The final word checklist of all the perfect 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 totally different to supply.
The massive developed islands have numerous accessible vacationer points of interest, 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 totally.
One of the crucial 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 coated 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 enchantment to the rich, however lately the extra native, inexpensive facet of Koh Samui is starting to floor.
Backpacker hostels, avenue markets, low cost excursions and a protracted checklist of points of interest are beginning to pull extra younger finances 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 inexpensive sufficient that backpackers are in a position to journey Koh Samui with out spending a fortune.
Smooth white sand, glowing turquoise water, and towering coconut palms make Koh Samui seem 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 extra money to spend.
The island’s pure magnificence will amaze anybody, and there’s a lot Koh Samui sightseeing to do to fill a schedule of some days or perhaps a few weeks.
So here’s a checklist of the perfect issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.
READ MORE: Take a look at our information to our prime 5 Koh Samui day journeys too!
1) Guide 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’ll find limestone cliffs, rocky caves, thick jungle, lakes and rivers, waterfalls, coral reefs, lagoons, climbing trails and sandy seashores, all linked by the colourful blue ocean.
Highlights within the park embody the Emerald Lake, or “Thale Nai”, a inexperienced saltwater lake within the midst of the jungle, Koh Sam Sao, an island with superb 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 can be authorized by the federal government are allowed to enter, so travellers can’t entry Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park with out reserving a tour.
However there are many respected tour corporations providing inexpensive and tremendous enjoyable excursions across the archipelago that embody snorkelling, kayaking, and enjoyable.
BONUS – Reserving forward of time ensures you received’t miss out on the tour, and get the perfect worth too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, when you use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when trying out, 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 individuals 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 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 put up tells you all the things you’ll ever have to find out about travelling to Thailand!
3) Go to the Massive Buddha
The Massive Buddha ought to undoubtedly have a spot on any checklist of issues to see in Koh Samui.
Formally often known as Wat Phra Yai, this Buddhist temple advanced is situated on a small island off of Koh Samui’s northeastern coast.
The huge golden Buddha sitting on the prime of the temple stairs is 12 meters tall and was inbuilt 1972.
In case you’re flying into Koh Samui you may typically 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: Massive Buddha Seashore, 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 historical therapeutic follow that’s revered throughout Thailand.
Although the therapeutic massage isn’t as enjoyable as conventional massages, it’s speculated to rejuvenate the physique and really feel superb afterwards.
Educated 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 test them out when 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 attainable.
For a calming and laid-back but energetic day in Koh Samui strive arise paddleboarding. (You may e book your SUP expertise right here.)
Paddleboards are heavy and durable, so they’re straightforward to steadiness on even when it’s your first time.
It is a nice method 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 the perfect worth too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, when you use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when trying out, you’ll get $10 off your first reserving!
6) Laze Away on one in every of 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 Seashore is the most well-liked place on the island, with tons of Koh Samui points of interest and nightlife surrounding the seashore.
So when you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui, hit Chaweng Seashore first, then determine the remaining out from there.
Lamai Seashore is the second hottest seashore, and however it’s much less crowded and way more enjoyable than Chaweng.
Coral Cove Seashore is gorgeous for snorkelling and is hidden in a small bay behind a lodge.
Choeng Mon Seashore is situated on the north of the island close to the Massive Buddha, and there are many good resorts and seashore bars up right here.
Lipa Noi Seashore is probably the most kid-friendly of Koh Samui’s seashores, because it has shallow, clear water and barely any coral or rocks.
Just about each seashore right here has velvety white sand and coconut palm timber offering shade, and the water is obvious and refreshing all over the place too.
So decide any seashore 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 attention-grabbing Koh Samui points of interest.
Again in 1976, a neighborhood 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 too can drive by yourself.
Though it’s known as the SECRET Buddha Backyard, this stunning place has grow to be one of the vital well-known Koh Samui points of interest.
