Koh Samui is an idyllic island destination in Thailand that offers travelers stunning natural scenery, gorgeous beaches, and a wealth of instagrammable spots. From charming temples to colorful coral reefs, there’s no shortage of photo-worthy locations to explore on the island. Check this post, where we’ll share some great Instagram spots in Koh Samui so you can start planning your next photo session on the island.
1. Wat Plai Laem
Nestled on the northern coast of the island, Wat Plai Laem is a beautiful Buddhist temple complex that features a 18-meter tall statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Adjacent to the Guanyin statue stands another prominent figure in Thai mythology, the Laughing Buddha, symbolizing happiness, abundance, and good fortune.
Visitors can witness devotees engaged in prayer and meditation, offering a glimpse into the spiritual practices that have endured for centuries. The temple grounds are also home to a stunning lake filled with lotus flowers, making it one of the most Instagrammable places on Koh Samui island.
To visit Wat Plai Laem along with many other tourist attractions, join this half-day tour with hotel pickup, click here to reserve your spot.
2. Big Buddha Temple
Located in the northeastern part of the island, Big Buddha Temple or Wat Phra Yai is one of the most popular tourist attractions and a great photo spot in Koh Samui. The temple grounds boast a 12-meter tall statue of Buddha as well as sweeping ocean views.
Photographers are drawn to the Big Buddha Temple not only for its awe-inspiring centerpiece but also for its picturesque setting. The temple is situated on a small rocky island connected to the mainland by a causeway, offering panoramic views of the turquoise waters of Bang Rak Bay.
Surrounding the Big Buddha statue are various ornate structures, including shrines, pavilions, and colorful prayer flags, each contributing to the temple’s enchanting atmosphere. Intricately carved dragons, guardian statues, and mythological creatures adorn the temple grounds, providing endless opportunities for creative photography.
3. Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
These two unique rock formations, often referred to as the Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks in the southern part of Koh Samui are said to resemble male and female genitalia. These rocks are a popular spot for photographers and one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.
Perched atop rocky cliffs, they provide a picturesque backdrop for sunset photography. Visitors to Hin Ta and Hin Yai can also explore the nearby viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of Lamai Bay. The viewpoint is accessible via a short hike through lush tropical vegetation, rewarding adventurers with stunning photo opportunities and a sense of tranquility amidst nature’s splendor.
4. Ang Thong Marine National Park
Located just off the coast of Koh Samui, Ang Thong Marine National Park is an archipelago of 42 islands that offer stunning scenery and a wealth of marine life. One of the most popular activities for visitors to marine park is island hopping. Each island within the park offers its own unique attractions, from secluded beaches and hidden lagoons to towering limestone cliffs and lush tropical forests.
Ang Thong Marine Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, lizards, and exotic bird species. Hiking trails crisscross the islands, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s dense rainforests and discover hidden waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints and perfect photo spots along the way.
5. Na Muang Waterfalls
Located in the southern part of Koh Samui, Na Muang Waterfalls is a two-tiered waterfall that cascades into a pool of crystal-clear water. Named after the massive purple rocks found nearby (Na Muang means “purple” in Thai), these cascading waterfalls offer visitors a refreshing retreat from the island’s warm climate.
They are divided into two main sections: Na Muang 1 and Na Muang 2, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. Upon reaching Na Muang 1, visitors are greeted by the sight of a spectacular 18-meter cascade plunging into a natural pool below. The pool is perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day, and many visitors enjoy taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
The surrounding rocks and foliage add to the scenic beauty of the waterfall, making it a popular photo spot in Koh Samui. To get to Na Muang 2 it will take 20 minutes to hike, but if you’re looking for a peaceful place to visit it, make sure to include in your bucket list.
6. Lamai Beach
Lamai Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Samui and is known for its soft sand, clear water, and dramatic limestone cliffs. The beach is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to relax.
If you’re looking for one of the best Instagram spots in Koh Samui, make sure to visit this beach. It is an ideal location for capturing breathtaking sunrise and sunset shots. It is also lined with swaying palm trees and lush coconut groves, offering plenty of opportunities for tropical-themed photography. You can also capture action shots while enjoying water activities against the backdrop of the sparkling sea.
7. Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach is Koh Samui’s busiest beach and is known for its lively atmosphere and nightlife scene. The beach is lined with hotels, restaurants, and clubs, and visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. As one of the longest and most developed beaches on the island, Chaweng offers ample opportunities for photographers to capture its beauty from various perspectives.
There are many notable photo spots along Chaweng Beach, for example beachfront promenade. It is also an ideal location for photographing both sunrise and sunset. Head to the eastern end of the beach in the early morning or visit the western end in the evening hours.
8. Bophut Beach
Located in the northern part of Koh Samui, Bophut Beach is a secluded beach that is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. The beach is also home to a number of luxury resorts, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
At the heart of Bophut Beach lies Fisherman’s Village, a quaint and picturesque area lined with rustic wooden buildings, charming boutiques, and seafood restaurants. Traditional Thai longtail boats can often be seen anchored along Bophut Beach, adding a touch of rustic charm to the seascape and creating a perfect background for creating Koh Samui beaches pictures.
Join Koh Samui 4WD Jungle Safari Tour
9. Lipa Noi Beach
Lipa Noi Beach is a small, secluded beach located in the western part of Koh Samui. The beach is known for its dramatic sunsets and is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful evening.
10. Ko Tao Island
Ko Tao Island, also known as Turtle Island, is a small island located off the coast of Koh Samui. It is known for its world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island is also home to a number of beautiful beaches and is a popular spot for rock climbing and hiking.
Koh Tao offers photographers a wealth of stunning landscapes and underwater wonders to capture. Make sure to check Sairee beach, John-Suwan and Mango viewpoints and Tanote Bay with their abundance of photo spots.
If you would like to join snorkeling tour in Ko Tao, click here to make your reservation.
11. Nang Yuan Island
Nang Yuan Island is a small island located between Koh Samui and Koh Tao that is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views. The island is home to a number of luxury resorts and is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The shallow waters around the island are perfect for snorkeling, allowing visitors to encounter colorful fish, reef sharks, and other marine creatures.
Join Koh Tao and Nangyuan Snorkeling Day Tour
12. Mummified Monk
The mummified monk is located in the Wat Khunaram temple in the southern part of Koh Samui. The monk, who was named Luang Pu Nen Kham, passed away in 1973 and was mummified through a natural process of dehydration. His body is on display in a glass case.
While photography is allowed within the temple, visitors are asked to observe proper etiquette and respect the sanctity of the site. It’s important to approach the experience with reverence and mindfulness, understanding the cultural and religious significance of the mummified monk to the local community.
13. Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo
Located in the northern part of the island, Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo is a popular spot for families to visit. The aquarium features a variety of marine life including sharks, stingrays, turtles, and the zoo is a home to a number of tigers, lions, and leopards.
14. Secret Buddha Garden
The Secret Buddha Garden, also known as the Magic Garden or the Heaven’s Garden, is a hidden gem nestled in the lush interior of Koh Samui. Due to the great number of statues and sculptures set among lush, tropical foliage you can find endless photo opportunities for capturing the beauty and tranquility of the place.
The Secret Buddha Garden is the creation of a local fruit farmer, Nim Thongsuk, who spent over two decades sculpting statues and structures inspired by Buddhist and Hindu mythology. The garden is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and spiritual devotion, with each sculpture meticulously crafted from concrete, stone, and terracotta.
