What to do in Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand is easily one of my top 3 favorite countries I have ever visited. From the picturesque blue waters and delicious food to the limestone rock structures and joyful people, the beaches there are unparalleled. Thailand is a top destination for a reason. It is absolutely dreamy and it MUST be on your bucket list. There are so many cities in Thailand worth visiting, but I will always have a soft spot for Koh Samui. We spent our 2nd wedding anniversary there and were instantly captivated. We loved it so much we kept going back. Now, after many trips I’ve finally compiled a full list of what to do in Koh Samui!

Itinerary

• You don’t need an itinerary in Koh Samui. Simply soak up the sun and enjoy exploring this beautiful island!

Airport/Train Stations

• Samui International Airport USM (airport)
• Ferry

Hotel

• Airbnb
• HomeAway
• Booking.com

Restaurants

• In my opinion, the best Thai food is actually straight from the small street vendors/carts or beach carts. If it looks a bit sketchy, it’s probably good.  My favorite little street “restaurants” were located right by the local street markets just a few blocks inland from the beach. Ask locals where they eat or where they recommend eating. Their suggestions are always the best. I also love the grilled corn on the cob.
• Chez François {French}
• Dining on the Rocks {Fushion}
• Kob Thai {Thai}
• Phensiri Thai Restaurant {Thai} :: family run
• Saffron {Thai}
• Tree Tops Sky Dining {French & Mediterranean}

Transportation

• Motorbike {terrifying, but definitely the best way to explore!}
• Songthaew {pickup truck taxi- they have specific routes & you hop on and off}

Recommendations

• Simply rent a motorbike and ride all around the island. You will find beautiful beaches, waterfalls, views and so, so much more!
• Get a massage on the beach
• Try durain. It’s the stinkiest fruit you will ever smell and it’s actually illegal to bring in some airports and ferry stations due to the smell. But it’s hard to find this fruit in most other countries, so it’s worth trying!
• Favorite beaches
  • Bophut Beach
  • Chaweng Beach {crowded, but beautiful}
  • Choeng Mon Beach
  • Lamai Beach {crowded, but beautiful}
  • Mae Nam Beach
•  What to see:
  • Big Buddha
  • Namuang Waterfall
  • Wat Plai Laem
• Areas to explore:
  •  Bophut’s Fisherman’s Village
  • Chaweng Beach {touristy shopping & restaurants}
  • Lamai Beach {touristy shopping & restaurants}
• Other things to do:
  • Shop the night markets
  • Take a cooking class
  • Take a boat and explore other islands
  • Take a boat and explore the nearby caves
  • Take a boat to Ang Thong Marine Park

Other

• Be sure to “wai” when you meet someone to show respect {hands together and slightly bow}
• Be sure to bring or buy a shawl of some kind to cover your shoulders and knees if you want to go into a temple

I’ll be sharing suggestions for all of my other favorite Thai cities soon! In the meantime, you can see what cities I recommend visiting here.

Did I miss anything?
What would you add to the list or what would you like to know more about?