Things To Do In Koh Samui

8 km
from city center 1 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Wat Phra Yai, more commonly known as the Big Buddha Temple, is one of Koh Samui's most iconic and revered landmarks. Located on a small island called Koh Faan, connected to the main island by a causeway, this temple is a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance. A flight of stairs leads to the statue, and there are stalls selling souvenirs and knick-knacks at the base of the stairs. It's especially beautiful at sunset.

6 km
from city center 2 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Chewang Beach is Koh Samui's best beach, with a large stretch of white sand and palm trees. It is divided into four parts - North, Central, South, and Little. The beach area is filled with bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops and has a buzzing nightlife. It is also popular for watersports like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

7 km
from city center 3 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Lamai is the second most popular beach in Koh Samui and is less crowded than Chaweng Beach. The powdery white sand beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports. It is also home to unusual yet amazing natural rock formations. You will find a couple of beach bars and many vendors selling local delicacies.

7 km
from city center 4 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

A unique thing to see in Koh Samui, the Hin-Ta and Hin-Ya rocks are fascinating rock formations found on Lamai Beach. Popularly known as the Grandfather and Grandmother rocks, these formations have gained popularity worldwide for resembling male and female genitalia. These originate from granite eroded by seawater and heat. The view from the rocks is breathtaking.

5 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Ang Thong National Marine Park is a protected archipelago of 42 islands. With unusually spectacular scenery, the Marine Park features Limestone Mountains, thick jungles, white-sand beaches, waterfalls, surreal lakes, unexplored caves, and small hikes leading up to breathtaking viewpoints. Although a fantastic tourist destination, only a few tour operators have a license for the park and its affiliated islands.

6 km
from city center 6 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

The Fisherman's village in Bophut is beside Lamai Beach but has a different feel from it. Get all your food, entertainment, and shopping needs met in one place. The original fishermen's shops have been transformed into shops, restaurants, and cafes. Fisherman’s Village Walking Street market is set up here every Friday. There are a couple of entrances to Fishermens Village, and vehicles are allowed every day except Friday.

4 km
from city center 7 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Tarnim Magic Garden, also known as the Secret Buddha Garden is a private sculpture park set atop one of the highest peaks on the island. Also called the ‘Heaven's Garden’ or the ‘Magic Garden,’ the main highlight is the group of angel and musician statues. Set amidst lush jungle foliage, there are waterfalls and streams, along with Buddha statues hidden in plain sight. The view from the garden and the way leading up to it is stunning.

9 km
from city center 8 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Wat Plai Laem is a Buddhist temple compound on Samui's northeast, flaunting a striking white, 18-armed idol of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and a large lake. The temple's intricate, ornate blends of Chinese and Thai architecture were created by Jarit Phumdonming, one of Thailand's foremost artists. The Goddess is flanked by two long halls displaying colorful murals and frescoes depicting Buddhist mythology and stories.

7 km
from city center 9 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Known as one of the quieter and more peaceful beaches, Mae Nam is a perfect escape from all the mayhem. Even though it is said to be rather slow and nascent, it has an amazing scenery and a handful of local activities to engage in. With tall, swaying palm trees, and soft, subtle waves - Mae Nam is a slice of heaven!

6 km
from city center 10 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Sprawling over 90,000 sq.m., Central Samui is a must-visit recreational hub on Chaweng Beach of Koh Samui. The mall has 3 floors along with a landscaped garden with benches for relaxation. There are over 200 retail outlets, a dozen fast food chains, fine dining destinations, a children’s play zone, a food court, and a gaming arcade.

6 km
from city center 11 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Namuang Waterfalls roughly translates to 'Purple Waterfalls' and comprises Na Muang 1 and Na Muang 2. The falls get their name from the water gushing down the purple rocks and giving off purple tints under the sunlight. They are a five-minute drive from each other. Na Muang 1 is easier to access and has a natural pool perfect for swimming. Reaching Na Muang 2 requires a little climbing.

12 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

With an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius and a wind range of 8-20 knots, the beaches of Koh Samui are ideal for kitesurfing between December and April. Nathon, Hua Thanon, Chaweng, Lipa Noi, and Taling Ngam are perfect for beginners, whereas Thong Krut Bay, Lamai, Ban Harn, and Mae Nam are the top spots for intermediates. Some resorts have their private beach dedicated to the activity as well.

