Things To Do
in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a stunning island located in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its white sandy beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. Popular tourist spots include Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and the iconic Big Buddha statue, which draws visitors with its impressive size and cultural significance. The island offers a diverse range of activities, from water sports and diving to wellness retreats and delicious Thai cuisine.
With its combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and modern amenities, Koh Samui is a sought-after destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure alike.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Chaweng Beach. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the sand or indulging in water sports. Grab lunch at a nearby beach shack for some local flavors.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner with fresh seafood. Take a stroll along the shore to unwind.
Embark on a hike to Na Muang Waterfalls for stunning views and a refreshing dip. Pack a picnic for a relaxing break in nature.
After lunch, visit the Secret Buddha Garden to explore beautiful sculptures and lush surroundings. Take your time to appreciate the tranquility.
Dine at a local restaurant in Nathon and sample traditional Thai dishes. Enjoy a quiet evening watching the boats come into the harbor.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sand
- Vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars and clubs
- Rich cultural experiences, including Buddhist temples and local markets
- Diverse outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking
- Pleasant tropical climate year-round
- Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood
- Range of accommodation options from luxury resorts to budget hostels
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Higher prices for accommodation and dining compared to other Thai locations
- Limited public transportation options
- Some areas may experience pollution and waste management issues
- Risk of natural disasters like tropical storms
- Traffic congestion in popular areas
- Cultural differences might take some adjustment for foreign visitors
Best Activities in Koh Samui
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui, including Chaweng, Lamai, and Bophut, for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside dining.
Join a snorkeling or diving tour to discover the vibrant underwater life around Koh Tao and the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park.
Trek through the natural landscapes to visit stunning waterfalls like Na Muang, where you can swim and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Take a boat tour around the island or to nearby islands to experience stunning views, local wildlife, and unique rock formations.
Experience the thrill of riding an ATV through the jungles and off-road trails of Koh Samui, enjoying the lush environment.
Participate in outdoor yoga sessions amidst serene natural settings, fostering relaxation and mindfulness.
Join a fishing charter to catch local fish and enjoy a day out on the water, perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Engage in outdoor Muay Thai training sessions at local gyms or camps to learn the traditional Thai martial art while enjoying the tropical atmosphere.
Experience an adrenaline rush while zip-lining through the lush rainforests and getting a bird's eye view of the island's beauty.
Rent a kayak or join a tour to paddle around the coastline, exploring hidden beaches and coves at your own pace.
Tours
Uncover the best of Koh Samui with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Koh Samui
Visit one of these nice places.
A giant golden Buddha statue standing at 12 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters. It’s a popular spot for photography, especially during sunset.
A scenic viewpoint located on the coastal road with stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. It’s an ideal location for photography enthusiasts looking for landscape shots.
Two beautiful waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for taking refreshing photos. The second waterfall features a natural swimming pool, which adds to the charm.
A hidden gem located in the hills of Koh Samui, showcasing a collection of statues and lush gardens. The elevated location provides a unique backdrop for photographs.
A tranquil beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. This location is excellent for capturing picturesque beach shots and sunset views.
A charming area known for its colorful houses and vibrant local culture. The weekly night market offers fantastic opportunities for street photography.
A viewpoint overlooking the lesser-known Silver Beach, ideal for both photography and enjoying breathtaking seascapes.
Known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery, this beach is perfect for capturing serene shots of sunrises and sunsets.
Famous for the mummified monk displayed inside, this temple offers a culturally rich backdrop for photography along with serene temple views.
Explore the various night markets around the island, filled with vibrant colors, local crafts, and street food stalls, perfect for candid shots and vibrant street photography.
Food in Koh Samui
Koh Samui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant and spicy shrimp soup made with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili, offering a perfect balance of sour and spicy.
Must-Try!
A rich curry influenced by Indian flavors, usually made with beef, potatoes, peanuts, and coconut milk, it's mild yet incredibly flavorful.
A refreshing salad made with green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, chili, and lime, balancing sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
Whole fish grilled with salt and served with a tangy dipping sauce, simple yet bursting with flavor.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Koh Samui better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Friday, this market offers a variety of local street food, handicrafts, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect to sample different dishes such as grilled skewers, fresh seafood, and desserts.
Located in Bophut, this beach bar serves a range of street food-style dishes alongside stunning views and sunset vibes, perfect for casual dining.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples in Koh Samui, it is important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering temple grounds, and inappropriate attire can be seen as disrespectful.
