16 December 2025 | Latest News
Koh Samui, the second-largest island in Thailand, is a top travel spot famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural experiences, and mouthwatering cuisine. The laid-back charm of this place draws visitors back again and again. Whether you’re looking for wellness, nightlife, relaxation, adventure, or a quiet beach escape, there is something to cater to your interests. Have you set your mind on a trip to this heavenly location in the coming year? Make sure to opt for all-inclusive Koh Samui holiday packages to get the most out of your vacation. In case you’re wondering what things to do during this wonderful getaway, continue reading this article ahead.
It is great if you’re planning a dreamy getaway to Koh Samui in the coming year. There are certain things that can take your vacation experience to another level. Let’s have a look at them.
1. Big Buddha Temple
Big Buddha Temple is one of the best spots to see in Koh Samui. The temple’s location on a hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean, coastline, and beaches. A large, 12-meter golden Buddha statue is the most iconic feature of this site, which makes it a must-visit. It is a place of worship for Thai people, so ensure to follow basic etiquette when heading to this place.
2. Fisherman’s Village
Another great place that you need to explore during your tour is Fisherman’s Village. The lively atmosphere here will just blow your mind. The village retains its history with beautiful streets lined with traditional wooden shophouses. Other than the night market, you can find various high-end spas for relaxation. This is a fun experience that you will always remember in your life.
3. Ang Thong National Marine Park
No matter what time of the year you visit Koh Samui, we highly recommend that you go to the Ang Thong National Marine Park. The park is an archipelago of 42 islands. Each of these has scenic beauty and hidden caves. When you head to this place, it feels like you’ve entered an entirely different world. You can enjoy various activities here, like hiking, snorkelling, and more.
4. Na Muang Waterfalls
Na Muang Waterfalls are a must-see attraction in Koh Samui for many reasons. They are pretty famous among tourists and locals alike for the natural beauty these cascades hold. In case you’re with your partner, take her to these waterfalls. You can have a picnic while being up close to Mother Nature and cherish some great moments with each other. So, try not to miss going there.
5. Samui Elephant Sanctuary
People love heading to Samui Elephant Sanctuary a lot, and you should do the same for several reasons. This place has rescued so many elephants till now from unethical trades. It is not allowed to touch these giant creatures. But you can still interact with them, such as you can prepare food, feed, walk with, and bathe these lovely animals in a humble and humane setting.
6. Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks are something that you should certainly explore during your Koh Samui holidays. You might have no idea, but these rocks are named after ‘Grandfather and Grandmother rocks’ because they naturally form shapes that are similar to male and female genitalia. They are a perfect place for photography, so make certain to bring a camera with you.
7. Secret Buddha Garden
In case you don’t know how to get the most out of your trip to Koh Samui, we’ve completely got you covered here. We advise you to visit the Secret Buddha Garden. The mystical art, breathtaking nature, and calm atmosphere will blow your mind. You can either walk or sit there for a while to have some relaxing moments away from the massive crowds and busy life of a city.
Koh Samui in Thailand is full of beautiful beaches that you certainly need to head to on your adventurous trip. We have shortlisted some of the most popular beach options in the following.
Be it travelling to Koh Samui with luxury holiday packages, individually or with your loved ones, a visit to Mae Nam Beach is recommended to refresh your soul to the brim. Thankfully, the beach is usually less crowded. This is what offers a serene environment to relax yourself. Besides all this, the water is also shallow and has a gradual slope, which enables your kids to play safely.
Chaweng Beach is the next beach that you need to visit during your vacation. It has soft sand and clear water that are very pleasing to the eye of tourists. The daytime atmosphere is lively and usually comes alive when there is night time. You should plan a candlelit dinner with the true love of your life at this time so that she feels special. So, ensure not to miss this opportunity!
The Bophut Beach offers a great combo of ancient architecture and modern amenities. It doesn't matter if you’re going individually or with your friends, we urge you to add this place to your travel list. It is a good spot to sunbathe while having a glass of a cocktail in your hand. Other than this, you can also indulge in other fun-filled things, such as swimming with sea turtles, etc.
Are you the one searching for a tranquil escape from the hectic routine of your life? Choeng Mon Beach should be a must-visit. It has white sand and a stunning background. That means you can click great pictures here. Also, you can walk to a small island offshore during low tide. The beach is very close to the airport, however, far enough away to get a feeling of a next level of seclusion.
