5 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui — Island of Splendid Allures

The Big Buddha will probably be the first landmark you recognise as your flight nears the landing strip on Koh Samui. The 12-metre-tall statue is a beloved attraction as it is visible from across the island. The seated statue represents the Buddha's transition to enlightenment and signifies a time when he was able to resist temptation. Thus, the statue represents enlightenment, purity and persistence. The temple, which houses the statue, is located in Bophut atop a picturesque hill that is also a popular lookout point. Several shrines make up the compound with a market located at the base of the hill where you can shop for local handicrafts and food items. The temple is conveniently accessible from well-known resorts like Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, which are situated in close proximity to the Big Buddha statue. These resorts serve as excellent options when selecting a Koh Samui family resort.

This is a beautiful archipelago of 42 islands spread across the Gulf of Thailand. It is not to be missed if you enjoy the sun, sea, sand and gorgeous sunny environs. The islands comprise lush jungles, limestone cliffs, thick mangrove forests and sun-bleached white sand beaches. The park is spread over a total of 100km and is within the range of Koh Samui; therefore, you can easily ask your Koh Samui resort about booking a day tour of the marine park.

Located in Bophut, the Fisherman's Village is a culturally rich area in Koh Samui. The area is a huge lure to tourists and locals as its home to chic boutique stores, restaurants and several shops. Friday is the best day to visit the village as the region comes alive with markets, bazaars and eager shoppers from all corners of the island. It is a very touristy type of place, but also a spot that you won't want to miss exploring as part of your Samui experience.

Two cascades make up the Na Muang Falls. They are regarded as the prettiest waterfalls on the island and get their name from the purple-hued rock at its base. Getting down to the cascades is via a series of natural steps formed by tree roots. This way you can climb down to Na Muang-1, which is the first tier. To get to the second tier, you need to hike for 10 minutes to the higher levels of the mountain. The second tier is prettier while there is a natural pool for bathing at the base of tier one.

The Samui cabaret show is one of the more popular forms of entertainment available on the island. These are dance acts performed by the elegant transgender community of Thailand. Transgender and alternate sexuality is well tolerated and understood in Thailand, which identifies transgender individuals as the third sex. These people are regarded as being creative and blessed with talent. Hence, they are a primary part of Thai entertainment.