If you happen to’re on the lookout 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 lots 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 might be spent lounging on the seashore, doing a wide range of water sports activities, climbing to viewpoints, or visiting a really Huge Buddha. Evenings in Koh Samui are all about sunsets, tropical cocktails, recent 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. 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 obtained a number of decisions for solar and sand when visiting this well-liked 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 undoubtedly probably the most developed and most crowded of the seashores right here, it’s nonetheless stunningly stunning. Go forward and lease a lounger and umbrella, order a fruity cocktail, and luxuriate in your self!
The second largest seashore in Koh Samui is Lamai. It’s not as busy as Chaweng, however you’ve nonetheless obtained plenty of choices for locations to sit back, 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 probably the most well-known and largest seashores, there are lots of others to select from in Koh Samui.
Different beautiful seashores it’s best to spend a while on embrace Lipa Noi, Bang Por, and Big Buddha beach. Talking of a Huge Buddha, that brings us to the subsequent merchandise on our record.
2. Go to the Huge Buddha
Some of the well-known Koh Samui points of interest is the Huge 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 airplane.
The spotlight of Wat Phra Yai is the 12-meter seated golden Buddha. This explicit posture depicts a time in Buddha’s quest for enlightenment when he needed to keep away from all of the temptations that have been being pressured upon him.
With the event of tourism and the thriving social gathering scene that adopted it right here, it’s fascinating to see Buddha remaining steadfast and pure on this peaceable pose whereas backpackers guzzle down buckets of booze round him.
Whereas the temple is open all day, it’s best to attempt to get there within the morning to see it at its busiest. With monks chanting and locals making choices, it’s a captivating cultural expertise. Yow will discover the Koh Samui Huge Buddha on the map here.
Observe: When visiting this and some other Buddhist temple in Thailand, it’s vital to observe the right etiquette. It’s scorching and humid on the Thai islands, however that you must cowl up when visiting non secular websites like this. Don’t be that farang who reveals up right here sporting 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 may 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 Huge Buddha (see above), and Fisherman’s Village, adopted by a sundown dinner on the seashore. Check out that trip here.
Whereas close by Koh Tao could be the diving Mecca of Thailand, Koh Samui can also be a wonderful place to discover below the ocean.
The water is heat and clear right here, with visibility between 3 and 30 meters. These circumstances can help you be taught proper off the shore fairly than in a swimming pool, making Koh Samui an excellent place to lastly get scuba-certified.
Even in the event you’re not into the concept of scuba diving, you may nonetheless get pleasure from recognizing the considerable marine life by snorkeling. It’s simple to search out gear for lease on the seashore, or you may join a ship tour to go to just a few totally different spots. Many excursions take a mixture of divers and snorkelers, which is nice in the event you’re in a cut up group.
That’s not all there’s to do within the water right here, although. You may as well lease kayaks or SUPs for a pleasant leisurely paddle, or jet-skis in the event you want a bit extra pace. Crusing excursions are additionally fairly well-liked right here, particularly to see the sundown.
4. Apply Yoga
If you happen to really feel the necessity to do some solar salutations or bust out your finest downward-facing canine in your trip, you’ll be comfortable to listen to that yoga is sort of well-liked right here on Koh Samui.
I’m often extra of a “Namaste in mattress” sort of man, however even I’ll stand up for some dawn yoga on a Thai island!
If you happen to’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui on a wet day, or in the event you simply really feel like working towards, 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.
Some of the well-liked spots to do yoga in Koh Samui is Shahda — a boutique resort. Click here for costs and particulars and to ebook your spot.
☞ See Additionally: Things To Do in Pai: 21 Issues You Don’t Need to Miss
5. Day Journey to Ang Thong Marine Park
Some of the enjoyable issues to do in Koh Samui is to hitch a day journey out to the gorgeous Ang Thong Marine Park. This archipelago consists of 42 pristine islands with towering limestone mountains and postcard-worthy seashores.
Most excursions to Ang Thong embrace a go to to the Emerald Lagoon, chilling out on the seashore, and a little bit of snorkeling/kayaking. You’ll possible 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 journey 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 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 possibly can 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 may have your meals. For all the data on staying at Ang Thong, take a look at the park’s website.
6. Take a Hike
If you happen to can pull your self out of your seashore lounger, there are some nice alternatives for 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 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!
