Koh Samui, Thailand, Travel Guides

The 10 best things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand

Posted by Lauren Fowler on

Weโ€™ve called Koh Samui home for nearly three years now, and in that time, weโ€™ve been lucky enough to explore just about every corner of this island paradise. From unforgettable excursions to hidden gems and local favourites, weโ€™ve tried it all, and now weโ€™re sharing our best things to do in Koh Samui to help you plan the ultimate island adventure. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks, these are the activities we personally recommend after years of living, exploring, and loving life on Samui.

Just a heads-up: some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through themโ€”at no extra cost to you! Prices were correct at the time of writing (July 2023).

BOAT TRIPS FROM KOH SAMUI

1. Hop aboard the Red Dragon Yacht and visit Ang Thong the National Marine Park

Photo of the Blue Lagoon taken from a high viewpoint, surrounded by trees.
Interior photo of the Red Dragon Yacht, showing a comfy blue lounge area and decorated with red cushions.
A drone view of six canoes exploring an enclosed area, clear turquoise water and high cliffs surrounding.
A shot of the Red Dragon Yacht, next to it's smaller sister yacht. The red dragon yacht has a huge red main sail up, and you can clearly see the relaxation area on deck which includes a jacuzzi.
Duration: 8h 30m
from เธฟ4,000 (ยฃ89/โ‚ฌ103/$114/AU$170) per adult

Set sail in style on the Red Dragon Classic Thai Yacht, a stunning 78ft teak wood yacht. And if the boat looks familiar, thatโ€™s because it makes a star appearance in White Lotus Season 3!

A full-day luxury sailing trip to Ang Thong Marine Park includes a light breakfast and a delicious buffet lunch, and even a PADI-certified snorkelling guide to help you explore the colourful marine life. Everythingโ€™s taken care ofโ€”Wi-Fi, transport, insurance, meals, snorkelling gear, life vests, towels, and even proper restroom facilities onboard.

One of the highlights? A stop at Ko Mae Ko, home to the famous Emerald Lake (aka the โ€œBlue Lagoonโ€) that inspired The Beach. And because the Red Dragon is the last boat allowed to visit, youโ€™ll often have the place all to yourself.

On the way back, you can lounge on deck, hop in the jacuzzi, sip a cold drink, and enjoy a stunning sunset. Itโ€™s the perfect end to a truly unforgettable day.

Please note that the marine park admission fee (เธฟ300 for adults and เธฟ150 for children), sea kayaking rental fee (เธฟ250 per person), and corkage fee (เธฟ300 per person) for bringing your own drinks are not included.

2. Visit Coral & Pig Island (Koh Madsum) by Longtail Boat

A bright sunny day, with blue skies and crystal clear turquoise waters, with a yellow and red longtail boat in front.
A clear image of three of the pigs on the beach, the one closest to the camera is a pale brown and looking at the camera, the other two are darker in colour and snuffling in the sand.
Beautiful blue skies, stunning turquoise waters and pale sand with two longtail boats in shot.
ยฃ40 per person (โ‚ฌ46/$51/AU$76)

If you’re up for a fun day out, this island-hopping adventure is such a great way to explore some of the prettiest spots around Samui. Youโ€™ll get to snorkel over colourful coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and of course, meet the adorable pigs on Pig Island (Koh Madsum).

You’ll be picked up from your accommodation before heading down to Thong Krut Pier in the south of the island. From there, youโ€™ll hop on a boat over to Koh Madsum to hang with the pigs, then cruise on to Koh Tean, where you can swim, snorkel, kayak, or just chill on the beach before tucking into a tasty traditional Thai lunch.

After a chilled afternoon, itโ€™s time to head back to the pier and return to your hotel.

Highlights of the trip:

  • Snorkelling with tropical fish around Koh Tean
  • Taking selfies with the island pigs at Koh Madsum
  • Relaxing on the pristine beaches of Koh Tean
  • Kayaking through crystal-clear waters
  • Enjoying a delicious Thai lunch with a view

3. Join Mr Tu for a day of Sea Fishing

A side view image of Mr Tu's Fishing Boat with 7 rods attached to the side of the boat. From here you can see the red painted deck and rope and anchor.
ยฃ30.00 per person (โ‚ฌ35/$39/AU$57)

Mr Tuโ€™s fishing day trip takes you off the tropical coast of Koh Samui and into the prime fishing territory of the Gulf of Thailand. Your vessel with a friendly and experienced crew will have all the equipment you will need to fish for local species, from rods and lines down to baits and lures.

You will be collected from your accommodation and taken to Phu Yai Non Pier. Then you’ll head out to the first fishing spot where your guide will give you practical tips about line fishing to catch local fish such as barracuda, trevally and snapper.

After a morning of fishing, a buffet lunch of Thai soup, grilled fish, rice and fresh tropical fruits will be provided. Weather permitting, the crew may stop for a brief swim/snorkel before returning to the pier and taking you back to your hotel.

