Koh Samui, well-known for its exciting water sports and adventure activities, is also home to some stunning Buddhist temples, pedestrian street markets, gorgeous beaches, and other miscellaneous sites. It draws all types of tourists. Koh Samui has the potential to surprise even the most seasoned traveler—in a good way.
Here are the Things to do in Koh Samui
Go and watch the refreshing Na Muang Waterfall
One of the most popular tourist destinations on Koh Samui is the Na Muang Waterfall, which is housed in the Samui NaMuang Adventure Park. At eighteen meters high, the waterfall creates a breathtaking show of pouring water.
A peaceful pool awaits guests upon arrival, and it’s a well-liked location for local and foreign travelers to cool down or snap striking pictures. To further reestablish a connection with nature, one might explore the verdant neighboring forest. Observing this cascade is definitely among the must-do activities in Koh Samui.
To reacquaint oneself with nature, one might also explore the verdant forest around. The route leading to this waterfall is lined with Thai food stands and gift stores, which is the nicest part about visiting it.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Travel Tip | Wear sturdy footwear and comfy clothes. Carry extra clothing, a towel, and a water bottle. |
| The Best Time to Visit | April to early December |
| How to Reach | Rent a bike; it will take at least 40 minutes from Chaweng (the main tourist hub). |
| Entry Fee | Entry is free; parking charges are 20 THB for two-wheelers and 60 THB for four-wheelers. |
Witness the Grandeur of the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
Koh Samui’s Wat Phra Yai, often known as The Big Buddha Temple, is a noteworthy location. The magnificent 12-meter-tall golden-hued Buddha statue is on display here. Thai people believe that the Buddha’s pose symbolizes an enlightened and serene state of mind after his victory over the evil god Mara’s seduction.
Once you get to this temple, ascend the steps to the top. When you approach the monument, take in the expansive vistas of the island. It’s a fantastic location for taking pictures as well. There will be a ringing of temple bells. It’s an odd sensation.
You may make a monetary donation to help maintain the temple. One thing to keep in mind is that entering this temple requires you to cover your knees and shoulders.
Outside the temple on Big Buddha Beach (Bang Rak) are several stores and restaurants. Here you may obtain food and drink when your tour is over.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning or late evening; afternoon can be very hot. |
| Ticket Price | Entry is free. |
| Opening Time | 07:00 AM to 10:00 PM |
Walk around Fisherman’s Village
When visiting Koh Samui, visitors now make it a point to stop at the charming Fisherman’s Village. This little neighborhood is full of pubs, restaurants, and stores, making it the perfect place for an exciting evening or a relaxing walk.
Fisherman’s Village, as its name suggests, was once a bustling Chinese fishing town. The village is still a popular destination for visitors and residents alike, despite the community’s dissolution.
Foodies will be happy to discover a variety of tasty and reasonably priced Thai dishes. The village stores sell a range of mementos, such as apparel, accessories, and shoes. It’s the ideal location to get a thoughtful present or memento to commemorate your trip.
Taking a walk around the town allows visitors to experience the local warmth and learn about the history of the area. It’s the perfect place to go for a fun-filled day trip or a peaceful evening.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Thanon Laan Thong, Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand |
| How to Reach | From main tourist spots like Chaweng, a cab ride costs between 220 THB and 270 THB. |
| Entry Fee/Ticket | Entry to Fisherman’s Village is free |
Also Read: Things to do in Thailand
Go on a Snorkelling or Diving Trip
Tried diving or snorkeling in Koh Samui is one of the daring activities to attempt. This exhilarating activity provides a unique chance to investigate the colorful aquatic life that envelops the island.
Snorkeling and diving are thrilling and safe ways to explore the marvels of the undersea world, especially when you have a trained dive instructor guiding you.
Scuba diving and snorkeling excursions are appropriate for all ability levels and usually last an hour. Several diving sites near Koh Samui can accommodate both novice and expert divers.
Coral Cove is a great place for beginners to go snorkeling since it’s simple to explore the corals because they’re near the shore. On the other hand, Chaweng Beach is a well-liked spot for snorkelers and divers alike, providing a range of underwater scenes to explore.
From vibrant fish to magnificent sea turtles, you can see a wide variety of marine life with the correct equipment and advice. You will remember your time spent diving or snorkeling on Koh Samui long after you leave the island. So why not dive in and discover Koh Samui’s breathtaking underwater world?
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Snorkel | December to February |
| Things to Carry | Snorkelling gear, swimwear, life jackets, and flippers. |
| When to Avoid Snorkeling | Avoid the rainy season (September to November) due to challenging conditions and reduced visibility. |
Relax on the White Sand Beaches of Koh Samui
There are several beaches in Koh Samui with immaculate white sand and beautiful blue sea. There are many beaches, including Chaweng, Lamai, Silver, Maenam, and Lipa Noi. There are no hawkers to disturb the peace and tranquility of these beaches.
Thus, you have enough alone time to yourself. They are the ideal location for enjoying life with children. Additionally, the sunset is breathtaking to see and provides a moment that may be captured on Instagram.
