In case you’re searching for 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 may be spent lounging on the seashore, doing a wide range of water sports activities, mountain climbing to viewpoints, or visiting a really Large Buddha. Evenings in Koh Samui are all about sunsets, tropical cocktails, contemporary 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 more in-depth have a look at my checklist of the highest issues to do in Koh Samui — one of many finest locations to go to in Thailand.
1. Seashore Bumming
Whereas there are many enjoyable and thrilling issues to do in Koh Samui, let’s face it — you most likely got here right here for a calming seashore trip. Fortunately you’ve received a number of decisions for solar and sand when visiting this in style Thai island.
Positioned close to the airport on the northeast aspect of the island, Chaweng is the primary seashore in Koh Samui.
Whereas it’s undoubtedly essentially the most developed and most crowded of the seashores right here, it’s nonetheless stunningly lovely. Go forward and hire a lounger and umbrella, order a fruity cocktail, and revel in your self!
The second largest seashore in Koh Samui is Lamai. It’s not as busy as Chaweng, however you’ve nonetheless received numerous choices for locations to relax, eat, and drink. Lamai is a good place to go for a swim, as the ocean is obvious and calm right here.
Whereas these are essentially the most well-known and largest seashores, there are lots of others to select from in Koh Samui.
Different attractive seashores you must spend a while on embrace Lipa Noi, Bang Por, and Large Buddha seashore. 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 points of interest is the Large Buddha. It’s positioned on the Wat Phra Yai temple, which is definitely on a a lot smaller island simply off the northeast coast of Samui.
Because of its location close to the airport, it’s one of many first issues many individuals see when touring to Koh Samui by aircraft.
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 had been being compelled 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, you must attempt to get there within the morning to see it at its busiest. With monks chanting and locals making choices, it’s a captivating cultural expertise. You will discover the Koh Samui Large Buddha on the map right here.
Notice: When visiting this and every other Buddhist temple in Thailand, it’s vital to observe the right etiquette. It’s sizzling and humid on the Thai islands, however it’s worthwhile to cowl up when visiting spiritual websites like this. Don’t be that farang who reveals up right here carrying a Full Moon Occasion 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 journey, 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. Take a look at that journey right here.
Whereas close by Koh Tao stands out as the diving Mecca of Thailand, Koh Samui can also be a superb place to discover underneath the ocean.
The water is heat and clear right here, with visibility between 3 and 30 meters. These situations permit you to be taught proper off the shore moderately than in a swimming pool, making Koh Samui an amazing place to lastly get scuba-certified.
Even when you’re not into the concept of scuba diving, you possibly can nonetheless get pleasure from recognizing the plentiful 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 totally different spots. Many excursions take a mixture of divers and snorkelers, which is nice when you’re in a break up group.
That’s not all there’s to do within the water right here, although. You can too hire kayaks or SUPs for a pleasant leisurely paddle, or jet-skis when you want a bit extra velocity. Crusing excursions are additionally fairly in style right here, particularly to see the sundown.
4. Follow Yoga
In case you really feel the necessity to do some solar salutations or bust out your finest downward-facing canine in your trip, you’ll be completely happy to listen to that yoga is sort of in style right here on Koh Samui.
I’m often extra of a “Namaste in mattress” form of man, however even I’ll stand up for some dawn yoga on a Thai island!
In case you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui on a wet day, or when you simply really feel like training, many resorts on the island provide yoga courses and there are additionally loads of devoted yoga studios right here.
Your choices right here vary from informal drop-in courses to intense yoga retreats. Whether or not you’re a complete beginner or an professional, 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 on right here for costs and particulars and to e book your spot.
☞ See Additionally: Issues 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 affix 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 experience 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, resort switch, meals, snorkelling gear and extra. Take a look at this highly-rated day tour for particulars, or this superb sundown cruise!
If a day journey simply isn’t sufficient for you, there’s fundamental lodging out there at Koh Wua Ta Lap the place the park headquarters are positioned.
You may 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, try the park’s web site.
6. Take a Hike
In case you can pull your self out of your seashore lounger, there are some nice alternatives for mountain climbing 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 dashing waterfalls to steep and strenuous hikes as much as some unbelievable viewpoints. After a troublesome, 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 may be fairly sizzling and humid, the most effective time to hike is both early within the morning or late within the afternoon. Everytime you go, remember to carry loads of water together with some sunscreen and bug spray.
In case you’d moderately go along with a gaggle than by yourself, remember to try the various choices supplied by Mountaineering on Samui. These excursions are run by a long-time Samui expat from the Netherlands who has tons of expertise mountain climbing.
