Welcome to Koh Samui 🙂. The most popular attraction and activity in Koh Samui is, of course, hanging out on the beaches. But Samui has a lot more up its sleeve—from hidden temples to jaw-dropping fire shows to refreshingly cool water parks. So if you ever feel like peeling yourself off that soft sand for a bit, here’s the perfect list for you.
Here you’ll find recommendations for:
- Popular temples
- Main markets
- Things to do with families and kids
- Koh Samui for action lovers
- Nature-lover activities
- Koh Samui for couples
🏖️For general info about Koh Samui and its different areas (including a map), click here…
What’s inside:
What to Do in Koh Samui – Top Attractions
1. Temples
Beyond the pristine beaches and lively nightlife, Koh Samui also has a surprisingly rich cultural side—and you’ll see it loud and clear in its stunning temples. These architectural beauties aren’t just easy on the eyes; they’re also a window into the island’s deeply rooted Buddhist traditions. Get ready for towering golden statues, peaceful lakeside sanctuaries, and hidden gems tucked into the rainforest. We already covered the Big Buddha Temple in our must-do list, but here are three more worth your time:
Wat Plai Laem
This is not your “average” Buddhist temple you casually stroll into… :-). Wat Plai Laem is bursting with vibrant color and sits in a super unique spot on a scenic lake that’s packed with fish.
Where it is: Located on Koh Samui’s northeast coast.
What’s special: This gorgeous temple complex sits on a lake with a huge fish population. You can even buy little bags of fish food, then hang out by the shore and watch the colorful chaos swimming around. The temple itself is known for its bold, colorful design and intricate statues.
Who’ll enjoy it: Pretty much everyone. Feeding the fish plus the peaceful vibe makes it an awesome family activity.
How long to visit: Plan for 1–2 hours to explore the complex, feed the fish, and chill by the lake.
Best time to visit: It’s open daily, but mornings are usually less crowded.
Cost: Free entry. Small donation if you buy fish food.
Nearby attractions: Maenam Beach, known for its laid-back vibe and water sports.
Wat Nam Tok Hin Lad (Hin Lad Waterfall Temple)
If you’re craving a little escape… hidden in lush rainforest, Wat Nam Tok Hin Lad feels like a peaceful secret—and you can pair a cultural visit with a refreshing dip at the nearby Hin Lad Waterfall.
Where it is: Located in the south of Koh Samui, near the famous Hin Lad Waterfall.
What’s unique: Set inside dense rainforest, this temple is a refreshing break from the crowds. You can combine the temple visit with a short hike to the waterfall. The temple itself is relatively small, but super serene.
Who’ll enjoy it: Nature lovers and anyone looking for something a little more off the beaten tourist path.
How long to visit: Give yourself 1–2 hours for the waterfall and temple, depending on how long you end up hanging at the falls.
Best time to visit: During the rainy season (roughly September to November) when the waterfall is at its strongest. Just know the trails can get slippery then.
Cost: Free entry to both the temple and the waterfall. There may be a small parking fee.
Nearby attractions: Hin Lad Waterfall—a multi-level waterfall with a natural swimming pool.
Wat Khunaram – A Mummified Monk and a Lesson in Mortality
Wat Khunaram isn’t your typical Buddhist temple—and honestly, most people don’t come here for the temple itself. This unique site is famous for the mummified remains of Luang Pho Daeng, a revered monk who passed away in a meditation pose in 1973. His preserved body (yep, really) is displayed behind glass walls and serves as a powerful reminder of how temporary human life is.
Some believe his body stayed preserved solely because of his almost divine meditation ability.
Beyond the mummified monk: While the monk is the main draw, Wat Khunaram offers a deeper cultural experience. It’s an active temple where locals come to pray and take part in religious rituals. Visitors can observe traditional Buddhist ceremonies, buy amulets and other religious items, and wander the calm temple grounds.
Who’ll enjoy it: Anyone interested in culture and Buddhist traditions, travelers looking for something unique and thought-provoking, or anyone who wants a break from beach mode and a peek at Samui’s spiritual side.
Visit time: Plan 30 minutes to an hour to explore the temple grounds and learn about the significance of the mummified monk.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler and less crowded. Temple hours are usually sunrise to sunset.
Cost: Free entry. Donations are welcome. There may be vendors selling souvenirs outside the temple grounds—bring cash if you want to grab something.
