We spent over two weeks exploring Koh Samui, and while it’s more developed and touristy than some of Thailand’s smaller islands, we were surprised by how much we enjoyed it.
From waterfalls and temples to jungle viewpoints and beautiful beaches, Koh Samui best attractions go far beyond what most people expect.
This guide is based on our own trip, with a mix of well-known highlights and lesser-known spots that we think are worth your time.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday or a packed island itinerary, this list of what to do in Koh Samui will help you get the most out of your visit.
If it’s your first time in Thailand, Koh Samui is a great place to start — easy to get around, full of variety, and perfect for all kinds of travelers.
It also has its own airport, which makes it way more convenient to reach compared to smaller islands like Koh Phangan or Koh Tao.
We visited in May and experienced low tides during the day at many beaches (though not all). Some spots that normally look like paradise just weren’t at their best.
So if you’re a beach lover and want to enjoy the shoreline at its fullest, we’d recommend coming between December and April, when high tide season makes the beaches even more beautiful.
Map of all the best things to do
1. Visit Big Buddha Temple
One of the most iconic sights in Koh Samui is the Big Buddha Temple, also known as Wat Phra Yai. This massive 12-meter golden Buddha can be seen from far away — even when you’re flying in or out of Samui Airport.
We visited around 10 AM, and while there were a few people around, it definitely wasn’t crowded. That might also be because we were in Koh Samui in May, which isn’t the high season.
The temple complex is free to enter, and aside from the impressive Buddha, there are also smaller shrines, statues, and a small market at the entrance.
The staircase leading up to the statue is lined with naga figures, and once at the top, you’ll get beautiful views of the surrounding coastline. We stayed up there for a while, just enjoying the views and taking photos — it felt peaceful despite being a popular spot.
Also good to know — the parking lot is right in front of the entrance, it’s free, and we had no problem parking our scooter. If you’re riding a scooter like we did, it’s super convenient and makes temple-hopping around the area easy.
If you’re wondering what to see in Koh Samui that’s easy to visit and culturally meaningful, Big Buddha definitely deserves a spot on your list.
Tip: Combine it with nearby Wat Plai Laem, just a 5-minute drive away — it’s one of our favorite temples on the island (more on that next).
2. Visit Wat Plai Laem
Just a 5-minute drive from the Big Buddha, Wat Plai Laem quickly became one of our favorite temples on Koh Samui. It’s vibrant, peaceful, and feels more like a hidden gem compared to some of the island’s busier attractions.
The temple complex is set on a lake, and what we loved the most is the stunning 18-armed Guanyin statue, the Buddhist Goddess of Compassion. Right next to it is a giant laughing Buddha — both are incredibly detailed and colorful.
We visited mid-morning, right after visiting Big Buddha Temple, and there were only a few other people around. We spent around 30 minutes, which felt like enough time to see everything and take as many pictures as we wanted.
Entrance and parking are free, which is excellent if you are tight on a budget.
As with all temples in Thailand, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees, and take off your shoes before entering any shrine.
3. Chill and snorkel at Silver Beach
Silver Beach quickly became one of our favorite places to spend a slow, relaxing afternoon on Koh Samui. It’s a small, hidden bay between Lamai and Chaweng — not overly crowded, yet super accessible.
The beach has clean white sand, turquoise water, and just the right amount of swaying palm trees, which drop some welcome shade. That’s exactly where we laid our towels and chilled for a few hours.
There’s free parking right at the entrance and no entrance fee, which makes it one of the easiest beaches to visit without planning much in advance.
You’ll also find a few small resorts and beach restaurants directly on the beach, so you don’t need to bring your own food or drinks — we just grabbed lunch and stayed there.
Snorkeling here is pretty good, especially around the rocks at either end, though it’s not on the level of Koh Tao beaches.
Tip: On the right side of the beach, while facing the sea, there are some large boulders that are perfect for taking photos. We climbed around a bit and got some great shots — just be careful if you’re barefoot, as the rocks can get hot and a bit sharp.
If you’re in the area, it’s easy to combine Silver Beach with a stop at Lamai Viewpoint or the nearby Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks, which are just a short scooter ride away — both spots are up next on our list, so stay reading.
4. Walk to Lamai Viewpoint
If you’re up for a short uphill walk with a rewarding view, we recommend Lamai Viewpoint, which is worth a visit if you’re already exploring the east side of the island. We went there right after visiting Silver Beach since it was nearby and we had had enough of the beach at that time.
The walk takes less than 10 minutes, but it’s steep in a few spots and can be slippery, especially if it rained. We wore sandals and managed fine, but if you have sneakers, even better.
