Thailand
Great Videos and Photos of the Best Places and Things to see in Koh Samui Thailand. For the independent traveller who is interested in seeing places while planning their next trip. Or for anyone who likes to be close to nature and see the quieter parts of the country or city
Koh Samui
With it's white sandy beaches, coral reefs and coconut and palm tress, sunny skies (in season), Koh Samui is a popular location for visitors and not just the thousands that head to neighbouring Koh Phanangan for the Full Moon Parties.
Chaweng
Stretching for over 5 km Chaweng Beach, with soft white sand, is the most exotic beach on the island. The nearby town has a very busy night-life.
Beach at Chaweng
Chaweng
Let me just tell you that the sand is ultimately fantastic. It feels like powder dissolving gently through your skin.
This is one of the beaches that will surely leave a mark and end up on the top of your list. The shore is wide and inviting. Chaweng’s beach has a five-kilometer moon-shaped bay. Little hills surround the place like a barrier and provide an escape from the rushed life of urban dwellings.
The water is clean and rejuvenating with its blue-green color and light touch.
There are also water sports that you can try if you ever feel like being adventurous.
Choeng Mong Beach
Chaweng
You can find this precious jewel in the north-western part of Koh Samui.
Choeng Mon Beach is surrounded by luxurious resorts and hotels which are definitely perfect for a rejuvenating vacation. You will also never run out of entertainment here. Asian bands usually play here for the pleasure of visitors, but of course above everything else, the waters of Choeng Mon beach remains to be the main attraction.
Its wide bays come to you like a welcoming embrace of pure peace with the blue gentle waters alluring you to stay and never leave.
The fine sand is a touch that will surely make your stay even closer to the paradise experience. It definitely lives up to the promises of Asian beaches.
Ban Chaweng Noi
Chaweng
This is a calmer alternative in the southern area to the usually bustling beaches in Chaweng, Koh Samui.
Chaweng Noi offers the same dazzling waters and fine sand made more intimate by the peace and quiet.
Wake up to the tranquil view of the gentle waters and let yourself gravitate to the inviting shore of Ban Chaweng Noi.
If you ever get to miss the energy of the crowd in other beaches, you can always visit them as Chaweng Noi is not that far from the others.
Chaweng Lake
Chaweng
Koh Samui’s Chaweng Lake has a busy nightlife and quite a lot of accommodation.
Chewang Lake hosts the Black Moon Party and Escape or Half Moon party.
Laem Nan Head
South of Chaweng there are interesting views and beaches. You can find Laem Nan near Laem Thong Khrok and Kaem Thong Yang at the southern part of Koh Samui. It is located at the very tip of the peninsula surrounded by lovely scenery. It is popular for housing Elephant Rock and Silver beach. Not as popular and crowded as Chaweng but still worth the visit.
Elephant Rock
Laem Nan Head
Never visit Laem Nan without stopping by at Elephant Rock. It does not exactly look like an elephant. Maybe you’ll see it; maybe you won’t. Other say that it was dubbed as such because of its size—same size as Thai elephants. You can find this landmark along Ring Road near Silver Beach. From here, you can indulge yourself with the amazing panorama of the rest of the gems of Laem Nan and Chaweng.
Silver Beach
Laem Nan Head
Silver Beach is a great find in Laem Nan with its wide bay and inviting atmosphere—definitely a peaceful space perfect for a rejuvenating experience.
There are cozy hotels available here where you can spend the night after a good dip in the relaxing blue water of Silver beach.
This part is perfect for slow walks at the shore and a good drink while watching the water hit the sandy lips of this dazzling beach.
Moo 5
Not far from the Big Budha on this northeastern tip of the island or sector Moo 5 is Wat Plai Laem
Wat Plai Laem
Moo 5
Big Buddha
Moo 5
Lamai
As you continue past Elephant Rock, another set of beautiful beaches, with soft sand and some interesting rock formations.
Lamai Beach
Lamai
Lamai Beach is another gem with a generous size found in Koh Samui. Like the atmosphere of Chaweng, this beach also projects a paradise-like feeling.
The green surrounding provides a sweet haven of solitude while you feel the comforting water touch your feet. This is almost as big as the one in Chaweng but definitely offers more venue for relaxation as it is less visited and generally quieter.
This does not mean that there aren't as many shops and bars. A number of restaurants and several shops also line up in the area. You’ll always find a place to visit or spend the night at.
You can find this beautiful spot at the east coast of Koh Samui.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai
Lamai
At the southern end of Lamai Beach, you can find the interesting and thought-provoking rock formations dubbed as Hin Ta and Hin Yai.
This site is a must-see for travelers for it has been a landmark and a legend in Lamai. These natural rock formations appear like they are imitating the male and female genitalia. It is popular among tourists because of its uniqueness and sweet humor.
A good walk can always be done while you savor nature’s craft. It is an art in itself as the blue water hit the shore crushing on these rocks produce a memorable sight.
