 when he started inserting Buddhist statues round his household’s property. He continued so as to add to his Secret Buddha Backyard up till his loss of life on the age of 91.
The Secret Buddha Backyard is open day-after-day from 9-5. It prices 80 baht (about $2.50) to go to. It’s fairly robust to achieve by yourself except you may have 4WD and are an skilled driver. If not, it is best to contemplate signing up for a day tour that features a cease on the backyard. You could find it on the map right here.
☞ On the lookout for a shocking island with pristine seashores, however fewer vacationers? Don’t miss the entire unimaginable issues to do in Koh Lipe.
15. Go to the Fishermen’s Village
In case you develop bored with the touristy scene in locations like Chaweng and Lamai, take half a day to go to the fishing village of Bophut. It’s a pleasant place to spend a number of hours strolling round, doing a little bit of procuring, and grabbing a chunk to eat. This enjoyable jet-ski journey takes in Fishermen’s Village, together with sundown dinner on the seashore.
Right here you’ll discover unique wood properties constructed within the nineteenth century by Chinese language immigrants. Whereas most of the fishermen have moved on to different elements of the island, they nonetheless carry their day by day catch to the eating places right here. You’ll discover a few of the finest seafood in Koh Samui within the eating places of Fishermen’s Village.
Whereas it’s enjoyable to go to any day of the week, it’s possible you’ll wish to come on Friday to take a look at the night time market right here. The Fishermen’s Village is positioned close to Bophut Seaside. You will get instructions on the map right here.
16. Go {Golfing}
In case you take pleasure in a pleasant spherical of golf in your trip, then you definitely’ll be pleased to listen to that Koh Samui has a number of programs to select from. From mini-golf to a full 18-hole course with spectacular views, hitting the hyperlinks is likely one of the finest issues to do in Koh Samui.
The Santiburi Samui Nation Membership is the one skilled normal golf course on the island. This gorgeous course is about amongst a preserved coconut palm plantation excessive up within the hills.
Due to its location, you’ll take pleasure in distinctive views all through all the spherical. It’s not an inexpensive spherical (about $160 with golf cart and caddy), nevertheless it may be one of the crucial scenic rounds you ever play! You could find the course on the map right here.
In case you’re like me and may’t swing a golf membership to save lots of your life, you may wish to simply play old style spherical of mini-golf. There are mini-golf programs in each Chaweng and Lamai which are enjoyable for the entire household.
☞ Desire mountains to seashores? Then you definately’ll wish to try gorgeous Khao Lak.
17. See a Mummified Monk
This may be essentially the most uncommon merchandise on our record of issues to do in Koh Samui. On the Wat Khunaram temple, you may have the prospect to see a mummified monk.
Luang Pho Daeng was a Buddhist monk who died whereas in a meditative seated place again in 1973. It was determined that his physique can be preserved on this peaceable state, and it has been on show in a glass case ever since.
This may occasionally appear a bit stunning and morbid to most Westerners, however Thai Buddhists are rather more accepting of loss of life. The physique of Luong Pordaeng serves as a visible reminder of Buddha’s teachings to all who go to and is extremely revered.
Wat Khunaram is a few 10-minute drive from Lamai Seaside. It’s open day-after-day and is most lively within the early morning or late afternoon. You could find it on the map right here.
18. Attempt The Digital Nomad Life
Koh Samui will not be solely a preferred vacationer and honeymoon spot, nevertheless it’s additionally an up-and-coming digital nomad vacation spot. Whereas the digital nomad neighborhood might not be as massive right here as it’s in close by Koh Phangan or Chiang Mai within the north, that is nonetheless an important place to work remotely.
Excessive-speed web is now available on the island, particularly within the fashionable areas of Chaweng and Lamai. Additionally, there’s lastly a co-working house at Mantra (examine it on the map right here). It has quick WiFi, cozy sofas, video video games, and even a pool desk. Now that’s a cool workplace!
Dariece and Nick (founders of Goats on the Street) spent a tremendous month residing and dealing from Koh Samui. Learn all about it of their large information to being a digital nomad in Koh Samui.
☞ In case you’re inquisitive about what digital nomad life is like on the opposite aspect of the world, examine our expertise touring as digital nomads in South America.
19. Take a Sundown Cruise
What could possibly be higher than having fun with the sundown from a tropical seashore in Thailand? Having fun with it on a yacht, after all! Taking a sundown cruise undoubtedly earns its spot on this record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
Most tour operators on the island will probably be pleased to set you up with a sundown cruise. Among the best choices is with the Pink Baron, a standard wood junk-style yacht.
Their sundown cruise features a welcome cocktail, limitless comfortable drinks/tea/espresso, and a buffet dinner. There’s additionally a bar working on deck if that one drink simply isn’t sufficient . Click on right here to study extra.
20. Attempt the Thai Expertise Dinner
This simply may be the good banquet on the market. The Thai Expertise is taking dinner events to a complete new stage with their enjoyable and interactive spin on issues.
To be clear, this isn’t a cooking class. I’ve already included these on this record of issues to do in Koh Samui up above. Whereas you’ll study all in regards to the numerous dishes and even learn to make a bit of one thing your self, you’ll be consuming meals ready by their extremely expert cooks.
For his or her full expertise, you get a cocktail class (and the completed product!), 15 completely different dishes, and limitless booze. Now that’s what I name a cocktail party! They supply round-trip transportation, so go forward and drink up. These excursions final three hours and value 2,490 baht ($78) per individual.
This banquet is likely one of the most unusual issues to do in Thailand. Don’t miss it!
21. See a Cabaret Present
One of many quintessential issues to do in Koh Samui is to see a ladyboy cabaret present. These reveals function singing, dancing, comedy, and a few fairly elaborate costumes.
There are a number of completely different choices for ladyboy cabaret reveals on the island. One which comes extremely advisable is Paris Follies, which options all kinds of dance kinds in addition to many superior celeb impersonators.
Reveals go on each night time at 8, 9:30, and 11. The sooner present is a little more family-friendly, whereas issues warmth up a bit of bit for the later efficiency. It’s free to attend, however they make their cash off of the bar as drinks are undoubtedly on the dear aspect.
Now You Know What To Do in Koh Samui
As you possibly can see, there’s quite a bit occurring right here in Koh Samui. Whereas this island will most likely suck you in, you may wish to contemplate tacking on a visit to the close by islands of Koh Tao for diving and Koh Phangan for epic events and adventures.
In case you’re planning on exploring extra of the nation (and you need to be), you should definitely try this information to backpacking Thailand. If you inevitably contemplate quitting your job, promoting all of your worldly possessions, and transferring right here, we’ve additionally acquired you lined with particulars on the price of residing in Thailand.
Some pictures on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
