Koh Samui is the right island retreat for anybody wanting a mixture of stunning seashores, waterfalls, Buddhist temples, and trendy facilities when visiting Thailand. In a nutshell, Koh Samui has all of it! There are many issues to do in Koh Samui to meet each traveler’s wants.
Located on the Jap aspect of the Thai mainland within the Gulf of Thailand, Samui Island is the second-largest island within the Thai Kingdom (Phuket being the largest). Koh Samui and Phuket have been in contrast numerous instances in an try and debate which island is the very best, however to me, it’s actually not possible to decide on a transparent winner.
Regardless, it’s best to go to each islands when touring to Thailand, in actual fact, it’s an excellent thought to go island hopping to see as many as you may. Nothing can actually examine to the gorgeous seashores of the nation.
Issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand
This Koh Samui article was initially written by Albert Niekerk,(some photos supplied by him) it has been up to date by Dave and Deb combining our experiences, up to date excursions and knowledge for 2021.
See the Massive Buddha Temple
One of many prime issues to do in Koh Samui is to go to Wat Phra Yai temple to see the 12 meter excessive (39 foot excessive) Massive Buddha. It was in-built 1972 and has endured at considered one of Koh Samui’s prime points of interest. Although it isn’t technically situated on Koh Samui, it’s Koh Samui’s most well-known landmark. The Massive Buddha Temple is situated on Koh Faan and related to Koh Samui by an extended causeway. Plus it’s normally the very first thing individuals placed on their listing to see as it may be seen by air upon arrival. It is a well-liked spot to have fun Loy Krathong and Songkran Festivals.
This half-day bike tour permits you to uncover Koh Samui’s most well-known sights together with the Massive Buddha, the Bang Rak Market, and the Choeng Mon Seashore as you be taught in regards to the island’s tradition and historical past from a neighborhood information.
Seashore Life at Chaweng Seashore
Koh Samui is blessed with white sandy seashores. Chaweng Seashore is Koh Samui’s hottest seaside and with good purpose. It’s one very giant stretch of white sand with shady palm timber. Actually, it’s so giant it’s damaged into 4 elements, North, Central, South, and Little. (Chaweng Noi). If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, that is the place to remain.
Do some snorkeling and sea kayaking or hire a paddleboard and do some stand-up paddleboarding within the calm waters. When the solar goes down, the nightlife begins on Chaweng Seashore at its seaside bars. Head out to the Inexperienced Mango strip for some bar hopping. Kings Island Resort is a extremely rated place to remain on Chaweng Seashore. There is no such thing as a swimming pool however it’s situated immediately on the seaside. The Hyatt Regency is among the most luxurious properties on the seaside with a personal swimming pool.
Go to Grandpa and Grandma Rocks at Lamai Seashore
Koh Samui could also be well-known for its white sandy seashores, however the rocky seashores are undoubtedly a sight to recollect. Lamai Seashore is quieter than Chaweng Seashore and tends to draw a extra laid-back crowd. It’s at Lamai Seashore that you can see the well-known Koh Samui points of interest of Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks. Hin Ta and Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks) are a few of the extra distinctive issues to see on Koh Samui. The female and male genitalia-shaped rocks have been a prime draw since our first go to to Koh Samui means again in 2003.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
Legend has it that an outdated man and lady set sail to a neighboring island to ask for the hand of a daughter of a person named Ta Monglai. When their boat capsized, they drowned and changed into these rocks to show their true intentions to the household. It’s a distinctive factor to see and additionally it is a seaside on Koh Samui that provides some higher-end lodging
Day Journey to Koh Phangan
We talked about island-hopping above and we imply it. Thailand was made for island hopping. From Koh Samui, you may simply go to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao on a ship journey. Koh Phangan is well-liked sufficient to spend a while on, however should you merely need to go to for a day, this Full day Tour takes you to see all of the highlights of Koh Phangan.
The island is only a 30 minute boat experience from Koh Samui the place you’ll land at Thong Sala pier. You’ll then discover the Chinese language Temple, Koh Mah seaside for snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters adopted by conventional Thai lunch. Then it’s time to go to the scenic viewpoint of Koh Raham earlier than heading again by speedboat to your lodge in Koh Samui.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao to discover peaceable hidden seashores, underwater sanctuaries full of sea creatures, and all-night events. Koh Tao is among the finest spots for snorkelling and diving in Thailand. Koh Tao is sometimes called Turtle Island for each its form and the inexperienced and hawksbill turtles that inhabit the gorgeous island. It’s also among the finest locations in Thailand to take your PADI certification.