Once we reached the viewpoint, we were surprised by how far we could see. You get an open panorama of Lamai Bay surrounded by green jungle and scattered boulders.
Entrance costs 100 THB per person, which we thought was totally fair, but some people don’t like it. There’s also a small café offering drinks near the top — we grabbed a cold coconut and just relaxed for a while.
They also offer a zipline for 800 THB, but we decided to skip it and walk back down instead.
5. Visit Secret Budha Garden
Secret Buddha Garden, also known as Tarnim Magic Garden, is one of those hidden gems on Koh Samui that we immediately fell in love with. Tucked away in the hills of the island’s jungle, this peaceful garden is filled with statues, greenery, and calm vibes, far from the busy beach areas.
Getting there is part of the adventure. The road is steep and in some places not in the best condition, so we only recommend driving yourself if you’re an experienced scooter or car driver.
For me, it was actually fun, since I enjoy a bit of a challenge, but I definitely wouldn’t recommend going up there after heavy rain. When the road is wet, it gets slippery and way harder to control the bike.
Once you arrive, there’s free parking right in front of the entrance, and the entry fee is 100 THB per person. The garden itself is small but really atmospheric.
Inside, you’ll find dozens of stone statues of monks, deities, animals, and mythical figures. There’s also a small stream, shaded walking paths, and a few benches where you can sit.
We spent around 30 minutes there — mainly because we were taking photos and videos — but if you walk through, you could easily explore everything in less than 10 minutes. Still, it’s such a quiet and peaceful spot that it’s worth taking your time.
If you’re looking for what to do in Koh Samui that’s a bit off the beaten path, and you enjoy peaceful places with a unique vibe, definitely add this one to your list.
6. Tree Bridge Zipline and Café Experience
During our visit to Koh Samui back in summer 2023, we had no idea this place even existed — and honestly, if we’d known, we would’ve gone without thinking twice. It looks incredible, especially if you’re into adventure experiences mixed with nature, like we are.
At the Tree Bridge Zipline and Café, you can glide through Koh Samui’s jungle, which stretches over 1,200 meters, and everything you need — from safety gear to guides — is included.
What makes it even better is the nearby Tan Rua Waterfall, hidden deep in the forest and surrounded by tall trees. After the adrenaline rush, you can relax at the Tree Bridge Café, a chill spot where you can enjoy a drink with a jungle view.
This adventure has become one of the top-rated tours on the island, with an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 1,271 reviews.
👉 Check availability & prices for Tree Bridge Zipline here
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Koh Samui that combine thrills and jungle scenery, this should be on your list.
7. Visit Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks
We had mixed expectations about Grandfather (Hin Ta) and Grandmother (Hin Yai) Rocks, but we still wanted to check them out — and honestly, we’re glad we did.
These naturally shaped rock formations are famous for resembling male and female anatomy, which might sound a bit odd at first. Still, it’s part of a local legend and cultural story.
The area is easy to reach, especially if you’re coming from Lamai Viewpoint, and there’s free parking right near the entrance. Once you walk in, it’s only a 2–3 minute stroll down a path past a few souvenir stalls to reach the rocks.
The spot itself is beautiful — even if the rocks aren’t what draws you in, the ocean views and crashing waves on the rocks make it worth stopping by. We didn’t spend more than 10–15 minutes here, but it was a fun little detour that gave us a few laughs and a couple of good photos.
8. Drive to the Jungle route 360 Viewpoint
Earlier, we mentioned the Secret Buddha Garden, and if you’re already up in the hills, it’s worth adding a stop at the nearby Jungle Route 360 Viewpoint.
It’s one of the highest accessible points on the island and offers incredible panoramic views over the jungle and coastline.
Just like with the garden, we only recommend going if you’re an experienced driver. The roads leading up are steep, winding, and some parts are in rough condition. Make sure to check your brakes before starting the climb, and definitely avoid going after rain.
When we finally made it up there, we were honestly surprised by how stunning the view was — completely open and stretching in every direction. It felt like we had the entire island at our feet.
There used to be a small restaurant at the top, but sadly, it’s now permanently closed. Still, it’s a peaceful place to take a break, snap some photos, and enjoy the fresh mountain air before heading back down.
9. Lad Koh Viewpoint
When it comes to easy-to-access viewpoints on Koh Samui, Lad Koh Viewpoint is one of the best quick stops you can make. Located just off the main coastal road between Chaweng and Lamai, it’s the perfect place to pull over for a few minutes.
There’s a parking area right at the viewpoint, so you don’t need to hike or walk far at all. We stopped here on the way to Silver Beach, spent a few minutes enjoying the views and snapping a few photos, and it was well worth it.
