Things to do in Koh Samui

Are you looking for a beautiful island to spend your holiday? Well, Koh Samui may just be the right place for your next vacation. It’s the most famous Island in Thailand. The Island is known for being home for magnificent palm tree bordered beaches and waters that are crystal clear. Its comprehensive charm attracts all kinds of visitors from the mega-rich Hollywood celebrities to the budget backpackers. There are so many things to do in Koh Samui. The island is fit for everyone no matter the status. Here are the top things to do in the famous Island of Koh Samui.

 

The Famous Island for Everyone

 

Visit the Famous Gigantic Buddha 

 

The Giant Buddha temple is one of the most famous and fascinating tourist attractions on the Island. The 12 meters high Buddha statue in a sitting position is located just off the corner of Koh Samui. The Thailand locals call the temple Wat Phra Yai. The temple is connected to the landmass through a path. The statue made of gold reveals a moment when Buddha was facing temptations, which he rejected endlessly. Sitting in Mara position, it’s the first thing that catches the eye on the Island based on its prominent location. 

 

Things to do in Koh Samui

 

Enjoy Your Evening at the Beautiful Chaweng Beach

 

Chaweng Beach might just be the perfect reason for you to visit this beautiful Island. A majority of the restaurants and bars have a relaxing sea breeze and view that is perfect for a night out with friends or if you are looking for somewhere to just wind down, after an eventful day. 

 

Enjoy a 4WD Jungle Safari Expedition

 

The magnificent Koh Samui also caters for families who love exploring through a safari drive. You can enjoy the marvelous attractions the Island has to offer through a jeep safari tour with the services of a live guide. The guide will amuse you and tell about every site you plan on visiting. A 7-8 hour jeep drives with lunch around the vicinity of the Island will allow you to explore sights such as Mummified Monk, Buddha’s Magic Garden, and the lush forest surrounding the Secret Buddha Garden.

 

Attend the Oktoberfest; Thai style Event 

 

A vacation isn’t complete without a sweet soothing cultural music. Music isn’t what you would have expected on an island, but at Koh Samui, the cultural import started in the year 2004. The cultural import is entirely all about traditional features such as the Oompa Loompa music, bratwursts, and lots of beer. This breathtaking event is courtesy of the Rotary Club and is one that you shouldn’t miss once in Thailand.

 

Go to the Amazing Namuang Waterfall Scenery

 

The waterfalls are located in the jungle surroundings of the Island. The overwhelming Namuang waterfall is a must visit scenery on the Island. The first waterfall, also known as Na Muang 1 flows into a small-sized swimming pool. The second waterfall Na Muang 2, is situated further uphill and it’s splendid scenery too. The waterfalls are located in a park that is free for everyone to visit. If you are hungry, there are also little food stalls that sell food along the way. Many travelers choose to take a swim while on vacation, and this makes a brilliant chance for a relaxing spot for a swim.

 

Scuba Diving

 

Nothing feels good like warm salty water gliding against your skin. The clear waters of Koh Nang and Koh Tan are the overall best for scuba diving and snorkeling around the area. You’ll experience exotic coral and marine life, get refreshed, and while at it, improve your cardio health. For those who love snorkeling, the Ang Thong national marine park also offers you this and a variety of other aqua-based sporting activities. Being one of Thailand’s mesmerizing parks, you’ll want to take strolls down the secret beaches while enjoying the coral reefs.

 

Things to do in Koh Samui
Scuba diving in Koh Samui

 

Lay Back at Lamai Beach

 

If you are not the outgoing type but still want to feel the warmth of a sandy beach, Lamai beach offers you exactly this. A laid back life could go a long way in getting rid of muscular tension. Lamai beach is quiet and in addition to this, it’s extremely beautiful, with a line of restaurants selling cocktails and a selection of good foods. At night, like most beaches in Koh Samui, they come to life with music and bonfire parties. Afterward, you may opt for a villa holiday in Koh Samui, which come at affordable rates along with personal concierge, not forgetting that a perfect match is guaranteed with Samui Villa Retreat. Most establishments are definitely welcoming and offer superior quality services. This is actually the best place to be at night.