There are so many beautiful beaches in the world, and Silver Beach is no exception. The water is so clear that you can see aquatic creatures with your eyes right from the boat. If you’re interested in learning about the underwater world of Koh Samui, you need to visit Silver Beach for sure. You can rent the desired equipment to delve into the coastline from the water at your own pace.
Unlike the busier beaches, Tongson Bay provides an uncrowded environment for a relaxing getaway. The gentle waves and shallow waters are worthwhile for trying snorkelling. No worries if you’ve no idea how to snorkel. You can get the most out of this activity by having professionals by your side. Every moment of your stay at this location will be full of fun and utmost relaxation.
Among others, we also suggest that you visit Coral Cave Beach on your tour. You will be amazed by the stunning natural beauty, including golden sand and dramatic rock formations. It is located between the bustling beaches of Chaweng and Lamai. This means you are about to have almost no crowds at this heavenly place. So, make sure to give this beach a visit during your trip.
There is hardly a person who doesn’t love adrenaline-fueled activities. If you’re thinking about what water sports to try during your trip to Koh Samui, we’ve got your back with the following.
Surfing is one of the top activities that you need to try during your vacation with Krabi holiday packages. You will find waves suitable for all skill levels. In case you want an enhanced experience for surfing, we urge you to visit less crowded spots such as Bang Saphan. The best season to take part in this activity is from October to December. So, plan your trip accordingly!
Whenever you get an opportunity to fly to Koh Samui with your loved ones, kayaking is a must-try experience. It enables you to access hidden caves and get up close to the idyllic beauty of islands in an immersive manner. Not only this, but you can combine this activity with several others as well, including parasailing. That way, you can enjoy your family vacations in full swing.
If you want to delve into the rich marine biodiversity of Koh Samui, you should definitely go scuba diving. Picture yourself encountering whale sharks and coral reefs while colourful fish flow over your head. This is such a great feeling that it can’t be described in words. The world-class diving locations that you should visit include Sail Rock and Ang Thong Marine Park.
Ziplining is a thrilling way to see the wonderful rainforests of the island from a unique aerial perspective. It allows travellers like you to enjoy a mesmerising blend of adventure and nature. You might have no idea, but ziplining takes you to parts of the jungle that are not easily accessible by hiking. This is what takes your whole Koh Samui tour experience to another level.
Another fun-filled activity that you shouldn’t miss during your holidays is ATV tours. It is an exciting, off-road adventure that lets you explore the jungle, waterfalls, and panoramic views in a more engaging way. For instance, the tour provides an adrenaline rush by driving through various landscapes. Some of the most common ones include rivers, mountain paths, and more.
Parasailing combines gentle flight with stunning views of the coastline and surrounding waters of the island. It offers a peaceful yet exhilarating experience that lets you watch most of the scenery from a height. This is something that you will not resist admiring. It doesn’t matter if you’re in search of adventure or relaxation. Parasailing is something that you should try for sure.
Snorkelling is a dream of every adventure enthusiast. If you’re one of those and want to get the most out of your Koh Samui trip, we highly recommend going snorkelling. This is a low-impact way to explore coral reefs and watch diverse aquatic life, such as sea turtles and others. Many beaches make great sites for this activity, like Coral Cove and Silver Beach, so give them a visit.
Koh Samui has everything for you, whether you need relaxation, ultimate fun, or a cultural experience. The following are some of the major cultural and religious places that you must visit.
If you’re pondering which religious site to explore in Koh Samui, we’ve got your back. You should head to Wat Plai Laem for that purpose. There are so many large-scale statues, such as the 18-armed Guanyin statue. You can watch them from a distance and up close, and it is really worth it. Besides this, the panoramic views are also impressive enough to captivate your senses.
The next amazing place that you need to explore on your tour is Laem Sor Pagoda. It is a famous tourist spot for its beautiful ocean views, calm atmosphere, and cultural aspects. You can even meditate here to energise both your mind and soul. Adding more to this, the Golden Pagoda itself is a captivating sight. Be it travelling alone or with your friends, the experience is fantastic.
If you’re a history buff, we suggest you head to Dusit Dheva Cultural Centre. You will be able to uncover a variety of traditional and contemporary artworks there. It is a smart choice to bring a notebook along with a pencil to capture your special moments via sketching. The rich Thai architecture with intricately carved roofs and majestic pillars is admirable, so ensure to go there.
Pagoda Khao Hua Jook is popular for its golden stupa and its amazing location on a hilltop. Not only this, but it also offers picturesque views of the whole of Koh Samui. The temple is also well-known for its replica of Buddha's Footprint. Visitors love the serene environment a lot, and you should enjoy it too. The next time you make a plan to visit Koh Samui, explore this temple.
