Things to do in Koh Samui

Enjoy the beauty of Koh Samui’s coastline as you relax on Lamai Beach, discover the Buddhist culture at temples and wander market stalls to taste the local coconut sweet called galamae.

The Nathon Pier is often the first port of call for many travelers who visit the captivating tropical island of Koh Samui. It serves as the principal arrival and departure point for boats traveling between the island and mainland Thailand, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. Visit this working harbor for a snapshot glimpse of the beaches and jungle-covered hills that characterize the island’s stunning natural beauty.

Choeng Mun Beach extends across a variety of small bays and inlets along the north-east coast. A number of private resorts and exquisite villas are scattered in secluded locations along this portion of the coastline, forming one of the most exclusive portions of the entire island.

With Bang Rak to the east and Maenam Beach to the west, Bo Phut is the longest beach on Koh Samui. Bo Phut village, lying somewhere around the centre, has come to be known as Fisherman's Village. As the oldest village on the island, Fisherman's Village has seen the comings and goings of many different cultures, and has retained a certain flavour of each. Combining a subtle blend of Thai, Chinese and French colonial influences, not to mention the considerable effect of the recent tourist wave, this charming village has something for every taste.

Wander lanes filled with wooden Chinese shop-houses from the 19th century, enjoy night markets and dine around the world in restaurants serving up Italian, French, Thai, Japanese, Euro-fusion and freshly caught seafood in Bo Phut’s Fisherman’s Village.

Just south of Chaweng, the hub of Koh Samui's nightlife, Chaweng Noi offers a calmer, more peaceful alternative to its bustling neighbour beach. While Chaweng bristles with watersports enthusiasts and street vendors, not to mention numerous young revellers nursing headaches from the night before, Chaweng Noi (or "little Chaweng"), just around the headland from Koh Samui's most popular beach, is light years away. Pristine, powdery sand, and crystal waters lined with a smattering of upmarket villas and coconut palms offer a welcome respite from the constant buzz of the backpacker crowd.

Located on Koh Samui’s east coast is the beautiful Silver Beach (aka Thongtakian Bay). It’s a fantastic setting for sunbathing, swimming and dining at waterfront restaurants. Silver Beach sits nestled in a protected bay. Popular with families and couples, it offers a more relaxed beach experience to the island’s larger resorts.

The Big Buddha Beach Pier is a large square full of temple complexes built over the Gulf of Thailand. It sticks out from Bang Rak Beach and contains several intriguing stores, restaurants and spiritual structures. Marvel at the iconic golden Big Buddha statue, sitting in a peaceful and meditative Mara posture.