Experience the Best of Koh Samui: 7 Must-Try Activities for Your Island Getaway

Koh Samui or Ko Samui, a vacation hotspot in the Surat Thani Province of Southern Thailand, is the ultimate destination for wanderers seeking adventure, relaxation, and fun. With its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and range of activities, Samui Island promises an unforgettable experience.

Read on to discover the best things to do when visiting Koh Samui!

There are several options for getting to Koh Samui, depending on your budget and needs. For a fast and comfortable option, you can book a flight from mainland Thailand to Koh Samui International Airport. However, a direct flight to Koh Samui can be more expensive than to other Thailand destinations because the airport is privately owned by Bangkok Airways.

You can also take the overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani Province, where the island is located. From there, you can board a ferry from Donsak Pier, Maenam Pier, or Bangrak Pier to Koh Samui. While the travel time is longer, you can make the most of it by enjoying the views and destinations you'll pass by on the way.

Snorkeling is one of those must-do activities when you visit Koh Samui. The island's crystal clear waters are teeming with breathtaking coral reefs and colorful marine biodiversity. For a truly memorable underwater excursion, you can also visit the neighboring island of Koh Phangan, known for its thriving reefs, beautiful beaches, and moon parties.

#KlookTip: We recommend staying in a Samui resort that offers snorkeling tours, ensuring your spot in seeing fascinating sea creatures, like rare pink dolphins.

Paddle boarding along the island coastline is one of the best ways to experience its beauty, especially at sunrise or sunset. Whether you're a pro or a beginner, the calm waters of Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Maenam Beach are perfect for this activity.

A sailing trip on a longtail boat around Koh Samui is one of the best ways to discover the island's stunning landscapes. During a private tour, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Koh Tan, Koh Mat Sum, and Rap Island's pristine beaches without the bustle of fellow tourists.

An ATV adventure is perfect for those seeking a more rugged, adrenaline-filled adventure. You can drive through lush forests and past stunning sights before capping it off with a refreshing drink at a remote jungle bar at your destination.

Some ATV tours even include stops at popular local attractions such as the Na Muang waterfall, Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations, and the famous Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)!

The zipline course at Lipa Noi Beach offers an unforgettable adventure—you can sightsee and get your adrenaline fill simultaneously. You'll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the lush jungle while soaring through treetops. Also, the aerial platforms and rope bridges there add an extra thrill to the experience.

Koh Samui is also renowned for its wellness retreats, if rest and relaxation is more your vibe. Depending on your package, this can include yoga or pilates sessions on beautiful beaches, learning about traditional Thai medicine, and even nourishing yourself with delicious local food.

From adventures underwater and on land to rejuvenating retreats, Koh Samui offers an array of activities that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're taking in the vibrant sea life on Koh Tao, ziplining through the tree tops in Lipa Noi, or meditating on a beautiful beach, you're guaranteed to leave Koh Samui with memories you'll treasure for a lifetime.