The final word listing of all one of the best issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.
Planning a visit by way of the numerous islands of Thailand can appear overwhelming.
There are over a thousand Thai islands they usually all have one thing completely different to supply.
The large developed islands have numerous accessible vacationer sights, 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.
One of the vital 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).
Situated 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 fame for being fairly ritzy and costly.
There are many luxurious resorts, fancy motels and trip packages that attraction to the rich, however lately the extra native, reasonably priced aspect of Koh Samui is starting to floor.
Backpacker hostels, avenue markets, low-cost excursions and a protracted listing of sights are beginning to pull extra younger price range travellers to Koh Samui.
The Greatest Issues to Do in Koh Sumai
The basic touristy Thai tradition, with its Buddhist temples, Muay Thai boxing matches, and Ladyboy cabarets, is reasonably priced sufficient that backpackers are in a position to journey Koh Samui with out spending a fortune.
Delicate white sand, glowing turquoise water, and towering coconut palms make Koh Samui appear to be a postcard, and now the island is extra reasonably priced and accessible than ever.
There are many issues to do in Koh Samui on a price range, and loads of good motels and eating places to swimsuit these with extra money 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 listing of one of the best issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.
READ MORE: Try our information to our high 5 Koh Samui day journeys too!
1) Ebook 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, every one rugged and distinctive.
All through the park you will discover limestone cliffs, rocky caves, thick jungle, lakes and rivers, waterfalls, coral reefs, lagoons, mountaineering 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 Nationwide Marine Park is properly protected as a nationwide park, so unique wildlife can thrive and human growth by no means oversteps its boundaries.
Solely tour boats which might be accredited by the federal government are allowed to enter, so travellers can not entry Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park with out reserving a tour.
However there are many respected tour corporations providing reasonably priced and tremendous enjoyable excursions across the archipelago that embrace snorkelling, kayaking, and enjoyable.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get one of the best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, should you use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when testing, 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 useless physique on show in a glass case. However it’s fairly fascinating for many who have an interest.
Buddhist monk, Luang Pho Daeng, died in 1973 and his physique is now a supply of surprise 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’ll want to observe correct gown code when visiting any temples in Thailand (no shoulders or knees exhibiting).
- Location: Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140
- Hours: 7 am to five pm, open every single day
- Price: Free
READ MORE: This put up 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 positively have a spot on any listing of issues to see in Koh Samui.
Formally generally known as Wat Phra Yai, this Buddhist temple complicated 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 in-built 1972.
In the event you’re flying into Koh Samui you’ll be able to generally see the enormous Buddha from the airplane.
The Wat Phra Yai temple grounds additionally host a small market with souvenirs, fascinating garments and non secular ornaments on sale.
- Location: Large Buddha Seaside, off Route 4171, Bophut
- Hours: Open all day, every single day
- Price: Free
4) Take pleasure 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 imagined to rejuvenate the physique and really feel wonderful afterwards.
Skilled 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 tissue.
There are many spas throughout Koh Samui, so examine them out should you really feel like treating your self.
5) Attempt Stand Up Paddleboarding
With ocean surroundings as gorgeous as Koh Samui, do your finest to spend as a lot time within the water as doable.
For a calming and laid-back but energetic day in Koh Samui strive rise up paddleboarding. (You’ll be able to guide your SUP expertise right here.)
Paddleboards are heavy and durable, so they’re straightforward to stability on even when it’s your first time.
This can be a nice technique to soak within the views and spend high quality time with the ocean, and it’s a family-friendly exercise as properly.
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 one of the best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, should you use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when testing, 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 Seaside is the most well-liked place on the island, with tons of Koh Samui sights and nightlife surrounding the seaside.
So should you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui, hit Chaweng Seaside first, then determine the remainder out from there.
Lamai Seaside is the second hottest seaside, and however it’s much less crowded and rather more enjoyable than Chaweng.
Coral Cove Seaside is beautiful for snorkelling and is hidden in a small bay behind a resort.
Choeng Mon Seaside is situated on the north of the island close to the Large Buddha, and there are many good motels and seaside bars up right here.
Lipa Noi Seaside is essentially 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 bushes offering shade, and the water is evident and refreshing in all places 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 likely one of the most fascinating Koh Samui sights.
Again in 1976, an area farmer named Nim Thongsuk started making a backyard by establishing 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 way of 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.
Regardless that it’s known as the SECRET Buddha Backyard, this stunning place has develop into one of the vital well-known Koh Samui sights.
- Location: Off Route 4169 at Baan Saket, Thanon Dhupatemiya, Na Mueang, Koh Samui
- Hours: 10 am to five pm, open every single day
- Price: 80 Baht
READ MORE: Don’t miss out on all one of the best issues to do in Ao Nang if you end up in southern Thailand!
8) Style Native Meals on the Chaweng Night time Market
For among the finest avenue meals in Koh Samui, head to the Chaweng Night time Market.
This is likely one of 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 basic souvenirs on sale as properly.
