Things To Do
in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a beautiful island located in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant nightlife. The island boasts a mix of luxury resorts and affordable accommodations, making it a popular destination for all types of travelers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from relaxing on the beach to exploring local markets and enjoying water sports.
With its rich culture and friendly locals, Koh Samui offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Chaweng Beach, enjoying the morning sun and swimming in the clear waters.
Head to Lamai Beach for lunch at a beachfront restaurant and spend the afternoon sunbathing or trying out water sports like jet skiing.
Wrap up your day with a sunset dinner at the famous Fisherman's Village in Bophut, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
Visit the Big Buddha Temple, one of the island's most iconic landmarks, and take in the views from the top.
Explore the Secret Buddha Garden, a hidden gem filled with statues and lush greenery, followed by a visit to the Na Muang Waterfalls.
Enjoy a traditional Thai cooking class dinner experience, where you can learn to make local dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Pad Thai | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer (local) | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Dinner at a restaurant | $5-15 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (per day) | $5-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches and natural beauty
- Rich cultural experiences and delicious food
- Vibrant nightlife and activities for all ages
- Tourist crowds during peak season
- Higher prices in tourist areas
- Traffic congestion in busy areas
- "Sawasdee krub/ka" - Hello (male/female)
- "Khop khun krub/ka" - Thank you (male/female)
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Places to Visit in Koh Samui
Visit one of these nice places.
A 12-meter tall golden statue that offers an excellent backdrop with stunning views of the island.
Two beautiful waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing nature shots.
Historical wooden buildings and vibrant market scenes create picturesque photo opportunities.
Food in Koh Samui
Koh Samui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish, often served with shrimp, chicken, or tofu, garnished with peanuts and lime.
Must-Try!
A spicy and sour shrimp soup infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili.
A rich, mild curry made with beef or chicken, potatoes, and peanuts, influenced by Indian cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant night market held every Friday where you can sample local street food, crafts, and souvenirs.
A smaller but lively market offering a variety of street food options and local delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect towards monks, including not sitting next to them on public transport.
The traditional Thai greeting involves placing your palms together and bowing slightly; it's polite to respond in kind.
Visitors must dress modestly when visiting temples, covering shoulders and knees.
Safety
Tipping in Koh Samui
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, but it’s advisable to carry cash for markets and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the most popular time to visit, characterized by sunny weather and low humidity.
Expect high temperatures, making it ideal for beach activities, but be prepared for occasional heat.
Frequent afternoon showers can occur, but it's still a good time to visit for fewer crowds and lush scenery.
This month includes Loy Krathong, when locals celebrate by floating beautiful lanterns on water.
Koh Samui at Night
Hiking in Koh Samui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning archipelago of 42 islands offering hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding sea.
A short hike to the beautiful Na Muang Waterfalls, with opportunities to swim in the natural pools.
Airports
How to reach Koh Samui by plane.
Located just a few kilometers from Chaweng Beach, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it easy to access the island.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The island attracts a diverse group of tourists from around the world, drawn by its natural beauty and cultural experiences.
There is a significant expat community residing in Koh Samui, drawn by the island's relaxed lifestyle and business opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The traditional martial art of Thailand is popular on the island, with many gyms offering classes and events.
Many beaches have volleyball courts, and casual games are often organized among locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Koh Samui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, though it’s advisable to ask about fish sauce or other animal products.
While gluten-free options are limited, fresh fruits and vegetables, rice, and grilled meats are widely available.