26 Best Things To Do in Koh Samui [2024]

Wondering what to do in Koh Samui? From sunbathing on its gorgeous beaches to visiting temples and dancing the night away, there are countless activities to enjoy. Check out the best things to do in Koh Samui!

Koh Samui is a tropical paradise on the Gulf of Thailand, and your quintessential tropical escape with its palm-fringed beaches, dense rainforest, luxury resorts and spas, and coconut groves. 

Many would say Koh Samui is the most popular island in the country because it attracts tourists from all walks of life – from budget backpackers to Hollywood celebrities! And it should definitely be on your Thailand Itinerary.

Trust me, I’m a bit of an expert when it comes to Thailand – I’ve lived a total of 10 months in various parts of the country, and visited 6 times!

While it’s a destination in which visitors typically spend a few days, you could stay in Koh Samui for 4 days or several weeks and always find something new to see or do. And spoiler alert: you’ll want to repeat activities over and over again at this island! 

Check out this list of 26 things to do in Koh Samui to plan your itinerary and have the time of your life!

BEST TOURS FOR FIRST TIMERS

Is it your first time in Koh Samui? Then you’ll benefit greatly from one of these comprehensive tours, that will give you a glimpse of the island and all that it has to offer. You’ll be more prepared than ever to enjoy its attractions the rest of your stay! 

I book tours around the world through Viator and Get Your Guide. I especially like both platforms (and recommend them!) for their great cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel your trip up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.

➤ The Top Sights of Samui City Tour takes around 5 hours, and introduces you to some of Koh Samui’s main landmarks. You’ll visit shrines and temples, natural wonders, and fantastic viewpoints, as well as benefit from pick-up and drop-off at your hotel. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Private Sightseeing Tour is entirely customizable, so you can decide which sights you definitely don’t want to miss and include them in your tour, which already covers Koh Samui’s main highlights. A local guide will provide insights into the area’s culture and history. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Sunset Cruise Tour is one of the most romantic ways of exploring the island’s surroundings. You’ll snorkel at a Marine Park, kayak along the coastline, and marvel at the Emerald Lake, besides watching the sunset from your luxurious yacht. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Wild Jungle Safari Tour is an exhilarating experience that introduces you to the adventurous side of Koh Samui. You’ll explore some landmarks aboard a 4WD, visit wonderful viewpoints of the island, and indulge in a traditional Thai lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN KOH SAMUI

Enjoy the Beaches in Koh Samui

One of the best things to do on Koh Samui is, undoubtedly, to spend time on its beaches. After all, if there’s one thing that has made this island famous is its long, powdery-white, palm-fringed slices of paradise. 

Whether you want to go for a leisurely swim, go snorkeling, enjoy some thrilling watersports or just work on your tan, you’ll find the beach for you in Koh Samui. Some of the best beaches in Koh Samui include:

▶️ Chaweng: This beach features a 3-mile-long shoreline of powdery sand, and on either side it’s surrounded by headlands, creating a bay and providing a stunning backdrop for your beach activities. There’s also an offshore reef for snorkeling and vibrant nightlife. 

▶️ Choeng Mon: Choeng Mon is composed of a series of bays and a beach that can be considered a hidden gem. You’ll find that the beach itself is rather small – it’s half a mile long – and it features a rock formation on one side and deep waters on the other, making it ideal for snorkeling and kayaking. 

▶️ Lamai: This resort town boasts the perfect beach for watersports and swimming due to the deep stretch of water near the shore. Large granite formations scattered on the beach add to its charm, and it’s a good option for families as it’s quieter than Chaweng, while still offering restaurants and facilities all around. 

▶️ Maenam Beach: Maenam has thick, yellowish sand, and it isn’t highly developed, making it a great destination for those seeking solace or wanting a quieter beach to spend the day. Its long stretch of sand provides great scenery for beach walks, and it also boasts beautiful sunsets on a daily basis.

Visit Ang Thong National Marine Park 

Right at the top the list of the best things to do at Koh Samui is visiting Ang Thong National Marine Park. In fact, the only reason this activity is not the very first one is that the island’s beaches are just too spectacular. But Ang Thong National Marine Park is Koh Samui’s most astounding natural feature. 

Comprised of 42 islands, the archipelago covers 39 square miles (102 square km) and boasts mind-blowing landscapes, waterfalls, and beaches. In fact, some of the islands at Ang Thong starred in Leo DiCaprio’s The Beach, the movie which put Thailand on the map of tourism. 

Ko Wua Ta Lap is the main island, where the park’s headquarters are located as well as basic facilities, but you’ll want to explore much more than that! Some of the most gorgeous islands to visit in Ang Thong include Ko Phaluai, Ko Phai Luak, Ko Hin Dap, and Ko Mae Ko. 

Kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, hiking, and chilling at the beach are some of the activities you can enjoy at Ang Thong National Marine Park, although to practice most – the ones that require equipment – you’ll have to visit with a tour that provides it. The park has no facilities to rent either kayaks nor snorkel masks.  

99% of people that come here on a day trip from Koh Samui choose a tour. These are the best options: 

➤ This Semi-Private Sunset Cruise Tour will take you sailing around the islands of Ang Thong, and you’ll get the chance to snorkel and kayak, enjoy astounding views from a viewpoint, and indulge in Thai cuisine. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Private Blue Dragon Yacht Experience is a full-day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park. You’ll stop at gorgeous beaches and the famous Emerald Lake, snorkel with an instructor and relax onboard either at the sun deck or hot tub. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Go Temple Hopping: Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem

There are two major temples that are among the most impressive landmarks in Koh Samui, and they are the kind of attraction that you simply cannot skip if you come this way!

First off, you’ll find the Big Buddha Temple on a small rocky island, Koh Faan, northeast of the main island of Koh Samui, connected to it by a causeway. 

The temple is locally known as Wat Phra Yai and its central feature is the 39-foot-tall seated Buddha statue, built in 1972. The famous Big Buddha Statue assumes the Mara posture, which symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and steadfastness. 

Another remarkable temple to visit in Koh Samu is Wat Plai Laem. This is a Buddhist Temple and at its heart, you’ll find the 18-arm image of Guanyin, who is the Buddhist’s Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. This modern temple is one of the best examples of architecture on the island.

Being located quite close to the Big Buddha Temple, you could visit both temples in succession, immersing yourself in the Buddhist religion and traditions of Thailand. 

➤ You could also join the Koh Samui Sightseeing Tour which takes you to some of the island’s highlights, including a visit to the Big Buddha Temple and Wat Plai Laem. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Go on a Boat Tour on the Blue Waters around Koh Samui

The island of Koh Samui is (duh!) surrounded by glorious blue waters all around, and there’s no better way to catch views of the island than from the sea! Taking a boat tour is the best way to do it, besides being one of the most fun Koh Samui activities. 

Most tours will also include other activities, like visiting coral reefs or island hopping, so you’ll get a jam-packed day of adventures when you sign up for one! Check out the best options.  

➤ The Island Hopping Tour is a fantastic boat trip that includes lunch and snorkeling. It takes you around Koh Samui and to the islands of Koh Rap and Koh Taen, where you’ll feed animals, kayak, and relax at the beach. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Snorkeling and Island Hopping Tour is a half-day excursion on a luxury speedboat, which will take you to prime snorkeling spots and pristine, deserted beaches. Snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic ones are included, and available onboard. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ In this Private Sailing experience you’ll hop aboard a Yacht Charter and enjoy 5-star service as you sail around Koh Samui, relax at the beach or the sundeck, snorkel, and even attempt to sail the yacht yourself. Open bar, lunch, and finger food are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Check Out Bophut

Bophut is a thriving fishermen’s village located on the northern coast of Koh Samui, approximately 30 minutes away from Chaweng or other major tourist areas. 

Since the collapse of the original fishing village, along with the pier, its main street has been converted into a touristic hub filled with wooden shophouses, quirky cafes, and restaurants. It has a laid-back vibe that’s usually reminiscent of fishing communities.

At Bophut you’ll also find a bustling Friday market that’s worth checking out. From 5 PM to 11 PM, the narrow and colorful Beach Road and its nearby streets are filled with market stalls and shoppers hunting for the best finds and most delicious snacks.

The village’s pedestrian street, where the sleepy and quiet town comes to life, is one of the can’t-miss attractions in Koh Samui.

Interact (Responsibly!) with Elephants

Elephant interaction is one of the most sought-after activities among tourists who visit Koh Samui. However, the vast majority of elephant ‘‘sanctuaries’’ in Thailand are not ethical, and the animals are mistreated and exploited for the sake of tourism. 

If you really want to interact with elephants, you should make sure to choose an ethical center that truly cares for the wellbeing of the animals – and this will mean that you won’t get to ride them (because that’s bad!) or interact with them in ways that may seem fun for people but are harmful to the elephant. 

Samui Elephant Sanctuary is one of the few ethical elephant sanctuaries in the country; in fact, it has earned the recognition of being the first one in South Thailand, and it’s located in Koh Samui. 

The concept of this sanctuary is inspired by renowned elephant conservationist, Lek Chailert, and it’s committed to developing experiences that enable visitors to learn about these majestic animals through responsible interactions with them. 

Therefore, visitors will have the chance to get close to the elephants, feed them, and observe them in their natural habitat as they go about their daily routines. 

➤ You can join this Half-Day Elephant Observation Tour, in which you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to the center. There you’ll get to watch the elephants play in the mud and bathe themselves, as you indulge in a Thai lunch and learn about the animals. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Chase Waterfalls in Koh Samui

If you are a waterfalls lover, you won’t be disappointed with two of Koh Samui’s best waterfalls: Hin Lad and Na Muang.

Hin Lad Waterfall is in Nathon, Koh Samui’s capital town, and it’s set within a lush tropical mountain, surrounded by coconut flowers and plantations. You’ll have to walk 1.8 miles through the jungle, following the signposts that lead to it, and you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view.

The other waterfall, which is one of the most gorgeous Koh Samui attractions, is Na Muang. It’s a set of two cascading waterfalls that showcase just how stunning the island’s natural beauty is. The first waterfall flows into a natural pool (where you can bathe!) and the second one, which is smaller, is found about a 30-minute walk uphill. 

Na Mueang is a wonderful destination for those looking to escape the heat in Koh Samui, and you can also have a picnic or go hiking nearby! 

➤ The Eco Jungle Safari is a super fun tour around Koh Samui that includes a visit (and swim time!) at Na Muang waterfall. You’ll also explore the jungle, head to the Magic Buddha Garden, and tour a rubber plantation, before enjoying a Thai lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE 

➤ You can otherwise opt for the Wild Jungle Safari, which takes you into the jungle on a 4WD to see some of Koh Samui’s best attractions, including the Grandfather’s Grandmother’s Rocks, the Mummified Monk, Magical Buddha Garden, and Na Muang waterfall. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Take a Day Trip to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan

The tiny islands of Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are highly recommended places to visit in Koh Samui. You can spend a full day here and explore these islands that are famous for their vibrantly colored coral reefs, the rich array of fish species, and awe-inspiring cerulean waters.

Hiking to spectacular viewpoints; swimming, snorkeling and diving; ziplining; and relaxing at the beach are some of the top things to do in Koh Samui’s islands.  

They are located very close to each other, northwest of Koh Samui, and the best way to visit them is by tour; this way, you’ll have a boat taking you around them and providing the activities you can enjoy on-site! 

➤ The Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Snorkel Tour is a full-day excursion that takes you on a speedboat to both islands. There you’ll have time to snorkel in the reefs, hike, and sunbathe on the beach, as well as indulge in a tasty buffet lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE 

Explore Chaweng Town & Beach

Chaweng Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Koh Samui – sought after by tourists for its powdery fine white sand. You saw it first on the list of beaches to visit! 

But Chaweng is also a popular beach town, with more to offer than just the beach! For starters, it features the Aquapark Samui, one of the best activities in Koh Samui for families with kids. The park boasts pools, waterslides, and floaties to ensure a refreshing and very fun day. 

You could also witness a Muay Thai competition, which is often referred to as Thai boxing, and even take a cooking class at the Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts (more on cooking delicious dishes in the next point!)

Night markets are a big part of Thailand’s culture, so visiting the night market in Chaweng should be on your list!

The Chaweng Night Market is on Chaweng Beach Road, where you’ll find mostly food stalls serving authentic Thai food. Best thing to do here? Grab your portion of deliciousness, order a cocktail, and make your way to one of the tables laid out in the middle of the plaza, where you’ll get to people-watch while having dinner.

The place is always crowded with locals and tourists alike, and is one of the best places to go if you want a variety of dining options for a reasonable price. The market opens daily from 5 PM to 11 PM.

Take a Cooking Class in Koh Samui

Thai cuisine is known worldwide for its rich and exquisite flavors. And no matter how many dishes you enjoy during your trip, you won’t get tired of the spices and textures. I mean, who could ever say no to another (and another) serving of Pad Thai?! 

Thailand’s most celebrated dishes come from all over the country, and there’s no better souvenir to take home than the skills and recipes to continue enjoying them even after the trip is over. How? With a cooking class, of course!

Besides providing an excuse to keep eating and learn the secrets of Thai cuisine, it’s also a super fun activity, and one of the best things to do in Samui food-wise. Check out the best options!

➤ This Thai Cooking Class includes a market tour where you’ll shop for produce, spices, and herbs, and learn about them. You’ll then get hands-on in preparing four dishes of your choosing, which you’ll later enjoy followed by dessert. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Thai Cooking Class and Organic Micro Farm offers a farm-to-table experience, in which you’ll get to harvest organic herbs and veggies to cook your meal with. You’ll learn to prepare four traditional dishes and herbal drinks, and enjoy them afterward. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

WHAT TO DO IN KOH SAMUI: 16 OTHER FUN THINGS

Dive into the Waters of Koh Samui

Being surrounded by colorful coral reefs that provide a home to a wide variety of marine life, Koh Samui offers incredible diving spots that certified divers will be delighted to explore. 

The island’s pristine, crystal-clear waters are responsible for astounding visibility, so go prepared to capture your underwater encounters! While you’re pretty much guaranteed to swim alongside turtles and stingrays, you could also find yourself among whale sharks, who frequently visit the island’s surroundings.    

Some of the best spots to dive in Koh Samui are Ang Thong National Marine Park, Shamran Pinnacles, and Sail Rock. 

➤ The 3-Day PADI Open Water Diver Course is ideal for those who had never dived before. You’ll be taught all the basics and train in a swimming pool, getting certified in three days and heading into the Gulf of Thailand for your four open water dives along with an instructor. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤This Diving Tour from Koh Samui is for certified divers only. You’ll travel with a small group to either Koh Tao or Sail Rock and get to discover the underwater wonders alongside your dive master. Lunch and transfers are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The 2-Dive Day Trip is a great tour for both beginners and advanced divers. You’ll spend a whole day in Koh Tao, where you’ll enjoy two dives in different spots. Lunch and transfers from your hotel are included, as well as all the equipment. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Immerse Yourself in Koh Samui’s Nightlife

Nightlife is alive and kicking in Koh Samui! In fact, it’s one of the best destinations to go to in Thailand if you like a good nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars and clubs all over the island. 

The choice for the best nightlife spots in Koh Samui will vary depending on where you stay on the island. Ark Bar in Chaweng is one of the most buzzed-about nightlife destinations due to its beachfront venue. It also serves a wide variety of food and features fire dancers and shows along the beach. 

Another hot spot in Chaweng is On Street Bar. This place is made with recovered décor and changes its decorations on a daily basis. It features live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, and its very popular among both locals and tourists. 

In Bophut, Coco Tam’s is a popular beach bar that’s perfect for those who prefer a tropical, chilled-out vibe. The bar has bean bags scattered along the beach, ideal for relaxing with a drink and watching the sea. 