Be aware of and respect local customs and traditions. For example, showing respect for the Thai Royal Family is vital, and negative comments about them can be seen as very offensive. Learn and practice simple greetings in Thai, like 'Sawasdee,' to show appreciation for the culture.
In Thai culture, public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. To be respectful, refrain from hugging, kissing, or other overt displays of affection in public spaces, especially in religious or conservative areas.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Koh Samui with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Koh Samui
Ensure a smooth experience
In Koh Samui, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a small tip in restaurants, typically rounding up the bill or leaving 10% if service is not included. In bars and cafes, leaving small change is also customary. For hotel staff, a tip for good service is appreciated, usually 20-100 THB depending on the service provided. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up to the nearest 10 or 20 THB is a nice gesture.
Cash is widely accepted in Koh Samui, with Thai Baht being the local currency. Credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, although some smaller establishments may only accept cash. ATMs are available throughout the island, and it's advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Koh Samui.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Koh Samui, with pleasantly warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. Ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.
Characterized by high temperatures and humidity. While it can be hot, this period also sees limited rainfall, making it suitable for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
This season features heavy rainfall and occasional storms. While the island is less crowded and offers lower prices, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Koh Samui at Night
Hiking in Koh Samui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful archipelago of 42 islands offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails, particularly to the viewpoint on Koh Wua Talap.
A variety of hiking trails throughout the jungle, often leading to hidden waterfalls and viewpoints that showcase the island's natural beauty.
Located within the lush jungle, these waterfalls have hiking paths that lead up to the falls and offer opportunities for swimming and exploring.
A short hike that leads to a panoramic view of Lamai Beach and surrounding areas, easily accessible for a quick outing.
While primarily a cultural site, the area around the temple includes a few small trails that offer insight into the local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Koh Samui through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Koh Samui by plane.
The main international airport serving Bangkok, located approximately 750 kilometers from Koh Samui. It is one of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia.
Another major airport in Bangkok, located around 700 kilometers from Koh Samui. It primarily serves low-cost carriers and regional flights.
Located approximately 450 kilometers from Koh Samui, this is the main airport serving the island of Phuket and offers numerous international flights.
Situated about 500 kilometers from Koh Samui, this airport provides access to Krabi and surrounding areas, with several international connections.
Located more than 1,000 kilometers from Koh Samui in Malaysia, it is a major international gateway in Southeast Asia with extensive flight connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Koh Samui are Thai citizens, primarily of Thai ethnic origin, involved in various sectors including tourism, agriculture, and retail.
A significant number of expatriates from countries such as the UK, Australia, and Western Europe reside in Koh Samui, often drawn by the lifestyle and job opportunities in the tourism sector.
Koh Samui is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year from around the world, including Asia, Europe, and North America.
An increasing number of Chinese visitors and residents have settled in Koh Samui, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity.
There is a smaller population of migrants from neighboring Southeast Asian countries, contributing to the diverse demographic fabric of the island.
The Soul of Koh Samui
Discover the essence of Koh Samui through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and sport in Thailand, Muay Thai is popular among both locals and tourists, with many gyms offering training sessions and fight events.
Played on the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui, beach volleyball is a popular social sport among visitors, often enjoyed in friendly matches or organized tournaments.
The waters around Koh Samui offer excellent scuba diving opportunities, and many dive shops provide guided trips to explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
Similar to diving, snorkeling is a popular activity in Koh Samui, with many accessible spots for both beginners and experienced snorkelers to enjoy.
Kayaking around the island and nearby areas, such as Ang Thong National Marine Park, is a favored sport for tourists looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.
While not a sport in the traditional sense, yoga is incredibly popular on the island, with numerous retreats offering classes that combine fitness, wellness, and relaxation.
Koh Samui features several golf courses that attract golf enthusiasts, offering beautiful views and well-maintained greens.
During certain seasons, the waves around Koh Samui attract surfers, especially at spots like Chaweng Beach and Lipa Noi.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Koh Samui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Koh Samui offer vegetarian dishes. Look for places that specialize in Thai cuisine as they often have plant-based options including stir-fried vegetables and curries without meat.
Veganism is becoming more popular, and several cafes and restaurants provide vegan-friendly menus. Look for local juice bars and health-conscious eateries such as 'The Coconut Room'.
While traditional Thai dishes are often gluten-free, it's advisable to check on sauces and marinades. Many restaurants accommodate gluten-free requests; eateries like 'Little Kitchen' in Bophut are known for their gluten-free offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Koh Samui with these cultural adventures.
