The final word record of all the perfect issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.
Planning a visit by way of the various islands of Thailand can appear overwhelming.
There are over a thousand Thai islands they usually all have one thing totally different to supply.
The massive 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 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 status for being fairly ritzy and costly.
There are many luxurious resorts, fancy resorts and trip packages that attraction to the rich, however not too long ago the extra native, inexpensive facet of Koh Samui is starting to floor.
Backpacker hostels, avenue markets, low-cost excursions and a protracted record of sights are beginning to pull extra younger finances travellers to Koh Samui, Thailand.
The Greatest Issues to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand
The basic 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.
Comfortable white sand, glowing turquoise water, and towering coconut palms make Koh Samui appear 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 finances, and loads of good resorts and eating places to go well with 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 perfect 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) E-book a Tour to Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park
That is simply the most effective 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, mountain 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 growth by no means oversteps its boundaries.
Solely tour boats which are authorized by the federal government are allowed to enter, so travellers can’t entry Ang Thong Marine Park with out reserving a tour.
However there are many respected tour firms providing inexpensive and tremendous enjoyable excursions round Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park that embrace snorkelling, kayaking, and stress-free.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get the perfect value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, in the event 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 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 fine condition for somebody who died over forty years in the past.
Make sure to 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 on daily basis
- Price: Free
READ MORE: This submit tells you every thing you’ll ever must learn about travelling to Thailand!
3) Go to the Huge Buddha
The Huge Buddha ought to undoubtedly have a spot on any record of issues to see in Koh Samui.
Formally often called Wat Phra Yai, this Buddhist temple advanced is positioned on a small island off of Koh Samui’s northeastern coast.
The huge 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 possibly can generally see the enormous Buddha from the airplane.
The Wat Phra Yai temple grounds additionally host a small market with souvenirs, attention-grabbing garments and non secular ornaments on sale.
- Location: Huge Buddha Seaside, off Route 4171, Bophut
- Hours: Open all day, on daily basis
- Price: Free
4) Bask in a Thai Therapeutic massage
Thai therapeutic massage is an historic therapeutic observe that’s revered throughout Thailand.
Although the therapeutic massage isn’t as stress-free 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 groups.
There are many spas throughout Koh Samui, so test them out in the event you really feel like treating your self.
READ MORE: Hold 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 lively day in Koh Samui attempt rise up paddleboarding. (You may e book your SUP expertise right here.)
Paddleboards are heavy and durable, so they’re simple 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 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 perfect value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, in the event 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 one among Koh Samui’s Stunning Seashores
You merely can’t go to Koh Samui with out visiting a number of 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 in the event 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 far more stress-free than Chaweng Seaside.
Coral Cove Seaside is beautiful for snorkelling and is hidden in a small bay behind a lodge.
Choeng Mon Seaside is positioned on the north of the island close to the Huge Buddha, and there are many good resorts 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 timber offering shade, and the water is obvious and refreshing in every single 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 attention-grabbing 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 luxurious jungle gardens present a pleasant background to all of the art work.
Spend an hour strolling by way of the peaceable inexperienced forest and admiring all of the attention-grabbing 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 may as well drive by yourself.
Regardless that it’s referred to as the SECRET Buddha Backyard, this stunning place has turn into some of the well-known Koh Samui sights.
READ MORE: Don’t miss out on all of the greatest issues to do in Ao Nang if you end up in southern Thailand!
8) Style Native Meals on the Chaweng Evening Market
For among the greatest avenue meals in Koh Samui, head to the Chaweng Evening 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 usually comprised of meals, however you may as well discover some garments, jewelry, and different basic souvenirs on sale as nicely.
- Location: 14/102 Moo 2, Chaweng Seaside Street, Chaweng, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, open on daily basis
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 the most effective 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 Huge Buddha, so you possibly can 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 often called Khao Hua Jook Chedi.
You’ll need to drive or take a taxi to Khao Hua Jook Chedi as there is no such thing as a public transport operating on to this attraction.
The mountain on which the temple lies known as Chom Daow Mountain, and there’s a shimmering gold pagoda in addition to statues and Buddhist artworks within the temple advanced.
The viewing platform supplies an exquisite view over Chaweng Lake, so ensure to carry your digicam to Khao Hua Jook Chedi.
- Location: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320
- Hours: 8 am to five pm, open on daily basis
- Price: Free
11) Cool Down on the Na Muang Waterfalls
These two waterfalls are among the greatest pure sights in Koh Samui.
They’re positioned solely a five-minute drive away from one another and they’re each extremely picturesque.
Na Muang Waterfall One is tremendous simple to entry as a result of you possibly can principally drive proper as much as the doorway.
And it has a large pure pool that’s good for swimming (particularly in the course of the wet season).
Attending to Waterfall Two requires a bit of 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 on daily basis
- 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: 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 referred to as the Grandfather’s and Grandmother’s Rocks, and there are a number of 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 value 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 Struggle and an emblem of braveness, loyalty, and bravado.
You in all probability received’t discover too many different vacationers right here, so you possibly can take pleasure in a bit of 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 on daily basis
- 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 like glamorous girls, they usually typically placed on wonderful performances across the nation.
Koh Samui’s greatest location for watching a stunning ladyboy efficiency is the Paris Follies Cabaret in Chaweng Seaside.
There are three reveals each evening right here, and totally different dances and songs from all around the world are included 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 greatest ladyboys.