Take a look at the hike to Nathon Mountain Ridge Path or the Maenam Viewpoint.
Since Koh Samui might be fairly scorching and humid, the perfect time to hike is both early within the morning or late within the afternoon. Everytime you go, be sure you carry loads of water together with some sunscreen and bug spray.
If you happen to’d fairly go along with a bunch than by yourself, be sure you take a look at the numerous choices provided by Hiking on Samui. These excursions are run by a long-time Samui expat from the Netherlands who has tons of expertise climbing.
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If you wish to see most of the “must-sees” in Koh Samui, however don’t have a variety of time, or don’t need to spend greater than a half-day doing so, take a look at this popular, highly rated tour:
7. Take a Thai Cooking Class
I don’t learn about you, however I’m completely in love with Thai food. I’m not joking after I say I may eat Thai meals each day and by no means get bored. It’s simply that good!
If you happen to’re as loopy about Thai delicacies as I’m, why not learn to make it your self? Taking a Thai cooking class is actually one of many tastiest issues you are able to do in Koh Samui.
In most cooking lessons, you’ll first go to an area market to buy recent 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 perfect 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. In the course of the highly-rated class, Chef Lat teaches you learn how to make 4 tasty Thai dishes, plus genuine curry pastes, and a dessert. What makes the category further particular is that 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 crucial fascinating issues to do in Koh Samui is rocks. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? Nicely, my associates, these aren’t any atypical rocks…
Hin Ta (Grandpa Rock) and Hin Yai (Grandma Rock) have been naturally carved over time to resemble female and male genitalia. As with many issues in Southeast Asia, there’s a unbelievable legend behind the rocks.
Because the story goes, an previous 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 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 consider the city legend or not it’s price a go to to the rocks, if solely to snap some foolish pictures and giggle. The view from the rocks is superb as nicely. 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 nicely.
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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 “Hiya! Maasssaaagggee?” It appears as if everybody on this island needs to offer you a therapeutic massage. I say take them up on it. You’re on trip in spite of everything!
On the subject of 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 anticipate a life-changing therapeutic massage from them, however for just some bucks why not?
If you happen to want one thing a bit nicer, spas are a dime a dozen in Koh Samui. These vary from quite simple to extremely fancy. All of it relies on your finances and what you’re on the lookout for. For an in depth have a look at a few of Koh Samui’s finest spas, head here.
10. Swim in Waterfalls
Whereas swimming within the sea is all the time enjoyable, that’s not the one option to cool off on a scorching day in Koh Samui. The island is residence to a number of waterfalls the place you may take a refreshing dip in stunning environment.
The preferred 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 definitely accessible by automobile and thus could be a bit crowded. If you happen to’re up for a bit problem, it’s a few 20-30 minute hike uphill to succeed in Na Muang 2.
It’s free to go to the waterfalls, however you’ll must pay a small payment to park your bike right here. There are some small meals stalls right here in addition to distributors promoting drinks in the event you forgot to carry 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 journey via 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 brief as one hour, whereas others final half a day. One tour operator that’s extremely beneficial is X-Quad Samui.
Earlier than you go driving an ATV into the jungle of a Thai island, be sure you have some first rate international travel insurance. Not all insurance policies cowl excessive actions equivalent to this, so verify yours fastidiously!
☞ If you happen to’re into bike journeys, take a look at this information to driving the Mae Hong Son Loop!
12. Hit The Evening Markets (the most effective issues to do in Koh Samui!)
Evening markets in Thailand are certainly one of my favourite issues on the earth. It simply by no means will get previous sampling low cost and attractive Thai meals whereas perusing the colourful handicrafts on supply.
If you happen to’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui within the evenings, there are a number of totally different night time markets in Koh Samui which can be price trying out. Completely 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 night time markets often get going round 5PM and keep open till 11. Be sure you add at the least certainly one of these superior night time markets to your record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
13. Discover Nathon City
If you happen to arrive in Koh Samui through the ferry from Surat Thani, your level of entry might be Nathon City. That is the industrial and administrative middle of the island and a spot that many locals name residence.
Most vacationers skip over Koh Samui’s foremost city totally, nevertheless it’s undoubtedly price it to spend a while visiting Nathon. On a brief journey right here, you may 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. Test Out the Secret Buddha Backyard
Tucked away within the middle of the island is a Secret Buddha Backyard surrounded by lush jungle. It’s an attractive and peaceable place to discover, and may undoubtedly 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 loss of life on the age of 91.
