Things to Do in Koh Samui: Beyond the Beach

Ang Thong Marine National Park

The standout day trip from Koh Samui. An archipelago of 42 uninhabited limestone islands 30km north of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. The landscape — karst islands, sea caves, and turquoise lagoons — is more dramatic than anything around Koh Samui itself.

Highlights of the day trip:

• Sea kayaking through cave tunnels into the Emerald Lake (Thale Nai) — an enclosed saltwater lagoon inside an island
• Viewpoint hike on Ko Wua Talab (the main island) — 430 steps to a panorama of the entire archipelago
• Snorkelling off the boat at a shallow reef
• Beach lunch on Ko Wua Talab

Day trips by speedboat: ฿1,500–2,000 from Bang Rak or Na Thon pier, including equipment, lunch, and national park fee. Departs 8am, returns 5pm. The park is closed June–October when seas are rough.

Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)

On a small island (Ko Fan) connected to the northeast coast by a causeway. The 12-metre golden seated Buddha visible from much of the northeast coast is one of Koh Samui’s most photographed landmarks. The temple is active — remove shoes, dress appropriately. A market of souvenir stalls lines the causeway approach. Free entry. Best light in the afternoon. Gets busy midday with tour groups.

Na Muang Waterfalls

In the forested centre of Koh Samui, accessible by scooter from most beach areas (20–30 minutes). There are two separate falls:

Na Muang 1 — A 20-minute signposted walk from the car park. The falls drop about 18 metres into a pool. Busier and easier to reach.

Na Muang 2 — A 30-minute hike along a forested track (some scrambling). Requires more effort but has a better natural pool for swimming and fewer people. The trail has some slippery sections — wear closed shoes.

Both are free to access. Parking area has a cafe and souvenir stalls.

Koh Phangan day trip

The most affordable day out. Regular ferries from Ban Rak pier to Koh Phangan (30 minutes, ฿200 one-way) run throughout the day. On Koh Phangan, rent a scooter (฿150/day) and explore Thong Nai Pan beach (northeast coast), Had Yao, or the area around Thong Sala. An easy, inexpensive day that gives a feel for the next island without committing to a ferry move.

Alternatively, speedboat day trips from Koh Samui visit several Koh Phangan beaches in a half-day circuit (฿600–900 per person).

Samui Elephant Sanctuary

An ethical sanctuary in the island’s interior (no riding, no shows). Less well-known than the Chiang Mai equivalents but with comparable standards. Half-day visits include forest walking with the herd and a river bath. ฿2,500–3,200 including transport from any Samui hotel. Book in advance.

Wat Plai Laem

A large and colourful contemporary temple on the northeast coast near Ban Rak pier. The 18-armed Guanyin (Chinese goddess of mercy) statue at the centre of a pond is the most striking feature. A popular spot for Buddhist merit-making and Chinese-Thai temple ceremonies. Free entry, no formal dress code (though respectful clothing is appreciated).

Cooking classes

Several schools run half-day Thai cooking classes starting with a market visit, then 4–5 dishes. The Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts (Chaweng) and the Baan Suankow Cooking School (Bophut) are the most established. Cost: ฿1,500–2,500 per person.