What are the Best Things to do in Koh Samui in 2026?
Explore Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha), snorkel at Coral Cove, and hike to Na Muang Waterfall. Take a boat trip to Ang Thong Marine Park, relax at Tamarind Springs spa, enjoy a Thai massage on Lamai Beach, or browse local eats at Fisherman’s Village night market.
Planning a trip to paradise? You’re in the right place.
Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, famous for its beaches, waterfalls, temples, and laid-back island vibes.
After years of living in Thailand and calling Samui home, I’ve put together my 2026 highlights. From hidden gems to must-see sights, these picks are perfect for families, couples, and travelers of all kinds.
Our Quick Picks
🏝️ Read about the best family areas and the best time to visit Koh Samui.
🌴 Staying central saves time. Book near Lamai or Bophut.
1. Visit Beautiful Temples
Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)
Opening hours: Open daily: 6 am–6 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Big Buddha
This 12-meter golden statue is Samui’s most iconic sight. Located on a small island (connected by causeway), it’s peaceful in the early morning and perfect for a first stop. The temple sits on Faan Island, and you’ll climb 60 steps to reach the Buddha. Early morning (before 8 am) means fewer crowds and better photos.
There’s a small market at the base selling drinks, snacks, and souvenirs. Parking is free, and the whole visit takes about 30-45 minutes. Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees.
Wat Plai Laem
Opening hours: Daily: 6 am–6 pm
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
Location: Wat Plai Laem
A colorful temple (my favorite one) with an 18-armed Guanyin statue and a lake full of fish and turtles. Bring coins to feed them! Very photogenic and fun for kids. The Chinese and Buddhist temple complex is bigger than it looks—allow 45 minutes to explore properly.
There’s also a massive laughing Buddha statue and colorful corners to explore. The temple offers free parking and clean restrooms. Best lighting for photos is late afternoon around 4-5 pm.
Read my family review here.
Khao Hua Jook Pagoda
Opening hours: Daily: 8 am–6 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Khao Hua Jook Pagoda
Tiny golden pagoda on a hill with a 360° view. You’ll see planes taking off below you—it’s oddly thrilling. The drive up is steep and winding—definitely easier with a car than scooter. At the top, there’s a small café selling cold drinks and simple Thai food. The pagoda itself is small, but the views stretch across the entire southern part of the island. Come for sunset if you want the full experience, but bring mosquito spray.
The whole visit is about 30 minutes unless you’re eating at the café.
2. Fisherman’s Village – Friday Night Market
Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday Night Market: 5 pm–10 pm
Cost: Free entry
Location: Fisherman’s Village
In Bophut, this charming old village turns into a fairy-lit wonderland. Live music, cocktails, handmade jewelry, and that buzz you only get in beach towns. The market stretches along the entire beachfront road—about 500 meters of stalls, bars, and restaurants.
Arrive around 6 pm for the best atmosphere and easier parking. Most stalls accept cash only, so hit an ATM beforehand. The walking street gets packed by 7 pm, so bring patience and comfortable shoes.
Don’t miss:
- Coco Tam’s fire show and cocktails (show starts around 7:30 and 9 pm)
- Link Cuisine for Thai food (I prefer La Cantina for delicious Mexican food, though)
- Handmade soap & sarongs at the market stalls
- Live acoustic music at various bars (usually starts around 7 pm)
3. Epic Waterfalls
Na Muang Waterfall 1
Opening hours: Daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
Cost: Free (small parking fee of 20 THB ≈ $0.55 / €0.50)
Location: Na Muang Waterfall
Easy to access and flowing year-round. There’s a big pool for dipping, and vendors selling drinks nearby. The walk from parking is only 10 minutes on a well-maintained path.
I’m 180 cm (5’11”) and can’t stand in the pool—it’s quite deep. It’s great for a refreshing dip, but be careful with the slippery rocks.
👉 Read my full review here.
There’s a second waterfall (Na Muang 2) that’s a 30-minute hike further up if you’re feeling adventurous. Best time to visit is early morning before it gets crowded.
Khun Si Waterfall
Opening hours: Daily from 6 am to 6 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Khun Si Waterfall
Off the beaten path near Maenam. A little muddy but totally peaceful. This one requires a short jungle trek—wear shoes with good grip and bring bug spray. The waterfall is smaller than Na Muang, but you’ll likely have it to yourself.