Nearby attractions: Na Muang Waterfalls, Hua Thanon
2. Visiting the Markets
Several tourist areas in Koh Samui host Walking Street markets. They’re an experience all on their own—perfect for soaking up local culture, checking out local products, and taste-testing your way through Thai food.
The Friday night Walking Street market in Fisherman’s Village (Bophut) is the island’s most famous, but you’ve also got great alternatives in Lamai (Sunday), Maenam (Thursday), and Chaweng Night Market (Monday–Saturday). Night markets usually run from around 5 PM to 11 PM. If you want to dodge the crowds, show up right when they open.
Here are some recommendations for markets worth checking out:
Lamai Night Plaza
Where it is: Right in the heart of Lamai Beach. Open daily from evening until late. Here’s a link to the location and details…
What’s unique: This sprawling market has a dazzling mix of everything from local crafts and souvenirs to trendy clothes and beach gear. Live music and street performances crank up the energy.
Who’ll enjoy it: Shoppers and anyone looking for a fun night out. The variety of stalls works for pretty much every budget and style.
Visit time: Give yourself 1–2 hours to browse the huge selection and enjoy the lively vibe.
Best time to visit: Evenings, when the lights and entertainment kick in.
Cost: Free to walk around. Prices for souvenirs and food vary, but they’re generally affordable.
Lamai Sunday Market
Where it is: Held along Lamai Beach Road every Sunday evening.
What’s unique: Dive into Samui’s local scene at this weekend market. You’ll find handmade souvenirs, clothing, and local treats alongside fresh produce and classic Thai street food. Live music and cultural performances add to the authentic charm.
Who’ll enjoy it: Anyone who wants a local experience and a chance to support local makers. It’s a fun peek into Samui’s more traditional day-to-day.
Visit time: Plan 1–2 hours to explore, snack your way through the stalls, and catch some cultural performances.
Best time to visit: Sunday evening—try to arrive before sunset to get the full market vibe.
Cost: Free entry. Prices for souvenirs and food vary, but are usually budget-friendly.
Maenam Morning Market
Where it is: Runs daily along the main road in Maenam, usually from early morning until around 10 AM.
What’s unique: Slide into local daily life at this lively morning market. You’ll find the freshest local produce—exotic fruits, veggies, and seafood that was caught super recently. It’s also a great intro to Thai food traditions, with vendors selling ready-made curries, dips, and local breakfast dishes.
Who’ll enjoy it: Foodies, early risers, and anyone chasing a more authentic Thai experience.
Visit time: 30 minutes to an hour is plenty to browse and soak up the morning atmosphere.
Best time to visit: Early morning before the heat really kicks in.
Cost: Free entry. Produce and food prices are very affordable.
🩴🐠🧸 Read everything you need to know about shopping in Thailand and VAT refunds in this article…
3. Things to Do in Koh Samui with Kids
Koh Samui is one of the most family-loved islands for visitors to Thailand. You get comfort and solid infrastructure on one hand—and stunning nature and beaches on the other. Here are a few ideas for family fun:
Water Parks
There are a few options on the island, with water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and kid-specific zones.
**As of 2024, there’s only one water park currently operating on Koh Samui
The Pink Elephant Water Park
This water park has a mix of slides, pools, and activities for all ages. There’s a giant slide zone, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a kids’ area. There are also restaurants and cafés on-site, so you can grab a quick bite between splash sessions.
Location: Mae Nam, Koh Samui
Hours: Morning to evening.
Cost: For up-to-date info, check their Instagram page…
Note: Since COVID, a lot has changed—so before you go, it’s worth double-checking that parks and attractions are still open and operating.
🐳🏖️😎
You’ll find tons more info about refreshing water parks all across Thailand in this article…
Samui Elephant Sanctuary
This sanctuary puts rescued elephants’ wellbeing first and offers a range of ethical experiences for families. They have two active sanctuaries in two locations on the island—Bophut and Chaweng Noi.
Ethical approach: The sanctuary is strongly focused on elephant welfare. They don’t offer elephant rides or shows—only positive, ethical interaction for families.
Educational programs: They run educational programs for families with kids, helping children learn about elephants, their role in the ecosystem, and the challenges they face.
Interactive activities: Families can take part in activities like watching feeding time, mud bath sessions (weather-dependent), and observing elephants roaming freely in their natural environment.
Good for younger kids: Their approach is ideal for families with younger children who may not be tall/strong enough for certain activities elsewhere.
Cost: Entry fees vary depending on age and the program you choose.
