Looking for a real escape into nature with your kids while staying in Koh Samui? Then you’ve got to visit Na Muang Waterfall Koh Samui – or as locals call it, the “purple waterfalls.” It’s an absolute beauty with a high drop, a large natural pool, and a jungle setting.
We’re a family of four, living in Thailand since 2019. We just moved back to Koh Samui (yay!) and are now exploring all the good stuff on the island. In April 2025, we visited Na Muang 1 – with my husband, our two girls (3 and 7 years old), and my mother-in-law in her sixties. And let me tell you, this spot is now one of my favorite places on the island.
Quick Facts – Na Muang Waterfall 1
- Location: About 12 km inland from Nathon Bay, easy to find on Google Maps
- Entrance Fee: Free. Parking is 20 THB
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Walk: Around 5 minutes from the parking area. Stroller-friendly until it gets rocky near the waterfall
- Facilities: No changing rooms or lockers. Basic public toilets are near the parking area – bring your own tissues and hand sanitizer
A Bit of History First
Na Muang means “purple face” – the name comes from the stunning purple rocks that give the waterfall its unique look, especially when wet. There are actually two waterfalls in this area: Na Muang 1 and Na Muang 2. Na Muang 1 is known as the first waterfall – super accessible, great for families. Na Muang 2 requires a bit of a hike and is more for adventure seekers.
The area around the falls was once home to a respected monk, Luang Phaw Daeng, and there’s a small shrine in the area honoring his memory. He was the former abbot of a nearby temple, and the locals still come here to pay respects. This place holds spiritual meaning for many Thai families.
Getting There – And What to Expect
We visited after two days of heavy rainfall, so the falls were in full glory. We drove from Lamai Beach and followed the main beach road, then turned off towards Ban Hua Thanon into the green hills. You’ll find it marked on Google Maps as “Na Muang Waterfall 1.”
There’s a big main parking lot – we left our car there and paid 20 THB to a Thai guy collecting the fee. Sadly, this parking area is right next to an elephant riding camp. You’ll see the elephants in chains, waiting with saddles on their backs. A heartbreaking sight. I truly hope more people choose to skip these unethical activities. (If you’re curious, check out my other post on ethical wildlife tourism in Thailand.)
From the parking lot, there’s a short, easy walking path lined with souvenir stalls – colourful sarongs, hand-painted coconut bowls, and the usual little elephant trinkets. My girls loved it.
The walk to the base of the falls took us about 5 minutes – even with a 3-year-old in tow. Super easy and stroller-friendly up to a point. Once you reach the base of the falls, though, it turns rocky.
And oh wow – when you see it for the first time… just majestic. The high-drop waterfall crashes into a pretty natural pool surrounded by jungle. Big trees, solid rock walls, and the sound of splashing water. It’s the perfect backdrop for a family photo. Or five.
Swimming in the Purple Falls
We were ready to swim! We all wore our swimsuits under our clothes (definitely do this – I didn’t see anywhere to change discreetly), and we made our way over the slippery rocks. There are no man-made paths beyond this point – just nature, and a few steps that disappear quickly.
We jumped from rock to rock – some slippery, some totally fine. Our 7-year-old was loving the adventure. Our 3-year-old had to be carried by my husband. And my brave mother-in-law? She made it, with a lot of help and some wobbling.
We found a big rock to park ourselves and our stuff. My husband carried the toddler again, and I helped Lila (our 7-year-old) into the water. There are lots of spots to climb in, but some areas are deceptively deep – once I stepped off the last rock, I couldn’t touch the ground anymore, and I’m 1.80 meters tall (5’11”)!
So we swam. The water was cool and fresh, and the waterfall was powerfully loud. There were about 30 other people there – but it didn’t feel crowded. Some were swimming, some sitting on the rocks, and a few were even jumping from a boulder into the large pool (we passed on that).