The path can be slippery during rainy season (May–October), so take your time. There’s a small viewpoint about 10 minutes past the falls that’s worth the extra walk. No vendors here, so bring your own water.
4. Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim Magic Garden)
Opening hours: Daily: 9 am–5 pm
Cost: 100 THB per person ($2.75 / €2.50), kids under 11 years are free
Location: Tarnim Magic Garden
Located at the top of Pom Mountain, this quirky sculpture garden was built by a local fruit farmer in the 1970s. The garden features dozens of stone statues depicting Buddhist and Hindu mythology, all handcrafted by Nim Thongsuk over several decades. The drive up takes 20-30 minutes of steep, winding roads through the jungle.
Read about our visit to Tarnim Magic Garden.
Tips:
- Best done with a powerful scooter (150 cc minimum) or a rental car—smaller scooters will struggle
- Wear comfortable shoes—the garden paths are uneven stone
5. Ang Thong Marine Park
Opening hours: Day tours: 8 am–5 pm
Cost: From 1,800–2,500 THB per adult ($49–$68 / €45–€63)
Location: Ang Thong Marine Park
A dreamy day trip to an archipelago of 42 islands. Kayak into lagoons, snorkel coral reefs, hike to panoramic views. The boat ride to Ang Thong National Marine Park takes about 45 (speedboat) – 90 minutes (big boat) each way, and most tours include lunch, snorkeling gear, and kayaks.
The famous Emerald Lake hike is steep but doable—takes about 20 minutes up. Snorkeling spots have decent coral and tropical fish, though visibility varies by season. Tours typically visit 3-4 islands, including Mae Ko (Emerald Lake), Wua Ta Lap (viewpoint), and snorkeling spots.
- Best with: Red Dragon Tour, Samui Boat Charter (customizable), or Red Baron (the epic White Lotus sailing boat).
- Kids age 4 + will love it. Babies and toddlers… not so much (long boat ride, lots of sun)
- Best weather: November–April. Avoid during monsoon season (October–December)
6. Samui Elephant Sanctuary (Chaweng Noi Branch)
Opening hours: 2 sessions/day: 9 am–12 pm & 2 pm–5 pm
Cost: 3,000 THB per adult ($82 / €75), 1,500 THB per child ($41 / €38)
Location: Samui Elephant Sanctuary
Meet rescued elephants as they roam freely, bathe in the mud, and enjoy their food—no riding, no chains, ever. You’ll hear their powerful rescue stories, help prepare their meals, and watch them in a natural, peaceful setting.
The sanctuary saves elephants from tourism and logging. Feel free to bring your camera—they’ll even help you snap the perfect shot.
👉 Read my honest review of the Elephant Sanctuary here.
- Locations in Bophut and Chaweng Noi (bigger facility, the only one we visited)
- Book online in advance (they often fill up, especially December–March)
- Flip-flops are OK, but they need to have grip as it can get muddy
7. Best Beaches in Koh Samui
Silver Beach (Haad Thong Ta-khian or Crystal Beach)
Location: Silver Beach
Calm water, soft sand, and tucked between big granite rocks. It’s small but stunning. Great for a swim and shady spots to sit. The beach faces east, great for morning sun and shade in the afternoon. Unfortunately, it has become so popular that it is often overcrowded.
Choeng Mon Beach
Location: Choeng Mon Beach
Calm and clean with soft waves, this one’s a family favorite. It’s shaped like a bay, so the water stays peaceful. Perfect for paddle-boarding or just splashing around. Some resorts like Melia and Sala Samui are beachfront, but the beach is public. Last time, we just walked through Sala to get to the beach.
Thongson Bay
Location: Thongson Bay
A peaceful little bay tucked away in the northeast. Calm, clear water and soft sand make it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. There’s some coral and rocks close to shore. It’s quiet, mostly visited by guests from nearby resorts, so you’ll often have it almost to yourself.
Coral Cove
Location: Coral Cove
A tiny, clear-water bay perfect for snorkeling. You’ll see fish just a few meters from the shore. Best snorkeling is by the rocks on the left side. The beach is only about 100 meters wide.
Bang Po Beach
Location: Bang Po Beach
Perfect for toddlers. Super shallow water and barely any waves. You’ll find long stretches of white sand and chill beach bars with wooden chairs right on the beach. Water stays shallow far out, so it’s safe for little ones. It’s quiet, with hardly any beach vendors.
