Things to Do in Ko Samui: 2025 Travel Guide

"I just don't think at this age, I'm meant to live an uncomfortable life. I don't have the will."
— Victoria Ratliff, The White Lotus Season 3

If you’ve ever felt that too… Ko Samui gets it.

Tropical and laid-back with a splash of luxury, this island is the kind of place where time slows down but surprises are around every corner. From palm-lined beaches to jungle-covered hills, ancient temples to late-night beach bars, it’s got range.

And if the backdrop looks familiar, that’s because Season 3 of The White Lotus was filmed right here. So yes, you can live out your main character moment. Minus the drama. Well… hopefully.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best things to do in Ko Samui. Think island-hopping day trips, secret viewpoints, street food that slaps, and practical tips on when to go, how to get around, and what not to miss.

Let’s get into it 

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Island Highlights Worth the Hype

Ang Thong National Marine Park

Why it’s special: A breathtaking archipelago of 42 islands featuring emerald lagoons, limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches. It's a haven for snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking enthusiasts. ​See the official Ang Thong Marine Park visitor info here.

What to know:

• Activities: Kayak along the coastline of Koh Mae Koh, paddle under towering limestone cliffs, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. ​Tripadvisor 
• Best time to visit: February to October for calmer seas and clearer skies.​
• Tour options: Various operators offer day trips, including speedboat tours with snorkeling and kayaking. ​
• Insider tip: For a more serene experience, consider a weekday visit to avoid weekend crowds.​
  
  

Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

Why it’s special: Perched on the small island of Koh Phan, connected to Ko Samui by a causeway, the Big Buddha Temple is home to a majestic 12-meter golden Buddha statue in the Mara posture, symbolizing steadfastness and purity. Constructed in 1972, it stands as one of Ko Samui's most revered landmarks, visible from several kilometers away. ​

What to know:

• Location: Situated on Koh Phan, off the northeastern coast of Ko Samui, accessible via Route 4171. ​Thailand Magazine 
• Visiting hours: Open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. ​
• Dress code: Visitors are expected to dress modestly. Shirts or scarves should cover the shoulders, and trousers or long shorts are recommended. Beachwear is not permitted. ​
• Best time to visit: Early morning visits are ideal to experience the temple's serene atmosphere and observe local devotees bringing offerings. ​
  
  

Insider tips:

• Cultural etiquette: Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings. It's customary to avoid pointing your feet towards Buddha images, as it's considered disrespectful. ​
• Photography: While photography is allowed, be respectful and avoid disrupting worshippers. The temple is especially photogenic during sunrise and sunset.​
  
• Nearby attractions: Combine your visit with nearby Wat Plai Laem, known for its striking 18-armed Guanyin statue and serene lake setting
  
  

Secret Buddha Garden

Why it’s special: Nestled atop Pom Mountain in Ko Samui's interior, the Secret Buddha Garden, also known as Tarnim Magic Garden , is a tranquil sanctuary adorned with mystical statues amidst lush jungle. Created in 1976 by local fruit farmer Nim Thongsuk, the garden showcases his artistic vision and spiritual devotion through a collection of sculptures depicting deities, animals, and humans in various poses. ​

What to know:

• Accessibility: Located in the island's interior, the garden is accessible via steep and winding roads. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the challenging terrain. ​
  
• Entry fee: Approximately 80 THB (~€2). ​
  
• Opening hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. ​
  
• Additional tip: Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Overlap Stone for more stunning views. ​Tripadvisor 

Cultural significance: The garden serves as a place of spiritual significance and cultural heritage, offering a serene environment for meditation and reflection. ​

The White Lotus in Ko Samui

Why it’s special:
Ko Samui was chosen as the filming location for Season 3 of The White Lotus, with its cinematic coastline, luxury resorts, and lush landscapes setting the scene. While the exact shooting locations remain under wraps, the island’s natural beauty and upscale feel made it a perfect match for the show’s signature atmosphere.
Source: The Independent

Where to stay:
If you’re looking to recreate the experience, resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui or Banyan Tree Samui deliver the same elevated setting and attention to detail the show is known for.

Other ways to experience it:
Not staying overnight? Many of these resorts offer fine dining, beachfront cocktail hours, or luxury spa treatments open to non-guests. It's a great way to dip into that five-star energy without booking a suite.

Insider note:
Some tour companies have started marketing “White Lotus” filming location experiences, though details are mostly speculative for now. If you’re curious, ask locally once you arrive, hotel concierges are often the best source for up-to-date info.

Best Beaches in Ko Samui

Looking for the perfect beach? Ko Samui’s coastline has something for every kind of traveller, whether you're chasing cocktails or craving quiet. Here’s where to go depending on the kind of day you want.

Chaweng Beach

Best for: Nightlife, people-watching, and beach bars that go until late.