The viewpoint offers views over Chaweng Beach and the northwestern coastline, especially beautiful in the morning light or late afternoon. If you’re doing a road trip around the island, this is an easy and scenic spot to add to your route.
10. Si Khao Night Market
If you’re looking for a local food experience away from the touristy crowds, we definitely recommend visiting Si Khao Night Market. It’s located near the Big Buddha and Bangrak area, and it has a super authentic, laid-back vibe — perfect for a casual evening out.
We visited around 6 PM, and the market was already buzzing with locals grabbing dinner. The food options are amazing — from grilled meats and pad thai to fresh seafood, desserts, sushi, and fruit smoothies. Prices are super low, and everything is made fresh right in front of you.
It’s not a huge market, but that’s what we liked about it — fewer crowds, better prices, and more of a local feel. There’s limited seating, so be prepared to stand or eat on the go, but honestly, that’s part of the charm.
11. Head to Chaweng Beach Road in the evening
Chaweng Beach Road is the busiest and most developed area on Koh Samui — and while it’s not for everyone, we still recommend checking it out at least once, especially in the evening.
The whole strip is lined with restaurants, bars, shops, street food stalls, massage places, and everything in between.
It has a totally different vibe compared to the rest of the island. If you’re looking for nightlife, live music, or a lively atmosphere, this is the place to be.
We walked around after dinner and ended up grabbing drinks at a local bar with a live band — the energy was great.
You’ll also find a few malls and markets here, and it’s a good spot to shop for souvenirs or pick up anything you forgot to pack. Just expect it to be more touristy and commercial than other parts of the island.
12. Enjoy a Fire Show at Elephant Beach Club
We celebrated our anniversary here, and honestly, we couldn’t have wished for a more amazing evening. If you’re looking for one of the best ways to spend your night on Koh Samui, head to Elephant Beach Club.
Between the epic fire show, great cocktails, and relaxed beachfront vibe, we loved every minute.
The fire show was on a completely different level — far better than any we’ve seen elsewhere in Thailand. It lasted well over an hour, all perfectly synchronized to powerful music, and the energy of the performers made the whole thing unforgettable.
There’s no entrance fee, and the guys performing collect donations after the show , so it’s totally up to you how much you give, but they absolutely deserve the support.
We grabbed cocktails and a shisha, found a comfy spot on the beach, and just soaked up the whole atmosphere. The crowd was chill, the setting beautiful, and the performance blew us away.
Trust us — this should be on your list of best things to do in Koh Samui. If you’re planning a special evening or want a memorable night out, Elephant Beach Club delivers.
13. Beach Hopping
One of the best things to do in Koh Samui is simply exploring its beaches. Each one has its own vibe, and we recommend hopping between a few to find your favorite. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the island’s most popular spots:
Chaweng Beach
The most famous and developed beach on the island. It’s long, lively, and lined with resorts, restaurants, and beach bars. We visited in the evening, and it was perfect for a walk along the shore with live music in the background. Not the best for peace and quiet, but great for nightlife and people-watching.
Lamai Beach
Lamai has a more relaxed vibe than Chaweng but still has everything you might need. The sand is soft, the water is clean, and it’s a great place to swim. We liked the balance here — not too crowded, but not too sleepy either.
Lipa Noi Beach
This was one of our favorite beaches for a peaceful sunset. It’s quiet, shallow, and super family-friendly. There’s not much going on in terms of nightlife or shops, but that’s what makes it so charming.
Maenam Beach
A long stretch of golden sand with palm trees and fewer crowds. We loved chilling under the trees with a coconut in hand. The beach feels super laid-back, and it’s perfect if you’re after quiet and shade.
Bo Phut Beach
Bo Phut has a great mix of atmosphere and charm, especially near the Fisherman’s Village area. You can swim, relax, or enjoy a nice dinner right on the beach. We stayed nearby and ended up coming back several times.
14. Day trip to Koh Phangan
If you’re staying on Koh Samui and looking for a change of scenery, we highly recommend taking a day trip to Koh Phangan. It’s only about 30–45 minutes by ferry or speedboat, and while it’s mostly known for its Full Moon Party, the island has so much more to offer.
We spent two weeks exploring Koh Phangan and absolutely fell in love with its laid-back atmosphere, quiet beaches, viewpoints, and sunsets.
It felt less developed and more relaxed compared to Koh Samui, which made it the perfect place to escape the crowds.
If you only have one day, here are a few highlights you can easily fit in:
- Bottle Beach Viewpoint – One of the best views we’ve seen in all of Thailand. You can reach it via a short hike or a quick walk from a nearby parking lot.
- Bottle Beach – A peaceful, remote beach with soft sand and turquoise water. Perfect for swimming and relaxing.