Snorkeling
Top-of-the-line issues to do in Koh Samui is to get within the water and go snorkeling. Every island in Thailand gives its personal distinctive quirks and customs however I have to say, the factor that stood out essentially the most to me about Koh Samui was the unbelievable snorkeling and scuba environments it needed to provide.
This personal lengthy tail boat tour has you boarding considered one of Thailand’s well-known longtail boats to Koh Taen, recognized for its marine life and coral reef. Plus you’ll get to go to Koh Madsum (Pig Island) to see the resident pigs that reside there. We did this within the Bahamas and it’s so a lot enjoyable to see the pigs operating within the sand to say hiya. Different stuff you see are, White Rock Cave Island, Purple Ant Island, and Matkhong Island
Scuba Diving
The neighboring island of Koh Tao is thought for its scuba diving, however Samui can be a superb diving vacation spot. There are a lot of locations providing scuba diving programs on the island at reasonably priced costs. Plus the nice and cozy, clear, and alluring waters make it a really perfect spot to develop into licensed.
Programs are run proper off Chaweng, Coral Cove and different seashores with shore diving straightforward to entry. Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park can be thought-about an excellent diving vacation spot.
Try the Night time Markets
Certainly one of our favourite issues to do in Thailand is to buy groceries and pattern their many small meals stalls. Chiang Mai is known for its night time markets, however in Koh Samui, they’ve fabulous night time markets that rotate places every night. Decide up your Thai souvenirs, pattern nice avenue meals, and get misplaced within the power and pleasure of bartering with the distributors.
Greatest night time markets in Koh Samui
- Fisherman’s Village Strolling Avenue at Bophut on Fridays.
- Lamai Night time Plaza Night time Market in Lamai Centre – Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
- Chewang Night time Market in Bophut- Monday to Thursday and Saturday.
Swim within the Namuang Waterfalls
Namuang Waterfall might be one of many prime points of interest situated in central Koh Samui. Situated inland from Nathon Bay, it’s simply accessible by tuk tuk. When you attain the parking zone, Na Muang 1 is only a quick stroll from the parking zone. Enterprise up one other 100 meters to see Na Muang 1.
I have to admit, I used to be very skeptical about visiting Na Muang as a result of it’s a very touristy place. However I used to be instructed once I get there I ought to climb up subsequent to the waterfall so far as I might, “to see secret very stunning waters”.
Secret Waterfalls
Vacationers have been crowding on the base of the falls, identical to I anticipated. I dodged them and located a tiny virtually overgrown footpath on the aspect of the falls main up the mountain. As I climbed and climbed the steep little path I reached fairly a number of smaller however undisturbed waterfalls, every with its personal little swimming pools.
I climbed even increased and finally reached the highest. This was what I needed to see, a completely unspoiled waterfall with lush jungle rising on both aspect, I found the “secret very stunning waters”.
The view I had of the island was unbelievable and I couldn’t see or hear any vacationers. It was heaven! I spent virtually the entire day taking photos, swimming, and consuming the odd coconut that got here floating down the stream.
I fell in love with my newfound paradise. Two different Canadian guys additionally stumbled upon my secret place however I used to be glad to have somebody round who appreciated it as a lot as I did.
Mummified Monk – Wat Khunaram
One of many strangest issues to see on Koh Samui is the Mummified monk. Situated at Wat Khunaram, the mummified stays of monk Luong Pordaeng are on show. The buddhist monk died in 1973 in a seated meditative place. Earlier than his dying, he requested that his physique be placed on show ought to it not decompose. And now at the moment, it’s revered as an inspiration to observe a lifetime of Buddhism.
One of many extra distinctive issues you are able to do is to attend a Monk Chat and meditation session at Dipabhavan Meditation Heart, which is open to anybody.