0 km
from city center 13 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

The clear and calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand around Koh Samui and its colorful coral reefs make this a soothing spot for divers to spot stingrays, barracudas, eels, and sea anemones. Divers venturing deeper into the water might even spot whale sharks, and the nudibranchs and shrimps hiding between crevices underwater make for amazing photographs.

14 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui packs in with some of the best nightclubs, beach clubs, and sunset bars all together to make nightlife as exciting as anywhere in Thailand. The best nightlife spots in Koh Samui are centered around Chaweng Beach, and each of the main resorts (Lamai, Bophut, and Maenam) have various lounge clubs, bars, pool parties, and discos to discover.

5 km
from city center 15 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Lad Ko Viewpoint is considered one of the best and most amazing view points in Koh Samui. With a beautiful panoramic view of the sea and the east coast of the island, Lad Koh can never disappoint! Inviting many tourists to take a stroll down the charming pavement overlooking the coastline, Lad Koh is best known for its sunrise and sunsets.

9 km
from city center 16 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Located on the tropical island of Koh Samui in southern Thailand, the Samui Elephant Sanctuary is a home for the rescued elephants. Morning and afternoon guided tours with professional guides are available and include interactions which the elephants and feeding sessions.

17 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui beaches do not offer a wide range of snorkeling opportunities, but the right spots around the island offer a glimpse of tropical marine life. The best time to enjoy snorkeling in Koh Samui is from December to February, the peak season due to calm seas and moderate temperatures. Swim with large schools of fish that pass through coves and deep canyons.

7 km
from city center 18 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Wat Khunaram, located on the west of Hua Thanon on route 4169, is very well known for the famous 'Mummy Monk'. While it can be slightly disturbing or unpleasant to those seeing this for the first time, it provides great insight into the Buddhist and Thai culture. An active temple, Wat Khunaram conducts daily rituals, and is definitely a sight to behold in Koh Samui!

19 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

The palm-fringed islands of Koh Samui offer many pristine sites for kayaking. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park is the topmost destination for kayaking in Ko Samui. There are several lagoons, water tunnels, interesting rock formations, and caves to explore in the islands in and around this Ramsar site. Other popular destinations are Pig Island, Koh Madsum, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tan.

6 km
from city center 20 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Resting on the northern part of the island, Wat Khao Hua Jook is a cozy temple housing a replica of Buddha's footprint. This golden pagoda looks stunning when illuminated at night. You need to climb a flight of stairs to reach the top, which is also a viewpoint with a panoramic view of the island and Koh Samui airport.

21 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui offers plenty of opportunities to shopaholics with its abundance of intriguing souvenirs to take back home. There are numerous stores and stalls with a huge variety of products, both international and local. Some popular shopping places are Lamai Walking Street, Central Festival Mall, Lamai Night Plaza, Maenam Walking Street and more.

22 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Personalized cooking classes are probably the best-kept secrets of Koh Samui. You can learn to cook authentic Thai dishes from experienced chefs at several cooking classes across the island. Island Organics Thai Cooking Class, InFusion Cooking Classes, Smiley Cook Thai, Ying’s Thai Cooking Home, Lamai Thai Cooking School, and Samui Good Herb Thai Cooking Class are some of the most sought-after cooking classes in Koh Samui.

24 km
from city center 23 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Ko Phangan is famed for its monthly Full Moon Party and the Half Moon Parties. You could take a 30-minute ferry or a speed boat ride from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan and explore the island, exclusive of its party culture. Koh Phangan has a lot of other things to offer, including fishing trips, diving, kite-boarding, and waterfall hopping, and it is also renowned for its meditation centers.

68 km
from city center 24 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

The 20 kilometers of coastline around Koh Tao is rich in marine life and is perfect for underwater exploration. Snorkelers can try Shark Bay and spot the Black Tip Reef Shark or explore Aow Leak Bay and its colorful array of fish. Hin Wong Bay and Mango Bay are great places to explore the variety of fish around this island. While some operators allow uncertified divers to join them, certification programs are also available at Koh Tao.

10 km
from city center 25 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Located on the west coast of Koh Samui, Lipa Noi Beach is a tropical paradise featuring white sand and calm water. It is an unspoiled beach, one of Thailand's least crowded beaches. The beach has fine sand and no rock and corals, making it ideal for kids to play.

5 km
from city center 26 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

A few kilometres south of Nathon Town, Samui, lies the Hin Lad waterfall, a gorgeous sight of natural beauty in the midst of streams and mountains. There is a very long walk through the jungle to reach the falls, with a natural swimming pool. A small restaurant is also available at the base.

