The most well-known of Thailand’s islands have the best things to do in Koh Samui. The lovely island is known for its picturesque palm-fringed resort beaches and clear waters. The island attracts a wide range of guests, from inexpensive backpackers to remarkable Hollywood superstars, owing to its broad appeal.
There is, without a doubt, a thing for everybody on the beautiful destinations in Thailand. So, you will be hard-pressed to fit it all in when you’re only there for a few days. Moreover, with the best things to do on Koh Samui, here’s a whittled it down to the top 25 things to do:
Visit the World’s Prominent Big Buddha in Koh Samui
The most well-known temple is the Big Buddha. And prominent with all the island’s sights. A 12 m high sculpture of Buddha in a sitting position sits just on the coast of Koh Samui on a tiny island. Wat Phra Yai is the traditional term for the temple, linked to the central peninsula through a causeway.
It’s composed of gold; thus, it is in the Mara position. It represents a point in time when Buddha was refusing all temptations thrown his way. The monument is often the first thing you notice when you arrive in Koh Samui because of its famous location. There are food and jewelry shops at the temple worth checking out whether you’re coming or departing.
Visit Hin Yai and Hin Ta to See the Exciting Sights
You’ll see stuff that surprises and astonishes you all around Thailand, but nothing like this. It is natural fashion boulders to resemble male and female genitalia were found by natives thousand years ago.
The rocks are dubbing Yai (Grandma) and Ta (Grandpa) affectionately. The hills have such a tale that has become a piece of folklore for many years. So you can read it on a symbol when you get pretty close to the formed rocks.
The story continues when an old couple named Yai Riem and Ta Kreng were trying to travel to an adjacent province and saw a man named Ta Monglai. He requested that his daughter marry their son, but their boat caught in a storm, and drowned. As a representation of their goals, the couple then transformed into rocks.
Namuang Waterfall, Take In the Breathtaking Scenery
Na Muang I and Na Muang II, two lovely waterfalls, are set in lush jungle surroundings and are well worth a visit. The very first waterfalls pour into a tiny pool where you can dip, while the other waterfall would be about half an hour uphill and equally beautiful.
The park with the falls is free to enter. Moreover, there are many beautiful sites along the road and tiny snack kiosks and souvenir stuff to buy souvenirs. With so many tourists flocking to the different beaches, it brings a refreshing change and an ideal swimming spot.
A Safari Tour in 4wd Jungle Is a Great Way to See
A Jeep Safari tour allows you to see the best things to do in Koh Samui. Namuang Waterfall, Mummified Monk, and Buddha’s Magic Garden are among the sites you’ll witness. A live tour will keep you entertained while telling you all about the amazing sights you’ll see.
At Chaweng Beach, See the Ladyboys
When you’re close to Chaweng Beach, there are a lot of various ladyboys acts to choose from; they’re all nearby to one another and competing for your cash, so the rivalry is intense, and they’ll try to draw you into the show.
The ladyboys seem to be at different phases of their experience, but it is tough to discern males in most instances. The presentations mainly consist of famous tunes lip-synced while the performers wear stunning costumes and make-up. The presentations are casual, so relax and enjoy yourself.
At the Hidden Buddha Garden, You Can Hide Away
Nim Thongsuk began erecting lovely sculptures through the land he and their ancestors owned in 1976, tucked far in the island’s center and extensively cultivated trees. The region is serene and features a river and a waterfall; nevertheless.
Getting to the area is a struggle due to the steep road leading there; however, you should be alright when you have a four-wheel vehicle. From the garden’s highest point, you may take in panoramic views of the island with all of its majesty and beauty.
Visit the Marine Park of Angthong
On a full-day trip from Samui Island, board an extensive boat tour and proceed to Angthong Marine Park. Along the beautiful coastline, Kayak climbs to the hilltop of Mae Koh for amazing views of the Emerald Lagoon and snorkeling at Wua Talap Island. On the boat, have lunch.
At Wat Plai Laem, It’s Time to Visit the New Temple
If you’ve spent any time in Thailand, you’ve likely seen many ancient temples; this one is relatively modern, but it still employs methods that have been in use for thousands of years. The temple’s main attraction is an 18-armed figure of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion.