 

While in Koh Samui, Do as the Thais

 

Thai culture is rich in cultural and historical traditions. To get a taste of their lifestyle, you’ll need to backpack and head out deeper into Koh Samui villages. You’ll need to have a guide or alternatively, opt to travel as a team. Here, you will learn a thing or two about the Thai culture, taste exotic food, and perhaps get a taste of freshly made palm wine. If you don’t have the time for this, you may as well enjoy the same in The Thai Experience, a restaurant that will give you an experience like no other. Everyone you meet at the restaurant will be social from the word go. At the communal tables, you’ll get to sample some of Thai’s finest meals and beverages. If you are traveling alone, be sure to make some friends as the restaurant provides you with plenty of opportunities to do so.

 

Visit the Wat Plai Laem Temple

 
Your visit to Thailand won’t be complete without at least visiting a temple. Plai Laem temple is the most beautiful temple in Koh Samui. You’ll have an experience to tell, given the fact that it’s less crowded compared to the big Buddha temple. But hey, no one is limiting the number of temples you can visit while in Koh Samui. From a distance, the temple looks spectacular, with multiple rooflines and a vibrant colorful atmosphere. The main highlights of your tour will include feeding the fish, the giant statues, and covering your legs, shoulders, and arms. As with most holy temples, it’s important for women to dress respectfully.

 

Visit the Fisherman’s Village

 

The fisherman’s village has a tranquil atmosphere. In addition to this, you will want to visit the original Chinese wooden houses that were built back in the 19th century. There are various spots to hang out, including coffee shops, the quiet beach, and the many restaurants along the streets.

 

Things to do in Koh Samui

 

Go Hiking at the Elephant’s Rock

 

Well, don’t be misled by the name, it looks nothing like it. The name might have come from its huge rocks and enormous size. It’s actually the best place to find your zen if you at least want to find some peace out of the busy schedules and activities of daily life. Up top, be sure to experience picturesque scenes of the Gulf of Thailand. The huge rock is located by the road between Chaweng and Lamai beach. After rock climbing, you may also opt to take a swim.

 

Sightseeing on the Amazing Rocks

 

This is where it gets interesting! The rocks, which have been nicknamed grandma and grandpa or Ta and Yai consecutively, have over time taken a shape that resembles male and female genitalia. Of course, like so many things in Thailand, there is a story behind these rock formations. It so goes that two lovers were eloping when their boat capsized and they were turned into rocks. This is the best explanation a tour guide will give you. Nevertheless, it’s a magnificent location that is beautifully rocky so you might as well take some pictures for souvenirs.

 

Things to do in Thailand

 

Hit the Punching Bag at the Chaweng Boxing Stadium

 

If you want to experience a different kind of activity apart from the usual, then you’ll definitely like it here. It’s not your usual style of boxing. The boxers are all out on four limbs against each other. The fun part is that it’s a tournament for all ages and genders. You’ll see kids and women going all out on their opponents. However, you’ll want to carry some cash for the best seats and tickets. For VIP treatment, you’ll need to cough more out of your wallet. This means that you’ll not need to leave your seat for drinks as they’ll be brought to you.

 

There are many things to do in Koh Samui, and it’s hard for you to fit everything in one day. Thailand receives many travelers all year round, especially February, March, April, May, June, September and First days of December. October and November are low seasons due to the rains experienced in Thailand. For a great holiday, a vacation on the Island is all that you need.

 

Author

Nia is an Associate Editor at The Fairytale Traveler and self diagnosed travel junkie. Having traveled to 5 of the 7 continents, her love of good food and culture is a force to be reckoned with. When she isn't off adventuring with her husband, which she writes about on her blog CircaWanderlust, she can be found with a good cup of tea cuddling her pups and taking pictures of her food. She loves black and white movies and could listen to Elvis on repeat.

Write A Comment