Location: Locations in Bophut and Chaweng Noi.
Nearby:
Bophut: Big Buddha statue (Wat Phra Yai), Fisherman’s Village Bophut
Chaweng Noi: Several waterfalls and viewpoints are located around this area.
Crowds: The sanctuary limits the number of visitors per day to keep things peaceful for the elephants. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season.
Best time to visit: Open year-round, but the dry season (December to April) has more comfortable weather for tours.
For more info, visit their website…
Paradise Park & Mini Zoo
Part farm, part zoo, part botanical garden—Paradise Park gives families a chance to interact with different animals, learn about local plant life, and soak up some seriously gorgeous views. Kids can enjoy bird and monkey shows, ride ponies, and watch fun insect presentations. (Especially great for families with younger kids.)
Check out their Facebook page…
Butterfly Hill
A bright, happy little encounter with butterflies at Butterfly Hill. Families can wander through enclosed gardens, see different butterfly species fluttering all around, and learn about their metamorphosis process. (Perfect for families with younger kids who are into nature.)
Click here for a detailed article about Koh Samui with kids…
Activities for adventurous families
Samui Treetop Adventure
Feel the rush of ziplining through the rainforest canopy. You can glide along different routes and catch breathtaking views of the island. Age and height restrictions apply, so check before you go. (Great for families with older kids and adventurous adults.)
The Sky Fox Cable Ride, also known as Sky Fox Zipline
This is a zipline course that delivers a thrilling adventure for families and adrenaline lovers in Koh Samui.
The course: Sky Fox includes multiple ziplines of different lengths and heights.
Safety: You’ll get quality safety gear and a thorough briefing before you start.
Good for families with older kids: There’s usually a minimum age/height requirement (confirm with the operator before booking), but Sky Fox is generally a good fit for families with older kids who can handle heights and follow safety instructions.
Breathtaking views: As you zip through the rainforest, you’ll be surrounded by dense greenery and sweeping island views. Keep an eye out for interesting birds and other wildlife.
Extra activities: Some Sky Fox packages may include extras like a short rainforest trek or a stop at a nearby waterfall.
Cost: Prices vary by package and duration. Expect around 1,000–2,000 baht per person.
Location: Sky Fox Cable Ride is on the southwest coast of Koh Samui, near Lamai Beach. The exact spot can vary depending on which operator you choose.
Crowds: It can get busy, especially in high season and on weekends. Booking ahead is recommended to avoid long waits.
Best time to visit: The dry season (December to April) is more comfortable for ziplining, but Sky Fox runs year-round.
A gym to learn Thai boxing
Get a dose of Thai culture and take a Muay Thai kickboxing lesson at a gym near you. Many gyms offer intro classes for beginners, making it a fun, unique activity for families with older kids (teens/young adults).
Here’s a full article about Koh Samui with kids, too…
Recommended beaches for family fun:
Lamai Beach:
This beach hits a nice balance between lively and relaxed. Families can swim, sunbathe, build sandcastles, and rent kayaks to explore the calm water. There’s a good mix of restaurants and bars for meals, plus shops selling souvenirs and beach essentials.
Cost: Beach access is free, but expect to pay for activities, rentals, and food/drinks. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are usually a small fee. Kayak rental varies by duration.
Location: The southern coast of Koh Samui.
Nearby: Lamai Walking Street (Fridays), Grandfather and Grandmother rock formations.
Crowds: Less crowded than Chaweng Beach, but still busy in high season and on weekends.
Best time to visit: Weekdays or shoulder season for a more relaxed experience.
Bophut Beach:
This beach has a charming, laid-back vibe. Families can swim, sunbathe, build sandcastles, and explore nearby Fisherman’s Village Bophut with its shops, restaurants, and local markets.
Cost: Free access, but expect to pay for activities, rentals, and food/drinks. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are usually a small fee.
Location: The northern coast of Koh Samui.
Nearby: Fisherman’s Village Bophut, Big Buddha statue (Wat Phra Yai).
Crowds: Less crowded than Chaweng and Lamai, especially on weekdays.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but weekdays feel calmer.
Read more about family-friendly beaches in Koh Samui..
What else can you do with kids in Thailand? Click here…
4. Action Lovers
Here are a few adrenaline-boosting ideas in Koh Samui:
Jet Ski – SPS Marine
Located on Chaweng Beach, SPS Marine offers jet ski rentals for different time lengths.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the jet ski model and rental duration.