Lamai Beach
Location: Lamai Beach
My go-to for everything: swimming, beach massages, or grabbing a coconut curry. It’s bigger and a bit busier than others, but still laid-back. Central Lamai is lively with cafés and shops, while the southern end (near Hin Ta rocks) is calm.
Chaweng Beach
Location: Chaweng Beach
The most famous stretch, but for a reason. Great for swimming, water sports, people-watching, or just walking for miles. The north end is quieter with more upscale resorts. Central Chaweng is where the action is—restaurants, bars, music, and loads of fire shows in the evening. Vendors can be persistent, but a friendly “no thanks” works.
8. Thai Cooking Class
Opening hours: Most classes 9am–1pm or 2pm–6pm
Cost: Around 1,500–2,000 THB per person ($41–$55 / €38–€50) – includes everything, and you leave full.
You learn how to make your own curry paste (yes, from scratch), pick herbs from the garden, and cook up dishes that smell like heaven.
Most classes last 3–4 hours and include market visits to learn about ingredients. You’ll usually cook 4–5 dishes: curry, stir-fry, soup, and dessert. You get recipe cards and take-home containers for leftovers.
We did it with my mother-in-law, and it turned into one of her favorite memories of the trip.
Recommended:
- Samui Good Herb, Lamai (our pick)
- Smiley Cook, Chaweng
- Pai Cookery Class, Chaweng
- Island Organics, Chaweng
Tip: Book 1–2 days ahead, especially during high season.
9. Massage on the Beach
Opening hours: Around 9 am–6 pm
Cost: 300–400 THB for 60 minutes ($8–$11 / €7.50–€10)
Is it even a Thailand trip without a beach massage? I think not.
Pick any semi-shady spot along Lamai, Maenam, or Choeng Mon and you’ll find rows of massage beds facing the sea. It’s not fancy. It is pure bliss.
- My go-to: Lamai Beach, under the trees near the middle stretch
- Tip a little extra—it goes a long way. I usually tip 100 THB for a good massage.
10. Lipa Noi Sunset
Opening hours: Always open
Cost: Free
Location: Lipa Noi
Forget the packed beach clubs. Lipa Noi Beach on the west coast is one of the best and calmest sunset spots in Koh Samui. The beach is wide and quiet, with soft sand and shallow water. You’ll often have the place almost to yourself, especially on weekdays.
Tips:
- Best photo opportunities 30 minutes before and after sunset
- Bring mosquito spray
11. Night Market Food Crawl
Opening hours: Varies by market (usually 5pm–9pm)
Cost: 20–100 THB per dish ($0.55–$2.75 / €0.50–€2.50) – bring small bills.
Each village has its own version, but the one in Lamai is my favorite. You can sample grilled satay, coconut pancakes, mango shakes, veggie spring rolls… the vibe is chaotic in the best way.
Top picks:
- Chaweng Walking Street (several nights a week—commonly on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday): More variety and art, but touristy
- Lamai Night Market (Sunday): Great mix of food and fun
12. Rent a Car or Scooter – Get Lost (on Purpose)
Opening hours: Daily rentals
Cost: Scooter ~200–300 THB/day ($5.50–$8 / €5–€7.50), Car ~800–1,200 THB/day ($22–$33 / €20–€30).
One of the best ways to experience Samui is to just drive. Coconut groves, roadside cafés, and temples that aren’t even on Google Maps await.
The island loop takes about 1.5 hours without stops, but trust me—you’ll want to stop.
Tips:
- With kids, go for a car
- Gas stations are easy to find, but fill up before heading inland
- We’ve had great experiences with Thai Moto next to Central Mall and Ian’s rental in Bangrak
13. Tamarind Springs – Forest Spa Magic
Opening hours: 9 am–6 pm daily
Cost: Treatments start around 2,500 THB ($68 / €63)
Location: Tamarind Springs
Tucked away near Lamai, this jungle spa is pure magic. Steam caves, plunge pools, and massages under the trees. Adults only. Totally worth it.
Signature treatments use natural rock formations and herbal steam. Way more atmospheric than your average resort spa. I had the most romantic couples spa experience with my husband here.
Tips:
- Bring swimwear, you’ll get towels, slippers and bathrobes there
- Book ahead and get a dedicated time window
14. Jungle Club – Restaurant with a View
Opening hours: Open daily (restaurant hours)
Cost: No entrance fee, but 500 THB/person minimum spend ($14 / €12.50)
Location: Jungle Club
Perched high above Chaweng, this relaxed spot has some of the best views on the island. Bean bags, coconuts, and a view that makes you forget what day it is.
