With miles of stunning scenery, year-round sun and endless cultural sites you’d be forgiven for wondering where to start when you explore Koh Samui.
Here’s part one of our selection of the best things to do in Koh Samui…
Boat Trips in Koh Samui
There’s no better way to see Koh Samui than on water.
The island boasts an array of boat tour operators, ranging from basic boat trips, to luxury yachts. The magical island of Angthong Marine Park can be explored via speed boat, with the option of visiting other islands including Wao, Tai Phow and Mae Kho.
Once on Angthong guests can enjoy pristine beaches, secluded lagoons and stunning viewpoints just a short distance from Koh Samui. For those on a tight budget Koh Samui’s calm waters can be explored by kayak, available for rental for around 200 baht per hour. Other options include paddle-boarding, glass bottom boat tours, sunset cruises and catamaran trips, available from most recommended boat tour operators in Koh Samui.
Cooking Lessons in Koh Samui
When you visit Koh Samui you’re sure to fall in love with the food. Why not bring the taste of Thailand home by checking out the many well-priced cooking classes on the island? Many cooking schools run regular programs which teach an array of Thai cooking skills. Students can learn to make authentic Asian dishes such as tom yam, phad thai, stir fries, curries, spring rolls and spicy salads.
Classes are run by professional chefs and are open to everyone regardless of experience. Aside from the cookery, students will learn about the nutrition benefits of Thai food and how how to source the very best ingredients from the local markets. The best cooking school on the island is the Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts.
Best Beaches in Koh Samui
The picture-perfect island is fringed with some of the best beaches in the world, each offering its own charm and appeal.
Chaweng and Lama
i are the liveliest and popular with tourists, offering endless activities and entertainment at all times of the day and night. Big Buddha, Bo Phut, Choeng Mon and Mae Nam in the north are far more peaceful, making them ideal for families or those in search of rest and relaxation.
On the island’s south and west coast there are plenty of deserted bays to explore – these can be accessed by bike and are a great idea for day trips in Koh Samui.
Temple Tours
Koh Samui may be a small island, but it’s home to more temples than any other island of its kind. Temples in Koh Samui boast a rich religious history, stunning architecture, great viewpoints and an array of interesting exhibits and artefacts.
Temple tours in Koh Samui are a peaceful way to spend the day, making a change from the holiday hubbub on some parts of the island. The Wat Phra Yai, Big Buddha temple is probably the most well-known, soaring 40 feet into the air behind Big Buddha Beach. Many visiting Thais make this their first port of call, lighting incense and laying gifts of food and beverages while praying for a safe and happy visit to the island.
Other popular temples in Koh Samui include the Hin Lad Waterfall Temple set in evergreen tropical jungle close to the Hin Lad Waterfall. Wat Khunaram, home to the body of Samui’s most famous mummified monk Loung Pordaeng and Wat Plai Laem located near the Big Buddha in the north of the island.
Villas in Koh Samui
Koh Samui villas offer sensational vacation accommodation in stunning locations across the island.
Each home offers a range of excellent amenities including private pools, state-of-the-art entertainment, multiple bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms and so much more.
Villas in Koh Samui are conveniently located close to all of Koh Samui’s towns, beaches and attractions. For more information about booking a Koh Samui vacation contact Samui Island Villas.
