What to Do in Koh Samui: A Wellness Travel Guide

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Looking for what to do in Koh Samui for wellness and relaxation? Look no further than this Koh Samui travel blog for the best things to do in Koh Samui to rest and unwind, plus everything you need to know to start planning your trip right now.

Koh Samui was the last stop of our Thailand 2-week itinerary. After Bangkok and Chiang Mai, we wanted to spend some time relaxing on the beach and Koh Samui was the perfect choice for some idyllic moments.

But there’s so much more to do and see in Koh Samui than its beautiful beaches. We stayed for 6 days and couldn’t get enough of it.

 

Read More:

• Top 12 Best Yoga Retreats in Thailand

 

Best Time to Visit Koh Samui

The best time to visit Koh Samui and the lower Gulf of Thailand is from February to August, when there’s plenty of sunshine and rain is scarce. From October to December it’s monsoon season, with torrential rains.

So if you’re traveling during the northern hemisphere’s spring or summer months like we did, and want to avoid the rainy season in the Andaman Coast, Koh Samui is a safe choice.

 

Getting Around Koh Samui

The easiest and cheapest way to get around Koh Samui is to rent a car or a scooter and explore independently and at your own pace. Make sure you’re confident driving a scooter and on the left side of the road though – Thailand does have one of the highest rates of road accident deaths in the world, so wear a helmet and keep safe at all times.

If you don’t feel like driving, you can rent a car with a driver and take a half-day or full-day tour of the island, with the advantage of having a local show you all the best spots. That’s what we did, and we had a great day exploring Koh Samui top attractions.

For shorter rides, get a taxi or a songthaew, Koh Samui’s version of public transportation. In both cases, remember to negotiate the price beforehand.

And now, without further ado, here’s what to see in Koh Samui:

 

Best Things to Do in Koh Samui:

#1 Admire the Temple of the Big Buddha

Start your Koh Samui itinerary admiring the impressive Temple of the Big Buddha, one of the island’s most popular tourist attractions.

Located on a small island connected to Samui with a causeway, the temple features a golden, 12 meters high sitting Buddha.

Around the temple, there are food stalls and souvenir shops, as well as some lovely art sculptures inspired by the Thai epic poem Phra Aphai Mani.

 

#2 Visit Bo Phut’s Fisherman’s Village

Bo Phut’s Fisherman’s Village was one of my favorite places in Koh Samui.

Once a fishing community, today this picturesque village is home to trendy shops, small boutique hotels, restaurants with stunning sea views, and cool beach bars.

I loved that it has a vibrant atmosphere but still feels much more authentic and quiet than Chaweng.

We ended up visiting Bo Phut’s Fisherman’s Village twice: the first time during the day, and the second time in the evening for dinner at Karma Sutra and a drink at Coco Tam’s, both highly recommended.

 

#3 Hike your way up to Na Muang Waterfall

Hidden in the center of the island, Na Muang is the tallest and most beautiful waterfall in Koh Samui. It is especially impressive in the rainy season when the water flow is at its maximum and you can even swim at the base. But it’s still worth visiting during the dry season.

On your way up to Na Muang Waterfall pay attention to the spirit houses and spirit trees along the way.

Spirit houses are miniature temples you can see outside every house, business, school, and public area. According to Thai beliefs, these little constructions are built to provide shelter for the spirits of the land, so they don’t live inside the house or business and disturb humans.

Thai people also believe spirits live inside old trees, so they tie colorful ribbons around these trees to warn others not to cut them down. People leave offerings, like drinks and flowers, to keep the spirits happy.

Near Na Muang Waterfall, there’s also an elephant trekking park and you can observe the (distressed) elephants from the outside. Please, don’t ride elephants in Thailand (or in any other country), and consider visiting an elephant sanctuary instead.

• Read the truth about riding an elephant in Thailand (and an ethical alternative)

 

#4 Pose next to Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks

Hin-Ta and Hin-Yai, or Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, are probably one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Koh Samui. The reason for such popularity has to do with their genitalia shape, representing a male and a female respectively.

Legend has it that Ta and Yai died on the sea when trying to sail to the neighboring province to ask for the hand of a girl to their son. Unable to reach their destination, they turn into rocks as proof of their true intentions to the would-be bride’s family.

To be honest, I didn’t find the stones that interesting or representative, but it was still worth stopping here for the amazing views over the sea and Lamai Beach.

 

#5 Stop at Koh Samui’s stunning viewpoints

Make sure to stop at the several viewpoints along Koh Samui’s main ring road and admire the stunning views of the island.

 

#6 Party at Chaweng

Let me start by saying I didn’t really like Chaweng. We went there for a drink one night, out of five in Koh Samui, and that was enough for me.

Busy, loud, and overwhelming are the best words I can find to describe it. Don’t get me wrong: I do like a good night out. But, in my opinion, Chaweng has neither the charm of Bo Phut nor the island vibes of Choeng Mon, where we stayed.

But Chaweng is the largest and most popular beach town and party hub in Koh Samui, so don’t just take my word for it and go see it with your own eyes.

 

#7 Take a day trip to Angthong Marine Park

Visiting Angthong National Marine Park was one of the absolute highlights of our 2 weeks in Thailand.

The more than 40 virgin islands that form the Angthong archipelago look like straight out of a movie. Think palm-fringed white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, evergreen forests, and jaw-dropping bays.

Remember The Beach? Well, these dreamy islands were the inspiration for Alex Garland’s book from which the movie was based.

Definitely an experience not to miss while in Koh Samui.

Book your day trip to Angthong Marine Park here.

