A tropical paradise, Koh Samui is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and resorts.
The island leaves you in awe as you explore temples and night markets. This island brings you adventures you can never forget! There is no wonder its tourist arrivals surged by 66.65% in 2023.
Some of the best fun can be found off the beaten path. What kind of fun do you want to experience? Venture off the beaten path and discover Koh Samui activities to enjoy!
1. Visit the Big Buddha Temple
One cannot visit Thailand without seeing at least one of its temples. One of the most popular is the Big Buddha in Koh Samui. Located on the northern coastline, the Golden Statue is the ideal place to start your adventure.
Take a moment to appreciate the picturesque view of the island as you hike to the top. You can visit the smaller shrines within the temple to pray and meditate. Free of pass, the Big Buddha temple is open from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM every day.
2. Walk Around Tarnim Magic Garden
For a whimsical experience, walk around Tarnim Magic Garden. This is a Buddhist forest park created by a local farmer in the remote part of the island. You can find remarkable sculptures surrounding the garden.
Created by Nim Thongsuk, the local farmer began sculpting to express his love for art and nature. He continues to add more sculptures to the park, so don’t miss out on his new works.
3. Check the Mummified Monk of Wat Khunaram
If you want to learn about Thai Buddhism, visit the mummified monk of Wat Khunaram. The preserved body of Loung Pordaeng is on display in a glass case.
The late monk predicted his death and asked for his mummification. According to the legend, Loung Pordaeng asked for it to teach people the evanescence of life. He believed it showed the importance of leading a virtuous life.
4. See the Samui Overlap Stone
The Samui Overlap Stone is a pair of striking overlapping boulders that create a stunning formation. To reach the Samui Overlap Stone, you must pass through a steep, dirt-track road leading to the viewpoint.
At some point, you need to walk to reach the scenic spot. This is a must-visit for avid hikers.
5. Hike to Namuang 2 Waterfall
In your travel to Koh Samui, consider hiking to Namuang 2 waterfall. It is the second tier of the Namuang Waterfall, where you can find a way up the mountain deep. Surrounded by vibrant flora, this water form offers a refreshing retreat.
The hike is short and straightforward, but it can get slippery when it rains. It’s best not to wear flip-flops and plan your hike carefully. Check out this guide on the best time to visit Koh Samui.
6. Go for an Off-Road ATV Adventure
One of the best Koh Samui activities is an off-road ATV adventure. If visiting temples is not your thing, navigate the dirty trails and thrilling slopes. Explore the rugged terrains and uncover the remote areas of the island.
For the best terrain adventure, look for a reputable company to rent a quad bike. Doing so ensures safety, proper maintenance, and adherence to regulations. Moreover, it reduces risks and boosts the experience of exploring diverse terrains.
7. Attend a Muay Thai Training Camp
Engulf yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Thailand by training in Muay Thai. It is a traditional martial art in the country that combines the striking of different limbs. It focuses on discipline, respect, and physical conditioning, ingrained in Thai culture.
While Koh Samui is famous for its vibrant nightlife, exploring Muay Thai allows you to connect more with the locals. You can attend a training camp to experience its cultural richness. If you have limited time, consider watching a live match.
At 9 PM on Thursdays and Saturdays, witness the sport in action at the Chaweng Boxing Stadium. You can choose to stay at the ringside or the VIP area. If you cannot handle its brutality, we recommend getting the latter.
8. Relax at Lamai Beach
After extreme adventures in the terrain and the ring, stroll along the soft sands and soothing waves. Relaxing at the beach is a must on Koh Samui tours. Offering different atmospheres and experiences, pristine beaches surround the island.
For instance, Lamai Beach offers a serene atmosphere to visitors. It records fewer visitors than Chaweng Beach. However, it provides more amenities than Maenam Beach.
From Chaweng to Maenam, you have plentiful choices of beaches. You only need a fueled motorbike, a reliable camera, and enough allowance to explore them.
9. Stroll Around the Fishermen’s Village
For a taste of traditional Thai life, visit the Fishermen’s Village in Bophut. The small town offers a glimpse of the past and cultural heritage of Koh Samui. From its historical architecture to its cobblestone streets, the village offers a strange sense of nostalgia.
Today, boutiques, art galleries, and beachfront restaurants crowd its streets. Friday evenings lift the mood in the village with its Walking Street. Performances, local crafts, and street food are everywhere.
10. Explore the Local Night Market
Although common in Thailand, night markets in Koh Samui offer a more authentic experience. Head to Nathon or Maenam to discover a range of local delicacies and handmade crafts. To make your last night memorable, see the vibrant cultural performances.
Engage with locals, eat street food, and explore the stalls selling unique souvenirs. With this, you can get an idea of the local life in Koh Samui. Exploring the local night market leaves a lasting and flavorful memory.
Trying Different Koh Samui Activities
Here are some of the best Koh Samui activities for adventurers who want to go off the beaten path! Visiting the island gives an experience that goes beyond that of a typical tourist. From visiting temples to exploring the night market, this tropical paradise makes your visit unforgettable.
Do you not know where to start your adventure? At SamuiTours.Com, we bring you the best tours you can have on the island. Contact us today and let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
