The Top 5 Must-Do’s in Koh Samui
By Lifestyle+Travel
Known for its tropical charm, Koh Samui has elevated its reputation to a world-class destination, offering an authentic local essence fused with luxury experiences.
With endless palm-fringed beaches, lush mountainous rainforests, and a selection of high-end resorts and villas, Koh Samui has everything to fulfill your dream tropical getaway.
Koh Samui
This laid-back island appeals to travelers of all budgets and offers a wide range of activities for the whole family. Whether you’re craving amazing food, charming local markets, island tours, nature activities, or cultural sites, Koh Samui delivers.
With so much to explore, it can be hard to plan the perfect itinerary. Here are the top 5 must-do experiences when visiting Koh Samui:
1. Must Taste
For lovers of Thai cuisine, fresh seafood is abundant, and local restaurants serve southern specialties alongside beloved classics. Be sure to try Wai-Kua (squid with herbs in coconut milk), Moo-Ko (braised pork belly), and sweet treats like Kanom-Ko (sugar dumplings with young coconut) and Kalame (a Thai caramel-like toffee).
Koh Samui is also home to several fine dining restaurants—many recognized by the Michelin Guide—perfect for a memorable holiday meal.
Wai-Kua
Kalame
2. Must Try
Koh Samui is a premier destination for spa and wellness. Unwind with signature coconut oil treatments, refresh your mind and body, or find inner peace through meditation in stunning natural settings. Samui offers a rejuvenating experience like no other.
Animal lovers shouldn’t miss the award-winning Koh Samui Elephant Sanctuary, where you can interact with rescued elephants in an ethical and respectful environment.
spa and wellness
3. Must Buy
Visit OTOP (One Tambon One Product) markets for a unique shopping experience. These local markets offer traditional crafts, handmade goods, Thai snacks, and coconut oil. Supporting OTOP means supporting local communities while discovering authentic cultural products.
OTOP
4. Must Seek
For thrill-seekers, Koh Samui offers plenty of adventure and excitement. Try the Samui Zipline Adventure, embark on a Wild Jungle Safari Tour, or explore iconic attractions like Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, Namuang Waterfall, Buddha’s Magic Garden, and the Big Buddha Temple.
Temple
Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks
5. Must See
Ang Thong National Marine Park is a breathtaking escape just off Koh Samui’s coast, featuring over 40 idyllic islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Hike to the Pha Jan Jarus viewpoint, kayak through hidden lagoons, or snorkel among vibrant marine life. With a bit of luck, you might spot a Bryde’s whale or a southern dusky leaf monkey.
Ang Thong National Marine Park
How to Get to Koh Samui
Koh Samui is accessible by air, bus, and ferry. The fastest and most convenient way to get there from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, or Krabi is by direct flight, with multiple daily flights available.
Koh Samui
Tourism Authority of Thailand: Koh Samui Office
370 Moo 3, Tambol Angthong, Amphoe Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140
Email: tatsamui@tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 7742 0504
Facebook: TAT Koh Samui x Koh Phangan x Koh Tao
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