Preparation a journey through the lots of islands of Thailand can seem overwhelming.

There are over a thousand Thai islands and they all have something different to offer.

The big developed islands have great deals of accessible tourist destinations, and the little uninhabited islands have raw, unblemished natural beauty.

To make your trip-planning easier, visit the bigger islands that have a varied series of landscapes and activities and explore them thoroughly.

One of the most rewarding islands to check out is Koh Samui, the 2nd largest island in Thailand after Phuket (click the link to read our detailed travel plan posts).

Found in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a huge island covered in forest and fringed with pristine beaches.

Koh Samui has actually had a credibility for being rather ritzy and pricey.

There are great deals of high-end resorts, expensive hotels and getaway bundles that attract the rich, however recently the more local, economical side of Koh Samui is beginning to surface.

Backpacker hostels, street markets, low-cost tours and a long list of attractions are beginning to pull more young budget plan travellers to Koh Samui.

The timeless touristy Thai culture, with its Buddhist temples, Muay Thai boxing matches, and Ladyboy cabarets, is budget-friendly enough that backpackers are able to take a trip Koh Samui without investing a fortune.

Soft white sand, shimmering turquoise water, and towering coconut palms make Koh Samui look like a postcard, and now the island is more inexpensive and accessible than ever.

There are a lot of things to do in Koh Samui on a budget, and lots of nice hotels and dining establishments to suit those with more money to invest.

The island's natural beauty will impress anyone, and there is a lot Koh Samui sightseeing to do to fill a schedule of a couple of days and even a couple of weeks.

Here is a list of the best things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.

1) Schedule a Tour to Ang Thong National Marine Park

This is easily one of the best things to do in Koh Samui, and in the whole Gulf of Thailand.

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Ang Thong National Marine Park is an archipelago of 42 islands, each one rugged and special.

Throughout the park you can find limestone cliffs, rocky caves, thick jungle, lakes and rivers, waterfalls, reef, lagoons, hiking trails and sandy beaches, all connected by the vibrant blue ocean.

Emphasizes in the park consist of the Emerald Lake, or "Thale Nai", a green saltwater lake in the midst of the jungle, Koh Sam Sao, an island with fantastic snorkelling, and Koh Mae, an island with a steep hike that leads to a picturesque viewpoint.

Thankfully, Ang Thong is well protected as a national park, so unique wildlife can grow and human advancement never exceeds its borders.

Just tour boats that are authorized by the government are allowed to go into, so tourists can not access the park without reserving a tour.

However there are great deals of credible tour companies offering affordable and extremely enjoyable trips around the island chain that include snorkelling, kayaking, and relaxing.

BONUS-- Interested in booking a trip online? Use the voucher code "NMDSKLK" on Klook when having a look at and you'll get $5 off your very first reservation!

BOOK THIS TRIP ON KLOOK

Ang Thong National Marine Park Thailand

Some of the many rock formations at Ang Thong National Marine Park

2) See a Mummified Monk

Wat Khunaram is a Buddhist temple in Koh Samui well-known for its mummified monk.

This sight isn't for the faint-hearted, as it is actually a dead body on display in a glass case. But it is rather fascinating for those who are interested.

Buddhist monk, Luang Pho Daeng, passed away in 1973 and his body is now a source of marvel for local Thais and Buddhists in the location.

He passed away while sitting in a meditative position and his remains remains in remarkably good shape for somebody who passed away over forty years back.

Make certain to follow correct dress code when checking out any temples in Thailand (no shoulders or knees showing).

Location: Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140

Hours: 7 am to 5 pm, open every day

Cost: Free

LEARNT MORE: This post tells you whatever you'll ever require to learn about taking a trip to Thailand!

3) Visit the Big Buddha

The Huge Buddha needs to absolutely have a place on any list of things to see in Koh Samui.

Formally called Wat Phra Yai, this Buddhist temple complex lies on a small island off of Koh Samui's northeastern coast.

The enormous golden Buddha sitting at the top of the temple stairs is 12 meters tall and was integrated in 1972.

