When you’re on the lookout for a spot that has massive 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 so much 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 could be spent lounging on the seashore, doing a wide range of water sports activities, mountain climbing to viewpoints, or visiting a really Massive Buddha. Evenings in Koh Samui are all about sunsets, tropical cocktails, recent seafood, and sure, a bit of untamed nightlife.
That is additionally an ideal island for digital nomads and we spent a month chillin’ out right here. Learn on for a better take 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. Seaside Bumming
Whereas there are many enjoyable and thrilling issues to do in Koh Samui, let’s face it — you in all probability got here right here for a calming seashore trip. Fortunately you’ve received a number of selections for solar and sand when visiting this standard 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 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 a lot of choices for locations to sit back, 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 a lot of others to select from in Koh Samui.
Different beautiful seashores it is best to spend a while on embrace Lipa Noi, Bang Por, and Massive Buddha seashore. Talking of a Massive Buddha, that brings us to the subsequent merchandise on our checklist.
2. Go to the Massive Buddha
One of the vital well-known Koh Samui sights is the Massive Buddha. It’s situated 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 specific 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 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 is best to 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. You will discover the Koh Samui Massive Buddha on the map right here.
Notice: 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 you must 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’ll be able to 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 Massive 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 would be the diving Mecca of Thailand, Koh Samui can 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 can help you be taught proper off the shore relatively than in a swimming pool, making Koh Samui an ideal place to lastly get scuba-certified.
Even if you happen to’re not into the thought of scuba diving, you’ll be able to nonetheless take pleasure in recognizing the plentiful marine life by snorkeling. It’s straightforward to seek out gear for lease on the seashore, or you’ll be able to 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 if you happen to’re in a cut up group.
That’s not all there may be to do within the water right here, although. It’s also possible to lease kayaks or SUPs for a pleasant leisurely paddle, or jet-skis if you happen to want a bit extra pace. Crusing excursions are additionally fairly standard right here, particularly to see the sundown.
4. Observe Yoga
When you 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 standard 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!
When you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui on a wet day, or if you happen to simply really feel like working towards, many resorts on the island supply yoga lessons 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 vital standard 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 Need to Miss
5. Day Journey to Ang Thong Marine Park
One of the vital 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 seemingly 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 trip 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. Take a look at this highly-rated day tour for particulars, or this wonderful sundown cruise!
If a day journey simply isn’t sufficient for you, there’s primary lodging obtainable at Koh Wua Ta Lap the place the park headquarters are situated.
You may select between easy bungalows or simply lease a tent to camp on the seashore. There’s additionally a primary restaurant right here the place you’ll be able to have your meals. For all the data on staying at Ang Thong, take a look at the park’s web site.
6. Take a Hike
When 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 speeding waterfalls to steep and strenuous hikes as much as some unbelievable viewpoints. After a tricky, 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 could 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, you should definitely carry loads of water together with some sunscreen and bug spray.
When you’d relatively go together with a bunch than by yourself, you should definitely take a look at the numerous choices provided by Mountain climbing 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 loads of time, or don’t need to spend greater than a half-day doing so, take a look at this standard, extremely rated tour:
7. Take a Thai Cooking Class
I don’t learn about you, however I’m completely in love with Thai meals. I’m not joking after I say I might eat Thai meals each day and by no means get bored. It’s simply that good!
When you’re as loopy about Thai delicacies as I’m, why not learn 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 lessons, you’ll first go to an area market to buy recent substances. 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.
The very 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 methods to make 4 tasty Thai dishes, plus genuine curry pastes, and a dessert. What makes the category additional particular is that lots of the substances are grown of their onsite backyard. Click on right here to be taught extra.
8. See Some Fascinating Rocks
Maybe one of the fascinating issues to do in Koh Samui is taking a look at rocks. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? Nicely, my pals, these are not any extraordinary rocks…
Hin Ta (Grandpa Rock) and Hin Yai (Grandma Rock) had 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 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 reworked 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 value a go to to the rocks, if solely to snap some foolish photographs and giggle. The view from the rocks is wonderful as properly. You will 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 “Good day! 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 any case!
On the subject of getting a therapeutic massage right here, you will have 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 anticipate a life-changing therapeutic massage from them, however for only a few bucks why not?