The next religious site on our list that you should visit is Guan-Yu Koh Samui Shrine. The major draws of this location are a peaceful spiritual ambience, an enchanting 16-meter statue, and rich Chinese culture. This spot has a special place in the hearts of Thai people. You should follow basic etiquette when heading to this shrine as a means of respect for a more elevated experience.
Are you going to explore Thailand by booking Bangkok holiday packages? You should head to Wat Khunaram for a great cultural experience. Aside from so many attraction spots, there are so many places in Koh Samui that you need to indulge in. You can see the unique mummified remains of the monk Luang Pho Daeng, observe local traditions, and learn about the Thai belief.
We understand how challenging it can be to look for comfortable accommodations for your holidays. Below are some famous luxury resorts and spas you need to secure for ultimate stays.
If you’re on a honeymoon getaway with your partner and want super convenient stays throughout the vacation, you should reserve your spot at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Every room of the property is equipped with air conditioning, a private infinity pool, an iPod dock, and a private bar. You can enjoy exotic views of nature from your suite, which is worth it.
Staying at Centara Reserve Samui is no less than a dream coming true. You will find the next level of sophistication in every suite here. The staff is very friendly, which means you will get full assistance no matter what the issue is. There is a restaurant where you can try a variety of yummy dishes served along with cocktails. The whole experience of your stay here is wonderful.
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui offers high-end accommodations to its guests. The best thing is that it has a fitness centre as well so that gym freaks like you don’t feel bored at all. All rooms consist of a private bathroom with free toiletries and a bathtub. You will be provided with free complimentary breakfast along with half-board and full-board meals if included in the package.
Six Senses Samui is famous for so many reasons. For instance, there are luxurious villas with jaw-dropping ocean views, private pools, and much more. The resort offers multiple dining options and a wellness retreat where you can take relaxing massage treatments. If you’re with your lover, you should definitely book your spot here in advance for a more amazing experience.
If you want to rejuvenate yourself to the brim, we urge you to pamper yourself at the Tamarind Springs Forest Spa. Main highlights of this place include massages in open-air bungalows, rock-side steam rooms, plunge pools, and award-winning signature treatments. The friendly staff here ensures that every moment of your stay is super calm and enjoyable at the same time.
One reason to add the Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa to our list is the peaceful ambience it offers. There is a private beach setting and premium accommodations, such as private swimming pools. You will be surprised to know that the resort also gives you a chance to immerse in other fun activities. Some of those are kayaking, paddleboarding, and yoga classes.
In case you want personalised treatments to energise yourself, a visit to SALA Spa is highly advised. They make use of high-quality and natural products during their wellness treatments, be it a facial or a massage. This is what draws the attention of visitors a lot. You should take your partner to this retreat to not only enjoy customised treatments but also sound baths, and more.
You should head to the Peace Tropical Spa during your Koh Samui vacation for its tranquil setting. It is highly regarded for its private treatment rooms, professional massages, and a relaxing atmosphere that offers a break from the ordinary. A visit to this spa after a busy day of exploration is great because it is designed exclusively for making you feel energised and relaxed.
The nightlife in Koh Samui is full of experiences, and the lively atmosphere is like a cherry on top. It is centred around the Chaweng area, which features beach bars. There are a lot of nightclubs as well, such as the Ark Bar Beach Club, SEEN Beach Club Samui, Nikki Beach Koh Samui, and Green Mango Club. You can go there to spend your evening in a more enjoyable way. If you want more relaxed vibes without any crowds in the surroundings, go to Lamai and Bophut. You will find seaside pubs with beachfront settings where you can watch and take part in live dance performances. Well, this is something that you will always remember in your life.
The dining experiences in Koh Samui have their own charm. There are many eateries where you can take your loved ones to try delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner, some of which are here.
If you’re wondering where to dine with your loved ones during your tour to Koh Samui, visit The View Dining for an ultimate experience. The combination of a spectacular cliffside location, a high-quality Mediterranean-inspired menu, and exceptional service makes it truly worth the hype. You will not only fall in love with the best views, but the taste of dishes is phenomenal too.
The Cliff Bar and Grill restaurant is located on a cliff between Chaweng and Lamai. It provides panoramic views of the ocean and Crystal Bay, which takes your whole dining experience to another level. In case you’re with the love of your life, we highly recommend booking a table for sunset to take advantage of the breathtaking scenery. Plus, the food served here tastes too good.
