Joanna James
From snorkelling, diving, swimming and basking on beautiful jungle-backed beaches, things to do in Koh Samui, the largest island in the Gulf of Thailand are truly endless. For ideas on how to spend your time, at some of the best places to visit on the island, see the list below!
Koh Samui is not all about the beaches! It's also about two stunning beautiful waterfalls. Na Mueang Waterfalls are easily two of the island's most beautiful natural features and can be reached on foot via a brief trek. Upon reaching, you can jump into a rock pool and spend a delightful afternoon swimming in the cool and refreshing waters of the Na Mueang Falls.
A truly beautiful strip of sandy white beaches kissed by Thailand's signature cerulean blue waters, Chaweng Beach is quite a popular attraction on the island. From the powdery soft sands, endless blue skies and impossibly blue waters, it's hard to not let your worries go and to simply relax and sunbathe to your heart's content in this paradise-like location. Additionally, the town behind this beautiful beach also happens to easily be one of the best nightlife spots on the island. Consider heading there for a snazzy cocktail after a tiring day of sunbathing!
While quieter than the popular Chaweng Beach, Silver Beach is possibly more beautiful! Here rugged rock outcrops and thick dense jungle all come together to create a stunning attraction where one can enjoy a spot of snorkelling and hit a few beach bars and restaurants found along the length of Silver Beach. It's definitely a top place to visit for those seeking a bit of time under the sun away from the maddening crowds of the more populous beach spots.
Inspired by the famed Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, the Samui Elephant Sanctuary is an ideal place to head to observe well-treated jumbos in their natural habitats. The sanctuary does a fantastic job of raising awareness of a host of issues, wild and domesticated elephants face in Southeast Asia. The Samui Elephant Sanctuary is ideal for animal lovers and can be reached easily from Koh Samui resorts including the likes of Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort with relative ease.
Keen on doing some shopping during your time at Koh Samui? Simply make your way to Central Festival shopping centre to get your fill of all the authentic Western brands along with some beloved Thai ones under one roof. The Festival Center is also home to some lovely restaurants, bistros and cafes along with a cinema complex, making it a great spot to simply hang out, shop and dine especially if it's a rainy day on the island! Reaching the shopping precinct should not be too hard. Simply request your accommodation provider to arrange for a taxi, and they will be happy to do so.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