If you’re searching for one thing actually distinctive, maintain a watch out for Overlap Stone, a big stone that that rests precariously on prime of a big boulder
Have a Conventional Thai Therapeutic massage
Actually, irrespective of the place you’re in Thailand a standard Thai Therapeutic massage must be in your listing. And Koh Samui isn’t any exception. I like getting a Thai therapeutic massage on the seaside and this is among the should do issues in Koh Samui. Don’t fear about discovering one, they are going to be strolling the seaside seeking vacationers to appease their aching our bodies.
However you may also stroll alongside the streets to search out therapeutic massage palours or guide a fancier therapeutic massage at one of many increased finish inns. However do your self a favour, get a therapeutic massage as a lot as doable in Thailand. They’re so reasonably priced, it’s good to get pampered like royalty regularly.
ABSOLUTE SANCTUARY
If you wish to take your wellness vacation to a different degree, make sure that to remain on the Absolute Sanctuary. This wellness health resort is nestled on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Situated inside a lush forest setting, Absolute Sanctuary takes a holistic method in search of to to handle particular person wellness objectives equivalent to a detox vacation, pamper me vacation, weight administration or lowering stress. Bask in yoga or Pilates as you get pleasure from a significant vacation that can carry peace to your thoughts and physique.
Go for a Hike
Koh Samui has some nice mountaineering and if the seaside life turns into a little bit tedious (I imply, how might it ever actually although?) otherwise you need to stretch your legs, head out to a few of the trails for a hike.
Hike to the Secret Buddha Backyard to see Buddha sculptures set in a rainforest, hike the Nathon Mountain Path Ridge, or head as much as the Maenam Viewpoint for nice views of Nathon and the gorgeous tropical island scene.
Secret Buddha Backyard
Talking of Secret Buddha Backyard, is a really attention-grabbing place to go to. Created in 1976 by a neighborhood durian farmer, there are a number of completely different depicting completely different Buddha folklore. You possibly can hike to Secret Buddha Backyard or take a 4X4 Jeep Tour. Try tour choices right here.
Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park
A must-do day journey from Koh Samui is to move out to the Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park. Like so many locations in Southern Thailand, Ang Thong was featured within the film The Seashore with Leonardo DiCaprio. Ang Thong Nationwide Park is an archipelago of 42 islands with the towering limestone mountains that Thailand is known for. You possibly can swim in lagoons, chill out on pristine seashores and spy sea turtles in its crystal clear waters. Each Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are a part of the Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park.. For the last word in luxurious, guide an in a single day cruise on a junk boat to expertise the islands in personal.
Sit back after Darkish
After you’ve soaked up some rays all day lengthy, head out to the seaside to get pleasure from dinner and drinks on a matt on the seaside. Every night time, the lanterns are lit and the lounge chairs come out as you eat on the seaside harem fashion laying down chillaxing with a Chang or Singha Beer.
Go to an Elephant Sanctuary
Elephants have lengthy suffered in Thailand, however due to sanctuaries changing from elephant excursions to moral elephant sanctuaries, you may go to retired tourism elephants and assist help their properly being.
Take a 40 minute drive via the island of Koh Samui to a sanctuary the place you’ll be taught in regards to the rescued elephants, feed them and assist tub them in mud. These elephants have been rescued and these sanctuaries are an vital half in letting them reside out their days in relative peace. Whereas they’ll by no means return within the wild, it’s a significantly better life than having vacationers experience on their backs. Discover out extra in regards to the elephant sanctuary tour right here.
Take a Thai Cooking Class
Top-of-the-line methods to immerse in a tradition is thru meals. Thai meals is our favourite and we eat it at residence on a regular basis! Go to a neighborhood market and be taught to prepare dinner Thai delicacies. as you be taught to organize meals that you would be able to carry residence with you. It’s a enjoyable and interactive solution to spend a night. Guide a cooking class particulars right here.
Wat Plai Laem
One other cool temple to see in Koh Samui is Wat Plai Laem. This Buddhist temple showcases Koh Samui’s Chinese language heritage with a large Guanyin statue dominating the temple grounds. Although it is a Buddhist temple, it’s really devoted to the Chinese language Goddess Guanyin who’s believed to be the Goddess of unconditional love
Chaweng Seashore is Koh Samui’s hottest seaside and with good purpose. It’s one very giant stretch of white sand. Actually, it’s so giant it’s damaged into 4 elements, North, Central, South and Little. (Chaweng Noi). If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, that is the place to remain. A really distinctive factor to maintain a watch out for is while you make a donation, you’ll obtain a bag of fish meals so you may feed the resident fish within the pond.