If you're flying into Koh Samui you can in some cases see the huge Buddha from the aircraft.

The temple grounds likewise host a little market with keepsakes, interesting clothing and religious accessories on sale.

Area: Big Buddha Beach, off Route 4171, Bophut

Hours: Open throughout the day, every day

Cost: Free

Huge Buddha, Things To Do In Koh Samui

Looking up at Koh Samui's Big Buddha

4) Indulge in a Thai Massage

Thai massage is an ancient recovery practise that is revered all around Thailand.

Though the massage isn't as relaxing as standard massages, it is supposed to rejuvenate the body and feel remarkable later on.

Trained Thai masseuses bend and twist your body into odd positions during a massage, and this gets the blood streaming and soothes in addition to strengthens your muscles.

There are a lot of spas all over Koh Samui, so inspect them out if you seem like treating yourself.

5) Try Stand Up Paddleboarding

With ocean scenery as stunning as Koh Samui, do your finest to spend as much time in the water as possible.

For a relaxing and laid-back yet active day in Koh Samui try stand up paddleboarding. (You can schedule your SUP experience here.).

Paddleboards are heavy and strong, so they are simple to stabilize on even if it's your very first time.

This is a terrific way to soak in the views and invest quality time with the ocean, and it is a family-friendly activity.

Try paddling at dawn or sundown to beat the heat and see the sky's natural colours dancing above the water.

BOOK A SUNSET SUP TRIP.

BONUS OFFER-- Interested in reserving a tour online? Utilize the discount coupon code "NMDSKLK" on Klook when having a look at and you'll get $5 off your first booking!

6) Relax Away on among Koh Samui's Beautiful Beaches.

You merely can't check out Koh Samui without going to a few of the island's picturesque beaches.

Chaweng Beach is the most popular put on the island, with lots of Koh Samui destinations and nightlife surrounding the beach.

If you're questioning what to do in Koh Samui, hit Chaweng Beach initially, then figure the rest out from there.

Lamai Beach is the second most popular beach, and however it is less congested and a lot more peaceful than Chaweng.

Coral Cove Beach is charming for snorkelling and is hidden in a small bay behind a hotel.

Choeng Mon Beach is located on the north of the island near the Huge Buddha, and there are lots of good hotels and beach bars up here.

Lipa Noi Beach is the most kid-friendly of Koh Samui's beaches, as it has shallow, clear water and hardly any coral or rocks.

Pretty much every beach here has velvety white sand and coconut palm trees offering shade, and the water is clear and revitalizing all over too.

So choose any beach on Koh Samui and you'll seem like you remain in paradise.

Chaweng Beach Things To Do In Koh Samui Thailand.

The hectic coasts of Chaweng Beach.

7) Check Out the Secret Buddha Garden.

The Secret Buddha Garden is one of the most intriguing Koh Samui destinations.

Back in 1976, a local farmer called Nim Thongsuk began producing the garden by establishing statues around his land.

Years later, the statues of Buddhas, other divine beings, animals and random creatures have taken control of and the lavish jungle gardens offer a great background to all the artwork.

Invest an hour strolling through the tranquil green forest and appreciating all the fascinating statues; there is a sense of mystery here that is interesting.

Some experience trips around Koh Samui stop here as part of their travel plan, though you can likewise drive on your own.

Place: Off Path 4169 at Baan Saket, Thanon Dhupatemiya, Na Mueang, Koh Samui.

Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, open every day.

Expense: 80 Baht.

READ MORE: Don't lose out on all the very best things to do in Ao Nang when you are in southern Thaiand!

8) Taste Local Food at the Chaweng Night Market.

For a few of the best street food in Koh Samui, head to the Chaweng Night Market.

This is one of the busiest locations on the island, so the marketplace is full of things to see and is packed every night with locals and tourists alike.

Test flavorful regional treats for remarkably low-cost what to do in koh samui prices, or perhaps get a square meal for less than 2 USD.

The marketplace is mainly comprised of food, but you can also find some clothing, jewellery, and other timeless souvenirs on sale as well.

Location: 14/102 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach Roadway, Chaweng, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320.

Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm,