Koh Samui is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some unique things you should make time for during your vacation in Koh Samui.
About Koh Samui
Koh Samui is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, located about 700 kilometres south of Bangkok. This is the second-largest island in Thailand and is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and charming villages. The island has a rich cultural heritage and is home to a vibrant local community. You can get here by air; there are several daily flights from Bangkok and other major cities in the region.
Visit Big Buddha Temple
Big Buddha Temple, located just 15 minutes from Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Koh Samui. Located on a small island off the coast of the island’s north-eastern corner, the temple is home to a 12-metre-tall statue of the Buddha. Easy to access for those staying at a beachside hotel in Samui, this site is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who come here to pay their respects to the Buddha and to immerse in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
Spend Time at Chaweng Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Koh Samui, Chaweng Beach, is located on the island’s east coast. It is known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, which makes it a great place to spend an entire day. If you love water sports, you can enjoy a variety of water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkelling.
Visit Wat Plai Laem
Another Buddhist temple located on the northeastern coast of Koh Samui, Wat Plai Laem, is popular for its striking architecture, which blends traditional Thai and Chinese styles. The temple is home to several statues of the Buddha, as well as a large statue of Guanyin, the Chinese goddess of mercy. While you are here, don’t forget to feed the fish in the temple’s pond; you’ll find several species of colourful fish.
Explore Fisherman’s Village in Bophut
This is a charming fishing village located on the northern coast of Koh Samui. The village is home to quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a number of traditional wooden houses.
You can stroll through the narrow streets and enjoy the laidback atmosphere, or you can visit the village’s night market that takes place every Friday.
Relax at Lamai Beach
Another popular beach in Koh Samui, Lamai Beach, is located on the island’s east coast. The beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning scenery. The beach is lined with coconut trees and is a great place to chill and soak up the sun. You can also enjoy a variety of water sports, like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Visit Na Muang Waterfall
Surrounded by lush rainforest, Na Muang Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located in the centre of Koh Samui. You can hike to the waterfall, which will take about 30 minutes, or you can hire a guide to take you there.
There’s a pool at the base where you can swim, or you can keep out of the water and admire the stunning scenery.
Chill at Silver Beach
One of the many beautiful beaches located on the northeastern coast of Koh Samui, Silver Beach is known for its clear water and soft white sand. You can relax on the beach and soak up the sun, or if you are feeling adventurous, you can go on a snorkeling excursion to explore the underwater world – there are several vendors on the beach who offer snorkeling gear for rent.
Take Photos with Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks
Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks, also known as Hin Ta and Hin Yai, are two natural rock formations found on the southern coast of Koh Samui. The rocks are said to resemble male and female genitalia, and they are a popular attraction for tourists. You can take photos with the rocks like many do and explore the surrounding area; you’ll find several shops and restaurants in the area as well.
Hike to the Top of Overlap Stone
This is a natural rock formation located on the southwestern coast of Koh Samui. The rock is said to have been formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, and it is an impressive sight to behold.
Make sure to hike to the top of the rock and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Enjoy Some Peach and Quiet Maenam Beach
A quiet beach located on the northern coast of Koh Samui, Maenam Beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful scenery. You can relax on the beach and enjoy the peace and quiet, or you can also explore the nearby village, where you’ll find several shops and restaurants.
Visit Magic Buddha Garden
The Magic Buddha Garden, also known as the Secret Buddha Garden, is a hidden gem found in the hills of Koh Samui. The garden is home to several statues of the Buddha and other mythical creatures, as well as beautiful waterfalls and lush vegetation.
You can hike to the garden yourself or hire a guide to take you there. Once here, you can explore many pathways of the garden and admire the stunning scenery the garden is known for.
Mummified Monk
Also known as Loung Pordaeng, the Mummified Monk is a famous attraction located in the temple of Wat Khunaram. The monk’s body has been preserved in a glass case and is on display for those with a morbid curiosity.
The monk is said to have died in a seated meditation position over 40 years ago, and his body has remained remarkably well-preserved.