Top Things to Do in Koh Samui: Best Activities & Must-Sees

Koh Samui is the little gem of the Gulf of Thailand that travellers from all over the world dream of! Can you already picture yourself with your toes in the white sand, a coconut cocktail in hand, wondering how to organise your trip so you don't miss a thing? Well, you've come to the right place!

Whether you're the type to lounge under the palm trees, an adventurer ready to explore deserted islands, a lover of Buddhist temples, or a party-goer in search of unforgettable nights, Koh Samui is the dream destination that has something for everyone!

In this comprehensive guide, Trip.com whisks you away to discover Koh Samui for the perfect getaway! From golden temples to hidden beaches, plus our top tips for your sightseeing and activities, here’s everything you need to know!

💡Did you know? Koh Samui was completely isolated from the rest of Thailand until the 1970s! The locals lived mainly off coconut farming (the island still exports 2 million coconuts a month to Bangkok, just imagine!). It was only when the first hippie backpackers arrived that the island gradually opened up to tourism.

🎫 Popular Things to Do in Koh Samui at Great Prices

• 🐘 Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui - From £15.28 — Ethical elephant encounter
• 🤿 Diving in Koh Samui — Crystal-clear water diving
• 🌊 Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park — An archipelago of 42 paradise islands
• 💆 Koh Samui Spa - From £19.10 — Thai massages and treatments
• 🧘 Big Buddha Temple - free to visit

📅 What to Do in Koh Samui Based on Your Stay

As with any holiday, whether you have two days or a full week, your itinerary and activities will naturally be different.

Don't panic! Trip.com has put together its best itineraries, tailored to every type of traveller and length of stay. Even if you've only got a whirlwind weekend, you can still see the highlights with a bit of planning from the moment you wake up!

📍 Must-Visit Areas in Koh Samui

Koh Samui isn't just one big, uniform beach. Far from it! Every corner of the island has its own unique character and vibe. From the hustle and bustle of the main beaches to the quiet little coves, here’s where to lay your towel!

Chaweng: the vibrant heart of Koh Samui

Chaweng is the iconic beach of Koh Samui. Seven kilometres of white sand (yes, you read that right!), crystal-clear water, and non-stop action from morning till night. If you're looking for a lively beach, you've come to the right place! Jet-skiing, paddleboarding, parasailing... every water sport imaginable is waiting for you.

As evening falls, Chaweng reveals a completely different side. Beach bars light up, the music picks up, and the terraces fill up. When it comes to food, you're spoilt for choice: from little street stalls whipping up a pad Thai for just a few pounds, to fine-dining restaurants with stunning sea views.

Lamai: the laid-back charm of the south

Lamai is often affectionately known as Chaweng's charming little sister. It's a bit more laid-back, with fewer crowds, offering a wonderfully relaxed vibe, yet still brimming with a fantastic array of activities just waiting to be discovered!

The atmosphere is much more laid-back, with an almost hippie vibe in places. Coconut palms fringe a stunning beach dotted with large boulders, giving the landscape a wonderfully wild feel.

What's more, don't miss the famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks (also known as Grandfather and Grandmother). Their... shall we say "suggestive" shapes certainly give visitors a bit of a giggle!

📌 Lamai: you’ll find authentic Thai charm with little seafood restaurants right on the water’s edge, alongside trendy bars and mini-markets. For the adventurers, it’s the perfect starting point for trekking up to the Na Muang waterfalls, which are just a fifteen-minute scooter ride away.

Bophut and Fisherman's Village: Authenticity and traditional charm

You’re bound to fall in love with Bophut and its Fisherman's Village! It’s like stepping back in time. The old wooden fishermen's houses have been transformed into local boutiques, trendy restaurants and chic cafes. Yet, the spirit of the fishing village remains perfectly intact to this day!

Bophut Beach? Peaceful, family-friendly and quite simply perfect for a swim or a sunset stroll.

