Koh Samui island, lying in the Gulf of Thailand 700 kilometers south from Bangkok, is known for its gorgeous beaches, diving locations and excellent hospitality infrastructure. With variety of things to do in Koh Samui island, this place became very popular among honeymooners, families with kids and those looking for non-stop party at beach bars.
Check this first timers guide on best things to do in Koh Samui island in Thailand, get more insights about must-visit tourist attractions and popular activities.
Explore Koh Samui Temples
There are many beautiful Buddhist temples that are famous Koh Samui attractions. Let’s name a few the most outstanding ones, but you can check our guide about best Koh Samui temples.
Wat Khunaram
This place owes its popularity to a mummified monk, who passed away while meditating. The monk’s body is placed in a glass box. Many visitors come here not to walk around the temple, but to see the mummy.
Make sure to dress appropriately as this is a religious and sacred place for faithful.
Laem Sor Pagoda
Laem Sor Temple on Bang Kao beach is simply beautiful place with many spectacular pagodas. The entrance is guarded by sculpted figures of warriors, behind which you can see a statue of Buddha of impressive size.
Big Buddha temple
Big Buddha temple or Wat Phra Yai temple is a popular place to visit in Koh Samui island, with an opportunity to make some photos for social networks.
12-meter gilded statue of the meditating Buddha is located on the small island that is connected to Koh Samui by narrow road.
Wat Plai Laem
Not far from Big Buddha in the north east of Samui, there is another bright and unusual modern buddhist temple Plai Laem. There are two outstanding statues: a large statue of the Goddess Guanin (Goddess of Mercy and Compassion) with 18 arms and laughing Buddha.
Temple is located on the lake with fish and turtles. For small donation, you’ll get a bag of food to feed the fish.
Join Koh Samui half-day island tour and visit Wat Plai Laem, big golden Buddha at Wat Phra Yai and other landmarks. Click here to make your reservation.
Secret Buddha Garden
Be sure to check out Magic or Secret Buddha Garden. It is located on the top of one of Koh Samui hills and is hidden in the shade of the lush jungle.
Secret Buddha garden was created by one of the local fruit farmers. Variety of trees and flowers local to the island, many Buddha statues and nice views, – this place is Koh Samui must-visit.
Koh Samui Activities for Families
Pink Elephant
In a quiet Maenam bay, in the shade of densely growing palm trees there is a water park Pink Elefant. This place is considered to be a bit pricey compared to other Koh Samui attractions. At the moment the park remains closed due to Covid-19.
Zipline Canopy Adventures
Great place to visit in Koh Samui with an opportunity to fly over the rainforest. It’s maybe not a good idea to visit this park if you have small kids, as there is an age limit for zipline.
There are group tours you can join, with round trip transfers and snacks. Reserve your spot.
Paradise Park
Plan your visit to Paradise Park. There, you can feed birds and animals, swim in the pool and enjoy sunset. It is located on Pom mountain, which is the highest on Koh Samui.
This place can cause conflicting feelings: on the one hand – beautiful views of the nearby islands, on the other – animals and birds on chains.
Koh Samui Elephant Home
Make sure visit to Ethical Elephant Home is included in your list of things to do in Koh Samui island. It’s not the elephants who will entertain you, but you will help the center’s employees to take care of the rescued animals.
Except of brief introduction to the place, you’ll assist with food preparation, elephants spa procedures and other work that needs to be done.
Join day tour and visit Ethical Elephant Home. Click here to make your reservation.
Jungle Safari Day Tour
Army jeep tour is popular Koh Samui activity that will guarantee a day full of fun. Famous Grandfather and Grandmother rocks, resembling male and female genitalia, mummified monk, Secret Buddha garden, Na muang waterfalls are on the list.
If you want to join Jungle Safari Day Tour, click here to make your reservation. Traditional Thai lunch is included.
Quad Bike Experience
There is another way to explore mountain paths and go through the jungle to the waterfalls and viewpoints, located on the top of the hill. In some places, there may be patches of mud and large puddles after tropical rains, so you can easily get dirty. But anyway, this is a great activity to try out. Click here to join the tour.
Beach Exploration
Most of Koh Samui’s coast seems to have been created for advertising: white sandy beaches and palm trees. We’ve created a separate guide, highlighting best Koh Samui beaches that worth visiting as well as some hidden gems.
Koh Samui is pretty small island, so you can rent a car or scooter and exploration of its beautiful beaches from the north to the south should be on your list of things to do in Koh Samui. Chaweng beach probably will be your number one destination point, especially if you’re looking for lively beach holiday.
If you’re looking for a quiet, calm beach atmosphere, make sure to check Lamai beach, Lipa Noi beach or Maenam beach.
Ang Thong National Marine Park Trips
One of the main Koh Samui attractions is Ang Thong Marine Park, which consists of 42 islands. Given the special status of this national park, birds and animals feel great there. The underwater world is also rich and amazing.
You can visit Ang Thong marine park by joining one of boat tours, only licensed tour operators are allowed to organise trips to the park. Prices for day tour on speedboat start from 78 USD/person. For more luxurious experience there are semi private cruise tours, starting from 118 USD/person.
Scuba Diving
Abundance of marine life and coral reefs makes Koh Samui island perfect place for diving. You can enjoy this type of water activity in any time of the year, except of November. Koh Samui dive spots are diverse, both first timers and advanced level divers will be happy.
One of the most popular dive places is Koh Tao, which means “Turtle Island”. The island got its name for a reason, coastal waters are full with huge turtles.
Snorkeling and Kayaking
You can enjoy sea kayaking in Koh Phangan or in Ang Thong marine park, or in other places in Koh Samui. Check out the caves, remote wild beaches, while different marine creatures swim under your kayak. Want to take a closer look at them? Put on your mask and enjoy snorkeling.
Fisherman’s village
Fisherman’s Village is a historical part of Bophut Beach. Every Friday people from other parts of Samui flock here to shop because you can find absolutely everything at night market. Variety of restaurants, shops and several hotels have made this, once simple fishing village, one of the top Koh Samui’s island landmarks with really high prices.
