When you’re in search of a spot that has huge 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 rather a lot 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 Large Buddha. Evenings in Koh Samui are all about sunsets, tropical cocktails, recent seafood, and sure, a bit of untamed nightlife.
That is additionally an amazing island for digital nomads and we spent a month chillin’ out right here. Learn on for a better take a look at my checklist of the highest issues to do in Koh Samui — one of many best places to visit in Thailand.
1. Seaside Bumming
Whereas there are many enjoyable and thrilling issues to do in Koh Samui, let’s face it — you in all probability got here right here for a calming seashore trip. Fortunately you’ve bought a number of selections for solar and sand when visiting this in style Thai island.
Positioned close to the airport on the northeast facet of the island, Chaweng is the primary seashore in Koh Samui.
Whereas it’s positively essentially the most developed and most crowded of the seashores right here, it’s nonetheless stunningly stunning. Go forward and hire a lounger and umbrella, order a fruity cocktail, and luxuriate in your self!
The second largest seashore in Koh Samui is Lamai. It’s not as busy as Chaweng, however you’ve nonetheless bought numerous choices for locations to relax, eat, and drink. Lamai is a superb place to go for a swim, as the ocean is evident and calm right here.
Whereas these are essentially the most well-known and largest seashores, there are a lot of others to select from in Koh Samui.
Different beautiful seashores it’s best to spend a while on embrace Lipa Noi, Bang Por, and Big Buddha beach. Talking of a Large Buddha, that brings us to the following merchandise on our checklist.
2. Go to the Large Buddha
One of the well-known Koh Samui sights is the Large Buddha. It’s situated 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 airplane.
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 have been being pressured upon him.
With the event of tourism and the thriving occasion scene that adopted it right here, it’s attention-grabbing 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’s 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. Yow will discover the Koh Samui Large Buddha on the map here.
Notice: When visiting this and some other Buddhist temple in Thailand, it’s essential to comply with the correct etiquette. It’s scorching and humid on the Thai islands, however you must cowl up when visiting non secular websites like this. Don’t be that farang who exhibits up right here carrying a Full Moon Party 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 trip, you’ll discover the shoreline by jet-ski, together with stops on the Large Buddha (see above), and Fisherman’s Village, adopted by a sundown dinner on the seashore. Check out that trip here.
Whereas close by Koh Tao could be 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 will let you study proper off the shore quite than in a swimming pool, making Koh Samui an amazing place to lastly get scuba-certified.
Even if you happen to’re not into the concept of scuba diving, you possibly can nonetheless take pleasure in recognizing the ample marine life by snorkeling. It’s straightforward 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 if you happen to’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 if you happen to want a bit extra velocity. Crusing excursions are additionally fairly in style right here, particularly to see the sundown.
4. Follow Yoga
When you really feel the necessity to do some solar salutations or bust out your greatest downward-facing canine in your trip, you’ll be completely satisfied to listen to that yoga is sort of in style right here on Koh Samui.
I’m normally extra of a “Namaste in mattress” type of man, however even I’ll stand up for some dawn yoga on a Thai island!
When you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui on a wet day, or if you happen to simply really feel like practising, many resorts on the island supply yoga classes 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 skilled, there’s a yoga class for you in Koh Samui.
One of the in style spots to do yoga in Koh Samui is Shahda — a boutique resort. Click here for costs and particulars and to e book your spot.
☞ See Additionally: Things To Do in Pai: 21 Issues You Don’t Wish to Miss
5. Day Journey to Ang Thong Marine Park
One of the enjoyable issues to do in Koh Samui is to hitch 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 embrace a go to to the Emerald Lagoon, chilling out on the seashore, and a little bit of snorkeling/kayaking. You’ll doubtless 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 embrace lunch, lodge switch, meals, snorkelling tools and extra. Check out this highly-rated day tour for particulars, or this amazing sunset cruise!
If a day journey simply isn’t sufficient for you, there’s fundamental lodging obtainable at Koh Wua Ta Lap the place the park headquarters are situated.
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, take a look at the park’s website.
6. Take a Hike
When 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 straightforward and quick trails resulting in speeding waterfalls to steep and strenuous hikes as much as some improbable viewpoints. After a tricky, 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 scorching and humid, one of the best time to hike is both early within the morning or late within the afternoon. Everytime you go, remember to convey loads of water together with some sunscreen and bug spray.
When you’d quite go together with a gaggle than by yourself, remember to take a look at the various choices provided by Hiking 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 lots of the “must-sees” in Koh Samui, however don’t have a whole lot of time, or don’t wish to spend greater than a half-day doing so, take a look at this popular, highly rated tour:
7. Take a Thai Cooking Class
I don’t learn about you, however I’m completely in love with Thai food. I’m not joking once I say I may eat Thai meals on daily basis and by no means get bored. It’s simply that good!