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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, try this in style, extremely rated tour:
7. Take a Thai Cooking Class
I don’t find out about you, however I’m completely in love with Thai meals. 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!
In case you’re as loopy about Thai delicacies as I’m, why not discover ways to make it your self? Taking a Thai cooking class is definitely one of many tastiest issues you are able to do in Koh Samui.
In most cooking courses, you’ll first go to a neighborhood market to buy contemporary substances. Again within the kitchen, it’s time to prepare dinner up Thai classics like papaya salad, inexperienced curry, or tom yam. After all, the most effective a part of the category is having fun with the fruits of your labor with a scrumptious meal on the finish.
The perfect place to take a cooking class in Koh Samui is with Island Organics. In the course of the highly-rated class, Chef Lat teaches you the best way 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 on right here to be taught extra.
8. See Some Attention-grabbing Rocks
Maybe probably the most attention-grabbing issues to do in Koh Samui is taking a look at rocks. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? Nicely, my pals, these are not any odd rocks…
Hin Ta (Grandpa Rock) and Hin Yai (Grandma Rock) had been naturally carved through the years to resemble female and male genitalia. As with many issues in Southeast Asia, there’s a unbelievable legend behind the rocks.
Because the story goes, an outdated couple was touring by sea to go to their son for his wedding 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 they’d 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 consider the city legend or not it’s price a go to to the rocks, if solely to snap some foolish photographs and giggle. The view from the rocks is superb as properly. You may get instructions to the naughty-bits-shaped rocks on the map right here. Or, take this present day journey of Koh Samui, which takes within the rocks as properly.
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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 “Hi there! Maasssaaagggee?” It appears as if everybody on this island desires to present you a therapeutic massage. I say take them up on it. You’re on trip in any case!
In relation to getting a therapeutic massage right here, you’ve gotten loads of choices. There are wandering masseuses on the seashore who will fortunately provide you with a therapeutic massage from the consolation of your solar lounger. Don’t count on a life-changing therapeutic massage from them, however for just some bucks why not?
In case you want one thing somewhat nicer, spas are a dime a dozen in Koh Samui. These vary from quite simple to extremely fancy. All of it relies on your price range and what you’re searching for. For an in depth have a look at a few of Koh Samui’s finest spas, head right here.
10. Swim in Waterfalls
Whereas swimming within the sea is at all times enjoyable, that’s not the one option to cool off on a sizzling day in Koh Samui. The island is dwelling to a number of waterfalls the place you possibly can take a refreshing dip in lovely 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 automobile and thus generally is a bit crowded. In case you’re up for somewhat 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 have to pay a small price to park your motorcycle right here. There are some small meals stalls right here in addition to distributors promoting drinks when you forgot to carry snacks or water. You will discover Na Muang 1 on the map and get instructions right here.
11. Go On An ATV Tour
For the adrenaline junkies on the market, an ATV tour is certainly one of many high issues to do in Koh Samui. On a typical ATV tour, you’ll experience by way of the jungle to take a look at some superb viewpoints and waterfalls.
There are a number of totally 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 advisable is X-Quad Samui.
Earlier than you go using an ATV into the jungle of a Thai island, be sure you have some first rate worldwide journey insurance coverage. Not all insurance policies cowl excessive actions equivalent to this, so examine yours rigorously!
☞ In case you’re into motorcycle journeys, try this information to using the Mae Hong Son Loop!
12. Hit The Evening Markets (top-of-the-line issues to do in Koh Samui!)
Evening markets in Thailand are one in all my favourite issues on this planet. It simply by no means will get outdated sampling low-cost and engaging Thai meals whereas perusing the colourful handicrafts on provide.
In case you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui within the evenings, there are a number of totally different evening markets in Koh Samui which can be price testing. Totally different cities host an evening market on totally different days of the week. There’s Mae Nam on Thursdays, Bophut on Fridays, and Lamai on Sundays.
The evening markets often get going round 5PM and keep open till 11. Make sure to add not less than one in all these superior evening markets to your checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui.
13. Discover Nathon City
In case 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 heart of the island and a spot that many locals name dwelling.
Most vacationers skip over Koh Samui’s major city fully, however it’s undoubtedly price it to spend a while visiting Nathon. On a brief journey right here, you possibly can try 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 positioned on the northwest coast of Koh Samui. You will discover it on the map and get instructions right here.
