“Koh” means island – and “samui” means perfect. Okay, not really, but you can’t help but think that Koh Samui, off the east coast of Thailand, is the perfect island. From above, Samui looks like concentric circles of color: The center, dense with lush jungle, is surrounded by a ring of fine white sand, surrounded by an endless sea of ​​jade-colored water. This is a screensaver of a landscape. Giant mountains rise from the ocean and quaint bamboo huts line the shore.

Visit Koh Samui, Hanoi Voyages has focused on the things to do, the best places to stay, eat, explore and rejuvenate, leaving you feeling like you’re on the island – just maybe “samui” more.

Things to do in Koh Samui

From vibrant beaches to cultural landmarks, the top things to do in Koh Samui showcase the island’s unique charm. Explore the 10 best Koh Samui attractions for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

Ang Thong National Marine Park

A stunning archipelago of 42 islands, Ang Thong National Marine Park offers limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, jungles, waterfalls, coral reefs, and pristine beaches. As a protected area, it preserves exotic wildlife and natural beauty, making it one of the top Koh Samui attractions.

Top activities and attractions:

• Snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs

• Kayaking through lagoons and caves

• Hiking to viewpoints for panoramic vistas

• Relaxing on secluded beaches

• Exploring hidden rock caves and freshwater lakes

Some useful information: Ticket price: 300 Thai Baht/foreigner (~9.5);150 Thai Baht/foreigner kid (~$9) (Under 12 years old)

Visit the Big Buddha

Visiting the Big Buddha is a must on any list of things to do in Koh Samui. Located on a small island off the northeast coast, this iconic Buddhist temple features a 12-meter-tall golden Buddha, built in 1972. From above, arriving flights sometimes give you a glimpse of the majestic statue. The temple grounds also host a small market where visitors can buy souvenirs, traditional clothes, and religious ornaments.

Location: Big Buddha Beach, off Route 4171, Bophut

Opening hours: Open all day, every day

Entrance fee: Free

Top activities and attractions:

• Admire the 12-meter golden Buddha and temple architecture

• Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastline

• Explore the temple market for souvenirs and local crafts

• Observe local Buddhist rituals and offerings

Beaches in Koh Samui – Paradise

You simply cannot visit Koh Samui without visiting some of the island’s stunning beaches. Remember to take note of these beaches in your list of things to do in Koh Samui.

• Chaweng Beach is the most popular spot on the island, with loads of attractions and nightlife around the beach. So if you’re wondering what to do in Koh Samui, head to Chaweng Beach first, then find out the rest from there.

• Lamai Beach is the second most popular beach, but it is much less crowded and relaxing than Chaweng.

• Coral Cove Beach is lovely for snorkeling and is hidden in a small bay behind a hotel.

• Choeng Mon Beach is located on the north side of the island near the Big Buddha, where there are many nice hotels and beach bars.

• Lipa Noi Beach is the most kid-friendly of Koh Samui’s beaches, as it has shallow, clear water and barely coral or rocks.

Explore the Secret Buddha garden

• Location: Off Route 4169 at Baan Saket, Thanon Dhupatemiya, Na Mueang, Koh Samui

• Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, open every day

• Entrance fee: 80 Baht (~$2.5)

This is one of the most interesting Koh Samui attractions and has many things to do in this garden.Spend an hour strolling through the peaceful green forest and admire all the interesting statues; There’s a sense of mystery here at the very intriguing Secret Buddha Garden.Some adventure tours around Koh Samui stop at the Secret Buddha Garden as part of their itinerary, although you can also drive on your own.

Na Muang waterfalls

• Location: Off Route 4169, Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140

• Hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm, open every day

• Waterfall One has no entrance fee, Waterfall Two costs 30 Baht.

• You also have to pay for parking at Waterfall Two, 20 Baht for scooters and 60 Baht for cars

This is the best natural sights in Koh Samui. It is also the top 10 things to do that you should not miss. Na Muang Waterfall One is super easy to access because you can basically drive right up to the entrance. It has a wide natural pool that is perfect for swimming (especially during the rainy season).Waterfall Two demands some climbing, which is why you should wear strong, waterproof shoes. The dense jungle provides breathtaking natural scenery, and the view from the top of Waterfall Two is well-known among travelers.

See the Mysterious Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks

• Location: just off Route 4169, about 2 km south of Lamai Beach.

• Hours: Open all day every day

• Cost: Free

This is definitely one of the craziest things to do in Koh Samui. The Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, located on a rocky beach on the island’s southeast shore, are notable for their resemblance to male and female genitalia. They are also known as the Grandfather and Grandmo ther’s Rocks, and there are a few local legends surrounding their formation.Whether you’re interested in the tales behind the sites or not, the adjacent beaches are worth a visit.