Please note: It is not guaranteed that you can catch fish and any fish you do catch will be used as part of the lunch menu. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, infants under 6 years, people over 65 years or people with back or neck problems. During check-in you will need to provide your name and passport number for the insurance forms so please remember your passport or bring a photocopy of the passport ID page on the day of the trip.

AFTERNOON ADVENTURES IN KOH SAMUI

4. Visit an ethical Elephant Sanctuary

A blonde woman in a pink top appears to high-five a smiling elephant.
A close up of an African elephant who has her trunk in her mouth.
An Asian elephant faces the camera, she is climbing out of the pool after taking a swim, her handler is stood to her left.
Two Asian elephants submerged in the pool, one has her trunk sticking out of the water and the other has her tail sticking out of the water.
A blonde woman in a green top and long black trousers hands a banana to a small Asian elephant who is stood under a large umbrella for shade.
Duration: 4 HOURS
ยฃ86 (โ‚ฌ100/$111/AU$164)

Meet rescued Thai and African elephants at Samui Elephant Sanctuary in Bophut. Here you will spend the day learning all about these beautiful and gentle giants, help to prepare their favourite foods, feed them some of their favourite fruits and watch them play in the mud and bathe in the ponds by themselves on a half-day tour with hotel transfers and a buffet lunch included.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TRIP:
  • Helping to prepare the elephant’s favourite rice balls and ‘elephant sushi’
  • Feeding the rescue elephants lots of fresh watermelon and bananas
  • Learning all about these gentle giants from an experienced tour guide
  • Watching them freely play in the water and in the mud
  • Enjoy delicious vegetarian buffet lunch, snacks & drinks

Please note that the activities do not offer bathing and mud spa with the elephants, the practice of bathing elephants is not ethical and should be avoided.

I have previously written about our experience of visiting the Samui Elephant Sanctuary, check it out:

Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Koh Samui

5. Take part in a farm-to-table Thai cooking class

A man with a beard is cutting up freshly cooked spring rolls, he wears a dark blue cooking apron and there is a green bottle of beer in the foreground.
An angled shot of a selection of vegetables laid out ready for preparation, including carrot, onion, cabbage and mushrooms.
A young Thai woman carefully deep fries spring rolls in a large wok over a camping stove.
A selection of eight Thai dishes, arranged in colourful bowls including a papaya salad, tofu soup, green curry and rice.
A man with a beard cooks a red curry and is holding a large spoon which he uses to stir the sauce.
Lots of crunchy spring rolls presented around a scallop edged dish of sweet chilli sauce, in the background there is a green bottle of Chang beer.
Duration: 4 hours
ยฃ57 per person (โ‚ฌ67/$74/AU$109)

Spend a day with Chef Lat at Island Organics’ private jungle location and learn the secrets of a sustainable lifestyle. Explore the organic gardens where 70+ types of fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown and harvest your own produce.

During the class, you will learn four classic Thai recipes as well as some fundamental Thai cooking skills such as making curry pastes from scratch, how coconut cream is made, and how to prepare herbal drinks. Then sit down, relax and enjoy all of the delicious Thai food you have helped to prepare.

We have previously been on a similar experience in Krabi and it’s the perfect activity for anyone who wants to learn more about Thai food and cooking and take away the knowledge that allows you to prepare these dishes at home.

Please note that the photos are from our experience in Krabi and the dishes prepared with Chef Lat may be different to those pictured.

6. Fly through the jungle at Tree Bridge Cafe & Zipline

A rope bridge, surrounded by many trees and foliage leading to a small wooden building in the background.
Two men flying through the trees on a zipline, the one in front appears to be holding a GoPro camera, the one in the background is hanging upside down with his legs spread wide and he looks to be shouting with a smile on his face.
Duration: 4 HOURS
FROM ยฃ55 (โ‚ฌ64/$71/AU$104) per adult

Attention thrillseekers and nature lovers get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ziplining adventure that will take you soaring through the jungle, revealing breathtaking views and even a hidden waterfall along the way.

At Tree Bridge Cafe And Zipline, you’ll experience an array of heart-pounding activities designed to push you out of your comfort zone. Picture yourself elevated on platforms or zipping through the jungle like a true adventurer. If that’s not enough excitement, there’s also abseiling, daring sky bridge walks, and even more ziplines lined up for you!

Safety is the top priority and the highly trained team will guide you every step of the way, using only state-of-the-art equipment.

7. Get adventurous with X-Quad Samui

Two people drive a red quad bike through a large puddle in the jungle, sending water flying everywhere.
Three quad bikes being driven through the jungle.
Prices start from ยฃ50.65 (โ‚ฌ59/$66/AU$97) per person

Embark on an exhilarating adventure like no other as you take an ATV quad bike deep into the heart of the jungle, revealing hidden waterfalls and treating yourself to awe-inspiring views of Koh Samui.

You start by being collected from your hotel and whisked away on a 4-wheel truck up the picturesque Samui hill. From there, it’s time to jump on your ATV and hit the track.

