The 10 things to do in Koh Samui

What to do in Koh Samui in Thailand? Follow the guide to know the 10 must-see activities of this very tourist island, but full of charm!

Koh Samui is an island of the Gulf of Siam, located off the east coast of the Thailand , just under the island of Ko Pha Ngan . It is the largest island in the 80 archipelagos of Angthong National Park, and the third largest island in Thailand behind Phuket and Koh Chang.

Would you like to know what to do in Koh Samui? Whether you prefer a sporting holiday, relaxation or nature, you will necessarily find what to fully enjoy your stay! Let us discover together the must-sees of the island.

1. The temple of Wat Plai Laem

Impossible to visit Thailand without admiring its many temples ! On the north east coast of Koh Samui, Wat Plai Laem is a must. This very colourful Buddhist temple is distinguished by the presence of its huge statue of 18 meters: it is the goddess with 18 arms Guanyin Goddess of mercy and compassion. Inside, beautiful frescoes tell the story of Buddha.

2. Hin Ta and Hin Yai

Also called " Grand Father and Grand Mother Rocks "These rock formations are particularly attractive to visitors. Located south of Lamai beach, they have the particularity of resembling... feminine and masculine genitalia! The local legend tells us that the bodies of two old lovers would have failed in the bay after the ship's sinking, creating these sculptures in the rock.

3. Secret Buddha Garden

This is a natural garden that bears its name! It is located on the heights of the island, about 500 meters above sea level. But it must be admitted that it is quite difficult to find, so don’t hesitate to ask for your way to the premises (low down, they call it the “ Magic Garden ". Several divine performances, Buddhas and animals were carved in the stone, all around a small cascade. The place is small, but very relaxing and conducive to relaxation.

4. Fisherman’s village

The market Fisherman’s village is the largest and most popular of the island. It takes place every Monday and Friday nights in the very tourist town of Bophut. You can go for a walk and discover your holiday memories at very attractive prices (think to negotiate with some traders). Several stands offer Thai food for only a few euros, and if you want to eat on site, many restaurants » feet in the sand » along the adjacent beach to the market.

5. The waterfalls Nam Tok Na Muang

Are you rather nature and you wonder what to do in Koh Samui? Go to the discovery Nam Tok Na Muang , a magnificent set of two natural cascades, the highest of the island.

With a height of 30 metres, Nam Tok Na Muang has a pool where you can swim and admire the surrounding landscapes. Two other waterfalls are also nearby: Na Muang 2, the smallest, and Nam Tok Wang Saotong, impressive and accessible by a recently renovated road.

6. The beach Chaweng

beach Chaweng , located on the north-eastern part of the island, offers a good compromise to the holidaymakers: both idyllic for its setting – fine sand, turquoise water and coconut trees – it also likes to the parties in the evening, due to its many restaurants and nightclubs. You can sip a coconut water, choose to a jet ski session or simply sunbathe quietly.

Other beaches to see also in Koh Samui :

• Choeng Mon Beach

• Thong Ta Khian

• Lamai Beach

• Hua Thanon and Bang Kao

• Ban Thong Krut

• Mae Nam Beach

• Bo Phut Beach

• Bang Po Beach

• Laem Set

• Nathon Beach

• Taling Ngam Beach

7. Ban Hua Thanon

Ban Hua Thanon is a small atypical fishing village located south of the island. Known for its beautiful colorful boats but also its fish market and bird singing competitions, this place releases a friendly atmosphere that will delight you with safe shots.

The few seafood restaurants on the coast will give you a taste of Samui's real cuisine at great prices.

8. Wat Phrai Yai / Big Buddha

This Gold statue of Big Buddha modern is located north of the island and not far from the airport. Positioned by the sea, it culminates at about 15 meters from the ground and promises a breathtaking view of the island of Koh Samui!

9. A Thai boxing fight

It’s at Hat Chaweng Boxing Stadium the main fights of Thai boxing, national sport. Every Tuesday and Friday evenings, locals and visitors come to attend these events for the least unmissable, all in an overvolted atmosphere. For a typical experience in Koh Samui, go to the ring so!

10. See also around Koh Samui

Visiting Koh Samui is also enjoying the treasures of the archipelago to which it belongs. Among them, the nearby islands such as Ko Pha Ngan and Koh Tao remain a must to explore during your trip to Thailand if you have the opportunity. On site, you can discover, among other things:

- Ang Thong National Park : the beautiful marine park of Koh Tao - The Full Moon Party : the very famous beach party and full moon - Sail Rock : the diving spot of Koh Tao very popular with diving enthusiasts for a snorkeling session

How to go to Koh Samui?

From France or Thailand, there are several ways to access Koh Samui:

• By plane

This is the fastest way to get to the island. Departure from Paris CDG, the trip will not be direct (stops in Singapore or Bangkok, generally). Frequent flights departing from Bangkok you can also reach the island in less than an hour. To find a flight at the best price and whatever your departure city, think to take a look at our partner's website Ulysses which hosts many offers.

• By boat

You also have the possibility of join Koh Samui by boat From Bangkok or Surat Thani, everything depends on where you land. This alternative to direct flights is quite popular and costs as cheap as the plane if you want to reach Koh Samui from Thailand.

Where to stay in Koh Samui?

Koh Samui being a very touristic island, to you to see if you prefer to stay in the heart of busy neighborhoods or rather close to quieter beaches. The advantage of Thailand is that you can find luxurious hotels for a very good quality / price ratio. Consider it by yourself by doing a trick on this Compare hotels .

And if, on the other hand, you are looking for a more typical ground foot, think of the wide choice of accommodations that the Airbnb . Holiday homes, apartments, villas and even bungalows: there are for all tastes.

Good to know: to choose the best place to stay during your stay, go to our article « In which city house in Ko Samui? “