Should you’re in search of 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 loads 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 seaside, doing quite a lot of water sports activities, mountain climbing 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 important island for digital nomads and we spent a month chillin’ out right here. Learn on for a better take a look at my record 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 soothing seaside trip. Fortunately you’ve received a number of decisions for solar and sand when visiting this well-liked Thai island.
Positioned close to the airport on the northeast facet of the island, Chaweng is the primary seaside in Koh Samui.
Whereas it’s positively essentially the most developed and most crowded of the seashores right here, it’s nonetheless stunningly lovely. Go forward and hire a lounger and umbrella, order a fruity cocktail, and luxuriate in your self!
The second largest seaside in Koh Samui is Lamai. It’s not as busy as Chaweng, however you’ve nonetheless received a number 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 essentially the most well-known and largest seashores, there are numerous others to select from in Koh Samui.
Different beautiful seashores it’s best to spend a while on embrace Lipa Noi, Bang Por, and Large Buddha seaside. Talking of a Large Buddha, that brings us to the following merchandise on our record.
2. Go to the Large Buddha
Some of the well-known Koh Samui sights 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 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 compelled upon him.
With the event of tourism and the thriving celebration 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, 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 an interesting cultural expertise. Yow will discover the Koh Samui Large Buddha on the map right here.
Observe: When visiting this and another Buddhist temple in Thailand, it’s essential to comply with the correct etiquette. It’s sizzling and humid on the Thai islands, however you must cowl up when visiting spiritual websites like this. Don’t be that farang who exhibits up right here sporting a Full Moon Get together 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 Large Buddha (see above), and Fisherman’s Village, adopted by a sundown dinner on the seaside. Try that journey right here.
Whereas close by Koh Tao would be the diving Mecca of Thailand, Koh Samui can also be a superb place to discover beneath 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 reasonably than in a swimming pool, making Koh Samui an important place to lastly get scuba-certified.
Even in case you’re not into the thought of scuba diving, you’ll be able to nonetheless get pleasure from recognizing the considerable marine life by snorkeling. It’s simple to search out gear for hire on the seaside, or you’ll be able to join a ship tour to go to a couple of completely different spots. Many excursions take a mixture of divers and snorkelers, which is nice in case you’re in a cut up group.
That’s not all there’s to do within the water right here, although. You may also hire kayaks or SUPs for a pleasant leisurely paddle, or jet-skis in case you want a bit extra velocity. Crusing excursions are additionally fairly well-liked right here, particularly to see the sundown.
4. Apply Yoga
Should you really feel the necessity to do some solar salutations or bust out your finest downward-facing canine in your trip, you’ll be glad to listen to that yoga is sort of well-liked right here on Koh Samui.
I’m often extra of a “Namaste in mattress” form of man, however even I’ll stand up for some dawn yoga on a Thai island!
Should you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui on a wet day, or in case you simply really feel like training, many resorts on the island provide 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 knowledgeable, 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 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
Some of the 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 seaside, and a little bit of snorkeling/kayaking. You’ll probably 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, resort switch, meals, snorkelling gear and extra. Try this highly-rated day tour for particulars, or this superb sundown cruise!
If a day journey simply isn’t sufficient for you, there’s fundamental lodging obtainable at Koh Wua Ta Lap the place the park headquarters are positioned.
You possibly can select between easy bungalows or simply hire a tent to camp on the seaside. There’s additionally a fundamental restaurant right here the place you’ll be able to have your meals. For all the data on staying at Ang Thong, try the park’s web site.
6. Take a Hike
Should you can pull your self out of your seaside 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 simple and brief trails resulting in speeding waterfalls to steep and strenuous hikes as much as some incredible 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 could be fairly sizzling and humid, the perfect time to hike is both early within the morning or late within the afternoon. Everytime you go, be sure you convey loads of water together with some sunscreen and bug spray.
Should you’d reasonably go together with a bunch than by yourself, be sure you try the numerous choices supplied by Mountaineering 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 numerous time, or don’t need to spend greater than a half-day doing so, try this well-liked, extremely rated tour:
7. Take a Thai Cooking Class
I don’t find out 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!
Should you’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 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 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. Through the highly-rated class, Chef Lat teaches you the way to make 4 tasty Thai dishes, plus genuine curry pastes, and a dessert. What makes the category further 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 vital attention-grabbing issues to do in Koh Samui is rocks. Sounds boring, doesn’t it? Nicely, my mates, these aren’t any bizarre 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 incredible 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 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 superb as nicely. You may 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 nicely.
☞ See Additionally: Issues To Do in Chiang Rai – 21 Prime Issues You Don’t Need 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 “Hey! Maasssaaagggee?” It appears as if everybody on this island desires to provide you a therapeutic massage. I say take them up on it. You’re on trip in spite of everything!