Lease a Scooter – However Be Cautious
The island of Koh Samui gives numerous touristy sights to discover. The most effective (and most cost-effective) solution to see the whole lot is by renting your individual scooter. I perceive that it is a daunting thought to most newcomers to Southeast Asia, but it surely solely takes a few minutes so that you can get the grasp of it and really feel like a hardcore biker.
Just remember to put on a helmet always and drive safely. Sadly, many vacationers die on the roads of Thailand yearly, so be extraordinarily cautious. Dave and I had an accident in Koh Samui and burnt our legs very badly, so make certain that you understand how to experience a bike earlier than renting one.
Spend money on an island map and ask a neighborhood to point all of the must-see places. Naturally the following factor to do is to fully ignore the map and simply get misplaced! That is one of the best ways to search out hidden gems. A Bike Journey, the Journey Begins
Fisherman’s Village in Bophut
Even should you don’t make it to Fishermen’s Village night time market, it’s a nice strolling avenue throughout the day. As soon as a thriving fishing village, Fisherman’s Village has now changed into It’s full of cafés and eateries. You are able to do some procuring and Bophut Seashore is situated proper there as properly.
The principle part of Fisherman’s Village is Bophut Seashore Street which strains the seaside. Go into one of many retailers or cafés and head out again for stunning seaside views.
Take a Koh Samui Jeep Tour
A enjoyable solution to see all of the Koh Samui highlights is to take a jeep tour. See the key lookout providing beautiful views of the Gulf of Thailand, go to the waterfalls and the Buddha Backyard. For a novel tour of Koh Samui, it is a nice thought. Try this top-rated jeep tour on Ko Samui and today journey to Koh Phangan.
Girl Boy Cabaret Present
Like the times of La Cage Au Folles right here within the Nineteen Nineties of North America, the Girl Boy Cabaret Exhibits have develop into one of many highest issues to do in Koh Samui at night time. This energetic efficiency includes lip-synching, dancing, and elaborate costumes.
The best way to Get to Koh Samui
Koh Samui is situated within the Surat Thani province 35 km off the coast of Surat Thani on the Gulf of Thailand. The city of Surat Thani is the principle jumping-off level for the islands on the Gulf of Thailand.
Neighboring islands are Ko Pha ngan, Ko Tao, and Ko Nang Yuan which might all be reached by longtail boat or ferry.
There are flights out there from Phuket to Koh Samui in addition to Bangkok to Koh Samui making it a straightforward vacation spot to go to throughout your Thailand travels. If you’re coming from different islands within the south of Thailand, you’ll have to make your solution to Surat Thani. There are additionally flights from Bangkok to Surat Thani.
From Surat Thani, you’ll cat the ferry to Koh Samui from the principle Surat Thani ferry port at Don Sak
The place to Keep on Koh Samui
Koh Samui is thought for its luxurious resorts however there are additionally locations which might be extra reasonably priced. We provide up three selections from Luxurious to mid-range and reasonably priced.
- 4 Seasons Resort – Costly however definitely worth the splurge. you may by no means go mistaken with the 4 Seasons model in case you are seeking a luxurious keep.
- Kings Island Resort is a extremely rated place to remain on Chaweng Seashore. There is no such thing as a swimming pool however it’s situated immediately on the seaside.
- The Hyatt Regency is among the extra luxurious resorts on the seaside with a personal swimming pool at an reasonably priced value for mid-range vacationers.
- For different inns on Koh Samui, take a look at TripAdvisor for opinions.
Koh Samui has much more to supply aside from waterfalls and coral reefs however these have been the issues that stood out essentially the most to me. It’s a stunning island with breathtaking lush jungle and wonderful seashores with shady palm timber, perhaps I ought to depart Phuket and transfer right here. Koh Samui will certainly see me once more within the close to future.
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Albert van Niekerk is a South African copywriter, blogger and journey author. I lived in Thailand for some time and traveled via Southeast Asia searching for journey. Comply with me on Twitter @AlbertNiekerk or go to my weblog at Right here to Stray.com