Hike the Elephant Rock

• Location: Between Chaweng and Lamai Beach, Route 4169

• Hours: Open all day, every day

• Cost: Free

Those looking for energetic activities on Koh Samui could visit Elephant Rock, which is located between Chaweng and Lamai Beach. This gigantic rock structure is known as “Elephant Rock” because it resembles a giant boulder the size of an Asian elephant. Climb Elephant Rock for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding seas and beaches.

Watch Muay Thai boxing match

• Location: 166/16, Moo 2, Chaweng, Tambon Bo Put, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320

• Hours: Fights every Tuesday and Friday starting at 9 pm

• Cost: Tickets range from 1,500 to 2,000 Baht (~$48 – $62)

Muay Thai is an important component of Thai culture that visitors should strive to experience while in Thailand. Chaweng Boxing Stadium, which is also the island’s oldest stadium, is the greatest site to see a Muay Thai boxing match on Koh Samui. Here, you may watch talented local athletes participate in combat, the strategies and tricks of which emerged from the Siamese Empire’s historic fighting methods.

Take a Thai cooking class

Thai cuisine is full of flavor and fresh ingredients, and every meal feels like an adventure for your taste buds. Local cuisine is a little different depending on where you are in Thailand. So if you’re a true foodie, you might want to take a few different Thai cooking classes around the country.

Koh Samui has many cooking schools that offer full-day cooking classes, most of which include a tour of the local market followed by a tutorial on how to prepare classic dishes.So dedicate at least one day in Koh Samui to a fun Thai cooking class.

Some local specialties you shouldn’t miss include: Massaman Curry, Pad Thai, Yum Goong, Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan), Fried Seafood, Mango Sticky Rice,…

Diving or snorkeling

The Gulf of Thailand is known for some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Southeast Asia with crystal clear water and colorful and dynamic wildlife. Koh Samui has some nice snorkeling sites, but the best places for snorkeling or diving are next to other nearby islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.

Your best option is to book a day tour through a local tourism company, or contact us. Hanoi Voyages can make a plan and take you around the best snorkeling spots by speedboat.

Our handpicked Koh Samui itinerary for your trip

Experience the best of Koh Samui in just 3 days! This carefully crafted itinerary combines pristine beaches, cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and exciting activities, giving you a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and local experiences.

Day 1 – Waterfalls, shrines & temples in Lamai

Kick off your Koh Samui itinerary with a day full of nature, culture, and spiritual experiences:

• Na Muang Waterfalls – Enjoy a short trek and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools.

• Lamai Viewpoint – Capture panoramic views of Lamai’s coastline and surrounding landscapes.

• Wat Lamai – Explore this beautiful temple and admire its intricate Thai architecture.

• Lamai Big Buddha Shrine – Experience local traditions and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

• Lamai Beach – End the day with a relaxing walk along the beach or enjoy fresh seafood at nearby restaurants.

Day 2 – Temples, markets & beaches

Continue your Koh Samui itinerary by exploring cultural landmarks, lively markets, and pristine beaches:

• Wat Plai Laem – A colorful temple complex featuring an 18-armed Guan Yin statue surrounded by serene lake views. Vibrant artwork and architecture make it a perfect spot for photos.

• Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) – One of Koh Samui’s iconic landmarks. Climb the short staircase to admire the golden Buddha and sweeping views of the island’s coastline.

• Fisherman’s Village (Bophut) – Stroll through this charming old fishing village, now home to boutique shops, local markets, and beachside cafés — a perfect mix of history and modern flair.

• Thongson Beach – A hidden gem nestled between rocky headlands, with clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. Excellent for snorkeling with vibrant marine life.

• Silver Beach (Crystal Bay) – A beautiful small bay with crystal-clear water and top-notch snorkeling opportunities.

Day 3 – Beach hopping in Koh Samui (Optional)

Wrap up your Koh Samui itinerary with a relaxing day exploring some of the island’s best beaches:

• Chaweng Beach – The most popular spot on the island, bustling with attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. A great place to start your beach-hopping adventure.

• Lamai Beach – The second most popular beach, much less crowded and ideal for a peaceful, relaxing day.

• Coral Cove Beach – Hidden in a small bay behind a hotel, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying crystal-clear waters.

• Choeng Mon Beach – Located on the north side near Big Buddha, with plenty of nice hotels and beach bars to unwind.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Dive into Koh Samui’s beaches, markets, and temples with our handpicked itinerary!

>>> CHOOSE AN OPTION and we plan a trip together <<<

In addition, our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don’t wait any longer – get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

Where to stay in Koh Yao Yai

The most popular places to stay on Koh Samui are definitely Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, Bobhut or Maenam Beach which have many hotels, resorts, villa.

