Joanna James
Try out diving, snorkelling, and laze on the sandy sunny beaches of Bophut. The beach village and the rest of Koh Samui have many great nature spots to relax and unwind.
This sanctuary has won the award for 'Best Animal Welfare' from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. This is the first elephant sanctuary in Koh Samui. Located on forested land, the sanctuary offers a retirement home for elephants rescued from logging and the tourism industry. Spend time with these gentle giants by helping to feed and bathe. One is welcome to provide donations to help with their upkeep and help them save more elephants. If you're looking for good accommodation in the area, you can find many Koh Samui resorts such as the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort.
Samui Football Golf is found by the beach road just 5 minutes from the Big Buddha and 10 minutes from Chaweng. It has an 18-hole footgolf course and a botanical garden on-premises, promising many fun-filled hours playing footgolf and taking in the beautiful surroundings.
While in Koh Samui, visit Ang Thong National Marine Park, a protected reserve of 100 square metres. This untouched group of 42 islands is found nestled amid the Gulf of Thailand. The islands have soaring limestone peaks, dense jungles, pristine white beaches, abundant mangroves, hidden caverns and lakes, waterfalls, and much more.
It means 'Turtle Island' and is a popular diving location with sandy white beaches and emerald waters.
The 21 square-kilometre island is encircled by the Gulf of Thailand. The abundant coral reefs are home to a large number of colourful marine life and, of course, the turtles!
This Buddhist temple is close to the Big Buddha, north of Koh Samui. The temple has very elaborated decor and images. There is an 18-armed sculpture of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and a statue of the Buddha in Chinese style on the lake.
This quiet garden is concealed high among the interior elevations of Koh Samui. The garden is adorned with many unique sculptures of deities amidst the lush jungle. The garden is the product of an elderly fruit farmer, Nim Thongsuk, who began erecting statues in 1976.
The location is challenging but worth the added effort for sure. Found on top of a hill shrine close to the Butterfly Garden, some incredible sights can be viewed of the whole island. There are 4 footprints sculpted on top of each, and they bear significant symbolism that reflects the noble qualities of a Buddha.
Also known as Koh Matsum, this small island is found on the southern side of Koh Samui. A favourite spot for a day trip to have a picnic and relax on the beach, try out some snorkelling and kayaking!
This big and trendy waterpark is near Maenam and has a range of high-quality water rides and amenities. The waterpark is located 1,500 metres away from Samui ring road, in a palm forest in the quiet Maenam region of Koh Samui.
An animal park on top of Koh Samui's tallest mountain – Khao Pom in Taling Ngam. Paradise Park Farm initially opened as a zoo for birds in 2012. It now features other animals such as deer and rabbits in their parklands.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