6 km
from city center 27 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

One of the oldest places on the Island, Bo Phut beach is a beautiful long stretch that runs between the Big Buddha and Mae Nam Beach. The beach is lined with restaurants and bars and offers some water sports activities. The water here is not clear and thus not great for swimming.

6 km
from city center 28 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Coral Cove Beach is a beautiful beach in southern Koh Samui with reddish sand and clear, deep waters for the ideal day of swimming and relaxation. It is the ideal location for travelers who like their privacy. With only two accommodation options, Coral Cove beach is a quiet spot for families and couples. On either end of Coral Cove Beach are rock formations that cordon it off from other beaches.

7 km
from city center 29 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Silver Beach (Haad Thong Ta-khian) is a pristine 250-meter-long tropical paradise in a charming bay north of Lamai Beach. It faces northeast from the foothills and is a favorite among beach lovers, sunbathers, and divers. Beside the glimmering sandy stretch and granite cliffs are a few luxury resort retreats with restaurants and bars, plush bungalows, water sports, pools, and massage spas.

9 km
from city center 30 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Mae Nam Viewpoint is quite a hike on foot, however there is also an option of renting a scooter to shoot you up the mountain. With a stunning view overlooking Nathon, the west side of Samui on one side, and the gorgeous range of the Samui mountains on the other - this view is worth the climb.

7 km
from city center 31 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Looking over the Chao Phraya river, Wat Racha Thammaram contains a lovely replica of Phra Buddha Chinarat of Phitsanulok. Locally known as the Snake Stone Temple, it is also home to a sacred bodhi tree. With a beautiful clear blue sky as a backdrop, this beautiful temple gives you a perfect dose of Buddhism culture.

10 km
from city center 32 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Taling Ngam Beach is situated in the Taling Ngam district on the west coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. Usually, it is referred to as a strip of sandy shore from Laem Yai Krai cape to the Phang Ka Bay. It is renowned as a beautiful and quiet beach with fewer tourist activities as compared to other beaches. This is also one primary reason why it is known as the ‘Paradise Corner.’

18 km
from city center 33 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Koh Tan Island is located approximately five kilometres south of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. The island has various colorful, hard, and soft corals and is a popular destination for snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving. It is only accessible by a boat (long tail boat or speedboat).

0 km
from city center 34 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

At Koh Samui, you can go off the beaten track and take a jeep safari to explore the island. Safaris take visitors to the Magic Buddha Garden, which offers majestic views from the top of a hill. They also go to the Namuang waterfall, where you can relax and take a swim, and to Grandfathers Rock and Wat Khunaram’s mummified monk. The jeeps can go up the mountain and stop at viewpoints, from where you can enjoy open-air lunches.

12 km
from city center 35 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Wat Khao Chedi Temple, located at the southern end of Samui, is the epitome of beauty, embodying the old-school Srivijaya-style architecture. The highlight is the Buddha statues and peaceful environment. Many locals call it Laem Sor Pagoda, but the original Laem Sor Pagoda is near Bang Kao Beach. Climb to the top to enjoy a stunning view.

6 km
from city center 36 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Just north of the ring road close to the Ban Hua Thanon lies Wang Saotong waterfall. This serene waterfall is quieter and smaller compared to the others, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon drive and swim away from the buzz of the tourists.

10 km
from city center 37 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

One of the quieter and less-developed stretches, the 3-kilometer-long Bang Po is one of the longest beaches in Koh Samui. It is not crowded and offers peace and tranquility. The water here is shallow with no waves, which makes it popular amongst families.

8 km
from city center 38 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Wat Samret is an ancient temple housing the white marble buddha, which is believed to be several hundred years old. The temple also houses the “Secret Hall of Buddhas” containing small Buddha statues. The hall doors are locked and can only be opened by a monk on request. The temple is off the beaten tourist route.

11 km
from city center 39 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Tucked into the northernmost point of Koh Samui, Thongson Bay is a secluded cove with soft white sands, coral-rigged turquoise waters, high hills with rocky feet and luxurious spa resort villas. A short drive away from Chaweng, the bay offers spectacular settings for island trips, snorkelling and kayaking. There are several restaurants in Thongson Bay serving Thai and western delights.