Other recommended nightlife destinations in Koh Samui are Woobar in Maenam, and Soi Green Mango in Chaweng.

Discover the Rocks of Koh Samui

Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, also known as the Grandfather’s Grandmother’s Rocks, is one of the most intriguing Koh Samui hidden gems. This rock formation is in Lamai Beach, and it’s known to resemble the male and female genitalia. 

Aside from the interesting formations, the rocks also give you a chance to admire the spectacular views from up there, so that alone is worth the trip! 

Near the rocks, you’ll find a white-sand beach with water so pristine that you can literally see the marine life from the surface. Make sure to check it out! While it’s free to visit, you can only do so during daylight hours. 

Visit the Secret Buddha Garden

Although the Secret Buddha Garden is still kind of a hidden gem in Koh Samui, those who have been here can’t help but buzz about this particular attraction, which has been growing in popularity. It truly offers the best sightseeing in Koh Samui!

Secret Buddha Garden is known for its majestic views, and a rich collection of statues within a lush jungle setting. It was the project of a fruit farmer called Khun Nim, who started building these statues in 1976, within the verdant land owned by his family. 

The statues depict deities, animals, and humans assuming different poses. He made it his life’s work to develop this garden until his death at the age of 91, and to this day it’s a glorious landmark on the island. 

You’ll find this secret garden on the top of Tar Nim Waterfall peak, in the Na Mueang district. To get there you’ll have to take the road leading up to the waterfall, which is very good signposted, although the last part of the ascent is more of a dirt track and quite steep, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended.  

➤ Otherwise, you can join a tour. The Wild Jungle Safari takes you into the jungle and to some stunning locations that include the Secret Buddha Garden. Besides, you’ll get to see the Grandfather’s Grandmother’s Rocks, the Namuang waterfall, and the Mummified Monk. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Watch a Ladyboy Cabaret

Watching a ladyboy cabaret show is not everyone’s cup of tea, granted. But when in Koh Samui, it may be worth giving it a chance, if just for the experience. It’s a big deal there!

Most of these shows are bawdy and risqué, so they are strictly for adults only. Ladyboys have been at the front of the entertainment industry and nightlife scene of Thailand for some time now, gaining a reputation and attracting countless visitors. 

A typical ladyboy show involves the performers lip-synching their version of popular songs, while wearing elaborate costumes and makeup matched with skillful choreography that showcases the glitz and glamour.

For those looking for the best ladyboy cabaret shows in Koh Samui, they include Paris Follies Cabaret in Chaweng Beach Road, Starz Cabaret Samui on Chaweng Beach Road, and Cabaret Lamai Beach in Maret. 

Escape the Island Experience

Are you looking for a new way to experience adventure on the island? Then try to escape from there! A word of warning: it may not be as easy as it sounds (and not only because it’s hard to leave its beauty behind!)

The Escape the Island Experience is based on the escape room concept, which takes you through a series of logic tests and riddles in order to get clues that will help you move forward.

As part of the experience, you’ll take on watersport and trekking challenges, so it combines physical and mental tests that make the quest all the more exciting. If you like adventure, puzzle-solving, and the opportunity to see natural landscapes, this is a must-try experience!

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a full morning packed with activities and fun. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Climb to the Top of Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock is a massive rock formation, one of the island’s most stunning attractions in terms of natural beauty!

Its name doesn’t derive from its elephant shape, though – in fact, it looks nothing like one. It was named because of its huge size, which locals associate with this animal. The formation consists of rocky terrain which can be conquered with a moderately challenging hike.  

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best vantage points over the Gulf of Thailand, and insanely gorgeous views. It’s one of the unmissable Koh Samui things to do if you’re fit and up to the challenge!

Elephant Rock is located along Highway Ring Road, in between Chaweng and Lamai Beach.

Go Ziplining in Koh Samui

Adrenaline seekers won’t be disappointed at Koh Samui, as it offers quite a few thrilling activities to experience that range from watersports to jungle adventures, including ziplining above its lush vegetation.