Location: Chaweng Beach, near Soi Chaweng 21 (easy access from the main beach road)
Nearby: Chaweng Beach has tons of restaurants, shops, and nightlife options.
Crowds: Chaweng can get crowded, especially in high season. Consider booking your jet ski rental in advance—especially if you’re aiming for peak hours.
Best time to go: Jet skiing is fun year-round, but avoid the hottest part of the day (midday) for a more comfortable ride. Morning or evening tends to be calmer with smoother water.
Wakeboarding or Water Skiing – KC Watersports
Located on Lamai Beach, KC Watersports offers wakeboarding and water skiing lessons and rentals. Instructors can help you learn the basics or level up your current skills in a safe, controlled setting.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the package (lesson vs. rental) and the duration.
Location: Lamai Beach, near Lamai Walking Street (Friday nights)
Crowds: Lamai can get busy, especially in high season. It’s smart to book your lesson ahead of time, especially if you have a specific time slot in mind.
Best time to go: Calmer mornings or evenings usually mean smoother water for wakeboarding and water skiing.
Zipline Over Tropical Jungle – Samui Zipline – Lipanoi
A fantastic activity if you’re chasing an adventure. Whether you’re a thrill seeker or just want a unique way to see Samui’s natural beauty, this zipline course works for a wide range of ages and fitness levels.
They offer two zipline programs: Program A includes 18 zips, with the longest stretching 300 meters. The course has 18 platforms, 4 canopy bridges, exciting spiral staircases around trees, a walk, and fun rappelling. Program B is a shorter option with 16 zips.
Location: Lipa Noi, Koh Samui
Safety level: Expert guides are stationed throughout the course and provide full safety instructions. Everyone is equipped with quality gear and harnesses.
A feast for the senses: As you glide through the rainforest, take in the incredible scenery below. Watch for exotic birds, dense vegetation, and hidden waterfalls.
Who is it for? Action lovers of all ages (kids above a certain height—usually around ages 4–6—can join with adult supervision).
How long does it take? Plan on about 3–3.5 hours.
Best time to visit? Open daily.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the program (A or B).
Opening hours: Daily from morning to afternoon, but it’s best to check updated hours on their Facebook page…
What to bring: Closed-toe shoes with good grip. Bug spray and sunscreen are also a good idea.
Nearby attractions: Lipa Noi Beach, Wat Nam Tok Hin Lad (Hin Lad Waterfall Temple)
Muay Thai Boxing Class – Ko Samui Muay Thai Gym
Located in Bophut, offering Muay Thai classes for all skill levels—from beginners to experienced trainees. Coaches give you the chance to learn authentic Muay Thai techniques.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the class package you choose (single class, multi-day package, etc.).
Location: Bophut, near Fisherman’s Village Bophut
Crowds: Muay Thai gyms can get busy, especially in high season. Booking ahead is recommended—especially if you want more personal attention.
Best time to go: Muay Thai classes are available year-round.
ATV Tours – Samui Adventure Land
Located near Lamai Beach, Samui Adventure Land offers ATV tours for all levels. Explore scenic jungle trails, muddy tracks, and hidden waterfalls. You can choose from several tour types.
Cost: Prices vary by tour length and what’s included (lunch, extra activities).
Location: Near Lamai Beach, accessible by taxi or scooter.
Crowds: ATV tours can book out during high season. Reserve in advance, especially if you have a specific date/time.
Best time to go: The dry season (December to April) usually means better trail conditions, but ATV tours run year-round.
Extra tips: Some activities may have age or height restrictions.
Weather conditions: Some activities can be weather-dependent. Make sure conditions are suitable for your chosen activity on your selected date.
Island Tours with a Twist: Samui Island Adventures
A variety of tours that let you explore the island in a more unique way.
Dirt bike tours: Explore hidden trails, scenic viewpoints, and charming villages on a guided dirt bike adventure. Samui Island Adventures offers tours for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
Jet ski tours: Ride the waves along Koh Samui’s stunning coastline—or head out to hidden coves and secluded beaches on a special jet ski tour.
ATV adventures: Off-road routes in challenging terrain that uncover Koh Samui’s hidden gems in an exciting ATV adventure. They offer tours for all experience levels.
Buggies: These rugged vehicles let you explore back roads and secret spots—and yes, they bring the thrill, too.