It’s part restaurant, part viewpoint. Come for sunset and you’ll see what I mean.
Tips:
- Reserve your dinner table 2-4 weeks in advance; lunch spots are easier to get
- Use their jeep shuttle—don’t attempt the road on a scooter
- Happy hour from 4–6 pm
15. Lad Koh Viewpoint – Easy Sunset Stop
Opening hours: Always open
Cost: Free (small tip jar for upkeep appreciated)
Location: Lad Koh Viewpoint
Right between Chaweng and Lamai, this quick roadside stop delivers postcard-perfect views. You’ll see the southern coastline spread out below you. Come at golden hour for that perfect shot.
Tip:
- Best light: early morning or just before sunset
- Free parking just off the main ring road
16. Overlap Stone 1 and 2 + Giant Hand Viewpoint
Opening hours: Daily 8 am–6 pm
Cost: Entrance fee 200 THB ($5.40 / €5.00) for Overlap Stone 1 and another 200 THB for Overlap Stone 2 and the Giant Hand Viewpoint
Location: Overlap Stone
You’ve seen it on Instagram—this oddly balanced boulder that looks like it’s ready to roll. Don’t worry, it’s not going anywhere.
Start your adventure with Overlap Stone 1. The 5-minute hike up is steep, and sweaty, but the panoramic views over the island’s southwest coast are stunning and absolutely worth it.
Ready for more?
Hop back on your scooter and drive further uphill. The road gets bumpier, but leads you to a small jungle trail. A 10-minute steep hike takes you through lush greenery to Overlap Stone 2 and the famous Giant Hand Viewpoint.
👉 Good to know: After visiting the second viewpoint, a free jeep shuttle will take you back down to your scooter.
Tips:
- Wear proper shoes (the trail is rocky and slippery in places)
- Best time to go: Before 9 am or after 4 pm to skip the heat and crowds
17. Hin Ta & Hin Yai
Opening hours: Always open
Cost: Free (parking around 20 THB ≈ $0.55 / €0.50)
Location: Hin Ta & Hin Yai
These rocks look like… well, body parts. Teens love them. Adults laugh awkwardly.
It’s a quick, quirky stop with a local legend attached.
The rocks are right on the beach, near Lamai. Easy access from the main road.
18. Organic Farm Café Visit
Sweet Sisters Café
Opening hours: Daily, 9am–5pm
Cost: Meals around 150–300 THB ($4–$8 / €3.75–€7.50)
Location: Sweet Sisters Cafe
This cozy café is run by a local family and serves healthy Thai and fusion food. They grow many of their own herbs and vegetables right next to the restaurant. You can take a little walk through the garden—just ask!
The food is fresh, tasty, and made with love. Great for lunch or brunch with kids.
Look out for butterflies and insects in the garden—fun for little ones.
The Nature Samui
Opening hours: Usually 11 am–5 pm, closed on some weekdays (check Facebook before going)
Cost: Meals from 200–350 THB ($5.50–$9.50 / €5–€9)
Location: The Nature
This peaceful café near Lamai focuses on organic, plant-based food. They also grow many ingredients on-site and sometimes offer small garden tours if you ask the staff.
The menu includes vegan options, smoothie bowls, Thai curries, and herbal teas (our favourite: Butterfly Pea Tea).
19. Central Festival Samui
Opening hours: 11 am–10 pm daily
Cost: Free entry
Location: Central Festival
Central Festival is Samui’s biggest shopping center, with a food court, indoor and semi-outdoor playground, cafés, fashion stores, and air-con you’ll want to live in.
We stop here almost daily—sometimes just for a smoothie (we all die for BOOST) and a breather.
Tips:
- Free underground parking and easy taxi access
- Grab Taxis aren’t allowed to pick you up directly at the mall, so if you decide to book one, expect to meet them 200 meters outside the mall.
20. Sunset Cruise on Legendary White Lotus Boat
Opening hours: 3:00 pm–7:00 pm (pickup starts around 2:30 pm)
Cost: From 2,800 THB per adult ($77 / €70), discounts for kids
Location: Departs from Petcharat Marina
Want to feel like you’re in an episode of White Lotus? This is your moment. The Red Baron is a luxurious red teakwood sailing boat that glides around the island while you sip drinks, eat amazing food, and watch the sunset in style.
