Things To Do
in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand famed for its palm-fringed beaches and clear turquoise waters. Its interior is a lush jungle of coconut groves, waterfalls, and viewpoints, offering nature escapes just a short ride from the coast. The island blends laid-back beachfront vibes with cultural sites, boutique dining, and vibrant night markets.
Round out a visit with boat trips to nearby islands and unforgettable sunsets over the Andaman-adjacent Gulf of Thailand.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Koh Samui and check in to your beachfront resort. Take some time to settle in and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. After refreshing, head out for a leisurely stroll along Chaweng Beach.
Grab a bite at a local beachside café and indulge in authentic Thai cuisine. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or participating in water sports such as paddleboarding or jet skiing. Alternatively, take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.
As night falls, visit the bustling Chaweng Night Market. Enjoy dinner while exploring the various stalls offering street food and souvenirs. End the night with a beach bonfire or a stroll along the shore under the stars.
Start your day with a breakfast of fresh tropical fruits before embarking on a guided island tour. Explore the famous Big Buddha statue and marvel at its 12-meter golden figure. Continue to Wat Plai Laem, a stunning temple known for its intricate designs.
After the cultural tour, enjoy a Thai lunch at a nearby restaurant. Visit the Secret Buddha Garden for a peaceful hike surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful statues. Take photos and relish the serenity before heading back to your accommodation.
For dinner, experience a traditional Thai buffet set against the backdrop of a cultural show. Participate in a Muay Thai boxing match if you're feeling adventurous. Wind down at your resort with a relaxing massage by the beach.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch in a mid-range restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30-70 |
| 🛵Scooter rental per day | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and tropical scenery
- Friendly locals and widespread English in tourist areas
- Strong seafood and island cuisine culture
- Varied activities from cultural to outdoor adventures
- Peak-season crowds and higher prices
- Some areas have heavy traffic and limited parking
- Mosquito activity in the evenings and near water features
- "Sawasdee khrap/ka" - Hello
- "Khob khun khrap/ka" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai chai" - No
- "Poot pasa ang-grit dai mai?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Koh Samui
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic golden statue perched on a hill with panoramic sea views and tranquil grounds.
Vibrant temple complex with lakes, colorful statues, and striking architecture for wide-angle shots.
Dramatic coastal rock formations; great for dramatic sunset or sea-spray portraits.
Sweeping panoramas of the Gulf and Chaweng coastline, ideal at sunrise or golden hour.
Long, quiet stretch with palm silhouettes and soft morning light.
Lush greenery and cascading falls that make for refreshing nature photography.
Food in Koh Samui
Koh Samui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chili.
Must-Try!
Creamy coconut soup with chicken, galangal, mushrooms, and lime.
Rich coconut curry with herbs and fresh local seafood.
Spicy shredded green papaya salad with chilies, peanuts, and lime.
Fermented rice noodles served with a choice of spicy curries and fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seafood-focused stalls, Thai staples, and dessert vendors by the water.
A lively mix of street food, local snacks, and small shops ideal for after-dinner bites.
Local produce, ready-to-eat snacks, and inexpensive meals in a friendly village setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes before entering temple buildings, and speak softly in sacred areas.
Use the traditional Thai greeting with a respectful wai; return it with a smile and slight bow.
Show respect toward the Thai royal family and national symbols; avoid negative comments in public.
Safety
Tipping in Koh Samui
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; round up or leave 10–15% in restaurants if service charge is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and porters are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days, clear skies, and calm seas—optimal for beach days and outdoor photography.
Intense heat; stay hydrated, schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Afternoon showers and lush greenery; occasional storms can disrupt outdoor plans but offer dramatic skies and fewer crowds.
Koh Samui at Night
Hiking in Koh Samui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails leading to scenic waterfalls; suitable for a half-day hike with refreshing pools.
Interior forest trails and viewpoints; best explored with a guide for safety and navigation.
Airports
How to reach Koh Samui by plane.
Main gateway to Koh Samui; frequent domestic flights from Bangkok and other Thai cities; taxis and car rentals available at arrival.
Alternative access point; longer transfer to Koh Samui but useful for multi-island trips or cheaper routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many beaches offer calm waters, kids’ clubs, and family-friendly resorts.
Budget guesthouses, lively bars, and affordable street food options.
Romantic beachfront dining and luxury resorts with spa options.
Active expat communities and long-term rental options on quieter shores.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local gyms and stadiums offer training sessions and occasional matches for visitors.
Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular around multiple beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Koh Samui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Thai vegetarian options are widely available; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste and opt for Jay (vegetarian Buddhist) menus when possible.