Many people visit this live and operating temple every day to pay their respects to both Buddha and Guanyin. A lake surrounds the temple, and if you donate to the temple’s coffers, you will get a pack of fish meals to nourish the lake’s inhabitants.
Embark On a Scuba Diving Adventure
For diving enthusiasts, the Gulf of Thailand is a diving paradise, and you can book trips with trustworthy PADI-qualified trainers who will accompany you on a boat journey to observe the aquatic wildlife for yourself. The most extraordinary diving place is 60 kilometers from the best things to do in Koh Samui.
So you’ll board a large boat with other divers and embark on a two-dive course. Each dive lasts around 40 to 50 minutes and is appropriate for complete beginners. If you’re going diving, ensure the school’s certifications are up to date and that you’re comfortable with all of their safety protocols.
Oktoberfest in Thailand
Perhaps not what you’d expect to see on an island, but best things to do in Koh Samui most recent cultural import began in 2004 and adhered to Teutonic traditions, such as bratwursts, lederhosen, Oompa Loompa music, and liters after liters of beer.
It is a terrific event to attend, produced more by the local Rotary Club. The Oktoberfest proceeds are utilized to purchase much necessary equipment for local public schools and other good organizations.
At Chaweng Beach, Everything Happens
Chaweng Beach is the largest and most significant town on Koh Samui, with the busiest and most beautiful beach. It seems to be where the major nightlife lies, with various restaurants and bars to keep everyone entertained. The coastline in Chaweng is approximately three kilometers long.
And indeed the youths and young at heart frequent there, taking advantage of soft beverages and loud music. There are several lovely beachfront bars with a peaceful view and sea breeze to assist you to wind down an evening if you would like a beer in a quieter circumstance.
Lamai Beach’s Relaxed Lifestyle
Lamai Beach, contrary to Chaweng Beach, is much more peaceful and less crowded. On the other hand, the beach is just as lovely, so if you prefer quiet, here is the location to go. The sea is more profound on this side of the island, making swimming more enjoyable.
Various beachside bars and restaurants provide cocktails and excellent cuisine, just like on other beaches on best things to do in Koh Samui. So you won’t have to walk far if you become hungry or thirsty. If you plan to leave the beach, there seems to be the main road with various restaurants and bars.
Explore the Thai Cuisine
Forget about your usual supper with pals at a restaurant; coming to The Thailand Experience is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s a diner where everybody is friendly from the start. You’ll be welcomed with a drink and introduced to the rest of the party.
After that, everyone is seated at a wide standard table. And other cocktails served are before you begin preparing your own. When it’s time for the meal, much Thai food brought out is for everyone to try. It is an exceptional experience and a terrific chance to make new friends if you’re traveling alone.
Maenam Beach, Backpackers’ Life
Koh Samui is a pricey beach compared to many other areas in Thailand; but, if you want to stay in a less expensive area of the isle and chill out over the beach, this is the place to go. The beach is around 7 kilometers long, and there aren’t as many beach merchants as on other prominent beaches.
The beach includes palm palms at the top and is still unconstructed in many areas, giving it a natural, unstructured atmosphere. The nightlife in these sections is much cheaper and quieter, with many pubs closing early, but the costs are modest, and the people are pleasant.
Taking the Kids to Lipa Noi Beach Is a Great Idea
Lipa Noi Beach Resort is by far the most kid-friendly of Koh Samui’s beaches; the water is crystal clear, free of sharp rocks and coral, and the beach is lined with gorgeous white sand. The water is usually shallow for a long time and does not grow deep until you are over 100 meters out.
The region is relatively remote, and you’ll find upon arrival that it’s more of a spot for relaxing than socializing; nonetheless, there are a few restaurants nearby that serve excellent seafood and are worth visiting for lunch.
The Capital of Koh Samui, Nathon Town
The center of Koh Samui, yet a location you might not see if arriving by plane. It is located near the vehicle ferry port. The town contains a variety of stores and restaurants, as well as most banks.
The Chinese shophouses, which sell a wide variety of commodities, including many golds, are a tourist draw. Because it is a small town, costs are cheap, and if you want to buy souvenirs, here is the cheapest area on the islands to do it.
