Joanna James
Koh Samui isn't just a haven for sun-seekers, it's a paradise for photographers and Instagrammers alike. From awe-inspiring religious icons to hidden coastal gems, the island boasts an abundance of backdrops to elevate your Insta feed. Here are five amazing attractions to get you started.
Koh Samui's most iconic landmark, the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai), is a sight to behold. Towering 12 metres tall and gleaming gold, this magnificent statue can be found on a small rocky islet off the island's northeastern coast. A visit here offers more than just a stunning photo opportunity. As you ascend the steps to the viewing platform, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere of serenity that permeates the surroundings. The platform itself boasts panoramic views of the surrounding beaches and turquoise waters, offering a chance to capture the essence of Koh Samui's beauty in a single frame; it’s guaranteed to make your followers stop scrolling and marvel at the spectacle!
If your Instagram feed craves an idyllic escape, look no further than Phang Ka Beach. This secluded cove tucked away on the island's southwest corner boasts a scene straight out of a postcard. Pristine white sands, gentle waves lapping at the shore, and emerald headlands framing the azure bay create a picture of tranquillity. Stay at a property here like Avani+ Samui Resort and rise and shine for dreamy sunrise shots, capturing the soft light reflecting off the calm water. Phang Ka Beach also offers the perfect opportunity to capture the magic of a sublime sunset, with the silhouette of palm trees swaying gently in the breeze completing the picture-perfect scene.
Nestled on the southern shores of the island, Laem Sor Pagoda is a hidden gem, within easy reach for those staying at a Koh Samui Island resort at Phang Ka Beach. This charming pagoda is the only one on the island directly by the sea and features a striking Srivijaya-style stupa that creates a mesmerising contrast against the azure backdrop. Capture the golden pagoda basking in the morning light, its intricate carvings catching the first rays of sunshine. Soak in the vibrant local atmosphere during the day, as Thai devotees come to pray and leave offerings. But the real magic happens as the day progresses. Witness the magical transformation as the setting sun paints the scene in fiery hues reflecting off the stupa and creating a truly unforgettable photo opportunity.
No nature photographer's trip to Koh Samui is complete without capturing the cascading beauty of the Namuang Waterfalls. Nestled amidst lush greenery in the island's interior, these waterfalls offer a refreshing escape and a chance to capture the raw power and serenity of nature in one frame. Two waterfalls await exploration: Namuang 1, easily accessible through a park, boasts a natural pool perfect for a cooling dip and a photo opportunity surrounded by verdant foliage. For the more adventurous, a hike leads to Namuang 2, a hidden gem with even more dramatic cascades.
Close to Lamai Beach lies the Lamai Viewpoint, a haven for those seeking to capture the breathtaking beauty of Koh Samui. You can look forward to lush greenery framing a panoramic ocean vista that stretches out towards the horizon. Of course, one of the best times to visit is during sunset; watch as the sun dips below the turquoise waters, painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of fiery colours. Arrive early to secure the perfect spot and capture this magical scene, guaranteed to make your Instagram feed pop!
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.
