Koh Samui is a beautiful island that should definitely be on your travel bucket list. Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, cultural experiences, or exciting adventures, this island has it all. Known for its pristine nature and vibrant local culture, Koh Samui offers an ideal blend of relaxation and exploration. If you’re wondering what to do while you’re there, here’s a list of the top 8 things to do in Koh Samui.
- Enjoy the Beaches: Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach
- Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks – Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
- Visit the Big Buddha Temple
- Wat Plai Laem
- Go Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
- Explore the Night Markets
- See the Famous Namuang Waterfalls
1
Enjoy the Beaches: Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach
Koh Samui is known for its breathtaking beaches, and two of the most popular are Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach.
Chaweng Beach is the island’s busiest and most well-known beach, and for good reason. This large, white-sand beach is divided into four sections: North, Central, South, and Little. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports, this is the place to be.
Activities you can enjoy directly on Chaweng Beach include:
- Renting snorkeling equipment
- Renting a kayak
- Renting a paddleboard
When the sun sets, the beach transforms into a lively nightlife hub, with beach bars offering everything from cocktails to live music.
Lamai Beach, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s less crowded than Chaweng, attracting a laid-back crowd looking to unwind. Beach bars and restaurants line the shore, but the highlight here is the proximity to the Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks, a unique local attraction.
Best time to visit : Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Pro tip : Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water if you plan to stay out in the sun for a while.
2
Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks – Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
While Koh Samui’s white-sand beaches are famous, don’t overlook its rocky coastlines. Hin Ta and Hin Yai, or the Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks, are among the most unique attractions on the island. These natural rock formations resemble male and female genitalia, and while quirky, they are a popular stop for tourists.
Why visit? It’s a quick and fun stop that gives you a chance to see something truly unique, and it’s conveniently located near Lamai Beach.
Pro tip : While you’re there, take a walk along the coastline for some beautiful views and great photo opportunities.
3
Visit the Big Buddha Temple
The Big Buddha Temple, also known as Wat Phra Yai, is a must-see landmark on Koh Samui. The 12-meter-tall Buddha statue is perched on a small island connected by a causeway, and it’s one of the first things you’ll notice when flying into the island. The grandeur of the statue, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of the temple, makes for an unforgettable experience.
Best time to visit : Early in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds.
Entry fee : Free, though donations are welcome.
Reminder : Dress appropriately—cover your shoulders and wear shorts or pants that reach at least knee-length.
4
Wat Plai Laem
Just a short drive from the Big Buddha, Wat Plai Laem is another beautiful temple complex worth visiting. Known for its intricate statues and vibrant architecture, this temple offers a more modern take on traditional Thai religious art.
Even though I didn’t have time to visit during my trip, it’s highly recommended for anyone interested in Thai culture and architecture.
Pro tip : Since it’s close to the Big Buddha, you can easily visit both on the same day.
5
Go Snorkeling
Koh Samui’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. While you can snorkel at beaches like Chaweng, I recommend joining a snorkeling tour that takes you to the island’s top spots for marine life. These boat trips will give you access to vibrant coral reefs and diverse underwater ecosystems that you won’t want to miss.
Best spots : Coral Cove, Silver Beach, and nearby islands.
Cost : Snorkeling tours typically start at around 1,000 THB, depending on the length of the trip and the destinations.
Pro tip : Bring an underwater camera if you want to capture the beauty of the reefs!
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6
Scuba Diving
If you’re a fan of snorkeling and want to take it up a notch, scuba diving in Koh Samui is a fantastic option. The island offers warm, clear waters that are perfect for diving. While Koh Samui itself has plenty of dive shops offering affordable certification courses, Koh Tao, a nearby island, is known as one of the best diving spots in Thailand.
Best for beginners If you’re new to diving, Koh Samui is a great place to start, with plenty of dive schools offering courses.
Cost : Open Water certification courses usually start around 10,000 THB.
Pro tip : If you’re planning to dive at Koh Tao, consider doing a beginner’s course in Koh Samui so you can perfect your skills before heading to this famous diving destination.
7
Explore the Night Markets
Koh Samui has several vibrant night markets that are well worth visiting. These markets are a perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture. You’ll find everything from handmade crafts and souvenirs to delicious street food.
My personal favorite was the rolled ice cream made fresh right in front of me. The food variety is incredible, with everything from fresh seafood to traditional Thai sweets.
Best markets to visit : Fisherman’s Village Walking Street and Chaweng Night Market.
Pro tip : Bring cash, as many vendors do not accept cards, and arrive early to avoid the larger crowds.
8
See the Famous Namuang Waterfalls
The Namuang Waterfalls are among the most popular natural attractions in Koh Samui. There are two waterfalls to explore, each offering a different experience.
How to get there : For accurate directions, enter “Na Mueang Samui Home” in Google Maps. This will lead you to the parking area near the elephant sanctuary.
Namuang Waterfall 1 : This is the easier of the two waterfalls to access, located just a short two-minute walk from the parking lot. While it’s a popular spot, the scenery is beautiful and worth the visit.
Namuang Waterfall 2 : If you’re up for a bit of a hike, this waterfall is more secluded and offers stunning views after a 25-30 minute trek through the jungle. The higher you go, the more rewarding the view becomes.
Best time to visit : Early morning for a peaceful experience, especially if you’re hiking to Namuang Waterfall 2.
Entry fee: Visiting the waterfalls is free, but parking fees may apply.
To conclude, Koh Samui offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and fun activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring temples, or chasing waterfalls, this island is full of unforgettable experiences. Make sure to explore both the popular spots and the hidden gems to fully appreciate all that Koh Samui has to offer!
What’s Next?
Now that you know the best activities in Koh Samui, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful :
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