This is probably the best way to enjoy aerial views of the island because it involves soaring through the air while you’re at it. 

➤ The Lamai Viewpoint Ziplining Experience includes a security briefing and all the equipment, so you can fly above the island worry-free and enjoy the astounding views. You’ll also get photo opportunities and visit the Funny Fish Spa. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Zipline Adventure is a half-day activity in which you’ll get to try 15 different ziplines with unlimited rides. It includes private transfers from your hotel and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Enjoy Some Watersports

If ziplining didn’t suffice the adrenaline kick you were after, get in the water and enjoy the vast variety of watersports that Koh Samui offers. 

Among the most practiced ones are scuba diving and snorkeling, thanks to the richness of marine life and coral reefs that the island boasts. 

But you could also enjoy parasailing, which gives you a bird’s eye view of the surrounding islands and it’s sure to get your blood pumping. There are many beaches which are great for surfing, too! 

One of the most popular watersports at the moment, though, is stand-up paddleboarding. It requires some balance (nothing that a little practice and some techniques can’t achieve!), and it will enable you to glide on the Gulf of Thailand, taking occasional dips and marveling at the colors of the sunset. ➥ BOOK THE EXPERIENCE HERE

Watch a Muay Thai Show

Muay Thai is a form of mixed martial arts, often referred to simply as Thai boxing, that is really popular in Thailand.

Going to a Muay Thai Show is a truly unique thing you can do in Koh Samui, which is actually the best place to enjoy it, as talented Muay Thai artists from all over the country display their skills on the island. 

The Muay Thai shows are held at Chaweng Stadium, and you may even catch international fighters. Besides the spectacle, the ambiance at these live events is amazing and very vibrant, adding to the experience. You can check the official website to find the fight schedule and get your tickets.

Get a Massage

Thai massages are famous for a reason, and since you’re at one of its paradisiac islands enjoying life, you might as well include a session of relaxation and pampering to upgrade your vacation!

There are many massage parlors and spas in Koh Samui, perfect for taking a break from all the adrenaline-inducing sports, and resetting your body so you can continue to enjoy them. The areas of Chaweng, Lamai Beach, and Bophut are where you’ll find the most amount of spas!

So many options you can’t decide? Save this blog post so you can revisit the following list.

▶️ Baan Thai Spa is located in the InterContinental Koh Samui resort and features a room specifically designed for Thai massages, as well as a steam room and hot tub. The couple’s suite is a great choice for a romantic experience.

▶️ Quan Spa combines physical relaxation through its massages, body wraps, and facials, with complete mental unwinding. Located right by the beach, you’ll be lullabied by the sounds of the waves while you enjoy your wellness treatments.

▶️ Tamarind Springs is a forest spa that will help you reconnect with nature, indulging in a relaxing massage that takes place outdoors. All its facilities have been built to make the most of the natural and gorgeous surroundings, and it’s a one-of-a-kind center you won’t want to miss.

Check Out the Chinese Shophouses in Nathon Town

Nathon Town serves as the business and administrative center in Koh Samui. This is not only where people go for postal and banking services, but also where the island’s main port is located, and where you’ll take the ferries to visit nearby islands. 

Aside from the business services, the wooden Chinese shophouses are the main attraction in Nathon Town. These traditional shophouses line the middle road offering a wide range of goods, such as herbs, spices, amulets, and jewelry.

It’s a very vibrant and interesting place to visit, and from where you could leave having acquired both spices to cook dinner and a piece of gold as a memento!

See the Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram

You already went temple hopping (at least mentally while reading this guide!) but there’s just one more temple you need to visit in Koh Samui, and one that deserves its very own section. 

Because it’s not the temple itself you’ll be visiting, but its resident: a mummified monk. In 1973, monk Luong Pordaeng died in a seated meditation position. His body was then mummified and kept in an upright glass case that’s displayed at Wat Khunaram. 

Even after more than five decades, the mummified body shows little signs of decay and while it may impress some visitors, it’s considered a sacred element of Buddhist religion and culture in the area. And it’s worth paying him a visit!