Their website…
5. Nature & Waterfalls
Koh Samui is packed with gorgeous nature—on land and in the water :-). Beyond the famous Na Muang Waterfalls (which we covered in our Koh Samui must-do attractions article), here are a few more ideas:
Hin Lad Waterfall
This lovely waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a refreshing break from the hustle. The falls flow into a natural pool—perfect for a cool dip. Hin Lad is also known for its multiple tiers, which make it extra photogenic.
Cost: Free entry
Location: Hin Lad Waterfall is in the southwest part of Koh Samui, close to Lamai Beach.
Getting there: You can get there by public transportation, scooter, or taxi.
Nearby: The waterfall is close to Lamai Beach.
Crowds: It can get a bit crowded, especially in high season.
Wan Wan Waterfall
This hidden gem is ideal if you want something more secluded. Wan Wan Waterfall is clear, cool, and surrounded by lush jungle foliage. The walk to the falls is pretty easy and gives you a chance to enjoy the surrounding nature.
Cost: Free entry
Location: Wan Wan Waterfall is in central Koh Samui, near Namuang Safari Park.
Getting there: Public transportation, taxis, or scooter.
Crowds: Wan Wan tends to get fewer visitors than other waterfalls on this list, so it’s a good option if you’re after a quieter experience.
Nature + Action Together – Tree Bridge Coffee & Zipline Samui
This spot combines a unique café experience with an optional adventure.
Treehouse Cafe: The main attraction is the café itself. Grab coffee or a snack in a cozy treehouse surrounded by thick rainforest canopy. They serve drinks, snacks, and light meals—perfect for relaxing and soaking up the views.
Zipline course: For the adventurous, the café also offers zipline routes. After your coffee, you can fly between the trees and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the island and rainforest.
Waterfall: And if that’s not enough, a short walk from the café takes you to a playful, refreshing waterfall.
Location & getting there – Located up in the hills of Koh Samui, away from the main tourist zones. You can get there by scooter, taxi, or as part of a guided tour.
Cost: Entry fees vary depending on what’s included in your visit.
Coco Tams Fire Show
Coco Tams in Fisherman’s Village (Bophut) is known for its stunning beachfront location—and especially for its super exciting fire shows.
Schedule: The fire show runs twice each evening, usually starting around sunset (around 7:00 PM or later depending on the season). It’s best to check with the restaurant for exact times.
Performance: Skilled performers dancing with flaming clubs, hoops, and other props.
Vibe: Extra lively and fun
Length: Usually about 15–20 minutes.
The restaurant: They offer a variety of food, including pizzas, healthier options, and cocktails.
Tip: Reserve a spot—especially in high season—so you can snag a good view.
Cost: There’s usually no separate entry fee for the show, but it’s expected you’ll order food or drinks from the restaurant.
For updated show times, check their Facebook page…
6. Koh Samui for Couples
The island has plenty of romantic, fun activities that are perfect for couples. Here are a few ideas:
Sunset cruise
Go on a romantic sunset cruise along Koh Samui’s coastline. You’ll get breathtaking views of the islands and that golden glow as the sun drops. Many cruises also include dinner on board…
A few companies offer this in Koh Samui—you can check out Samui Sunset Luxury Cruises (they have an Instagram page…)
Private beach picnic
Set up a picnic on a private stretch of sand at a secluded beach. Lots of local companies create beautiful picnic setups with comfy seating, flowers, and décor.
Food & drinks: Enjoy a pre-made picnic basket packed with gourmet bites, snacks, and drinks (including wine if you want).
There are several providers—try onceuponatimevilla.com, for example.
Couples massage at a spa
Treat yourselves to a luxurious couples massage at a pampering spa. Many spas offer specially designed couples packages so you can relax and unwind together.
Cost: Depends on the level of service and how upscale the place is.
Cooking class for couples
Learn the art of Thai cooking together by joining a cooking class designed for couples. Many cooking schools offer fun, interactive classes where you’ll learn to make traditional Thai dishes.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the course length and what’s included (ingredients, market tour).
Kayaking adventures
Head out together to explore Koh Samui’s hidden coves and mangroves by kayak. It takes teamwork and gives you a close-up look at the island’s natural beauty—at your own pace. Paddle through clear water with gorgeous scenery all around, including limestone cliffs and hidden beaches. You might even spot marine life like fish or crabs along the way.
Romantic sunset: Pair your kayak adventure with a sunset tour…
Cost: Prices vary depending on tour length and the package you pick (lunch, guide).
💗 Keep going and read everything you need to know about honeymooning in Koh Samui…
And here are a few more sunsets from around the island… 🙂