Are you Looking for amazing things to do in Koh Samui? This tropical paradise offers so much more than just beautiful beaches! Here’s your complete guide to the best activities and experiences on the island.
Must-Try Activities in Koh Samui
The best time to visit Koh Samui
| Period | Description |
|---|---|
| December to February | Cool and dry; peak tourist season. |
| March to September | Warm and suitable for water sports. |
| October to November | The rainy season; is quieter but can affect plans. |
Visit the Iconic Big Buddha Temple
One of the top things to do in Koh Samui is visit the famous Big Buddha temple. This massive 12-meter golden statue sits on a small island connected to Koh Samui. The temple is especially beautiful at sunrise when monks chant their morning prayers. Remember to dress respectfully—you can borrow sarongs at the entrance if needed. The views from the temple are amazing, and you can buy small souvenirs or offerings here.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | December to February |
| Ticket Fee | Free (donations appreciated) |
| Additional Information | Remove shoes; keep quiet during prayers. Sarongs available at the entrance if needed. |
Take a Day Trip to Ang Thong Marine Park
This is absolutely one of the best things to do in Koh Samui! The park has 42 islands with limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and white-sand beaches. Most tours include snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking to the famous Emerald Lake viewpoint. You’ll see colorful fish, eat lunch on a secluded beach, and get amazing photos. Book a tour that includes hotel pickup and all equipment – it’s worth spending a full day here.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | March to October |
| Ticket Fee | 300 THB (Adults), 150 THB (Children) |
| Additional Information | Known for lagoons, caves, and hiking trails; ideal for snorkeling. Bring swimwear. |
Experience Koh Samui’s Famous Beach Parties
Looking for crazy things to do in Koh Samui? The beach parties here are legendary! Head to Chaweng Beach where you’ll find fire shows, live DJs, and bars right on the sand. Ark Bar hosts famous beach parties with international DJs. These parties are perfect for bachelors and anyone looking for fun things to do in Koh Samui at night.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | November to February for peak party season |
| Ticket Fee | Varies by event; many parties have free entry, but some may charge a cover fee |
| Additional Information | Popular parties include the Full Moon and Black Moon events; expect vibrant music and crowds. |
Try Thai Boxing at a Muay Thai Camp
Want something unique? Join a Muay Thai training session! Many camps offer beginner-friendly classes where you’ll learn basic kicks, punches, and Thai boxing culture. It’s a great workout and one of the cool things to do in Koh Samui that gives you insight into Thai culture. Most camps provide all equipment and welcome drop-in students.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round, with daily classes available |
| Ticket Fee | From ₹1,200 to ₹4,000 per session |
| Additional Information | Suitable for beginners and pros; includes warm-up, training, and sparring. Wear comfortable clothing. |
Also Read: Things to do in Thailand
Go Island Hopping to Koh Tao and Koh Phangan
One of the most popular activities to do in Koh Samui Thailand is visiting nearby islands. Take a speedboat to Koh Tao for world-class snorkeling or time your trip with Koh Phangan’s famous Full Moon Party. The boats are fast and comfortable, and you can often see dolphins along the way!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | November to March for good weather; avoid monsoon season. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹1,600 – ₹2,400 per person, one-way ferry. |
| Additional Info | Great for snorkeling, diving; Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan. |
Explore the Secret Buddha Garden
Hidden in the hills, this peaceful garden is filled with interesting statues and amazing views. It’s one of the more unique things to do in Koh Samui, perfect for escaping crowds. The drive up is an adventure itself – hire a 4×4 or join a tour as regular cars struggle with the steep road.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | November to February for cooler weather. |
| Ticket Fee | Around ₹250 – ₹330 per person. |
| Additional Info | Located in Koh Samui’s hills; features Buddha statues, tropical greenery, and small waterfalls. |
Visit the Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram
One of the more unusual things to do in Koh Samui is to see the mummified monk at Wat Khunaram. The monk, who died in 1973, is displayed in a glass case and hasn’t decomposed. It’s considered a sacred site by locals and offers interesting insights into Thai Buddhism.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round; mornings are quieter for reflection. |