14. Test Out the Secret Buddha Backyard
Tucked away within the heart of the island is a Secret Buddha Backyard surrounded by lush jungle. It’s a phenomenal and peaceable place to discover, and will undoubtedly 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 dying 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 robust to achieve by yourself until you’ve gotten 4WD and are an skilled driver. If not, you must take into account signing up for a day tour that features a cease on the backyard. You will discover it on the map right here.
☞ Searching for a shocking island with pristine seashores, however fewer vacationers? Don’t miss the entire unbelievable issues to do in Koh Lipe.
15. Go to the Fishermen’s Village
In case you develop uninterested in 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 buying, and grabbing a chew to eat. This enjoyable jet-ski journey takes in Fishermen’s Village, together with sundown dinner on the seashore.
Right here you’ll discover authentic picket houses constructed within the nineteenth century by Chinese language immigrants. Whereas lots of the fishermen have moved on to different components of the island, they nonetheless carry their every day catch to the eating places right here. You’ll discover a number of the finest 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 might wish to come on Friday to take a look at the evening market right here. The Fishermen’s Village is positioned close to Bophut Seashore. You may get instructions on the map right here.
16. Go {Golfing}
In case you get pleasure from a pleasant spherical of golf in your trip, you then’ll be completely happy 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 likely one of the finest issues to do in Koh Samui.
The Santiburi Samui Nation Membership is the one skilled normal golf course on the island. This gorgeous course is about amongst a preserved coconut palm plantation excessive up within the hills.
Because of its location, you’ll get pleasure from distinctive views all through the complete spherical. It’s not an affordable spherical (about $160 with golf cart and caddy), however it could be probably the most scenic rounds you ever play! You will discover the course on the map right here.
In case you’re like me and might’t swing a golf membership to save lots of your life, you may wish to simply play a very good old style spherical of mini-golf. There are mini-golf programs in each Chaweng and Lamai which can be enjoyable for the entire household.
☞ Favor mountains to seashores? You then’ll wish to try gorgeous Khao Lak.
17. See a Mummified Monk
This could be essentially the most uncommon merchandise on our checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui. On the Wat Khunaram temple, you’ve gotten the prospect 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 could be preserved on this peaceable state, and it has been on show in a glass case ever since.
This may increasingly appear a bit stunning and morbid to most Westerners, however Thai Buddhists are rather more accepting of dying. 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 Seashore. It’s open on daily basis and is most lively within the early morning or late afternoon. You will discover it on the map right here.
18. Strive The Digital Nomad Life
Koh Samui is just not solely a preferred vacationer and honeymoon spot, however it’s additionally an up-and-coming digital nomad vacation spot. Whereas the digital nomad group will 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 house at Mantra (examine it on the map right here). It has quick WiFi, comfortable 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 residing and dealing from Koh Samui. Learn all about it of their large information to being a digital nomad in Koh Samui.
☞ In case you’re interested by what digital nomad life is like on the opposite aspect of the world, examine our expertise touring as digital nomads in South America.
19. Take a Sundown Cruise
What could possibly be higher than having fun with the sundown from a tropical seashore in Thailand? Having fun with it on a yacht, after all! Taking a sundown cruise undoubtedly earns its spot on this checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui.
Most tour operators on the island can be completely happy to set you up with a sundown cruise. Top-of-the-line choices is with the Crimson Baron, a standard picket junk-style yacht.
Their sundown cruise features a welcome cocktail, limitless tender drinks/tea/espresso, and a buffet dinner. There’s additionally a bar working on deck if that one drink simply isn’t sufficient . Click on right here to be taught extra.
20. Strive the Thai Expertise Dinner
This simply could be the good ceremonial dinner on the market. The Thai Expertise is taking dinner events to a complete new degree 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 be taught all concerning the numerous dishes and even discover ways to make somewhat 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 totally 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 price 2,490 baht ($78) per particular person.
This ceremonial dinner is likely one of the most distinctive issues 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 reveals characteristic singing, dancing, comedy, and a few fairly elaborate costumes.
There are a number of totally different choices for ladyboy cabaret reveals on the island. One which comes extremely advisable is Paris Follies, which options all kinds of dance types in addition to many superior movie star 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 somewhat bit for the later efficiency. It’s free to attend, however they make their cash off of the bar as drinks are undoubtedly on the expensive aspect.
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 most likely suck you in, you may wish to take into account tacking on a visit to the close by islands of Koh Tao for diving and Koh Phangan for epic events and adventures.
In case you’re planning on exploring extra of the nation (and you ought to be), remember to try this information to backpacking Thailand. Whenever you inevitably take into account quitting your job, promoting all of your worldly possessions, and shifting right here, we’ve additionally received you coated with particulars on the price of residing in Thailand.
Some photographs on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