It’s a mix of chill and fancy—with white tablecloths, lounge seating, and a buffet better than most resorts. There’s even a welcome drink, and a cocktail bar.
Tips:
- Wear sunscreen and bring a swimsuit
- Book a few days in advance, especially during high season
- Vegetarian options available—just let them know when booking
Bonus Tip: 21. Visit Pig Island (Koh Madsum)
Opening hours: Most tours run from 9 am to 2 pm
Cost: From 1,000–1,800 THB per person ($27–$49 / €25–€45)
Location: Koh Madsum, just south of Koh Samui
This is one of those “only in Thailand” experiences. Koh Madsum—nicknamed Pig Island—is home to a group of real, sand-covered pigs that roam freely along the beach. You can feed them, pet them or only chill at the beach.
The trip itself is just 20–30 minutes by longtail or speedboat. Most tours also include a snorkeling stop at nearby Koh Tan. Find all the info in my review of Pig Island!
👉 Book your Pig Island Tour right here.
Key Takeaways for the Best Things to Do in Koh Samui
- For temple lovers: Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem are must-sees
- For families: Coral Cove Beach, Samui Elephant Sanctuary, and night markets
- For adventure seekers: Ang Thong Marine Park and Overlap Stone
- For downtime: Tamarind Springs and massages under palm trees
- Rainy day ideas: Thai cooking classes or a stroll through Central Festival
Where to Stay in Koh Samui
Check out these exceptional hotels in Koh Samui, including our top pick, the Hyatt Regency, or use the map below. 👇
Anantara Bophut Resort
- From $250 (€232) per night (Premier Room)
- Lush gardens, calm beach, close to the Fisherman’s Night Market, read my review here!
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui
- From $230 (€212) per night (Family Room)
- Read my honest review here!
👉 You might also like my other Koh Samui articles:
– Best Family Resorts in Koh Samui
– How to Celebrate Songkran with Kids
Key Takeaways
- Visit Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) and Wat Plai Laem for culture.
- Swim and snorkel at Silver Beach and Coral Cove.
- Cool off at Na Muang Waterfall 1 or hike up to Overlap Stone.
- Take one full day for Ang Thong National Marine Park.
- Spend an evening at Fisherman’s Village or a Lamai night market.
- Slow down with a beach massage or a jungle spa session at Tamarind Springs.
Final Thoughts on the Top Things to Do in Koh Samui
That’s my list—my Koh Samui highlights. These are the things we keep doing again and again, the ones we tell friends about, and the ones that made us fall (even more) in love with this island.
Are you planning your trip and have questions? Please let me know in the comments! I’m happy to help!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
FAQ – Koh Samui Travel
What’s the best way to get around Koh Samui?
The easiest way to explore the island is by renting a car or scooter. Scooters are cheap (200–300 THB/day), but not ideal with small kids or during rain. Cars offer more comfort and safety, especially for families or longer drives into the hills.
Is Koh Samui safe for solo female travelers?
Yes. Koh Samui is generally very safe. Stick to well-lit areas at night, keep an eye on your drinks in bars, and follow your instincts, just like anywhere. Locals are friendly and helpful, and petty crime is low compared to other tourist destinations.
In six years of living here, I have never had a weird situation with a local that made me feel uncomfortable.
When is the best time to visit Koh Samui?
The dry season (December to April) is the most popular. May to September is shoulder season with occasional rain, while October and November bring heavier showers. Unlike other Thai islands, Koh Samui’s rainy season hits later—so it’s a great alternative in July or August.
Can I swim in the sea all year round?
Mostly yes, but water can get rough during the rainy season, especially in Chaweng. Beaches like Choeng Mon and Bang Po usually stay calm year-round. Always check current conditions before swimming, especially with kids.
Is Koh Samui worth visiting in 2026?
Yes. Koh Samui is absolutely worth visiting in 2026. The island offers great beaches, easy nature trips, good infrastructure, and a relaxed vibe that works well for families, couples, and long-stay travelers.
How many days do you need in Koh Samui?
You need at least 4–5 days in Koh Samui to see the main highlights. A full week is ideal if you want beach time, a day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park, and a slower pace.
Is Koh Samui good for families with kids?
Yes. Koh Samui is very family-friendly. Calm beaches like Bang Po, short travel distances, family resorts, and easy activities like waterfalls and night markets make it a great destination with kids.
Do you need cash in Koh Samui?
Yes. While hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, night markets, beach massages, and small cafés often require cash. ATMs are widely available.