- Location: Off Route 4169 at Baan Saket, Thanon Dhupatemiya, Na Mueang, Koh Samui
- Hours: 10 am to five pm, open on daily basis
- Price: 80 Baht
READ MORE: Don’t miss out on all of the finest issues to do in Ao Nang if you find yourself 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 usually 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 Seashore Highway, Chaweng, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, open on daily basis
READ MORE: Plan your journey to Thailand with our checklist of the finest locations to go to within the nation!
9) Go to Wat Plai Laem
One other top-of-the-line Koh Samui points of interest is Wat Plai Laem, a Buddhist temple on the northeast coast of the island.
The temple is legendary 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 encompassing lake.
Wat Plai Laem is near the Massive Buddha, so you may simply cease by each throughout your Koh Samui sightseeing.
- Location: Highway 4171, accessible by way of 4169 Freeway Ring Highway
- Hours: 6 am to six pm, open on daily basis
- 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 often known as Khao Hua Jook Chedi.
You’ll must drive or take a taxi right here as there is no such thing as a public transport operating 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 advanced.
The viewing platform supplies a beautiful view over Chaweng Lake, so ensure to convey your digicam.
- 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 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 may mainly drive proper as much as the doorway.
And it has a large pure pool that’s good for swimming (particularly throughout the wet season).
Attending to Waterfall Two requires just a little climbing, so put on sturdy, waterproof sneakers.
The thick jungle supplies attractive pure surroundings, and the view from the highest of Waterfall Two is kind 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 payment, Waterfall Two prices 30 Baht. You additionally must pay for parking at Waterfall Two, 20 Baht for scooters and 60 Baht for automobiles.
READ MORE: Absolutely the finest 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 seashore 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 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 a cease.
- Location: simply off Route 4169, about 2 km south of Lamai Seashore.
- Hours: Open all day on daily basis
- Price: Free
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 robust landmark in Koh Samui.
There’s a 16-meter excessive statue of Guan Yu, the Chinese language God of Battle and a logo of braveness, loyalty, and bravado.
You in all probability received’t discover too many different vacationers right here, so you may take pleasure in just a little 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 on daily basis
- Price: Free
14) Attend a Ladyboy Cabaret
The most effective issues to do in Koh Samui, or anyplace in Thailand, goes to a ladyboy cabaret.
The native Thai ladyboys are males that change their look to seem like glamorous girls, they usually typically placed on superb performances across the nation.
Koh Samui’s finest location for watching a blinding ladyboy efficiency is the Paris Follies Cabaret in Chaweng.
There are three exhibits each evening right here, and totally different dances and songs from all around the world are included into the units.
So for an evening stuffed with track, 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 Seashore 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 means of the Fisherman’s Village Strolling Road Market
Bophut is an space on the northern coast of Koh Samui recognized 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 Seashore Highway turns right into a vigorous strolling avenue market stuffed with souvenirs, art work, avenue meals, and reside music.
A number of the native retailers convey their merchandise to the streets whereas different distributors arrange new stalls and avenue performers placed on a present.
- Location: Bophut Seashore Highway, Bophut 84320
- Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, each Friday
16) Hike the Elephant Rock
These in search of energetic issues to do in Koh Samui can head to the Elephant Rock, situated between Chaweng and Lamai Seashore.
This large rock formation is called “Elephant Rock” just because it appears to be like like an enormous boulder the identical dimension as an Asian Elephant.
You may climb Elephant Rock to get an excellent aerial view of the encompassing ocean and seashores.
It is a good outdoorsy exercise to do whereas hanging out close to Chaweng or Lamai Seashore; simply be sure to put on sturdy climbing sneakers.
- Location: Between Chaweng and Lamai Seashore, Route 4169
- Hours: Open all day, on daily basis
- 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 look at a Muay Thai boxing match is Chaweng Boxing Stadium, which can also be the oldest stadium on the island.
Right here you may observe the gifted native athletes as they have interaction in fight, the strategies and methods of which developed 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 battle Muay Thai in a secure and safe place.
So fighters you might 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 participating 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 stuffed with flavour and contemporary components, 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 when you’re a real foodie you might need to take a number of totally different Thai cooking courses all through the nation.
