Koh Samui Hotels Thailand Island Attractions

It's easy to let the sun and sea lull you into the feeling that you never want to budge from the beach. But Samui is an island of great natural beauty and variety. Even those who don't get excited about sightseeing will find that the journeys to these popular attractions will provide their own delights.

Chaweng Beach

Populated, especially in high season, the beaches at Chaweng are the island's liveliest. Good for bathing and snorkeling at one of the coral reefs. Watersports are available at several locations, including jetskiing, parasailing and waterskiing. Strolling beach vendors sell food and souvenirs. During the months of January through April, the sea can get rough on some days, and the waves high.

Bo Phut Beach

Between Chaweng and Maenam, this quiet stretch of beach is just steps away the quaint shophouses of this historical fishing village. Popular with those staying at the many nearby bungalow resorts. Boats leave for the northern islands from the nearby piers.

Choeng Mon Beach

Located on the quiet north shore between Chaweng and Mae Nam, the nearest shopping districts are those in Chaweng and Mae Nam. The nearby village of Bophut is a 10 minutes drive. There you will find a number of quaint and charming restaurants and cafes. Nightlife is subdued. Few public taxis.

Lamai Beach

On the east coast, home to some of the island's longest and widest stretches of sand, you're never far from a beachside bar or restaurant, or activity if that is what you seek. Sea bathing spots are walking distance from Lamai center.

Maenam Beach

On the north coast. Combines wide and sandy stretches with a peaceful ambience. Especially popular with families and young couples, and those seeking tranquility.

Hin Ta Hin Yai

Viewing these astonishing creations, even scientific purists would be tempted to believe that nature too, can be as whimsical as the most eccentric artist. Also known as "Grandfather and Grandmother rocks"; entirely formed by the elements, two extraordinarily accurate male and female genitalia-shaped rock formations share a perch overlooking the sea.

Budda's Footprint

As there is no sign posted, finding this attraction will be part of the adventure. Take Rt. 4170 and 2 km west of the turnoff for the Butterfly Garden, go up the concrete slope on the left. Housed in a hilltop shrine, four footprints have been engraved one atop another. There are 163 steps to climb in all, but the view up there of the surrounding treetops and valleys will be worth it.

Wat Phra Yai and Big Buddha

This temple is the home of Koh Samui's most famous landmark the Big Buddha. Most Visitors come to marvel at the sheer size and beauty of this remarkable statue at some point during their holiday. Visible from several km away and even from the air when arriving on or leaving the island, the 12 m tall golden image stands proud.

At the base of the structure, several shops and restaurants cater to the needs of devotees and tourists alike. Wat Phra Yai is in the Northeast of Samui on route 4171 near the airport.

Snake Farm

definite must see for all those visiting the island. Follow the road signs for show times commencing at 11.00 and 14.00 everyday in "Talingngam" south of Nathon.

Shows feature snakes indigenous to Samui as well as some of the more poisonous scary species found throughout Asia. Included are displays of Centipedes and Scorpion and of course the famous Thai Cock Fighting show.

The programs are both informative and entertaining in typical Thai fashion - Great for the entire family! Just follow the signs to get there, as displayed throughout the island.