📌 Trip.com recommends: Friday night is the highlight of the week in Bophut! The Walking Street Market takes over the entire main street, with mouth-watering local street food stalls, handmade crafts, and street performances featuring traditional dances... The atmosphere is unique and incredibly welcoming, and you'll get to meet plenty of locals.

Mae Nam and Choeng Mon: tranquillity and understated luxury

Time to head to the more remote and secluded spots of Koh Samui! Mae Nam, in the north, is a long beach that's almost deserted. In a similar vein, Choeng Mon is an absolute must-visit! This little horseshoe-shaped bay is a true natural paradise, and some even consider it the most beautiful beach on Koh Samui.

These two spots are perfect if you really want to switch off, while staying just twenty minutes away from the main action.

Trip.com Tip: The coral reefs just offshore are perfect for snorkelling, so there’s no need to take a boat! If you’re looking to go scuba diving, you’ll need to venture a little further out.

🌊 Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Koh Samui

While the beaches are undoubtedly a must-see in Koh Samui, the island is brimming with activities and sights you won't want to miss. We’ve handpicked the very best things to do during your stay:

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary: A magical and ethical encounter with elephants

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is the ultimate must-do in Koh Samui. Dedicated to animal welfare, there are no elephant rides here. Instead, you’ll get to spend real quality time with them—feeding them, learning their stories, and even bathing them in the river!

The activity lasts around half a day, and a Thai lunch is included. It’s the perfect choice for families. The guides will share everything there is to know about conservation efforts and why these species are endangered... It’s both educational and moving. All in all, it’s an experience you won’t forget in a hurry.

Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai): The island's iconic temple

The Big Buddha? You can't miss it! This twelve-metre-high golden statue sits proudly on a small islet, and it's visible from miles around! Built in 1972, the temple attracts local pilgrims and tourists from all over the world alike.

Climb the steps (watch out, it’s a bit of a climb!) adorned with naga dragons. At the top, you’ll discover not only the main temple but also a breathtaking view over the entire north of the island and the sea as far as the eye can see.

📌Trip.com tip: remember to cover your shoulders and knees, as it's a place of worship!

Diving and snorkelling: explore the underwater wonders of the Gulf of Thailand

As we've briefly mentioned, the waters around Koh Samui are simply perfect for scuba diving. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned diver, there are spots to suit every level.

The most famous spots? Sail Rock, Chumphon Pinnacle, and especially nearby Koh Tao, which is world-renowned for its truly exceptional reefs.

Underwater, it’s a non-stop spectacle: schools of multicoloured tropical fish, sea turtles gliding peacefully by, rays, and harmless reef sharks...

PADI dive centres are dotted all over the island, offering introductory dives for beginners, certification courses, and day trips to the very best spots. Even if you don't dive, snorkelling from beaches like Choeng Mon is well worth the trip.

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park: An unforgettable nature escape

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park is the one trip you simply can't miss! An archipelago of 42 pristine islands thirty kilometres north-west of Koh Samui. Limestone peaks rising from emerald waters, deserted beaches, hidden lagoons, and mysterious caves... in short, it’s a little slice of paradise on earth.

Most tours offer kayaking through sea caves, a hike to a viewpoint with a 360° view of the entire archipelago, a visit to the emerald lagoon hidden inside an island, and of course, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters.

The park is also home to plenty of wildlife: dolphins, sea turtles, pythons, tropical birds... Thai lunch is usually served on the boat or, if you're lucky, on a deserted beach.

Spa and wellness: Thai-style relaxation

Koh Samui is also a true sanctuary of well-being. The island is brimming with spas, from little beachside massage parlours (at less than £10 an hour, it’s an absolute steal!) to five-star luxury spas in dreamy settings. Traditional Thai massage is even UNESCO-listed!

Many centres offer comprehensive programmes: sunrise yoga, meditation, detox cures, and Ayurvedic treatments... Some spas boast direct sea views, while others are tucked away in the jungle for total immersion.