When you’re as loopy about Thai delicacies as I’m, why not learn to make it your self? Taking a Thai cooking class is actually 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 substances. Again within the kitchen, it’s time to cook dinner up Thai classics like papaya salad, inexperienced curry, or tom yam. In fact, one of the 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. Through the highly-rated class, Chef Lat teaches you learn how to make 4 tasty Thai dishes, plus genuine curry pastes, and a dessert. What makes the category further particular is that lots of the substances are grown of their onsite backyard. Click here to learn more.
8. See Some Attention-grabbing Rocks
Maybe one of the vital attention-grabbing issues to do in Koh Samui is rocks. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? Nicely, my pals, these aren’t any peculiar rocks…
Hin Ta (Grandpa Rock) and Hin Yai (Grandma Rock) have been naturally carved over time to resemble female and male genitalia. As with many issues in Southeast Asia, there’s a improbable legend behind the rocks.
Because the story goes, an outdated couple was touring by sea to go to their son for his marriage 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 that they had 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 value a go to to the rocks, if solely to snap some foolish photographs and giggle. The view from the rocks is superb as nicely. You will get instructions to the naughty-bits-shaped rocks on the map here. Or, take this day trip of Koh Samui, which takes within the rocks as nicely.
☞ See Additionally: Things To Do in Chiang Rai – 21 High Issues You Don’t Wish to Miss
9. Get a Therapeutic massage
Strolling down the streets of Koh Samui – or any Thai island, for that matter – you’re certain to listen to calls of “Hiya! 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 any case!
On the subject of getting a therapeutic massage right here, you will 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 anticipate a life-changing therapeutic massage from them, however for only a few bucks why not?
When you want one thing slightly nicer, spas are a dime a dozen in Koh Samui. These vary from quite simple to extremely fancy. All of it is determined by your funds and what you’re in search of. For an in depth take a look at a few of Koh Samui’s greatest spas, head here.
10. Swim in Waterfalls
Whereas swimming within the sea is at all times enjoyable, that’s not the one strategy to cool off on a scorching day in Koh Samui. The island is residence to a number of waterfalls the place you possibly can take a refreshing dip in stunning environment.
The most well-liked 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 automotive and thus is usually a bit crowded. When you’re up for slightly 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 must pay a small payment to park your bike right here. There are some small meals stalls right here in addition to distributors promoting drinks if you happen to forgot to convey snacks or water. Yow will discover Na Muang 1 on the map and get instructions here.
11. Go On An ATV Tour
For the adrenaline junkies on the market, an ATV tour is certainly one of many prime issues to do in Koh Samui. On a typical ATV tour, you’ll trip by 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 really useful is X-Quad Samui.
Earlier than you go driving an ATV into the jungle of a Thai island, be sure to have some respectable international travel insurance. Not all insurance policies cowl excessive actions equivalent to this, so examine yours rigorously!
☞ When you’re into bike journeys, take a look at this information to driving the Mae Hong Son Loop!
12. Hit The Night time Markets (probably the greatest issues to do in Koh Samui!)
Night time markets in Thailand are considered one of my favourite issues on the planet. It simply by no means will get outdated sampling low cost and engaging Thai meals whereas perusing the colourful handicrafts on supply.
When you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui within the evenings, there are a number of completely different evening markets in Koh Samui which might be value testing. Completely 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 evening markets normally get going round 5PM and keep open till 11. Remember to add a minimum of considered one of these superior evening markets to your checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui.
13. Discover Nathon City
When you arrive in Koh Samui through the ferry from Surat Thani, your level of entry can be Nathon City. That is the business and administrative middle of the island and a spot that many locals name residence.
Most vacationers skip over Koh Samui’s most important city solely, nevertheless it’s positively value it to spend a while visiting Nathon. On a brief journey right here, you possibly can take a look at the colourful Chinese language shophouses, eat some scrumptious native meals at a discount worth, and stick round for a picture-perfect sundown.
Nathon City is situated on the northwest coast of Koh Samui. Yow will discover it on the map and get instructions here.
14. Examine Out the Secret Buddha Backyard
Tucked away within the middle of the island is a Secret Buddha Backyard surrounded by lush jungle. It’s a stupendous and peaceable place to discover, and may positively make it in your checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui.
It was began by a fruit farmer named Nim Tongsuk again in 1976 when he started putting Buddhist statues round his household’s property. He continued so as to add to his Secret Buddha Backyard up till his demise on the age of 91.
The Secret Buddha Backyard is open on daily basis from 9-5. It prices 80 baht (about $2.50) to go to. It’s fairly powerful to achieve by yourself except you will have 4WD and are an skilled driver. If not, it’s best to think about signing up for a day tour that features a cease on the backyard. Yow will discover it on the map here.
