For those who’re searching for a spot that has huge metropolis facilities, beautiful Buddhist temples, and a chilled-out island vibe, then look no additional than Koh Samui.
Thailand’s 2nd largest island (#1 is Phuket) has quite a bit to supply vacationers. Whether or not you’re into nature, tradition, journey, partying, or simply some good old school R&R, you’ll discover issues to do in Koh Samui to fit your vibe.
Days might 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, contemporary seafood, and sure, a bit of untamed nightlife.
That is additionally an excellent 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 record 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 most likely got here right here for a calming seashore trip. Fortunately you’ve received a number of selections for solar and sand when visiting this fashionable Thai island.
Situated close to the airport on the northeast facet of the island, Chaweng is the primary seashore in Koh Samui.
Whereas it’s positively probably the most developed and most crowded of the seashores right here, it’s nonetheless stunningly lovely. Go forward and lease 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 evident and calm right here.
Whereas these are probably the most well-known and largest seashores, there are lots of others to select from in Koh Samui.
Different beautiful seashores you must 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 record.
2. Go to the Large Buddha
One of the crucial 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.
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 had been being pressured upon him.
With the event of tourism and the thriving get together 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 an enchanting cultural expertise. Yow will discover the Koh Samui Large Buddha on the map here.
Observe: When visiting this and another Buddhist temple in Thailand, it’s vital to observe the correct etiquette. It’s scorching and humid on the Thai islands, however you could cowl up when visiting non secular websites like this. Don’t be that farang who reveals 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’ll be able to 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 often is the diving Mecca of Thailand, Koh Samui can also be a superb place to discover below the ocean.
The water is heat and clear right here, with visibility between 3 and 30 meters. These circumstances help you be taught proper off the shore somewhat than in a swimming pool, making Koh Samui an excellent place to lastly get scuba-certified.
Even for those who’re not into the concept of scuba diving, you’ll be able to nonetheless get pleasure from recognizing the considerable marine life by snorkeling. It’s simple to seek out gear for lease on the seashore, or you’ll be able to join a ship tour to go to just a few completely different spots. Many excursions take a mixture of divers and snorkelers, which is nice for those who’re in a cut up group.
That’s not all there may be to do within the water right here, although. You may as well lease kayaks or SUPs for a pleasant leisurely paddle, or jet-skis for those who want a bit extra velocity. Crusing excursions are additionally fairly fashionable right here, particularly to see the sundown.
4. Apply Yoga
For those who really feel the necessity to do some solar salutations or bust out your greatest downward-facing canine in your trip, you’ll be joyful to listen to that yoga is kind of fashionable 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!
For those who’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui on a wet day, or for those who 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 professional, there’s a yoga class for you in Koh Samui.
One of the crucial fashionable spots to do yoga in Koh Samui is Shahda — a boutique resort. Click here for costs and particulars and to guide 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 crucial enjoyable issues to do in Koh Samui is to hitch a day journey out to the beautiful 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 brief 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, 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 accessible at Koh Wua Ta Lap the place the park headquarters are positioned.
You’ll be able to select between easy bungalows or simply lease a tent to camp on the seashore. There’s additionally a fundamental restaurant right here the place you’ll be able to have your meals. For all the information on staying at Ang Thong, take a look at the park’s website.
6. Take a Hike
For those who 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 simple and brief trails resulting in speeding 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!
Try the hike to Nathon Mountain Ridge Path or the Maenam Viewpoint.
Since Koh Samui might be fairly scorching and humid, the most effective 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.
For those who’d somewhat go along with a bunch 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 most of the “must-sees” in Koh Samui, however don’t have plenty 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 find out about you, however I’m completely in love with Thai food. I’m not joking after I say I might eat Thai meals on daily basis and by no means get bored. It’s simply that good!
For those who’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 contemporary elements. Again within the kitchen, it’s time to prepare dinner up Thai classics like papaya salad, inexperienced curry, or tom yam. In fact, the most effective a part of the category is having fun with the fruits of your labor with a scrumptious meal on the finish.
One of the best place to take a cooking class in Koh Samui is with Island Organics. Through the highly-rated class, Chef Lat teaches you find out how to make 4 tasty Thai dishes, plus genuine curry pastes, and a dessert. What makes the category additional particular is that most of the elements 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 taking a look at rocks. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? Nicely, my pals, these are not any abnormal 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 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 price a go to to the rocks, if solely to snap some foolish photographs and giggle. The view from the rocks is wonderful as effectively. You may 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 effectively.
☞ See Additionally: Things To Do in Chiang Rai – 21 Prime 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 positive to listen to calls of “Whats up! 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!
Relating to getting a therapeutic massage right here, you’ve got 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 count on a life-changing therapeutic massage from them, however for only a few bucks why not?
For those who want one thing a little bit nicer, spas are a dime a dozen in Koh Samui. These vary from quite simple to extremely fancy. All of it is dependent upon your funds and what you’re searching for. For an in depth have a look at a few of Koh Samui’s greatest spas, head here.
10. Swim in Waterfalls
Whereas swimming within the sea is all the time enjoyable, that’s not the one method to cool off on a scorching day in Koh Samui. The island is residence to a number of waterfalls the place you’ll be able to 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. For those who’re up for a little bit problem, it’s a couple of 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 price to park your motorcycle right here. There are some small meals stalls right here in addition to distributors promoting drinks for those who 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 experience by way of the jungle to take a look at some wonderful viewpoints and waterfalls.