Join a VIP Pool Party at Nikki Beach Koh Samui

Nikki Beach is a premier and high-end beach club located in Lipa Noi, best known for its VIP pool parties. These are held at the luxurious pool that’s surrounded by elegant cabanas and sun loungers, and create a very fun atmosphere that’s enjoyed by 250 people every time.  

Aside from hosting a very lively and entertaining party, they have a very impressive food and cocktail menu, exclusive service, and fantastic music. Its capacity gets filled up pretty fast, though, so make sure to save your spot ahead of time if you’re interested!

Enjoy Sunset with a Drink at Rock Bar

Rock Bar is one of the best places to chill out and sip cocktails at Koh Samui. Located at Lamai Beach, it’s a spectacular spot to catch the sun setting behind the horizon and coloring the sky and water. 

Add a cold drink and reggae music to that, and you’ve got yourself the perfect way to end a jam-packed day of adventures and fun. Sit back, unwind, and remind yourself that you’re on holiday on a gorgeous beach in Thailand. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Have a Meal with a View at Jungle Club

After your sunset cocktail, you’ll probably be ready for dinner. To indulge in delicious cuisine while you also get excellent views, head to Jungle Club, a restaurant that overlooks the Gulf of Thailand.  

Founded by a French-Thai family who fell in love with and settled in Chaweng, it features authentic Thai cuisine as well as Mediterranean dishes, among which French and Italian delicacies stand out.

There’s an open wooden deck where you can enjoy your dinner without having to tear your eyes from the views, and that’s definitely where you’ll want to have your meal…every single day.

WHERE TO STAY IN KOH SAMUI

ULTRA LUXURY RESORT: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui – This astounding hotel boasts a glorious infinity pool, a full-service spa with countless wellness packages, a fitness center, and on-site restaurants. It also offers plenty of activities and entertainment, has a beach bar, and is pet-friendly.

LUXURY HOTEL: Santiburi Koh Samui – This 5-star hotel is right by the beach and features beautifully decorated villas and suites, a spa with a hot tub, a poolside bar. It also offers all-day entertainment, from watersports and a golf course to evening drinks at the lounge.

MID-RANGE HOTEL: The Rock Samui – The Rock Samui features a private beach area with sun loungers, a pool, and a terrace. It also has a shared kitchen for its guests, although some rooms include a private kitchen with all the necessary appliances, and there’s a la carte breakfast available every day. 

ON A BUDGET: Long N Joy Samui – This 3-star accommodation offers private rooms with a fully-equipped bathroom, a seating area, balcony, and kitchenette. It also features an outdoor swimming pool with loungers, and has free parking as well as daily housekeeping available. 

BEST MONTH TO VISIT KOH SAMUI

The best time to visit Koh Samui is from late December to April in terms of weather, as it rains very little and you can expect sunshine most days. 

If you’re planning on doing watersports or enjoying the beach, October to December should be avoided, as they comprise Koh Samui’s rainy season. 

If the main purpose of your trip is to scuba dive or snorkel, the best time to go is from March to May, since this is the time when the water is the clearest.

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND IN KOH SAMUI

Around four days should be enough to enjoy and visit most of Koh Samui’s attractions. If you wanted to include a few chill days at the beach, or explore at a slower pace, one week should do it. 

IS KOH SAMUI DANGEROUS?

Koh Samui is generally a safe destination for tourists but, as in any other touristic place, there are still potential dangers and scams that lurk around, most of which are aimed at tourists.

Make sure to put in place your common knowledge and basic security measures, like never leaving your stuff out of sight, or wandering alone at night in dark areas. 

It’s also a good idea to be extra wary of people trying to sell you activities and tours on the street, as they might be a scam. It’s always best to book your activities via a travel agent or online through trusted tour companies.  

If you’ll be driving in Koh Samui, be aware that most roads are not in the best condition. Also worth noting, locals’ driving habits tend to be quite bad, so be very cautious when on the road.

Things to do in Koh Samui FAQ