- Location: 14/102 Moo 2, Chaweng Seaside Highway, Chaweng, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, open every single day
READ MORE: Plan your journey to Thailand with our listing of one of the best locations to go to within the nation!
9) Go to Wat Plai Laem
One other top-of-the-line Koh Samui sights is Wat Plai Laem, a Buddhist temple on the northeast coast of the island.
The temple is known 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.
- Location: Highway 4171, accessible through 4169 Freeway Ring Highway
- Hours: 6 am to six pm, open every single day
- Price: Free, Donations welcome
10) Hike to a Hilltop Temple
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 right here as there is no such thing as a 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 complicated.
The viewing platform supplies a beautiful view over Chaweng Lake, so be sure to convey your digicam.
- Location: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320
- Hours: 8 am to five pm, open every single day
- Price: Free
11) Cool Down on the Na Muang Waterfalls
These two waterfalls are among the finest 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 principally drive proper as much as the doorway.
And it has a large pure pool that’s good for swimming (particularly through the wet season).
Attending to Waterfall Two requires somewhat climbing, so put on sturdy, waterproof footwear.
The thick jungle supplies attractive pure surroundings, and the view from the highest of Waterfall Two is sort 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 every single day
- Price: Waterfall One has no entrance charge, Waterfall Two prices 30 Baht. You additionally need to pay for parking at Waterfall Two, 20 Baht for scooters and 60 Baht for vehicles.
READ MORE: The very best 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 a cease.
- Location: simply off Route 4169, about 2 km south of Lamai Seaside.
- Hours: Open all day every single day
- Price: Free
13) Try the Guan Yu Shrine
Symbolic of the Chinese language tradition that has unfold all through Thailand, the Guan Yu Shrine is a robust landmark in Koh Samui.
There’s a 16-meter excessive statue of Guan Yu, the Chinese language God of Struggle and a logo 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 somewhat little bit of peace and quiet whereas studying in regards to 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 every single day
- Price: Free
14) Attend a Ladyboy Cabaret
The most effective 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 appear to be glamorous ladies, they usually typically placed on wonderful performances across the nation.
Koh Samui’s finest location for watching a stunning ladyboy efficiency is the Paris Follies Cabaret in Chaweng.
There are three exhibits each evening right here, and completely different dances and songs from everywhere in the world are integrated into the units.
So for an evening filled with music, dance, and charisma, go to the Paris Follies Cabaret and put together to be entertained by Koh Samui’s finest ladyboys.
- Location: 166/92 Moo 2, off Chaweng Seaside Highway
- Hours: Performances at 8 pm, 9:30 pm and 11 pm, each evening.
- Price: 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 way of the Fisherman’s Village Strolling Avenue Market
Bophut is an space on the northern coast of Koh Samui identified for its native fisherman’s village.
The village is likely one of the oldest areas of the island, with rustic previous buildings and charming native tradition.
Each Friday evening beginning at 5 pm, Bophut Seaside Highway turns right into a vigorous strolling avenue market filled with souvenirs, paintings, avenue meals, and dwell music.
Among the native outlets convey their merchandise to the streets whereas different distributors arrange new stalls and avenue performers placed on a present.
- Location: Bophut Seaside Highway, Bophut 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, each Friday
16) Hike the Elephant Rock
These on the lookout for energetic issues to do in Koh Samui can head to the Elephant Rock, situated between Chaweng and Lamai Seaside.
This huge rock formation is known as “Elephant Rock” just because it seems to be like a large boulder the identical measurement as an Asian Elephant.
You’ll be able to climb Elephant Rock to get a fantastic aerial view of the encircling ocean and seashores.
This can be a good outdoorsy exercise to do whereas hanging out close to Chaweng or Lamai Seaside; simply be sure to put on sturdy mountaineering footwear.
- Location: Between Chaweng and Lamai Seaside, Route 4169
- Hours: Open all day, every single day
- Price: Free
17) Watch a Muay Thai Boxing Match
Muay Thai is a serious a part of Thai tradition that travellers ought to attempt to expertise in Thailand.
Koh Samui’s finest place to observe a Muay Thai boxing match is Chaweng Boxing Stadium, which can also be the oldest stadium on the island.
Right here you’ll be able to observe the gifted native athletes as they interact in fight, the strategies and methods of which advanced 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 combat Muay Thai in a protected 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
- Price: Tickets vary from 1,500 to 2,000 Baht
18) Take a Thai Cooking Class
The meals is unquestionably one of many highlights of travelling by way of Thailand.
Thai meals is so filled with flavour and recent substances, and each meal seems like an journey on your style buds.
The native delicacies differs barely relying on which area of Thailand you might be in.
So should you’re a real foodie it’s possible you’ll need to take just a few completely different Thai cooking lessons all through the nation.
Koh Samui has numerous cooking colleges that provide full-day excursions cooking lessons, most of which embrace a tour of the native market adopted by guided directions for making basic dishes.
This one although is the very best rated, so be sure to guide it forward of time.
The meals you put together your self could also be among the finest you eat in Thailand.
So dedicate at the very least sooner or later in Koh Samui to a enjoyable Thai cooking class.