There are a number of completely different choices for ATV excursions in Koh Samui. Some are as brief as one hour, whereas others final half a day. One tour operator that’s extremely really helpful is X-Quad Samui.
Earlier than you go using an ATV into the jungle of a Thai island, be sure you have some respectable international travel insurance. Not all insurance policies cowl excessive actions similar to this, so examine yours rigorously!
☞ For those who’re into motorcycle journeys, take a look at this information to using the Mae Hong Son Loop!
12. Hit The Evening Markets (the most effective issues to do in Koh Samui!)
Evening markets in Thailand are one among 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 supply.
For those who’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui within the evenings, there are a number of completely different evening markets in Koh Samui which can be price trying out. 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. Make sure you add at the least one among these superior evening markets to your record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
13. Discover Nathon City
For those who arrive in Koh Samui through the ferry from Surat Thani, your level of entry shall 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 principal city completely, however it’s positively price it to spend a while visiting Nathon. On a brief journey right here, you’ll be able to take a look at the colourful Chinese language shophouses, eat some scrumptious native meals at a cut price value, and stick round for a picture-perfect sundown.
Nathon City is positioned on the northwest coast of Koh Samui. Yow will discover it on the map and get instructions here.
14. Verify 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 will positively make it in your record 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 except you’ve got 4WD and are an skilled driver. If not, you must think about signing up for a day tour that features a cease on the backyard. Yow will discover it on the map here.
☞ Searching for a surprising island with pristine seashores, however fewer vacationers? Don’t miss the entire unimaginable things to do in Koh Lipe.
15. Go to the Fishermen’s Village
For those who 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 just a few hours strolling round, doing a little bit of procuring, and grabbing a chew 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 picket properties constructed within the nineteenth century by Chinese language immigrants. Whereas most of the fishermen have moved on to different components of the island, they nonetheless convey their each day catch to the eating places right here. You’ll discover a number of 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, chances are you’ll wish to come on Friday to take a look at the evening market right here. The Fishermen’s Village is positioned close to Bophut Seaside. You may get instructions on the map here.
16. Go {Golfing}
For those who get pleasure from a pleasant spherical of golf in your trip, you then’ll be joyful 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 without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Koh Samui.
The Santiburi Samui Country Club is the one skilled customary golf course on the island. This beautiful course is ready amongst a preserved coconut palm plantation excessive up within the hills.
Due to its location, you’ll get pleasure from distinctive views all through all the spherical. It’s not an inexpensive spherical (about $160 with golf cart and caddy), however it is likely to be one of the vital scenic rounds you ever play! Yow will discover the course on the map here.
For those who’re like me and might’t swing a golf membership to save lots of your life, you may wish to simply play old school spherical of mini-golf. There are mini-golf programs in each Chaweng and Lamai which can be enjoyable for the entire household.
☞ Choose mountains to seashores? You then’ll wish to take a look at beautiful Khao Lak.
17. See a Mummified Monk
This is likely to be probably the most uncommon merchandise on our record of issues to do in Koh Samui. On the Wat Khunaram temple, you’ve got 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 can 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 way 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 couple of 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 isn’t solely a well-liked vacationer and honeymoon spot, however it’s additionally an up-and-coming digital nomad vacation spot. Whereas the digital nomad neighborhood 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 excellent place to work remotely.
Excessive-speed web is now available on the island, particularly within the fashionable areas of Chaweng and Lamai. Additionally, there’s lastly a co-working house at Mantra (examine it on the map 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 Street) spent a tremendous month dwelling and dealing from Koh Samui. Learn all about it of their huge information to being a digital nomad in Koh Samui.
☞ For those who’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 could possibly 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 record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
Most tour operators on the island shall be joyful to set you up with a sundown cruise. Top-of-the-line choices is with the Red Baron, a standard picket junk-style yacht.
Their sundown cruise features a welcome cocktail, limitless mushy 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 be taught extra.
20. Strive the Thai Expertise Dinner
This simply is likely to be the good ceremonial dinner on the market. The Thai Experience is taking dinner events to a complete 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 record of issues to do in Koh Samui up above. Whereas you’ll be taught all in regards to the varied dishes and even learn to make a little bit 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 individual.
This ceremonial dinner is without doubt one of 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 reveals function singing, dancing, comedy, and a few fairly elaborate costumes.
There are just a few completely different choices for ladyboy cabaret reveals on the island. One which comes extremely really helpful is Paris Follies, which options all kinds of dance types in addition to many superior superstar impersonators.
Exhibits go on each evening at 8, 9:30, and 11. The sooner present is a little more family-friendly, whereas issues warmth up a little bit 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 expensive facet.
Now You Know What To Do in Koh Samui
As you’ll be able to see, there’s quite a bit taking place right here in Koh Samui. Whereas this island will most likely suck you in, you may 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.
For those who’re planning on exploring extra of the nation (and try to be), remember to take a look at this information to backpacking Thailand. Once you inevitably think about quitting your job, promoting all of your worldly possessions, and transferring right here, we’ve additionally received you coated with particulars on the cost of living in Thailand.
Some photographs on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