☀️ Best Time to Visit Koh Samui

Koh Samui boasts a unique tropical climate that’s completely different from the rest of Thailand! Thanks to its geographical position, the island is sheltered from the southwest monsoons, meaning its weather patterns are actually the reverse of Phuket's. Here’s everything you need to know:

🚤 Day Trips from Koh Samui

Koh Samui also makes a fantastic strategic base for exploring the neighbouring islands, which are every bit as stunning! Here are our three favourite destinations for day trips:

Samui Island: Pink dolphins, snorkelling and Pig Island

The Samui Island tour is one of the most complete day trips you can take from Koh Samui.

You’ll leave in the morning for a fun day out at sea. The tour includes pink dolphin watching, snorkelling in clear waters around Dan Island, and a stop at Pig Island, where pigs roam and swim along the beach.

Lunch is provided either on the boat or on a quiet beach, depending on the tour, and hotel transfers are included. It’s an ideal choice if you want to see and do a lot in just one day.

📌 Practical information:
Transport: Boat with hotel transfers included
Highlights: pink dolphins, snorkelling, Dan Island (Pig Island), lunch included

Koh Phangan: Temples, wild jungle and the legendary Full Moon Party

Koh Phangan is the more bohemian and lively big sister of Koh Samui. It’s world-famous for the Full Moon Party, but there’s much more to enjoy. Just 30–45 minutes by ferry, this less developed island has kept a relaxed, hippie feel and plenty of natural beauty.

📌 Practical information:

• Journey time: 30–45 minutes by ferry from Thong Sala Pier
• Transport: Hourly ferries (Lomprayah or Seatran), around 200–400 baht one way
• Must-sees: Phaeng Waterfall, the wild beaches of Bottle Beach and Haad Yao (boat access only), jungle temples in the mountains, yoga classes, cool night markets, and of course the Full Moon Party if it matches your dates 🌕

Koh Tao: The ultimate scuba diving paradise

Koh Tao (meaning “Turtle Island”) is widely seen as Thailand’s top diving destination. This small rocky island is just 1.5 hours from Koh Samui by speedboat (or 2.5 hours by ferry) and offers some of the best dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand, with clear water and rich marine life.

📌 Practical information:

• Journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes by speedboat, or 2 hours 30 minutes by ferry
• Transport: Lomprayah Catamaran or Seatran Discovery Ferry, about 600–800 baht one way
• Highlights: famous dive spots like Sail Rock and Chumphon Pinnacle, beautiful beaches such as Sairee Beach, great snorkelling at Shark Bay, scenic viewpoints, and some of the cheapest PADI dive courses in the world

Koh Tao is an ideal place to get your Open Water Diver certification. With over 50 professional dive schools and excellent value, a full 4-day course costs around 8,000–10,000 baht (about £170–£215), compared with roughly £340–£510 in Europe. That’s why divers from all over the world come here to learn.

🍃 Explore Koh Samui with ease. Hire a car and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace.

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🥥 Koh Samui: Tropical Flavours, Fresh Seafood & Local Cuisine

Here are the specialities you simply can't miss:

• Tom Kha Gai: a creamy coconut milk soup with chicken, galangal, and lemongrass. It’s the milder, creamier version of Tom Yum – perfect if you’re a little wary of chillies!
• Massaman Curry: this mild curry hails from southern Thailand and features Muslim influences. It’s a delicious blend of creamy coconut milk, roasted peanuts, melt-in-the-mouth potatoes, and super tender meat.
• Som Tam: a spicy green papaya salad pounded in a mortar with peanuts, cherry tomatoes, long beans and dried shrimp. Watch out – it’s got a real kick!
• Grilled seafood: crabs, lobsters, giant prawns, squid and the fresh catch of the day, barbecued and served with homemade sauces. Enjoy them with your toes in the sand at sunset!
• Khao Niao Mamuang: it’s THE iconic Thai dessert! Sweet sticky rice with coconut milk served with slices of perfectly ripe mango. Simple but completely addictive, you’ll be coming back for more!

🧩 Explore Koh Samui & Beyond