Koh Samui restaurants: Best places to savor

Koh Samui is not only famous for its pristine beaches and temples but also a true paradise for food lovers. From beachfront grills to fine-dining venues with panoramic views, here are some of the best Koh Samui restaurants you can enjoy near popular attractions:

• SESUN Grill & Beach Bar – Located near Chaweng Beach, this beachfront spot is perfect after a day of sunbathing. Enjoy fresh seafood, premium grills, and cocktails with stunning sunset views.

• Nahm Restaurant & Bar – Koh Samui – Just a short ride from Fisherman’s Village (Bophut), this elegant venue offers refined Thai dishes with a modern twist, ideal for a relaxing dinner.

• The Breeza Beach Restaurant & Bar at Melia – Set along Choeng Mon Beach, close to Big Buddha Temple, it’s a romantic place to enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine right by the sea.

• The View Dining – Nestled in the hills near Lamai Viewpoint, this restaurant offers breathtaking coastal panoramas along with gourmet international dishes.

• Dara Serene Restaurant – Located by Lamai Beach, a perfect fine-dining stop after exploring Na Muang Waterfalls or the local temples.

How to get to Koh Samui

Bangkok to Koh Samui

For getting from Bangkok to Koh Samui there are several fantastic options to choose.

By airplane

With only 70 minutes flight time, the fastest way from Bangkok to Koh Samui is definitely via a direct flight. Currently, only Bangkok Airlines lands on Koh Samui, which offers nine flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui daily. Because Bangkok Airlines is the only airline that connects the island with Thailand’s capital, the ticket prices are accordingly more expensive and should therefore be booked as early as possible.

Duration: 5 – 6 hours

By train

It is best to take the night train from central Bangkok Hua Lamphong station to Surat Thani. Then continue to take the bus to the ferry terminal and take the ferry to Koh Samui. Traveling by train is inexpensive and certainly one of the most convenient ways to get to Koh Samui. Tickets with reservations must be booked in advance.

Duration: train 12 hours + 3 hours for bus & ferry

By bus

This is probably the cheapest option to get from Bangkok to Koh Samui by night bus. The bus will bring you directly to the ferry port Pier Donsak and from there you will have to take the ferry to the island. The journey by bus from Bangkok to Koh Samui usually takes place at night, in the morning you can take the boat to the island.

Duration: 12 hours bus + ferry 1.5 hours

Phuket to Koh Samui

Two of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations, Phuket and Koh Samui have their own attractions. If you want to discover more about the beautiful island, we are always ready to help you plan your trip to Phuket. But to move between two famous places, we give you some suggestions below:

By airplane

This is the quickest and most convenient way to travel from Phuket to Koh Samui. Bangkok Airways operates daily direct flights from Phuket to Koh Samui and usually departs in the morning and afternoon. Time-saving, with the flight typically lasting around 55 minutes. However, It seems like the most expensive option.

By bus and ferry

This option is to take a combined bus and ferry journey. The journey starts with a bus ride from Phuket to Surat Thani or Donsak Pier, followed by a ferry to Koh Samui. The combined bus and ferry journey typically takes between 6 and 8 hours, including:

• 4-5 hours by bus, ride from Phuket to Surat Thani or Donsak Pier

• 1.5-2 hours by ferry, ride to Koh Samui.

Despite being economical and eco-friendlier than flying, It’s a long journey and travelers can be tired and confused.

By taxi or private transfer and ferry

Private cab rides from Phuket to the ferry port, followed by a ferry to Koh Samui, may be the finest option for individuals who appreciate comfort and a personalized experience. Private transfers are available at any time of day. Following the vehicle trip to Donsak Pier, there is a ferry voyage to Koh Samui. Private transfers and ferry can take around 5 to 7 hours, including:

• 4-5 hours by taxi, ride from Phuket to Donsak Pier

• 1.5-2 hours by ferry, ride to Koh Samui.

The best time to visit Koh Samui

There are two seasons in Koh Samui: dry season and wet season.

• Dry season: from December to August. The weather in Koh Samui is sunny and hot, with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees Celsius

• Wet season: from September to November, is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity.

The best time to visit Koh Samui is during the dry season from December to March, when temperatures, rainfall and humidity are low. The weather in Koh Samui is the best, and it’s perfect for sunbathing, beaches, hiking, island-hopping and all the other adventures that Koh Samui has to offer.

If you are planning a beach vacation in the dry season, the water is calm and clear during this time, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. The beaches are also less crowded, so you can soak up the sun without fighting for a spot in the sand.

Maybe this period is very busy with crowds of countless tourists, but don’t worry, try to relax on your trip.