Be it trying delicious cuisine, admiring beautiful views, or having a good value for money, Baan Ya Jai is an ideal choice. This eatery spot is a hidden gem known for its flavourful and elegantly crafted dishes. What will really surprise you about this restaurant is that it gives you the flexibility to customise your spice levels. That is the reason tourists love heading to this location.
The next dining place on our list is the Lucky Restaurant. You will find fresh, affordable, and yummy dishes, and the staff here is very friendly. On top of that, the welcoming atmosphere of this site will just awe you. It is a great choice for those who are seeking extensive vegetarian options. So, no matter when you travel to Koh Samui, try not to miss on visiting this restaurant.
Mekong Fusion Restaurant & Lounge offers a unique fusion cuisine. For instance, it combines flavours from Vietnam, Thailand, and Myanmar that you will definitely love. You can arrange a get-together with your friends at this place, and it will be a great experience thanks to its calm environment. When the evening progresses, you will be able to see live dance performances too.
You should visit The Boudoir during your Koh Samui trip with Thailand holiday packages for its distinctive Arabian Nights-inspired decor and authentic French cuisine. The restaurant is run by a husband-and-wife team, who are praised for their exceptional hospitality. This eatery site is a little off the beaten path, which means you have to carefully follow the map to reach this place.
In case you want to try the best culinary experience, make sure to go to Chez Francois. The restaurant boasts an open kitchen where you can watch Chef Francois cooking his passion-fueled, set-menu dishes. This place is recommended by many visitors, and we do the same. You can not only indulge yourself in yummy dishes, but also enjoy a live cooking process.
Travelling with kids in your family can be a challenging task. One of the most crucial parts of the journey is what family-friendly activities to try during your Koh Samui trip. Let’s discuss it here!
If you’re jetting off to Koh Samui with your family, it’s great to spend your vacation. Make sure to slide at Samui Waterpark during your holidays for a fun experience. It has attractions for people of all ages, including a wave pool, a dedicated children’s area, and thrilling slides for both kids and adults alike. Other amenities are an on-site restaurant, sunbeds, and a calm ambience.
One of the other things that you need to try with your family is making sandcastles at the beach. This is something that your children will enjoy to the brim. You can immerse yourself in such a wonderful experience at so many beaches in Koh Samui, including Maenam. The sandy shores of these beaches make them really worth it for building sandcastles with the ones you truly love.
Playing mini golf at Football Golf is a low-impact activity that is suitable for all ages and skill levels. When you take part in this fun activity within charming and tropical botanical gardens, the feeling is indescribable. It is one of the best ways to spend quality time with your family and not feel bored at all. Other amenities like snacks, drinks, & cooling towels are also appreciable.
Feeding fish at Wat Lamai is another family-friendly activity not to miss during your Koh Samui vacation. This is an interactive experience at a stunning temple, which requires only a small donation for a basket of fish food. This way, you will be able to learn about the local Thai customs. Wat Lamai is very close to the Buddha Temple, so you can visit both on the same day.
If you want to make your family holidays to Koh Samui full of knowledge and enjoyment at the same time, taking a Coconut Farm tour is advised. It is popular for engaging both children and adults with fun and educational tasks like scraping coconut flesh, kneading it to make milk, and cooking it over a coconut shell fire. You will enjoy this thing with your loved ones a lot for sure.
Cruising on a Glass-bottom boat is an exciting activity to experience with your family. It not only allows children but also parents to see rich marine life and colourful coral reefs in a fun, dry, and safe way. The boat has transparent panels in the hull that offer direct views of the underwater world from above. That means you and your kids will not get wet to try such an amazing thing.
Another fun thing that you need to try with your family in Koh Samui is walking the Skywalk at Jungle Club. It provides a unique and safer way to watch elephants in an ethical sanctuary. It promotes a sense of conservation and respect for animals. You can simply observe these gigantic animals from a distance. Make sure to bring a higher-quality camera to take some photographs.
Koh Samui is a hub of shopping spots as well. You will find various brands here, including both budget-friendly and luxury ones. Here are some must-visit locations to buy your favourite items.
Plaza The Green Night Market is a famous spot in Koh Samui that you should visit. It has a variety of local street food, clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs. You can enjoy a comprehensive cultural experience with options for dining, shopping, and entertainment, including live music. This is what makes it a perfect destination to end up with a truly unforgettable evening out vibe.