☞ On the lookout for a surprising island with pristine seashores, however fewer vacationers? Don’t miss the entire unbelievable things to do in Koh Lipe.
15. Go to the Fishermen’s Village
When 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 purchasing, and grabbing a chunk to eat. This fun jet-ski trip takes in Fishermen’s Village, together with sundown dinner on the seashore.
Right here you’ll discover unique wood houses constructed within the nineteenth century by Chinese language immigrants. Whereas lots of the fishermen have moved on to different elements of the island, they nonetheless convey their each day catch to the eating places right here. You’ll discover among the greatest seafood in Koh Samui within the eating places of Fishermen’s Village.
Whereas it’s enjoyable to go to any day of the week, you could wish to come on Friday to take a look at the evening market right here. The Fishermen’s Village is situated close to Bophut Seaside. You will get instructions on the map here.
16. Go {Golfing}
When you take pleasure in a pleasant spherical of golf in your trip, you then’ll be completely satisfied 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 among the greatest issues to do in Koh Samui.
The Santiburi Samui Country Club is the one skilled customary golf course on the island. This gorgeous course is ready amongst a preserved coconut palm plantation excessive up within the hills.
Due to its location, you’ll take pleasure in distinctive views all through your entire spherical. It’s not an affordable spherical (about $160 with golf cart and caddy), nevertheless it is likely to be one of the vital scenic rounds you ever play! Yow will discover the course on the map here.
When you’re like me and might’t swing a golf membership to save lots of your life, you would possibly wish to simply play old style spherical of mini-golf. There are mini-golf programs in each Chaweng and Lamai which might be enjoyable for the entire household.
☞ Choose mountains to seashores? You then’ll wish to take a look at gorgeous Khao Lak.
17. See a Mummified Monk
This is likely to be essentially the most uncommon merchandise on our checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui. On the Wat Khunaram temple, you will have the possibility 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 will likely appear a bit surprising and morbid to most Westerners, however Thai Buddhists are way more accepting of demise. 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 on daily basis and is most lively within the early morning or late afternoon. Yow will discover it on the map here.
18. Strive The Digital Nomad Life
Koh Samui shouldn’t be solely a preferred vacationer and honeymoon spot, nevertheless it’s additionally an up-and-coming digital nomad vacation spot. Whereas the digital nomad group might not be as huge right here as it’s in close by Koh Phangan or Chiang Mai within the north, that is nonetheless an amazing place to work remotely.
Excessive-speed web is now available on the island, particularly within the in style areas of Chaweng and Lamai. Additionally, there’s lastly a co-working area at Mantra (examine it on the map 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 Highway) spent an incredible month dwelling and dealing from Koh Samui. Learn all about it of their huge information to being a digital nomad in Koh Samui.
☞ When you’re interested by what digital nomad life is like on the opposite facet of the world, examine our expertise touring as digital nomads in South America.
19. Take a Sundown Cruise
What may very well be higher than having fun with the sundown from a tropical seashore in Thailand? Having fun with it on a yacht, in fact! Taking a sundown cruise positively earns its spot on this checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui.
Most tour operators on the island can be completely satisfied to set you up with a sundown cruise. Among the best choices is with the Red Baron, a conventional wood junk-style yacht.
Their sundown cruise features a welcome cocktail, limitless gentle drinks/tea/espresso, and a buffet dinner. There’s additionally a bar working on deck if that one drink simply isn’t sufficient . Click here to study extra.
20. Strive the Thai Expertise Dinner
This simply is likely to be the best ceremonial dinner on the market. The Thai Experience is taking dinner events to an entire 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 checklist 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 slightly 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 particular person.
This ceremonial dinner is among the most unique things 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 exhibits characteristic singing, dancing, comedy, and a few fairly elaborate costumes.
There are a number of completely different choices for ladyboy cabaret exhibits on the island. One which comes extremely really useful is Paris Follies, which options all kinds of dance types in addition to many superior superstar impersonators.
Reveals go on each evening at 8, 9:30, and 11. The sooner present is a little more family-friendly, whereas issues warmth up slightly bit for the later efficiency. It’s free to attend, however they make their cash off of the bar as drinks are positively on the dear facet.
Now You Know What To Do in Koh Samui
As you possibly can see, there’s rather a lot occurring right here in Koh Samui. Whereas this island will in all probability suck you in, you would possibly wish to think about tacking on a visit to the close by islands of Koh Tao for diving and Koh Phangan for epic events and adventures.
When you’re planning on exploring extra of the nation (and try to be), remember to take a look at this information to backpacking Thailand. If you inevitably think about quitting your job, promoting all of your worldly possessions, and transferring right here, we’ve additionally bought you coated with particulars on the cost of living in Thailand.
Some photographs on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