• Read more about our Angthong Marine Park tour

 

#8 Relax on the beach

Spending some time on the beach is one of the main reasons most people visit the Thai islands. And Koh Samui has no shortage of spectacular white sand beaches and emerald waters.

It’s easy to lose track of time while sipping coconut water and eating fresh tropical fruit on a paradisiacal Samui beach, or swimming in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean.

For the more active, most beaches offer kayak or paddleboard rental.

 

#9 Enjoy a massage

When in Thailand, get a Thai massage.

You’ll find massage establishments and spas literally on every corner, and prices are extremely affordable. So there’s no reason not to indulge yourself in some wellness time.

But the best way to enjoy a massage in Koh Samui is directly on the beach. This was my favorite way to start a day on the beach. I always asked for an oil massage though, as I find Thai massage too strong for me.

If you prefer a more luxurious atmosphere, indulge in a spa treatment or wellness package at the award-winning Let’s Relax Spa.

 

#10 Go island hopping

From Koh Samui, you can easily take day trips to the neighboring islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

Famous worldwide for its Full Moon Parties, Koh Phangan has much more to offer, from beautiful secluded beaches to the unspoiled forest.

Book a Koh Phangan day tour from Koh Samui here.

Koh Tao is the smallest of the three islands and is best known for its excellent diving and snorkeling conditions. It’s actually one of the best places in Thailand to learn scuba diving.

You can book a Koh Tao day trip from Koh Samui here.

Alternatively, you can take the cheaper (and slower) public ferries and explore on your own.

 

#11 Attend a yoga retreat

Koh Samui is a popular yoga and wellness destination. If you’ve always dreamed of doing a yoga retreat in Thailand or even your yoga teacher training, the island is the perfect place to recenter, recharge, and take your practice to the next level.

 

Best Koh Samui Beaches

All the island’s life is organized around its beaches. Each beach town in Koh Samui has a different flair and personality, which you should take into consideration when choosing where to base yourself.

Here’s a list of some of the best beaches in Koh Samui to help you decide:

 

Chaweng and Lamai

The two most popular (and populated) beach towns on the island, with tons of hotels, restaurants, and bars to choose from.

Ideal for: party lovers.

 

Bo Phut

The picturesque Bo Phut’s Fisherman’s Village is home to some of the trendiest boutique hotels, restaurants, and bars on the island.

Ideal for: bohemian souls.

 

Mae Nam and Bang Po

Two quieter but still vibrant beaches, with lots of accommodation and eating options.

Ideal for: families and older couples.

 

Choeng Mon

Considered by many as the most beautiful beach in all Koh Samui, Choeng Mon Beach and its surrounding area is home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts.

Ideal for: glamour and wellness seekers.

 

West Coast

The West Coast hides the quietest beaches in Koh Samui, as well as the most breathtaking sunsets.

Ideal for: off-the-beaten-path travelers.

 

Where to Stay in Koh Samui

PS Thana Resort

We stayed five nights at PS Thana Resort, a budget waterfront resort on Choeng Mon Beach. PS Thana Resort enjoys a great location right on the beach and on the main road. Our room was wonderful, very big and clean, with a shower and a bathtub, AC, and a private balcony.

They also have a beautiful garden and swimming pool area. Breakfast was ok but with limited options. We tried their restaurant once for lunch – again, the food was ok but not great.

All in all, PS Thana Resort is a good choice if you’re on a budget but still want to stay in a waterfront beach resort.

Click here for more info and booking.

 

SALA Samui Resort and Spa

SALA Samui, on Choeng Mon Beach, is everything you can wish for in a 5-star wellness beach resort.

Featuring luxury suites and villas with private pools, spa, restaurant, beachfront, and two oceanfront swimming pools, Sala Samui is the top choice in terms of accommodation right on Choeng Mon beach.

We visited it once for dinner and I wished I could live here!

Click here for more info and booking.

 

From what to do in Koh Samui to where to stay, from Koh Samui’s best beaches to top travel tips, this Koh Samui wellness travel guide has got you covered. Now all you must do is relax and enjoy your time on one of the most gorgeous islands in Thailand.

 

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More Travel Tips

Travel Insurance

SafetyWing – Travel insurance is very important and you should never leave home without it! I use and recommend SafetyWing travel medical insurance for travelers, remote workers, and nomads.

They cover overseas medical assistance in case of accident or illness, travel delay or interruption, lost checked luggage, emergency medical or political evacuation, natural disasters, and personal liability, at very competitive prices.

You can subscribe online here for a minimum of 5 days to a maximum of 364 days, or opt for a monthly subscription instead.

 

Cheap flights

Looking for the best airfare deals? Skyscanner is my favorite travel search engine for finding cheap flights around the world. They also offer price tracking and alerts to help you secure the best deals.

 

Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation, Booking.com is the best site out there. From hotels to apartments, resorts, villas, B&B, and guest houses, it offers the best prices for accommodation all over the world. I book the majority of my stays through them.

 

Yoga Retreats

Looking for a yoga retreat near home or in an exotic destination? BookYogaRetreats offers the best yoga retreats, holidays, and courses around the world for all budgets and levels of experience.

 

Tours

GetYourGuide is my favorite platform for local tours, unique experiences, and skip-the-line tickets to attractions all around the world.

Klook is another great resource for tours and activities, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Asia.

 

Car Rentals

Rentalcars.com is a car rental search engine that compares the biggest brands in car hire and allows you to find the cheapest deals all around the world.

 

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Have you been to Koh Samui? What would you add to this list of what to do in Koh Samui? Share in the comments section below.

 

• Read my Thailand 2 week itinerary for 1st timers here
• Read my Bangkok 4 days itinerary here
• Read what to do in Chiang Mai here

 

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