The Secret Buddha Backyard is open each day from 9-5. It prices 80 baht (about $2.50) to go to. It’s fairly robust to succeed in by yourself except you’ve gotten 4WD and are an skilled driver. If not, it’s best to think about signing up for a day tour that features a cease on the backyard. Yow will discover it on the map here.
☞ Searching for a shocking island with pristine seashores, however fewer vacationers? Don’t miss all the unbelievable things to do in Koh Lipe.
15. Go to the Fishermen’s Village
If you happen to 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 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 authentic 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 carry their day by day catch to the eating places right here. You’ll discover among 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, chances are you’ll need to come on Friday to take a look at the night time market right here. The Fishermen’s Village is positioned close to Bophut Seashore. You may get instructions on the map here.
16. Go {Golfing}
If you happen to get pleasure from a pleasant spherical of golf in your trip, then you definately’ll be comfortable 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 Country Club is the one skilled customary 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 inexpensive spherical (about $160 with golf cart and caddy), nevertheless it is perhaps one of the crucial scenic rounds you ever play! Yow will discover the course on the map here.
If you happen to’re like me and may’t swing a golf membership to save lots of your life, you would possibly need to simply play a superb old style spherical of mini-golf. There are mini-golf programs in each Chaweng and Lamai which can be enjoyable for the entire household.
☞ Want mountains to seashores? Then you definitely’ll need to take a look at gorgeous Khao Lak.
17. See a Mummified Monk
This is perhaps probably the most uncommon merchandise on our record of issues to do in Koh Samui. On the Wat Khunaram temple, you’ve gotten the possibility to see a mummified monk.
Luang Pho Daeng was a Buddhist monk who died whereas in a meditative seated place again in 1973. It was determined that his physique could be preserved on this peaceable state, and it has been on show in a glass case ever since.
This will likely appear a bit stunning and morbid to most Westerners, however Thai Buddhists are way more accepting of loss of life. 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 each day and is most energetic within the early morning or late afternoon. Yow will discover it on the map here.
18. Attempt The Digital Nomad Life
Koh Samui shouldn’t be solely a preferred vacationer and honeymoon spot, nevertheless it’s additionally an up-and-coming digital nomad vacation spot. Whereas the digital nomad 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 well-liked areas of Chaweng and Lamai. Additionally, there’s lastly a co-working house at Mantra (verify it on the map here). It has quick WiFi, cozy sofas, video video games, and even a pool desk. Now that’s a cool workplace!
Dariece and Nick (founders of Goats on the Highway) spent an incredible month residing and dealing from Koh Samui. Learn all about it of their large information to being a digital nomad in Koh Samui.
☞ If you happen to’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, after all! Taking a sundown cruise undoubtedly earns its spot on this record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
Most tour operators on the island might be comfortable to set you up with a sundown cruise. Probably the greatest choices is with the Red Baron, a standard picket junk-style yacht.
Their sundown cruise features a welcome cocktail, limitless smooth 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. Attempt the Thai Expertise Dinner
This simply is perhaps the best banquet on the market. The Thai Experience is taking dinner events to an entire new stage with their enjoyable and interactive spin on issues.
To be clear, this isn’t a cooking class. I’ve already included these on this record of issues to do in Koh Samui up above. Whereas you’ll be taught all concerning the numerous dishes and even learn to make a 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 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 value 2,490 baht ($78) per particular person.
This banquet is likely 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 characteristic singing, dancing, comedy, and a few fairly elaborate costumes.
There are just a few totally different choices for ladyboy cabaret reveals on the island. One which comes extremely beneficial is Paris Follies, which options all kinds of dance kinds in addition to many superior movie star impersonators.
Reveals go on each night time at 8, 9:30, and 11. The sooner present is a little more family-friendly, whereas issues warmth up a bit 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 facet.
Now You Know What To Do in Koh Samui
As you may see, there’s lots occurring right here in Koh Samui. Whereas this island will most likely suck you in, you would possibly need 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.
If you happen to’re planning on exploring extra of the nation (and you need to be), be sure you take a look at this information to backpacking Thailand. While you inevitably think about quitting your job, promoting all of your worldly possessions, and transferring right here, we’ve additionally obtained you coated with particulars on the cost of living in Thailand.
Some photographs on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