Visit Fisherman’s Village for a Unique Experience
A beautiful little fishing village named Bophut is located away from the hustle and bustle of Lamai and Chaweng. Although the town is becoming more popular, it is still calm enough to enjoy the peaceful beach or a cup of coffee from one of the neighboring cafés.
When you visit the village, you will notice some original wooden cottages erected by some Local immigrants who settled in the 19th century. The town is well worth visiting, with its pedestrian street lined with restaurants, food stalls, and cafés.
Flying in the Sky
The Sky Fox cable trip will carry you through the beautiful woods at fifty miles per hour, allowing you to see a great of said Koh Samui scenery. A dip at Samui’s biggest waterfall is also another feature of the excursion.
Visit Laem Sor Pagoda, Which Is Located in a Quiet Area
The Laem Sor Pagoda is located in the island’s southwest corner, a calm area away from other tourists and nightlife. The pagoda is defended by two colorful yaks, each of whom wields a sword.
The structure appears to be gold from afar. But it is designed and built of yellow tiles that shine as the sun shines off the waves and onto them. Just down the street from the temple is a tiny hall with a wax molding of the monk who built the pagoda, who is sitting inside the boat and is immensely adored by the villagers.
Elephant Rock Is a Great Place to Go Hiking
Elephant rock does not resemble an elephant, but the magnitude of the rock formation gave it its name; it is located between Lamai and Chawang Beaches. The rock itself would be found in a reasonably calm region.
So if you need a break from the crowds, this is the spot to go. There are several places to go hiking in this area, and if you make it to the top, you’ll be surprised with stunning views over the Gulf of Thailand.
At the Shooting Range, Practice Your Aim
To keep you safe, the best things to do in Koh Samui Shooting Range are wholly licensed and operated by skilled professionals at all times. After a quick training session, you will be offered a selection of guns to fire, including pistols, rifles, revolvers, and several semi-automatic weapons.
The shots you fire are genuine, and you strike at various paper targets. As you begin to shoot, the teacher will give you recommendations to enhance your accuracy. Beginners and skilled shooters alike will enjoy the range.
Climb to the Top of Khao Hua Jook Chedi to See It
Khao Hua Jook Chedi, a lovely temple that views the shore and the valleys below, is situated near Chewang Lake and sits atop a steep landscape.
The temple includes some artistic carvings to admire, as well as numerous golden Buddha sculptures. Because the building is not adjacent to any road, you will need to drive your car only a short distance from the bottom of the slope and trek up to it.
At Wat Jee Kong, You Can Learn About Chinese-Thai Culture
The Chinese immigrants picked Chaweng Beach as their home when they arrived on the island countless years ago, and they erected this lovely temple, which should be on your to-do list.
Around the temple, there are many intricate sculptures and gilded ornaments that stand out now for their beauty. A marketplace nearby offers traditional things and diverse crafts and fabrics after you have taken a massive look around the grounds.
At Wat Khunaram, You Can See the Mummified Monk
A Buddhist, Luong Pordaeng, was a monk who died in 1973 while in a seated meditating position. His remains were decided to be maintained, and he has been on exhibit in a glass container ever since. His body is still in great shape, with no symptoms of degeneration.
Unlike most Westerners, most Buddhists do not fear death since they consider it a small step to enlightenment, and seeing the dead body offers them something to think about. The body is kept inside the Wat Khunaram temple, where locals come to worship and make merit daily; tourists can look around.
Visit and Explore Ang Thong National Marine Park
The National Marine Park, Ang Thong, is an archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand that accessed maybe by taking a boat from Koh Samui. The area spans over 100 square kilometers and is home to mountains, rainforests, and white sand resorts, as well as coves, waterfalls, and lakes to discover during your journey.
The area is protected and is home to a diverse range of exotic animals. During your tour, you can rent a tent and spend the evening on one of the islands. Ang Thong was the setting for the backpackers’ hidden campsite in the novel “The Beach,” however, the scene was filmed on the island of Koh Phi Phi.
Conclusion
Some of the most excellent destinations in the world may be found on Koh Samui and its sibling islands. The selection of Thailand’s Top-Rated destinations has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking white sand and crystal-clear waters or an exciting vacation. Now, you know the best things to do in Koh Samui.