With regards to getting a therapeutic massage right here, you have got loads of choices. There are wandering masseuses on the seaside 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?
Should you want one thing somewhat nicer, spas are a dime a dozen in Koh Samui. These vary from quite simple to extremely fancy. All of it relies on your price range and what you’re in search of. 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 technique to cool off on a sizzling 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 lovely 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 is usually a bit crowded. Should you’re up for somewhat 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 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 case you forgot to convey snacks or water. Yow 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 high issues to do in Koh Samui. On a typical ATV tour, you’ll experience by the jungle to take a look at some superb 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 beneficial is X-Quad Samui.
Earlier than you go driving an ATV into the jungle of a Thai island, be sure you have some respectable worldwide journey insurance coverage. Not all insurance policies cowl excessive actions resembling this, so verify yours fastidiously!
☞ Should you’re into bike journeys, try this information to driving the Mae Hong Son Loop!
12. Hit The Night time Markets (probably the greatest issues to do in Koh Samui!)
Night time markets in Thailand are one in every of my favourite issues on this planet. It simply by no means will get previous sampling low-cost and attractive Thai meals whereas perusing the colourful handicrafts on provide.
Should you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui within the evenings, there are a number of completely different night time 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 night time markets often get going round 5PM and keep open till 11. You should definitely add a minimum of one in every of these superior night time markets to your record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
13. Discover Nathon City
Should you arrive in Koh Samui through the ferry from Surat Thani, your level of entry can 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 most important city solely, but it surely’s positively price it to spend a while visiting Nathon. On a brief journey right here, you’ll be able to try 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 right here.
14. Examine 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 wonderful and peaceable place to discover, and may 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 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 have got 4WD and are an skilled driver. If not, it’s best to contemplate signing up for a day tour that features a cease on the backyard. Yow will discover it on the map right here.
☞ On the lookout for a shocking island with pristine seashores, however fewer vacationers? Don’t miss all the unimaginable issues to do in Koh Lipe.
15. Go to the Fishermen’s Village
Should 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 couple of hours strolling round, doing a little bit of procuring, and grabbing a chunk to eat. This enjoyable jet-ski journey takes in Fishermen’s Village, together with sundown dinner on the seaside.
Right here you’ll discover authentic picket houses 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 convey their each day catch to the eating places right here. You’ll discover a number 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 could 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 Seaside. You may get instructions on the map right here.
16. Go {Golfing}
Should you get pleasure from a pleasant spherical of golf in your trip, then you definately’ll be glad 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 normal golf course on the island. This beautiful course is about 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 affordable spherical (about $160 with golf cart and caddy), but it surely could be one of the vital scenic rounds you ever play! Yow will discover the course on the map right here.
Should you’re like me and might’t swing a golf membership to save lots of your life, you would possibly need to simply play a great old school spherical of mini-golf. There are mini-golf programs in each Chaweng and Lamai which can be enjoyable for the entire household.
☞ Desire mountains to seashores? You then’ll need to try beautiful Khao Lak.
17. See a Mummified Monk
This could be essentially the most uncommon merchandise on our record of issues to do in Koh Samui. On the Wat Khunaram temple, you have got 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 may increasingly appear a bit stunning and morbid to most Westerners, however Thai Buddhists are far 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 very revered.
Wat Khunaram is a few 10-minute drive from Lamai Seaside. It’s open each day and is most energetic within the early morning or late afternoon. Yow will discover it on the map right here.
18. Attempt The Digital Nomad Life
Koh Samui isn’t solely a well-liked vacationer and honeymoon spot, but it surely’s additionally an up-and-coming digital nomad vacation spot. Whereas the digital nomad group 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 important 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 right 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 dwelling and dealing from Koh Samui. Learn all about it of their huge information to being a digital nomad in Koh Samui.
☞ Should you’re interested in 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 might be higher than having fun with the sundown from a tropical seaside in Thailand? Having fun with it on a yacht, after all! Taking a sundown cruise positively earns its spot on this record of issues to do in Koh Samui.
Most tour operators on the island can be glad to set you up with a sundown cruise. Among the best choices is with the Purple Baron, a standard picket 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 an entire 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 record 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 somewhat 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 price 2,490 baht ($78) per individual.
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 exhibits function singing, dancing, comedy, and a few fairly elaborate costumes.
There are a couple of completely different choices for ladyboy cabaret exhibits on the island. One which comes extremely beneficial is Paris Follies, which options all kinds of dance types in addition to many superior celeb 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 somewhat 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 loads taking place right here in Koh Samui. Whereas this island will in all probability suck you in, you would possibly 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.
Should you’re planning on exploring extra of the nation (and you ought to be), be sure you try this information to backpacking Thailand. If you inevitably contemplate quitting your job, promoting all of your worldly possessions, and shifting right here, we’ve additionally received you lined with particulars on the value of dwelling in Thailand.
Some pictures on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