0 km
from city center 40 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

A quad bike is a perfect way to go off into the jungles and hills of Koh Samui and explore the island at your own pace. Quad Bike tours include stops at the highest point on the island for a breathtaking view of Koh Samui and the water around it. Tours also stop at the Teepangkorn Temple and a hidden waterfall in the jungles of the island.

7 km
from city center 41 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

A beautiful, detailed shrine is built for the statue of Guan Yu, a Chinese general during the Three Kingdom era who is worshipped and looked up to with great amounts of respect. The entrance to this shrine is marked by large, ornate solid timber doors that give you a sneak peak to what? waiting inside. The interiors have been decorated with golden murals, large Chinese embellishments and other decorative objects.

0 km
from city center 42 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

The island of Samui offers stand-up paddleboarding for both beginners and experienced paddlers, and some operators even offer paddleboarding lessons. The Gulf of Thailand’s calm waters make paddling around Koh Samui a safe experience. Some operators allow renting paddle boards so you can paddle at your own convenience, while others offer paddle boarding at sunrise or in the afternoon near sunset.

4 km
from city center 43 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Located in one of the most picturesque points in Samui, a short walk through uneven stone steps past the Mae Nam Viewpoint brings you to the gorgeous Tan Rua Waterfall. Nestled amongst hills, tall trees and vines, it will strike you with its awe-inspiring view, filled with surprises through the journey to this serene spot.

8 km
from city center 44 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Ban Hua Thanon, down south of Hat Lamai, is a beautiful beach which is known for its photogenic scenery. Situated within the Muslim town, it also is home to a green, gold and white mosque. Even though the sand might be not as clean as the other beaches, over all it is definitely a pretty sight!

8 km
from city center 45 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

At the Spaco Coconut Museum, visitors are introduced to coconut farms where unadulterated virgin coconut oil is produced. About 900 coconuts are used on a daily basis to make oils which are then utilised for manufacturing cosmetics and edible ingredients with a natural goodness. The museum tour showcases local coconut varieties and their uses, and has a shop where visitors can purchase products made from these oils.

7 km
from city center 46 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

The Mae Nam Chinese Temple boasts of the finest work of architectural detail, gorgeously painted with traditional Chinese temple colors. Close to the Mae Nam beach, this temple exhibits gorgeous ancient Chinese relics and colourful interiors. There are some old black and white picture you can view here that will give you a glimpse into old Samui.

10 km
from city center 47 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Blessed with coconut trees that line its soft, white sand shores, Choeng Mon Beach is a lesser known beach getaway in Koh Samui. Essentially a series of bays on the northeast tip of Koh Samui, it has a charming, quiet ambience that’s ideal for families and couples. Additionally, it is well-known for its expat population.

7 km
from city center 48 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

When in Baobab, happiness and smiles are sure to accompany you! Known for its friendly culture, Baobab is home to amazing seafood, drinks on ice, and the perfect dosage of chilling, all at once. With its warm, welcoming staff, it's impossible for one to leave Baobab unhappy. Situated in the Lamai Beach, it is an incredible experience which you cannot miss when in Koh Samui!

8 km
from city center 49 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Built in 1984, the Ko Samui Central Mosque is a beauty that cannot be missed at the heart of Bua Thanon. Painted in lovely authentic colors such as green, white and gold - the Central Mosque sings loudly as you walk around the area. With culture engraved within its walls, it? the perfect combination of history and beauty.

9 km
from city center 50 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

One of the few Catholic churches on the island, St Anna Catholic Church in Nathon Bay is the most popular church for expats as it holds regular English mass services. It is also frequented by Catholic couples who want to hold their wedding ceremony in Koh Samui.

6 km
from city center 51 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Located just outside The Wharf Samui, Coco Tams is an incredibly hippie and popular bar. With a very relaxed vibe attached to the bar, Coco Tams is where you can find people aged from 20 to even 80! With beanbags on the beach, swing bar seats, hammocks, cabanas, shisha and much more, Coco Tams invites you to a night of relaxation and a lot of fun!

9 km
from city center 52 out of 55
Things To Do in Koh Samui

Hainan Temple is not only famous for its Chinese traditions and rituals, but also for the enormous and mighty warrior, Guan Yu who served under the warlord Liu Bei in the late Eastern Han dynasty. Portraying majestic qualities, the statue is a major tourist attraction. The entrance to this majestic temple is marked by two regal and grand looking, gold-plated lions on either side. This shrine is sure to leave you with vivid images of the place, making it a must visit of Koh Samui!