- Location: 166/92 Moo 2, off Chaweng Seaside Street
- 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 could be over 200 Baht
READ MORE: Plan for the entire 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 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 Seaside Street turns right into a vigorous strolling avenue market filled with souvenirs, art work, avenue meals, and stay music.
A number of the native retailers carry their merchandise to the streets whereas different distributors arrange new stalls and avenue performers placed on a present.
- Location: Bophut Seaside Street, Bophut 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, each Friday
16) Hike the Elephant Rock close to Lamai Seaside
These searching for lively issues to do in Koh Samui can head to the Elephant Rock, positioned between Chaweng and Lamai Seaside.
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 incredible 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 you put on sturdy mountain 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 look at a Muay Thai boxing match is Chaweng Boxing Stadium, which can be the oldest stadium on the island.
Right here you possibly can observe the proficient native athletes as they have interaction in fight, the methods and tips of which developed from the traditional preventing 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 protected and safe place.
So fighters chances are you’ll watch throughout a match can vary from younger youngsters 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 certainly one of many highlights of travelling by way of Thailand.
Thai meals is so filled with flavour and contemporary substances, and each meal appears like an journey in your style buds.
The native delicacies differs barely relying on which area of Thailand you might be in.
So in the event you’re a real foodie chances are you’ll need to take a number of totally different Thai cooking lessons all through the nation.
Koh Samui has numerous cooking faculties that supply 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 you e book it forward of time.
The meals you put together your self could also be among the greatest you eat in Thailand.
So dedicate not less than in the future in Koh Samui to a enjoyable Thai cooking class.
19) Marvel at Laem Sor Pagoda
One other one among Koh Samui’s greatest landmarks, Laem Sor Pagoda is positioned 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 totally coated in gold, although it’s truly 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 referred to as Khao Chedi, positioned 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, on daily basis
- Price: 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 among the greatest snorkelling and diving in Southeast Asia.
The waters are crystal clear and the wildlife is vibrant and lively.
Koh Samui has a number of good snorkelling spots, however the perfect areas 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 way of an area tourism firm, to allow them to take you round the perfect snorkelling spots by speedboat.
Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan are two widespread 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 the perfect value too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, in the event 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 supply 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 timber swaying within the breeze.
A number of the greatest seashores to go watch the sundown are Lipa Noi Seaside, Taling Ngam Seaside or Nathon City Seaside.
They’re all positioned on the island’s west coast in order that they face the setting solar.
This facet of the island can be far much less touristy than the east facet, so that you’ll most definitely have the seaside to your self apart from a number of locals.
On an identical be aware, head to any seaside on the east facet 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 lodge or restaurant in Thailand, you might have seen unbelievable artwork shows made fully out of fruit.
The artwork of fruit carving is a conventional Thai ability that originated within the ornament of occasions for the Thai royal household.
Fruit carving is extra accessible as of late, however it’s nonetheless thought of a good ability.
You may take a fruit carving class on the Intercontinental the place professionals will train you how one can carve stunning designs into fruit and greens.
This can be a very hands-on expertise, and you might be certain to be taught loads about this conventional type of Thai artwork.
Koh Samui Journey Information
Now that you recognize what to do in Koh Sumai, we need to show you how to make your different plans as nicely by sharing the perfect 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 fashionable automotive, and has intensive information of the island.
Belief me after I say Mr. Pek is the right 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 essentially the most breathtaking views.
He additionally does airport, lodge and ferry terminal transfers and may be very dependable.
Whether or not you’re all in favour of visiting waterfalls, temples, lounging on a secluded seaside, or simply want a journey from a pleasant, sincere and hard-working native information, Mr. Pek has obtained you lined.
Don’t hesitate to get in contact with him for an unforgettable journey on this stunning island. His official firm title is ViVa Tour.
Lodging in Koh Samui, Thailand
After studying the perfect issues to do in Koh Samui, contemplate the place you’re going to keep.
Regardless of the island’s status as being a bit costly and catering solely in direction of luxurious travellers, Koh Samui has loads of finances 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 midst of the motion.
Only a quick stroll from Chaweng Seaside and near all of the nightlife and leisure of the Chaweng neighbourhood, there may be lots to do right here and many 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, sizzling showers, metropolis maps and a journey desk that will help 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.
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 right possibility proper on Lamai Seaside.
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 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 provides free breakfast for visitors in addition to airport transfers and excursions obtainable.
There are solely 17 rooms right here, so it’s smaller and cozier than your common lodge.
You will get non-public bungalows close to Lamai Seaside for a extremely good value!
Greatest Luxurious Resort on Koh Samui: Cape Fahn Resort
With out a shadow of a doubt, the perfect luxurious lodge on Koh Samui Thailand is Cape Fahn Resort.
This boutique 5-star resort is discovered on a personal island only a quick boat journey away from Choeng Mon Seaside.
Each one among their award-winning villas comes with its personal non-public infinity pool, so you possibly can sip a cocktail in peace whereas staring out on the ocean beneath.
We wrote a full Cape Fahn Resort overview which you’ll take a look at. Be sure you 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 here are a number of suggestions for some eating places which have both finances, 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 (Huge 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 finances vacationers.
Mid-Vary – The Jungle Membership
The Jungle Membership is a moderately-priced hilltop restaurant with a surprising view over Chaweng Seaside.
Eat scrumptious basic Thai meals or worldwide delicacies whereas stress-free in comfortable bean bag chairs atop their elegant picket deck.
Luxurious – Peak Restaurant
Head out to the Peak Restaurant positioned 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 beautiful view, and there are many good wines and cocktails to accompany your fashionable Thai meals.
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