Ban Hua Thanon
Lamai
This spot would be most loved by backpackers and for those who are planning to stay a little bit longer at Lamai.
It is also the best place to get to know the locals and the culture of Koh Samui. Hua Thannon is also a bit laid-back so you will definitely get the relaxing stay you are looking for. Here, you can take a nice stroll along the shore and feel the water hit your feet while the local fishermen take the catch for the day.
They supply restaurants with fresh catch so you can definitely enjoy mouth-watering seafood every day. It also houses a Muslim village which is full of stories and things to offer.
If you are looking for the ultimate Thai island experience, Ban Hua Thanon is the place to be. You will find it near Hin Ta and Hin Yai.
Namuang
The main road turns inland after the Muslim village. Along the road you pass Wat Khunaram and later a track that heads to the waterfall.
Waterfall
Namuang
Looking for something breathtaking? Cannot get enough of water? Head straight toward Na Muang Waterfall! No, Na Muang is totally not fictional.
Its beauty, although too good to be true, is very real. The beaches of Koh Samui are definitely paradise-like and Koh Samui’s waterfall does not fall behind. The falling water looks like strokes on a canvas as it slides down hitting the red-orange rock formation.
It is also not alone. With just a little bit of hiking, you can find its little counterpart. What makes it extra great is that it is free of charge. You can also take a dip at the fresh water of Na Muang.
Do not hesitate. You surely would not want to miss it.
Wat Khunaram Mummified Monk
Namuang
If you want something unique, something that you won’t usually find in your travel destinations, the mummified monk of Wat Khunaram is waiting for you.
This might not be for everyone’s taste but if you are interested in culture most especially that of the Thais and Buddhists, do not forget to visit this mummified monk. It will offer you a glimpse on their culture and history.
There is so much to learn and there is so much to treasure. Great trips are definitely more than just beaches and food trips.
Knowing the local’s stories and the place’s history would be a great takeaway.
Pier and Waterfront
Nathon
This is Koh Samui’s main port so for those who traveled via boat, Nathon is the first place you will see.
Being the main port, various services important to travelers also gathered here—from travel agencies to banking services. The pier also offers many places good for shopping and eating. The usual favorite here is the line of old wooden Chinese shops which sell cheaper souvenirs.
Above everything, Nathon’s waterfront also provides one of the best views in Koh Samui with the sight of docking boats on blue waters as sundown beckons.
Bonus feature: there are also some ‘paraphernalia’ sold there ranging from bongs to opium pipes but be careful on using them or you might end up somewhere not good for vacation.
The Beach
Hat Bo Phut
Fishermans Village
Hat Bo Phut
The Beach and Pier
Hat Bo Phut
Hat Bo Phut is a popular destination. Its two main attractions are Bophut beach and Fisherman’s Village.
Its beach like the others is certainly dazzling with its fine sand and blue-green water. Its tranquility also attracts people who want to have a relaxing vacation. As a pier, boats and ferries can also be seen docking and leaving. Boats and piers have always been poetic so watch yourself be drawn to an inspiring stay in Hat Bo Phut. The Fisherman’s Village is also a gem in itself.
Its charming atmosphere and well-preserved environment have made a name for it.
Traditional Chinese shops also line up here but surprisingly the place also has Mediterranean ambiance. Get to know the locals, enjoy the environment, and indulge in shopping in this great place.
Koh Phangan
The island of Koh Phangan is known for its full and half moon parties but outside these times it's a quiet restful place.
Haad Rin Village
Koh Phangan
Haad Rin
Koh Phangan
Haad Rin can accommodate both the party-goers and the visitor looking for a more tranquil time.
This breathtaking jewel has two sections, Haad Rin Nok and Haad Rin Nai. Haad Rin Nok has those energy-filled beach parties popular to most tourists. Bars and party places line up here so you have many choices to choose from. Most of the people gravitate here day and night leaving a whole lot of space in Haad Rin Nai.
The beach is wide and also best for sunbathing. But if you ever get tired of partying or are looking for a more comfortable laid-back atmosphere, just head straight to Haad Rin Nai.
You can find it at the southern part of the peninsula. Restaurants and shops are also abundant here and you will always find something to do but the place remains relatively peaceful.
Ferry from Koh Samui
Koh Phangan
The best way to reach Koh Phangan is by riding a ferry.
Koh Phangan is such a popular destination so ferry trips are most of the time full so try to book your trip before you get there, so you’ll be sure to have a ride most especially during the “Full Moon Party”.
There several piers in different villages/towns on Koh Samui. Some only providing a boat service during the party season.
The travel time is short and worth it thanks to the fantastic views as you go along.
Ferry from Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan
From Koh Phangan, you can also ride a ferry going back from where you came from or if you want to transfer to another place around Koh Samui.
There are different piers available so you will have many choices for your destination.
The trip is awesome and refreshing, but it could get crowded especially in peak days.