19) Marvel at Laem Sor Pagoda
One other certainly one of Koh Samui’s finest 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 complicated.
The Pagoda seems to be totally 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 components of Koh Samui.
- Location: Off Route 4170, previous Bang Kao village on a small seaside
- Hours: Open all day, every single day
- Price: Free
READ MORE: Plan for the highest 10 issues to do in Bangkok!
20) Go Diving or Snorkeling
The Gulf of Thailand is understood for among the finest 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 one of the best areas for snorkelling or diving are subsequent to different close by islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.
Your only option is to guide a day tour by way of an area tourism firm, to allow them to take you round one of the best snorkelling spots by speedboat.
Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan are two standard sights for snorkelling or scuba diving, they usually can simply be reached by speedboat from Koh Samui.
Skilled licensed divers can discover the waters deeply and swim down by way of 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 certain 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 one of the best value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, should you use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when testing, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
21) Watch the Sundown from the West Aspect of the Island
Tropical islands provide among 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 bushes swaying within the breeze.
Among the finest seashores to go watch the sundown are Lipa Noi Seaside, Taling Ngam Seaside or Nathon City Seaside.
They’re all situated on the island’s west coast in order that they face the setting solar.
This aspect of the island can also be far much less touristy than the east aspect, so that you’ll most probably have the seaside to your self apart from just a few locals.
On an identical word, head to any seaside on the east aspect of the island for a spectacular dawn view!
22) Attempt a Fruit Carving Class
In the event you’ve ever been to any form of fancy resort or restaurant in Thailand, you could have seen unbelievable artwork shows made fully out of fruit.
The artwork of fruit carving is a standard Thai talent that originated within the ornament of occasions for the Thai royal household.
Fruit carving is extra accessible lately, however it’s nonetheless thought-about a good talent.
You’ll be able to take a fruit carving class on the Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts, the place professionals will educate you the right way to carve stunning designs into fruit and greens.
This can be a very hands-on expertise, and you might be certain to study rather a lot about this conventional type of Thai artwork.
- Location: Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts, 46/6 Moo 3, Chaweng Seaside, Borphut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320
- Price: 2,500 Baht for a full day fruit carving class
Koh Samui Journey Information
Now that what to do in Koh Sumai, we need to make it easier to make your different plans as properly by sharing one of the 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 possibility to discover the place and do some airport/ferry transfers with a implausible native, licensed tour information, Mr. Pek.
Mr Pek has speaks wonderful English, owns a very nice, air-conditioned trendy automobile, and has in depth information of the island.
Belief me once 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 in regards to the island’s wealthy historical past, take you to bask in scrumptious native delicacies, and discover essentially the most breathtaking views.
He additionally does airport, resort and ferry terminal transfers and could be very dependable.
Whether or not you’re involved in 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 acquired 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.
Lodging in Koh Samui
After studying one of the best issues to do in Koh Samui, contemplate the place you’re going to keep.
Regardless of the island’s fame as being a bit costly and catering solely in direction of luxurious travellers, Koh Samui has loads of price range and mid-range lodging choices as properly.
Price range: Timeless Hostel
Keep in Timeless Hostel if you wish to get monetary savings and keep proper in the midst of the motion.
Only a brief stroll from Chaweng Seaside and near all of the nightlife and leisure of the Chaweng neighbourhood, there may be a lot to do right here and many fellow travellers to hang around with.
The hostel has a comfy widespread room that’s nice for socializing, and all the same old facilities like free wifi, sizzling 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 non-public room.
Mid-Vary: Promtsuk Buri Lodge
For a sense of luxurious that doesn’t break the financial institution, Promtsuk Buri Lodge is ideal.
Situated solely 80 meters away from the small, non-public Silver Seaside, and simply 2km away from the attractive however peaceable Lamai Seaside, this a part of the island is quiet but filled with issues to do.
Friends rave in regards to 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 resort 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 resort.
You may get non-public bungalows close to Lamai Seaside for a extremely good value!
Luxurious: Cape Fahn Lodge
With no shadow of a doubt, one of the best luxurious resort on Koh Samui is Cape Fahn Lodge.
This boutique 5-star resort is discovered on a non-public island only a brief boat trip away from Choeng Mon Seaside.
Each certainly one of their award-winning villas comes with its personal non-public 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 Lodge assessment which you’ll be able to take a look at. Be sure to guide forward of time although, as that is additionally the primary spot for celebrities to remain,
What to Eat in Koh Samui
There are many locations to style conventional Thai delicacies in Koh Samui.
Listed here are just a few suggestions for some eating places which have both price range, mid-range or costly menu costs.
Price range – Om Noodle Soup
For a brilliant low-cost and genuine native meal, go to Om Noodle Soup in Bophut, the Fisherman’s Village.
This restaurant could 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 price range vacationers.
Mid-Vary – The Jungle Membership
The Jungle Membership is a moderately-priced hilltop restaurant with a shocking view over Chaweng seaside.
Eat scrumptious basic 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.
The fine-dining restaurant is known as 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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