Koh Samui has numerous cooking faculties that provide full-day excursions cooking courses, most of which embody a tour of the native market adopted by guided directions for making basic dishes.
This one although is the best rated, so be sure to e book it forward of time.
The meals you put together your self could also be among the finest you eat in Thailand.
So dedicate not less than at some point in Koh Samui to a enjoyable Thai cooking class.
19) Marvel at Laem Sor Pagoda
One other one in every of Koh Samui’s finest landmarks, Laem Sor Pagoda is situated on a quiet seashore 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 known as Khao Chedi, situated atop a hill that gives 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 seashore
- 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 finest snorkelling and diving in Southeast Asia.
The waters are crystal clear and the wildlife is vibrant and energetic.
Koh Samui has a number of good snorkelling spots, however the perfect places 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 a neighborhood 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 worth too! And only for NOMADasaurus readers, when you use the Klook low cost code “NOMADS10” on the web site when trying out, 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 timber swaying within the breeze.
A number of the finest seashores to go watch the sundown are Lipa Noi Seashore, Taling Ngam Seashore or Nathon City Seashore.
They’re all situated on the island’s west coast so that they face the setting solar.
This facet of the island can also be far much less touristy than the east facet, so that you’ll most definitely have the seashore to your self apart from a number of locals.
On the same observe, head to any seashore on the east facet of the island for a spectacular dawn view!
22) Attempt a Fruit Carving Class
In case you’ve ever been to any form of fancy lodge or restaurant in Thailand, you might have seen unimaginable artwork shows made totally out of fruit.
The artwork of fruit carving is a conventional Thai talent 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-about a decent talent.
You may take a fruit carving class on the Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts, the place professionals will educate you tips on how to carve stunning designs into fruit and greens.
It is a very hands-on expertise, and you might be certain to study so much about this conventional type of Thai artwork.
- Location: Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts, 46/6 Moo 3, Chaweng Seashore, 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 enable you to make your different plans as properly by sharing the perfect lodging and locations to eat within the metropolis.
Lodging in Koh Samui
After studying the perfect issues to do in Koh Samui, think about the place you’re going to keep.
Regardless of the island’s status as being a bit costly and catering solely in the direction of luxurious travellers, Koh Samui has loads of finances and mid-range lodging choices as properly.
Finances: Timeless Hostel
Keep in Timeless Hostel if you wish to lower your expenses and keep proper in the course of the motion.
Only a brief stroll from Chaweng Seashore and near all of the nightlife and leisure of the Chaweng neighbourhood, there’s a lot to do right here and plenty of fellow travellers to hang around with.
The hostel has a comfy frequent room that’s nice for socializing, and all the same old facilities like free wifi, scorching 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.
Mid-Vary: Promtsuk Buri Resort
For a sense of luxurious that doesn’t break the financial institution, Promtsuk Buri Resort is ideal.
Situated solely 80 meters away from the small, non-public Silver Seashore, and simply 2km away from the attractive however peaceable Lamai Seashore, this a part of the island is quiet but stuffed with issues to do.
Visitors rave in regards to the useful and pleasant employees 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 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 lodge.
You will get non-public bungalows close to Lamai Seashore for a extremely good worth!
Luxurious: Cape Fahn Resort
And not using a shadow of a doubt, the perfect luxurious lodge on Koh Samui is Cape Fahn Resort.
This boutique 5-star resort is discovered on a non-public island only a brief boat trip away from Choeng Mon Seashore.
Each one in every of their award-winning villas comes with its personal non-public infinity pool, so you may sip a cocktail in peace whereas staring out on the ocean under.
We wrote a full Cape Fahn Resort assessment which you’ll be able to take a look at. Ensure you e book 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 a number of suggestions for some eating places which have both finances, mid-range or costly menu costs.
Finances – Om Noodle Soup
For an excellent low cost and genuine native meal, go to Om Noodle Soup in Bophut, the Fisherman’s Village.
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 shocking view over Chaweng seashore.
Eat scrumptious basic Thai meals or worldwide delicacies whereas enjoyable in comfortable bean bag chairs atop their stylish picket 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 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 trendy Thai meals.
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