Venture through the lush rainforest and navigate the winding hillside trails, gradually ascending to the highest point of Koh Samui. Once at the peak, get ready to have your breath taken away by the panoramic views overlooking Kamai Bay. But the adventure doesn’t end there!

You’ll then be treated to a delicious Thai lunch, recharging your energy for the rest of the ride. Continue your expedition as you pass through thick jungles, conquer more hills, and make a refreshing stop at a hidden waterfall, where you can cool off in the water.

This ATV tour promises an adrenaline-pumping, picturesque, and unforgettable experience. So, are you ready to rev up your engines and explore the untamed beauty of Koh Samui?

RELAXING RETREATS IN KOH SAMUI

8. Treat yourself to a Herbal Spa Experience

The welcome sign outside the spa which is surrounded by beautiful green gardens and purple flowers.
A shot of the massage room, including two large and comfortable looking beds, decorated in traditional Thai style - dark wood detail and views across the garden.
Signature oil massages start from ยฃ33.45 (โ‚ฌ39/$44/AU$64) for 60 minutes Packages start from ยฃ70.95 (โ‚ฌ82.50/$93/AU$136) and last for 155 minutes

Enhance your Koh Samui holidays with the ultimate pampering experience at Eranda Herbal Spa! Nestled in a stunning location, this spa is renowned for its luxurious natural treatments that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and utterly indulged.

Unwind and spoil yourself with one of the exclusive Samui Sensation or Oriental Option packages. Where you can enjoy a 30-minute herbal steam and enjoy the plunge pool, followed by a 90-minute Eranda signature massage and finally a 35-minute facial or foot massage & a complimentary refreshment.

And to make your experience even more seamless, a convenient round-trip transfer between your hotel and the spa is included. So, all you need to do is sit back and relax.

9. Enjoy sunrise paddleboarding yoga at Bangrak Beach

A shot of a woman in a long-sleeved top sitting on a paddleboard out in the ocean with the sun appearing over the mountains in the distance.
Photo by Lam Phn on Pexels.com
ยฃ30.00 (โ‚ฌ35/$40/AU$58) per person

Prepare for an unforgettable experience combining tranquillity, yoga, and stand-up paddleboarding! If you’ve ever dreamed of striking a perfect downward-facing dog while floating gracefully on the water, this is your chance!

You’ll be guided by a friendly, knowledgeable, and certified SUP instructor, who will teach you all the basics of standing up on your paddleboard to ensure you feel comfortable and confident. Then you’ll have the opportunity to try out some simple yoga poses, to connect with your inner self and embrace a sense of peace and mindfulness.

10. Spend your day relaxing at a beach club

A man with a beard in a black and white printed shirt is standing in front of a turquoise swimming pool that has large bright orange beanbags in the background for relaxing by the pool and overlooking the sea.
A beach bar with beautiful views of the sea, the tables are shabby chic in style, wood with white detail and lots. of bamboo decor.
A man with a beard in a red printed shirt sits inside a 1950s style restaurant with a neon sign in the background saying Live To Eat.
A picture of a large wooden tray with a wood covered menu and two glasses of beer, in the background a calm and beautiful swimming pool with two blue floating beanbags and lots of loungers and umbrellas surrounding.

Koh Samui has some incredible beach clubs, check out our previous blog where I share our favourite 7 beach clubs around the island. Whichever one you choose to visit expect comfortable loungers, delicious cocktails, incredible food and a great vibe.

https://traveleatsleeprepeat.co.uk/2023/01/25/the-best-beach-clubs-in-koh-samui

EVENING ENTERTAINMENT IN KOH SAMUI

Tuna pasta dish with olives, capers and freshly grated parmesan
A screen capture from a fire show, a man swings a large ball of fire around in circles creating the effect of a firework.
A shot of small plates of bar snacks on a wooden board, a glass of bright orange Aperol sits to the right and there is the perfect view of the sea at dusk.
A man with a beard smiles for the camera and lifts a glass of red wine. Behind him is a neon sign which says The Shack Bar in Red, Green & Blue.
A steaming pot sits on a bright orange dish, on top sits sizzling chicken pieces. To the left is a beautifully presented dish of papaya salad with a bright pink crisp sitting on top.

After your day of adventure (or relaxation) you won’t want to miss out on a delicious evening meal, we highly recommend visiting Fisherman’s Village for some exceptional restaurants, live music, exploring the night market (Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, & Sun) and enjoying the nightly fire shows on the beach.

Check out our blog below for more details:

The best restaurants in Fisherman’s Village, Bophut, Koh Samui 2023

Click here for more Koh Samui tips & guides. And if you’re heading to Thailand and want to know more, why not subscribe? We aim to post something new every week.

Until next time,

signed-laus-and-carlos

WHILE YOUโ€™RE HERE WHY NOT CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR PREVIOUS POSTS FOR TRAVEL TIPS & INSPIRATION

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