| Ticket Fee | Free entry; donations appreciated. |
| Additional Info | Located on Koh Samui; respectful attire recommended. |
Get an Amazing Thai Massage
You can’t visit Thailand without trying a traditional Thai massage! Perfect for couples looking for things to do in Koh Samui for couples or anyone needing relaxation. Beach massages are cheap and cheerful, or try luxury spas like Tamarind Springs for something special. The herbal steam rooms and coconut oil massages are heavenly.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Anytime; early evening is ideal for relaxation. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹500 – ₹2,500 depending on location and treatment duration. |
| Additional Info | Available throughout Thailand; traditional Thai massages focus on stretching and pressure. |
Also Read: Things to Do in Bangkok
Chase Waterfalls
Visit the famous Na Muang Waterfalls – there are actually two of them! Na Muang 1 is easy to reach and great for swimming. Na Muang 2 requires a bit of hiking but the views are worth it. This is one of the best free things to do in Koh Samui. Bring good shoes and swim gear.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | November to February for pleasant weather and strong water flow. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹250 – ₹800 depending on the waterfall. |
| Additional Info | Popular spots include Erawan and Na Muang; wear sturdy shoes for hiking. |
Take a Sunset Dinner Cruise
Perfect for a honeymoon in Koh Samui or romantic evenings! Watch the sunset while enjoying fresh seafood and Thai dishes. Many boats stop for swimming and snorkeling before dinner. Red Baron and Nora Buri offer great sunset cruises with professional service.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round, with peak season from November to February for optimal weather. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹2,500 – ₹8,000 per person, depending on the cruise package. |
| Additional Info | Options often include traditional Thai food and entertainment; stunning sunset views guaranteed. |
Try Water Sports at Chaweng Beach
Chaweng is perfect for water activities! Try jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boat rides. Prices are negotiable, and many places offer package deals. The water is usually calm between December and April, making it ideal for water sports and swimming.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | November to February for optimal weather conditions. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹1,600 – ₹8,000 depending on the activity (jet skiing, parasailing, etc.). |
| Additional Info | Equipment rentals and lessons are available; and suitable for all skill levels. |
Go Snorkeling at Coral Cove
Looking for what to do at Koh Samui beaches? Coral Cove has some of the best snorkeling on the island. The water is clear, and you can see lots of colorful fish right from the beach. Rent snorkel gear from nearby shops or bring your own. Morning is best when the water is the calmest.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | November to March for the best visibility and calm waters. |
| Ticket Fee | Free access; snorkeling gear rental typically costs ₹400 – ₹1,200. |
| Additional Info | Suitable for all skill levels; look for colorful fish and coral reefs. |
Visit the Jungle Club for Amazing Views
This hillside restaurant offers the best views in Koh Samui! The road up is steep – take their shuttle service if you’re not comfortable driving a scooter. The sunset here is spectacular, making it one of the top things to do in Koh Samui. Book in advance for the best tables.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Late afternoon to sunset for the best views. |
| Ticket Fee | Free entry; costs for food and drinks vary. |
| Additional Info | Located in the hills of Koh Samui; features a restaurant and pool area for relaxation. |
Also Read: Things to do in Pattaya
Take a Photography Tour
Perfect for Instagram lovers! Join a photo tour to find the most photogenic spots on the island. You’ll visit viewpoints, beaches, and temples at the best times for photos. Guides often know secret spots that most tourists miss.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round; early mornings or late afternoons for the best lighting. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹2,000 – ₹8,000 per person, depending on the tour length and inclusions. |
| Additional Info | Tours can focus on landscapes, street photography, or wildlife; suitable for all skill levels. |
Go Shopping at Central Festival
