Things To Do
in Ko Samui
Ko Samui is a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand known for palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters. It blends luxury resorts with laid-back beachfront bungalows and authentic Thai culture. Visitors can snorkel around coral reefs, explore ornate temples, and savor fresh seafood and coconut-rich curries.
With scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and a lively night market scene, Ko Samui offers both relaxation and adventure for all ages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Wat Phra Yai, home to the impressive Big Buddha statue. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you stroll around the temple grounds, taking in the colorful murals and statues. Capture stunning photos of the panoramic views from the top as the sun rises higher in the sky.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to Wat Plai Laem to explore its unique architecture and vibrant sculptures. Spend time admiring the intricate details of the statues, including the 18-arm goddess of mercy, Guanyin. Relax by the tranquil lake and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the temple complex.
As the sun sets, make your way to Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, where you can enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the beach. Choose from a variety of beachfront restaurants for dinner, savoring fresh seafood while listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore. Conclude your day by exploring the night market, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to Chaweng Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island. Spend your morning sunbathing on the soft white sand or participating in exciting water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing. Take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters to cool off from the tropical heat.
After a morning of adventure, grab lunch at a beachside café and enjoy local Thai dishes while taking in the stunning sea views. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach or try your hand at paddleboarding for a unique perspective of the coastline. Alternatively, join a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life just offshore.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the chic beach bars lining Chaweng. Experience the vibrant nightlife with live music and dancing at nearby clubs. Relish a delicious dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in traditional Thai cuisine while the sun sets over the horizon.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L) | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $3-8 |
| 🥥Fresh coconut | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear water
- Good value for luxury and budget options
- Friendly locals and easy travel logistics
- Hot and humid year-round
- Monsoon season brings rain and rough seas
- Tourist crowds in peak season
- "Sawasdee ka" - Hello (female)
- "Sawasdee krab" - Hello (male)
- "Khob khun ka" - Thank you (female)
- "Khob khun krab" - Thank you (male)
- "Thaai dai noi?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Ko Samui
Visit one of these nice places.
A golden statue on a hill with sweeping sea views, ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.
Long sandy beach with vibrant water and a lively beachfront backdrop.
Two tiered falls set in lush jungle; great for lush greenery and rainbow reflections after rain.
Cliff-edge lookout over the bay, perfect for dramatic sunset silhouettes.
Dramatic limestone karsts and emerald lagoons; best captured on early boat trips.
Food in Ko Samui
Ko Samui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A iconic hot-and-sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal; best enjoyed at seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
A mild curry with potatoes, peanuts, and coconut milk, reflecting Malay influence; great with steamed rice.
Green papaya salad with lime, chili, peanuts, and tomatoes; pick a version with dried shrimp for more depth.
Coconut soup with chicken, galangal, and lime leaves; fragrant and comforting.
Southern Thai fish curry; rich and spicy with a kick of local flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant night market with street seafood, grilled skewers, and local snacks.
Stalls offering seafood, souvenirs, and Thai dishes along the beach.
Local produce, sticky rice treats, and fresh fruit stalls near the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes before entering; speak softly.
The wai (palms together) is used to greet; a slight bow of the head shows respect.
Do not touch someone's head; feet should not point at people or sacred objects.
Be respectful in markets and religious sites; avoid loud displays of affection in public.
Safety
Tipping in Ko Samui
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; 10% at nicer places is common; rounding up taxi fares is typical.
Cash (Thai Baht) is widely used; credit/debit cards accepted in many tourist areas; ATMs are common; mobile wallets are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with plenty of sunshine; ideal for beach days and water activities; seek shade during peak sun hours.
Increased rainfall and rougher seas; fewer crowds and lush landscapes; plan for possible rain breaks.
Pleasant temperatures around 24–29°C (75–84°F); excellent for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Ko Samui at Night
Hiking in Ko Samui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate forest hikes leading to scenic waterfalls.
Short hike to a gulf-facing viewpoint with panoramic sea views.
Quiet hillside path leading to a garden with carved statues and tranquil scenery.
Airports
How to reach Ko Samui by plane.
Located near Bo Phut and Chaweng; handles domestic and some regional flights with easy taxi access.
Main mainland gateway; connections by ferry to Koh Samui; broader international options.
Major international hub; most itineraries connect here before a domestic flight to Samui.
Alternative hub for some international routes; longer transfer to Koh Samui.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Thai families and long-term workers in hospitality and services.
Seasonal visitors from Asia, Europe, and Australia; a growing expat community.
A generally welcoming scene with inclusive beach bars and nightlife options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing with local gyms and training camps; popular for fitness and sport tourism.
Snorkeling, scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking around reefs and bays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ko Samui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Thai dishes can be made vegetarian by requesting no fish sauce or shrimp paste; look for tofu-based dishes and markets with fresh produce.