When you want one thing a bit of 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 finances and what you’re on the lookout for. For an in depth take 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 approach to cool off on a scorching day in Koh Samui. The island is house to a number of waterfalls the place you’ll be able to take a refreshing dip in stunning 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 definitely accessible by automobile and thus could be a bit crowded. When you’re up for a bit of 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 payment to park your motorcycle right here. There are some small meals stalls right here in addition to distributors promoting drinks if you happen to 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 prime issues to do in Koh Samui. On a typical ATV tour, you’ll trip by way of the jungle to take a look at some wonderful 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 driving an ATV into the jungle of a Thai island, be sure to have some respectable worldwide journey insurance coverage. Not all insurance policies cowl excessive actions comparable to this, so verify yours fastidiously!
☞ When you’re into motorcycle journeys, take a look at this information to driving the Mae Hong Son Loop!
12. Hit The Night time Markets (the most effective issues to do in Koh Samui!)
Night time markets in Thailand are one among my favourite issues on this planet. It simply by no means will get outdated sampling low-cost and attractive Thai meals whereas perusing the colourful handicrafts on supply.
When you’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 might be value 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. Remember to add a minimum of one among these superior night time markets to your checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui.
13. Discover Nathon City
When you arrive in Koh Samui through the ferry from Surat Thani, your level of entry will likely be Nathon City. That is the industrial and administrative middle of the island and a spot that many locals name house.
Most vacationers skip over Koh Samui’s fundamental city solely, however it’s undoubtedly value 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 worth, and stick round for a picture-perfect sundown.
Nathon City is situated on the northwest coast of Koh Samui. You will discover it on the map and get instructions right 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 good looking and peaceable place to discover, and may 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 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 achieve by yourself except you will have 4WD and are an skilled driver. If not, it is best to contemplate signing up for a day tour that features a cease on the backyard. You will discover it on the map right here.
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15. Go to the Fishermen’s Village
When you 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 a number of hours strolling round, doing a little bit of procuring, 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 unique wood properties 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 each day catch to the eating places right here. You’ll discover a few 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 need to come on Friday to take a look at the night time market right here. The Fishermen’s Village is situated close to Bophut Seaside. You will get instructions on the map right here.
16. Go {Golfing}
When you take pleasure in a pleasant spherical of golf in your trip, you then’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 Nation Membership is the one skilled commonplace golf course on the island. This beautiful course is about amongst a preserved coconut palm plantation excessive up within the hills.
Because of its location, you’ll take pleasure in distinctive views all through the complete spherical. It’s not an inexpensive spherical (about $160 with golf cart and caddy), however it could be one of the scenic rounds you ever play! You will discover the course on the map right here.
When you’re like me and may’t swing a golf membership to save lots of your life, you may need to simply play an excellent old school spherical of mini-golf. There are mini-golf programs in each Chaweng and Lamai which might be enjoyable for the entire household.
☞ Want mountains to seashores? You then’ll need to take a look at beautiful Khao Lak.
17. See a Mummified Monk
This could be probably the most uncommon merchandise on our checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui. On the Wat Khunaram temple, you will have 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 surprising and morbid to most Westerners, however Thai Buddhists are rather 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 Seaside. It’s open each day and is most lively within the early morning or late afternoon. You will discover it on the map right here.
18. Attempt The Digital Nomad Life
Koh Samui shouldn’t be solely a well-liked vacationer and honeymoon spot, however it’s additionally an up-and-coming digital nomad vacation spot. Whereas the digital nomad group is probably not as massive right here as it’s in close by Koh Phangan or Chiang Mai within the north, that is nonetheless an ideal place to work remotely.
Excessive-speed web is now available on the island, particularly within the standard areas of Chaweng and Lamai. Additionally, there’s lastly a co-working area at Mantra (verify 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 Street) spent a tremendous month residing and dealing from Koh Samui. Learn all about it of their large information to being a digital nomad in Koh Samui.
☞ When you’re inquisitive about 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 undoubtedly earns its spot on this checklist of issues to do in Koh Samui.
Most tour operators on the island will likely be comfortable to set you up with a sundown cruise. Among the best choices is with the Crimson Baron, a conventional wood junk-style yacht.
Their sundown cruise features a welcome cocktail, limitless gentle 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. Attempt the Thai Expertise Dinner
This simply could be the best 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 in regards to the numerous dishes and even learn to make a bit of 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 superstar 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 of 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’ll be able to see, there’s so much taking place right here in Koh Samui. Whereas this island will in all probability suck you in, you may need to contemplate tacking on a visit to the close by islands of Koh Tao for diving and Koh Phangan for epic events and adventures.
When you’re planning on exploring extra of the nation (and you have to be), you should definitely take a look at this information to backpacking Thailand. If you inevitably contemplate quitting your job, promoting all of your worldly possessions, and transferring right here, we’ve additionally received you coated with particulars on the value of residing in Thailand.
Some pictures on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