When wondering about things to do in Koh Samui when it rains, head to Central Festival Mall. It’s air-conditioned and has everything from Thai brands to international stores. There’s a good food court, cinema, and supermarket too.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Anytime; evenings are lively with dining and entertainment options. |
| Ticket Fee | Free entry; costs depend on shopping and dining choices. |
| Additional Info | Features over 100 shops, a cinema, and diverse dining options; ideal for all ages. |
Have a Beach BBQ
Many restaurants on Lamai and Chaweng beaches offer fresh BBQ seafood right on the beach. Pick your own fish, prawns, and lobsters – they’ll cook it while you watch the sunset. It’s one of the must-do activities for seafood lovers in Koh Samui.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Evening, especially around sunset for a magical atmosphere. |
| Ticket Fee | Generally free access to the beach; costs for food and equipment rental vary. |
| Additional Info | Many beach vendors offer BBQ supplies; check local regulations for grilling. |
Visit the Elephant Sanctuary
Want things to do in Koh Samui with family? Visit the ethical elephant sanctuary where you can feed and observe rescued elephants. No riding is allowed – it’s all about natural behaviors and education. Great for kids and animal lovers.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round; mornings are ideal for cooler temperatures and active elephants. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 per person, including meals and activities. |
| Additional Info | Look for ethical sanctuaries promoting the well-being of elephants; activities may include feeding and bathing. |
Take a Yoga Class
Many beachfront studios offer drop-in yoga classes with ocean views. Perfect for sunrise or sunset sessions. Absolute Sanctuary and Vikasa are famous for their yoga programs and healthy cafes.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and peaceful settings. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 per class, with package deals often available. |
| Additional Info | Classes available for all skill levels; some locations may offer meditation sessions as well. |
Go Cave Exploring
Visit Khao Yai Cave to see beautiful rock formations and hidden chambers. Guides will show you through the cave system – bring good shoes as it can be slippery. It’s an adventure that is perfect for things to do in Koh Samui in December when the weather is dry.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | November to February for cooler weather and easier access. |
| Ticket Fee | ₹250 – ₹1,000 depending on the cave and guided tours. |
| Additional Info | Guided tours recommended for safety; wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight for deeper explorations. |
Best Time to Visit
The best weather is from December to April – perfect for outdoor activities and beach time. If you’re planning things to do in Koh Samui in December, you’ll enjoy clear skies and calm seas. Even during the rainy season (October-November), there’s plenty to do indoors.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book activities online in advance
- Eat at local restaurants away from tourist areas
- Use shared taxis (songthaews) instead of private taxis
- Look for happy hour deals at bars and restaurants
- Visit temples and beaches early in the morning to avoid paying for parking
Koh Samui has something for everyone – whether you want adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences. Mix up your days with different activities, and don’t forget to leave some time for just relaxing on the beautiful beaches!
Also Read: Things to do in Phuket
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best beaches in Koh Samui?
Chaweng, Lamai, and Bophut are popular beaches for swimming and water sports.
Is Koh Samui good for families?
Yes, it offers family-friendly activities like water parks, safaris, and beaches.
What is the best time to visit Koh Samui?
The best time is between December and April, during the dry season.
Can I visit Koh Samui on a budget?
Yes, Koh Samui offers budget accommodations, street food, and affordable activities.
What are the must-see attractions in Koh Samui?
Big Buddha, Fisherman’s Village, Secret Buddha Garden, and Ang Thong National Marine Park.
Is Koh Samui safe for tourists?
Yes, it is generally safe, but always take basic precautions.
Are there any water sports in Koh Samui?
Yes, you can enjoy snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, and kayaking.
Can I get around Koh Samui easily?
Yes, taxis, rental scooters, and private cars are easily available.
Are there any night markets in Koh Samui?
Yes, you can visit markets like Fisherman’s Village Walking Street and Lamai Night Market.
What are the best places to shop in Koh Samui?
Central Festival Samui and Fisherman’s Village offer great shopping options.