- Mae Haad Beach & Koh Ma Sandbar – This unique sandbar connects the island with a tiny islet, and Mae Haad Beach is our favorite spot for snorkeling.
- Zen Beach – Great for sunset and chill vibes. People gather here to play instruments, dance, and enjoy the last light of the day.
Read our detailed guide about the best things to do on Koh Phangan.
15. Feed elephants at the Elephant Home Nursery
If you’re looking for an unforgettable and ethical animal experience, we highly recommend visiting the Elephant Home Nursery on Koh Samui.
You’ll get to visit the first elephant nursery on the island, help prepare food (like bananas, pumpkin, and sticky rice), and actually feed the elephants, including the babies.
The guides are friendly, passionate, and happy to take photos while sharing insight about these amazing animals. Hotel pickup, drop-off, and insurance are all included, so it’s super convenient.
4.9 out of 5 stars, based on 816 reviews — a testament to the thoughtful care and professionalism behind it.
Honestly, we don’t know how we missed this, but if we ever come back to Koh Samui, this will be one of the first things we do.
Where to stay on Koh Samui
Most people decide to stay in Chaweng or Lamai. While Chaweng is more lively with vibrant nightlife, Lamai is the more peaceful destination. Other areas are also worth checking out. If you’re a digital nomad, see our guide for the best areas.
Best hotels on Koh Samui
Check availability
Where to eat and drink
- Thai Kitchen Restaurant – One of the best local spots for authentic Thai food at super fair prices. Great pad thai and mango sticky rice!
- Mr. Kai Kitchen – A popular choice in Chaweng for quick, tasty Thai dishes. Portions are generous, and the staff is super friendly.
- Pink Orchid Restaurant – Cozy place with beautiful decor and delicious curries. We loved the massaman here!
- The Powder Room – A great café for breakfast or brunch. Stylish interior and good coffee — plus vegan and gluten-free options available.
- Nonna Garden Café and Deli – Relaxed garden setting with excellent Western-style breakfasts, smoothies, and baked goods. A good break from Thai food if you’re craving something different.
- Beach Coconuts Bowls – Perfect for healthy beachside eats. Fresh smoothie bowls, juices, and light lunch options — ideal after a morning swim.
How to get around
Scooter Rental
Scooters are the easiest and most popular way to get around Koh Samui, and it’s what we used throughout our stay. It gave us the freedom to explore the island at our own pace — from remote beaches to mountaintop viewpoints.
You’ll find rental shops everywhere, with daily rates ranging from 300 to 300 THB.
Just make sure to check the brakes and tires, and always wear a helmet. If you’re not confident on two wheels, it’s better to choose a car rental or a taxi.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a good option if you’re traveling with family, have lots of luggage, or want extra safety, especially during rainy days. Roads can be steep in some areas, so always drive carefully.
We personally recommend booking through Discover Cars. They offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up, and their full coverage insurance is a must-have — it’s much cheaper than what typical providers charge and gives full peace of mind.
We’ve always book with them on our trips when we need a car and have always been satisfied with the service and pricing.
Taxis and Songthaews
You’ll see songthaews (red pickup truck taxis) running around the island. They work like shared taxis and can be flagged down on the main roads, but they don’t run on fixed routes or prices, which we think is a bit inconvenient.
Always ask the driver for the cost before hopping in. Regular taxis are available too but often don’t use meters, so negotiate the fare upfront.
No Public Transport
There is no public transport system, such as buses or trains, on Koh Samui. That’s why most travelers rely on scooters, taxis, or rented cars to get around.
Best time to visit Koh Samui
The best time to visit Koh Samui is generally between December and April, which is the dry season. During this period, you’ll enjoy sunny weather, calm seas, and ideal beach conditions — perfect if your main goal is to swim, snorkel, and relax on the sand.
We personally visited in May, and while it’s just after the peak season, we were pleasantly surprised. The island was quieter, prices were lower, and the weather was still hot and mostly sunny.
The only downside was that we experienced low tides during the day on several beaches, which made swimming close to shore difficult in some places.
If you’re a beach lover and want to experience Koh Samui’s coastline at its best, December to April is ideal. But even in the shoulder months like May, the island still has a lot to offer — just be a little mindful when choosing beaches for swimming.
Final thoughts
Koh Samui truly surprised us — from peaceful temples and panoramic viewpoints to laid-back beaches and unforgettable fire shows, there’s so much more to the island than we expected.
If we had to recommend just a couple of can’t-miss experiences, it would be the Elephant Beach Club fire show and a day trip to Koh Phangan — both completely different but equally memorable.
We hope this guide helps you plan the perfect island adventure. If you found it helpful, share it with a fellow traveler or save it for later, and let us know in the comments what your favorite spot was!