In the tourist season, beaches like Chaweng might become a bit congested. However, it doesn’t change the fact that you should still treasure this lovely event and spend it with your loved ones.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| How to Reach | Hire a rental bike for around 120 THB to 150 THB to explore the beaches. |
| Things to Carry | Sunglasses, SPF, beach mat, swimwear, flip flops, and a backpack for your phone and camera. |
Enjoy a Traditional Thai massage
When visiting Koh Samui, nothing compares to indulging in a traditional Thai massage. Thus, put your cares aside and indulge in a revitalizing Thai massage at one of Koh Samui’s many spas. The spa and wellness facilities on this island are plentiful and reasonably priced.
In a traditional Thai massage, the body is stretched and compressed in a variety of postures to enhance balance, energy flow, and flexibility.
To relieve stress and encourage the body’s natural healing processes, the therapist combines deep tissue treatments, acupressure, and yoga-like stretches.
Thai massage is a more all-encompassing kind of massage treatment that uses both physical and energetic methods to help the body achieve harmony and balance. It is undoubtedly among the top activities in Koh Samui.
Also Read: Things to do in Bangkok
Shop at the Central Festival Samui
A vacation to Koh Samui wouldn’t be complete without some retail therapy. The Central Festival Samui is a must-visit location for the best shopping experience.
The biggest plaza on Koh Samui, this one is spacious and has a great assortment of both Thai and foreign brands. Visitors are certain to find all they need and more in the more than 20 spacious stores.
The ultra-modern Sino-Portuguese décor of the Central Festival Samui contributes to its distinctive and hip atmosphere. Additionally, customers may take advantage of fantastic discounts and shop to their heart’s delight since there are often promotions and discounts.
There are also many other eating alternatives available to you. Beautiful restaurants offering Chinese, Mexican, Thai, and Indian food are just a few of the possibilities. Thus, when you visit Koh Samui, be sure to take advantage of the cha.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 209/3 Moo 2, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand |
| Timings | Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM |
Cheer at the Ladyboy Cabaret Show
People of all genders, including those who identify as third gender, are welcomed and openly accepted in Thailand. Because of this, the third gender community is very important to Thai entertainment, and Ladyboy Cabaret acts are a well-liked attraction around the nation, especially on Koh Samui.
Starz Cabaret is one of the most well-liked cabaret performances on Koh Samui, out of the many that are offered. Talented and gorgeous transgender artists will perform for you here, entertaining you with their family-friendly humor and singing and dancing.
So, be sure to check out a Ladyboy Cabaret performance at Starz Cabaret if you’re searching for a distinctive and enjoyable way to spend your evening on Koh Samui. You’re going to love it!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 166, 92 Chaweng Beach Rd, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand |
| Timings | Three shows: First Show (8:30 PM), Second Show (9:30 PM), Third Show (10:30 PM) |
| Entry Fee | 250 THB per person (inclusive of a welcome drink) |
Take a Boat Trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park
A magnificent archipelago of 42 islands with gorgeous vistas and a wide variety of marine life is known as Ang Thong National Marine Park. And taking a boat from Koh Samui Island is the best method to get there.
A once-in-a-lifetime chance to soak in so much beauty may be found en route to Ang Thong National Park. Along the route, you’ll pass across rocky beaches, salty lagoons, and stunning sections of unspoiled sea.
Among the most popular things to do at the marine park are kayaking and snorkeling. It will undoubtedly be a memorable occasion.
Also Read: Things to do in Krabi
Explore the Samui Elephant Sanctuary
Maew Suriya had the idea to establish Samui Elephant Sanctuary so that rescued elephants might enjoy a life free from mistreatment and exploitation.
These amazing animals used to live in terrible circumstances in circuses or on tourist treks, but now they have a secure place to go about and socialize with one another at Samui Elephant Sanctuary.
You may also enjoy the delight of engaging with these stunning animals in their ethical and natural habitat as a visitor to the sanctuary. Even if bathing the elephants is prohibited, you are still able to prepare and feed them, forging a unique relationship that you won’t soon forget.
To make sure you have a pleasant stay, the sanctuary also provides a variety of services for guests, including tea and coffee, a vegetarian buffet, and public restrooms.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 108/52 Taweerat Pakdee Road, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand |
| Timings | Opens every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Entrance Fees | Adults: 3,000 THB per person; Children (11 years & under): 1,500 THB; Children (4 years & under): Free |
Experience the Local Night Markets
Trying some of the island’s best street cuisine is perhaps one of the most popular, but it’s also unquestionably one of the most essential things to do when visiting Koh Samui.
Fresh vegetables from the area and real ingredients are used to cook the street cuisine. Indulge in authentic Thai cuisine such as pad Thai, grilled fish, and fresh fruit smoothies, all while perusing handcrafted goods, apparel, and mementos from the region.