If you want a phenomenal shopping experience during your vacation, go to the Central Festival Samui. You can find a broad range of options here, like international brands, yummy street food, and much more. Not only this, but this place also serves as a comfortable getaway from the heat with its air-conditioned spaces and landscaped garden areas. Make sure to give this site a visit!
The shopping spots in Koh Samui are usually popular for the fact that they offer a combination of experiences. One of those is the Haven Samui Community Mall. This is where you will be able to immerse in dining, shopping, and entertainment just at one spot. No need to be worried if you’re tight on budget because you can still purchase your favourite goods at reasonable prices.
The Wharf Samui is among the best spots to visit in Koh Samui, especially in the evenings. This is when the walking street comes alive with local crafts, yummy street food, and a lively atmosphere. It draws the attention of visitors and locals alike. You can browse through a variety of boutiques selling handcrafted items as well as trendy fashion that reflects the island’s artistry.
Among other shopping spots in Koh Samui, Lamai Night Plaza is highly recommended. It is an amazing place to try various Thai dishes from different food stalls. Well, that goes far beyond just that. Whether you’re looking for clothing or accessories, you can find it all in one place. However, you have to be completely prepared to haggle to get the best prices for your souvenirs.
The serene atmosphere is the Buddy Oriental Plaza is what attracts people a lot. The sleek post-colonial design of the whole place is really worthwhile. If you’re with your friends, take them to this plaza to not only buy goods but also cherish some special moments together. From budget-friendly to luxury brands, fine dining, and entertainment, you will find everything here.
Are you looking for nearby islands for day trips? We have shortlisted some of the best islands in Koh Samui that are ideal for day trips as well as island hopping. Let’s have a look at them below!
Koh Phangan is a worthwhile choice for day trips and island hopping. This is due to its strategic location, diversity of boat tours, and numerous nearby attractions. The clear blue waters make it perfect for exploring by boat with your loved ones. Day trips to Koh Phangan let you spend your vacation in an immersive manner. You can get the most out of this activity with pre-planning.
You might not know, but Koh Tai is considered a key stop for island hopping in the Gulf of Thailand. What is really astounding about this island is that the ferry services here are inexpensive. If you’re looking for a day trip destination, ensure to go to the island of Koh Nang Yuan, which is not only famous for its stunning beauty but is also a perfect spot for snorkelling.
If you've no idea how to get the most out of your trip to Koh Samui, we urge you to visit Koh Tan. This island is perfect for adventurous day trips, no matter if you’re travelling individually or with your loved ones. Not only this, but it also serves as a fantastic stopover for short island hopping tours. You will be able to combine snorkelling spots with the unique beach experiences.
Koh Som is a secluded escape with stunning beaches just an easy boat ride away, offering pristine sand and gorgeous sunset views. The clear, shallow waters make it a perfect site for a variety of watersports such as diving, swimming, and more. In case you’re with your children, they can easily and safely play with water, eliminating the hassle for you to worry about them.
Koh Matsum Noi is a great destination for day trips and island hopping. It pairs amazingly with neighbouring Koh Tan for a less-crowded island hop. Whether you want some moments of relaxation or fun on your trip, the island has got you covered with everything. A delightful mix of animal interaction, scenic beauty, and easy island hopping potential makes it a must-visit spot.
Koh Phaluai is situated in Phang Nga Bay between Phuket and Krabi. You can enjoy day boat trips to various iconic sites such as the James Bond Island and the captivating lagoons of Koh Hong. The surrounding bay is filled with dramatic limestone cliffs, making the whole journey itself a highlight. So, make sure to head to this island for a memorable island holiday experience.
Just a short boat ride (20-30 minutes) away from Koh Samui resides a mesmerising Koh Rap island. You will find a lot of opportunities for kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, and seeing amazing wildlife there. Another thing that makes it a worthwhile place is that it offers truly remarkable island hopping tours to various nearby gems like Ang Thong National Marine Park.
Koh Samui is one of the top travel destinations in the world, famous for its stunning beaches, clear waters, luxury resorts, mouthwatering food, and much more. This is what makes this region a great place to visit during your Thailand trip. If you’re also planning a dreamy getaway to this heavenly site, contact Virikson Holidays for all-inclusive Koh Samui holiday packages and get your itinerary planned perfectly. You will be provided with every kind of service, from visa processing to flights, accommodations, and ground transportation, so that your only focus is on enjoying with no stress of travel logistics. When it comes to the top things to do on your tour, we hope you have had a clear idea of how you can get the most out of your trip by reading this post.
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