Thailand's third-largest island has white-sand beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant nightlife. Explore Ang Thong National Marine Park or try local dish Moo Kata. A gateway to the Samui archipelago.
Ko Samui, Thailand's second-largest island, is known for its beaches, jungles, and Buddhist temples. You can visit the 12-meter-high golden Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai, hike to Na Muang Waterfalls, or swim at Chaweng Beach. The island also serves as a starting point for trips to Ang Thong National Marine Park and the nearby islands of Koh Tao and Koh Phangan.
Beaches and Water Activities
Ko Samui's coastline has several beaches. Chaweng Beach on the east coast is the island's busiest, with a long stretch of sand and clear waters. Lamai Beach and Maenam Beach are less crowded. You can kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or jet ski at most beaches. Snorkeling and diving trips to nearby coral reefs are also available.
Buddhist Temples
The island has several Buddhist temples. Wat Phra Yai, known as the Big Buddha Temple, has a 12-meter-high golden Buddha statue visible from afar. Wat Plai Laem features a colorful 18-arm statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. At Wat Khunaram, you can see the mummified remains of a revered monk.
Natural Wonders
Ko Samui has many natural attractions. The Na Muang Waterfalls, located in the island's interior, have two cascades with pools for swimming. You can hike through the jungle to reach them. For views of the island and surrounding sea, climb to the viewpoint at Khao Hua Jook Pagoda or explore the Buddha statues in the hilltop Secret Buddha Garden.
Food and Night Markets
Ko Samui has many dining options, from street food stalls to restaurants. Visit the night markets in Chaweng, Lamai, or Bophut's Fisherman's Village to try Thai street food like pad thai, mango sticky rice, and fresh seafood. The Fisherman's Village also hosts a Friday night market with food stalls, handicrafts, and live music.
Getting Around
Ko Samui has an airport with connections to Bangkok and other Thai cities. Many visitors arrive by ferry from the mainland. On the island, you can rent a scooter to explore, but be careful as roads can be busy. Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) and taxis are also available. Many resorts offer shuttle services to popular areas.
Day Trips to Nearby Islands
From Ko Samui, you can explore other parts of the Gulf of Thailand. Take a day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of 42 islands with limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and marine life. Koh Tao has many diving sites accessible by speedboat. Koh Phangan hosts the Full Moon Party and offers a different atmosphere from Ko Samui.