Entertainers and music are contributing to the celebratory mood, which is vibrant and busy. The night markets in the area are crowded with vendors offering clothing, food, art, and other items. Thus, to experience Koh Samui, one must visit these amazing marketplaces.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Timings of Night Market | Opens at 5 PM and goes on till 11 PM |
| Travel Tip | Arrive early when the market opens and haggle over prices (except for food) to enhance your experience. |
Rent a Scooter or Car and Drive Around the Island
Renting a vehicle or a scooter is the ideal way to explore Koh Samui’s hidden beaches and small communities. The notion of “go where the road takes you” inspires this kind of inquiry.
Koh Samui occupies a very small portion of the island. A two-wheeler can easily cover it. You may travel more freely and whenever you want thanks to your rental car, which also lessens your reliance on public transportation.
In addition, exploring Koh Samui on a scooter is an exciting experience in and of itself. You’ll experience driving in Thailand and see how well you adjust. For 120-150 THB, you may hire a scooter and explore the surrounding region.
Simultaneously, a vehicle rental would cost around 1025 THB per day. Thus, choose the one that best suits your Koh Samui maneuverability, travel schedule, and budget.
Also Read: Things to do in Pattaya
Watch the sunset at the Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim Magic Garden)
The serene and wonderful Hidden Buddha Garden has stunning sculptures and statues. Thai fruit grower Nim Thong Suk was the inspiration for this garden.
A variety of individuals representing all facets of Buddhist folklore and culture may be seen here, including those who are reading, singing, dancing, and playing instruments.
This garden’s “secret” quality is that it might be difficult to find among the verdant hillsides. You have to travel a lot to get here, so it might be a little difficult, but once you’re there, the “Magic” starts.
The panoramic view and the enchantment of Mother Nature combine to provide an amazing experience. It seems as if you have entered a fantasy realm.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Tambon Na Mueang, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani 84140 |
| Timings | Opens daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| How to Reach | Take the Air Force road in Baan Saket towards Ta Nim Waterfall. The last 400 meters is a steep track; a 4X4 ATV is recommended. |
| Entrance Fee | 80 THB per person |
| Travel Tip | Keep mosquito repellant spray and a water bottle with you; wear comfortable shoes with a strong grip. |
Visit the Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram
Even though it’s one of the strangest things to do in Koh Samui, a lot of people go to Wat Khunaram, a well-known temple that houses a monk’s mummified corpse! According to legend, Loung Pordaeng, a monk, foresaw his death at the age of 79.
He urged his disciples to preserve his remains in a glass coffin so that others may view it and be reminded of the Buddha’s teachings provided it didn’t decay. All he did in his last days was contemplate and die in peace.
Some people consider the mummified body’s continued good preservation to be a miracle from God, while others attempt to explain it in terms of science.
In any case, it’s an interesting location to go. In the temple, a large number of Thai people continue to give their heartfelt prayers and thanks.
Would you like to visit this temple?
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Na Mueang, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand |
| Entry Fees | Entry to the temple is free; donations towards the upkeep of the temple are appreciated. |
| How to Reach Wat Khunaram | Take a taxi or a songthaew to reach the temple. |
Go on a zip-line adventure.
Feeling the exhilaration of soaring over the forest canopy is one of the most thrilling activities to undertake in Koh Samui. If you have an insatiable need for adventure, ziplining is definitely for you.
It may be a difficult exercise, too, particularly for those who are frightened of heights or falling. You may feel a sense of success and fulfillment when you conquer your worries and finish a ziplining course, however.
Many individuals find ziplining to be thrilling and entertaining since it delivers an adrenaline rush. When done in groups, the sensation of speeding through the air can be exhilarating and frightening all at once, making it a great social activity.
It may be a memorable and pleasurable encounter since participants can support one another and share the experience.
Doing a Zip line might cost anything between 500 and 2000 Thai Baht. Whichever option best suits your budget.
Also Read: Things to do in Phuket
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Koh Samui best known for?
One of the most visited tourist spots in Thailand is Koh Samui, which is located in the Surat Thani province. The island has stunning waterfalls, beaches, vistas, and temples in addition to a bustling fishing hamlet and several top-notch treatment centers.
How many days should you spend in Koh Samui?
In my opinion, a minimum of five days should be spent in Koh Samui. This will allow you to take a day excursion as well as have time to explore the island’s many sections. Given the size of Koh Samui, any visit lasting less than five days would seem hurried.
Is Koh Samui cheap?
They are free to go as far as they choose. Koh Samui offers fantastic affordable to premium travel experiences. You won’t be let down if you make sure your expectations align with your standards and your tolerance for spending Baht.
What is the best month to go to Koh Samui?
When the weather is most stable, which is between December and March, this is the ideal time to come. With an average daily high temperature of 33 C and an average low of 24 C, June is the warmest month of the year. With an average daily high temperature of 29 C and an average low temperature of 23 C, January is the coldest month of the year.
What are the best beaches to visit in Koh Samui?
Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, Bophut Beach, and Maenam Beach are a few of the greatest beaches.
Are there any good places for nightlife in Koh Samui?
Yes, the thriving bar scene at Chaweng Beach, the bustling Fisherman’s Village, and the chic local pubs and clubs are all well-liked destinations for nightlife.