This is Ko Samui’s most popular beach for a reason. Think soft white sand, jet skis, fire shows, and sunset mojitos. It’s buzzy and a little chaotic in the best way. If you want action, this is where to base yourself.

Lamai Beach

Best for: Families and a more relaxed pace.

Quieter than Chaweng but still well set up with shops, restaurants, and massage spots along the sand. The water is calm, the vibe is easygoing, and there’s enough going on without feeling hectic.

Silver Beach

Best for: Hidden gem hunters.

Also known as Crystal Bay, this small stretch of sand is tucked between Lamai and Chaweng and feels like a secret spot. Think clear water, granite boulders, and a calm cove perfect for swimming or a slow snorkel.

Maenam Beach

Best for: Peace, quiet, and a proper digital detox.

Up on the northern coast, Maenam is long, laid-back, and way less developed. It’s ideal if you want space to yourself, especially at sunrise. You’ll find a few cafés and local resorts, but no party crowds here.

Day Trips and Island Hopping from Ko Samui

Looking for things to do in Ko Samui beyond the main island? There’s no shortage of day trips worth adding to your itinerary. From diving hotspots to laid-back escapes, here are a few favourites.

Koh Tao

Best known as the scuba diving capital of Thailand, Koh Tao is perfect for underwater adventures. Whether you're getting certified or just snorkelling off the beach, the marine life here is incredible. Day trips run regularly from Ko Samui.

Koh Phangan

Famous for its full moon parties, this island has become a destination in its own right. But beyond the party scene, there are waterfalls, yoga retreats, and quiet beaches if you know where to look. Ferries and boat tours leave Ko Samui daily.

Tean Island

If you're craving something low-key and off the tourist trail, Tean Island offers a peaceful escape. It’s small, undeveloped, and ideal for those who want a beach day without the buzz.

To book tours or transfers, platforms like Scoot, Agoda, and GetYourGuide are popular for comparing options and checking real-time availability.

Food and Drink in Ko Samui

One of the most rewarding things to do in Ko Samui is eat. Whether you’re into local street food or looking for a beachfront fine dining experience, the island delivers.

Must-try dishes
Khao Soi, Pad Kra Pao, and grilled seafood are staples. Many spots also serve regional Southern Thai dishes with bold spices and fresh herbs.

Where to eat
Fisherman’s Village night market is a great starting point for street food. You’ll also find beachside restaurants in Bophut and Lamai, and guided food tours that introduce you to local favourites. Agoda and Booking.com offer restaurant and tour listings with reviews to help you narrow things down.

Wellness, Retreats and Unique Places to Stay

For travellers searching for more mindful or luxurious things to do in Ko Samui, there’s a growing wellness scene worth exploring.

Yoga retreats and holistic spas are found across the island, especially around Lamai and Maenam. Many offer drop-in classes or full-day wellness packages, often with sea views.

If you’re after a standout stay, the Four Seasons Ko Samui and boutique hotels nestled in the jungle or right on the beach provide a mix of privacy and style. Even if you're not staying there, many allow day access for spa treatments or sunset dinners.

For something more immersive, try a Muay Thai class or a local cooking workshop. These cultural experiences give a deeper connection to the island, while still feeling relaxed and enjoyable.

The filming of The White Lotus in Ko Samui has also added to the demand for luxury travel here. You can recreate that aesthetic with panoramic villas, jungle spas, and curated experiences that bring a cinematic feel to your stay.

Ko Samui Practical Tips 

How do I get to Ko Samui?
Ko Samui has its own airport (USM) operated by Bangkok Airways, with direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Singapore. Scoot also operates flights from Singapore.
If you're travelling from the mainland, ferries leave from Donsak Pier in Surat Thani and arrive at Nathon or Lipa Noi piers

When is the best time to visit Ko Samui?
The dry season runs from December to April, offering the most sunshine and calm seas. May and June can also be pleasant with fewer tourists. October and November are typically the rainiest months.

What’s the weather like in Ko Samui?
Ko Samui has a tropical climate with high humidity and warm temperatures year-round, usually between 28°C and 32°C. 

Is Ko Samui expensive?
Ko Samui offers options for every budget. Local food, markets, and public transport are very affordable, while luxury resorts and fine dining can push costs up.

Final Thoughts on Ko Samui

Ko Samui isn’t just another beach destination. It’s a place where quiet mornings, spontaneous day trips, and unexpected moments come together. One minute you’re swimming in a hidden cove, the next you’re sipping something cold at sunset, watching the island slow down around you.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always something else to uncover. From scuba diving and temple visits to food markets, yoga classes, and island-hopping, the best things to do in Ko Samui are the ones that make you feel a little more present.

Before you go, check out our Thai eSIM plans and find the right eSIM for your trip. If you're visiting in April, our Songkran festival guide will walk you through what to expect during Thailand’s biggest celebration.

Book a few things in advance, keep an eye on the forecast, and travel light. Ko Samui has everything else covered.

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