Tips for Families
- Toddlers need to be carried – and if they’re not confident in water, bring a float or swim help
- Wear your swimsuit under your clothes – no changing rooms
- Watch your step – sturdy footwear helps a lot (my family wore trainers, I wore plastic slippers with grip)
- Bring a towel, water, mosquito spray, and a little cash
- Leave valuables in the car – you can’t watch your bag while swimming (we once got robbed at a waterfall in Koh Phangan)
- Go in the morning or late afternoon – the sun is softer and it’s less hot
- Try to visit after rain, when the waterfall is in full spate – but avoid going immediately after torrential downpours, as rocks can be extra slippery
When to Go – Best Time to Visit
The wet months (roughly October to January) are the best if you want to see the waterfall at its strongest. But even during the dry season, there’s usually still some flow at Na Muang Waterfall 1 thanks to its location in the island’s green canopy.
We went in April, and thanks to the rainy days before, it was flowing beautifully.
For a hot day, this is such a pleasant reward. Nothing like a dip in cool waters to reset your mood and your sweaty back.
Na Muang is a popular place with tourists and locals alike, so try to visit outside peak hours (midday) if you prefer a quieter experience.
Opening Hours & Entrance Fee
Na Muang Waterfall 1 is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
There’s no official entrance fee to the waterfall itself – it’s completely free!
You’ll just need 20 THB for parking, and maybe some extra baht if you feel like grabbing a fresh coconut or a fridge magnet.
Where to Eat Nearby
After the waterfall, we stopped by Sweet Sisters Café, just a short drive away – and I’m so glad we did. They serve really special, yummy food made with fresh, local ingredients. Lots of healthy Thai and fusion dishes, vegetarian options, and even something for the little ones. My girls were thrilled to find kids’ pizza on the menu (the healthier kind with the thin crust).
They also have a lovely little shop inside, selling beautiful handmade things – natural soaps, local crafts, and unique gifts. It’s the perfect spot to relax, eat well, and maybe pick up a few treasures before heading home.
Where to Stay in Samui – Family Favourites
Here are some of my favourite areas to stay—plus a few hotel picks that are perfect for families.
Lamai Beach
Lamai is a great all-rounder. It’s close to Na Muang Waterfall and other nature spots like Hin Lad Waterfall. The beach is wide, swimmable, and less wild than Chaweng. For families, check out Pavilion Samui Villas & Resort—it’s right on the beach with a relaxed vibe, a kids’ playground, and spacious family rooms.
Bo Phut
Bo Phut has this charming mix of culture and comfort. Fisherman’s Village is full of old Chinese shophouses, cute cafés, and beachfront restaurants. Just be aware, it can get busy—especially on walking street nights.
If you’re looking for luxury with a family-friendly touch, Hyatt Regency Koh Samui is a standout (here’s my personal review). With a kids’ pool, play area, and stunning sea views, it’s stylish but super relaxed for families.
Hat Nai & Ban Hua Thanon
This area feels more local and laid-back. You’ll find small fishing boats, temples, and glimpses of everyday island life. It’s not packed with tourists, which I love. A great family-friendly place to stay here is Villa Bavaria 3. It’s a peaceful private villa with plenty of space, a pool, and a quiet setting just a short drive from the beach and local markets. Ideal if you’re after privacy and a slower pace.
And if you’re into tropical heat, waterfalls, and a cheeky rum tasting—don’t skip La Rhumerie De Koh Samui. Their agricole-style rum is fun to sample (just for the adults!), and Na Muang Waterfall 1 is the perfect spot to cool off afterwards.
👉 You might also like:
– The 20 Best Koh Samui Luxury Hotels
– Hyatt Regency Samui with Kids – My Honest Review
– Thailand’s Koh Madsum: Visiting Pig Island
– The Best Months to Visit Thailand – Tips From a Local
Final Thoughts on Visiting Na Muang Waterfall Koh Samui
Na Muang Waterfall 1 is honestly one of the most beautiful waterfalls on Koh Samui. It’s got everything – a high drop, a natural pool, lush jungle, and just enough challenge to feel like an adventure without scaring the kids (or grandparents… too much).
It’s free, fun, refreshing, and totally worth the short drive from anywhere on the island. We’ll definitely be visiting again!
Do you plan to visit Na Muang Waterfall Koh Samui? Do you have any questions? Please let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
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