Planning a trip through the lots of islands of Thailand can appear frustrating.

There are over a thousand Thai islands and they all have something various to offer.

The big industrialized islands have lots of accessible tourist destinations, and the small uninhabited islands have raw, untouched natural charm.

To make your trip-planning simpler, check out the larger islands that have a varied range of landscapes and activities and explore them completely.

Among the most fulfilling islands to visit is Koh Samui, the 2nd largest island in Thailand after Phuket (click the link to read our comprehensive itinerary posts).

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a big island covered in forest and fringed with beautiful beaches.

Koh Samui has actually had a reputation for being rather ritzy and expensive.

There are lots of high-end resorts, elegant hotels and vacation plans that appeal to the rich, however just recently the more local, budget friendly side of Koh Samui is starting to surface.

Backpacker hostels, street markets, cheap tours and a long list of destinations are starting to pull more young budget plan tourists to Koh Samui.

The classic touristy Thai culture, with its Buddhist temples, Muay Thai boxing matches, and Ladyboy cabarets, is cost effective enough that backpackers have the ability to travel Koh Samui without investing a fortune.

Soft white sand, sparkling blue-green water, and towering coconut palms make Koh Samui appear like a postcard, and now the island is more economical and available than ever.

There are lots of things to do in Koh Samui on a spending plan, and a lot of great hotels and restaurants to suit those with more cash to spend.

The island's natural charm will amaze anyone, and there is a lot Koh Samui sightseeing to do to fill a schedule of a few days or even a couple of weeks.

So here is a list of the very best things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand.

1) Schedule a Trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park

This is quickly among the very best things to do in Koh Samui, and in the whole Gulf of Thailand.

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Ang Thong National Marine Park is an archipelago of 42 islands, every one rugged and unique.

Throughout the park you can find limestone cliffs, rocky caves, thick jungle, lakes and rivers, waterfalls, reef, lagoons, hiking routes and sandy beaches, all connected by the lively blue ocean.

Emphasizes in the park consist of the Emerald Lake, or "Thale Nai", a green saltwater lake in the middle of the jungle, Koh Sam Sao, an island with fantastic snorkelling, and Koh Mae, an island with a steep walking that results in a scenic viewpoint.

Luckily, Ang Thong is well safeguarded as a national forest, so unique wildlife can grow and human development never ever oversteps its borders.

Just tour boats that are approved by the federal government are allowed to get in, so travellers can not access the park without reserving a trip.

There are lots of credible tour business offering inexpensive and very enjoyable tours around the archipelago that include snorkelling, kayaking, and relaxing.

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Ang Thong National Marine Park Thailand

A few of the lots of rock formations at Ang Thong National Marine Park

2) See a Mummified Monk

Wat Khunaram is a Buddhist temple in Koh Samui famous for its mummified monk.

This sight isn't for the faint-hearted, as it is actually a dead body on display screen in a glass case. It is rather remarkable for those who are interested.

Buddhist monk, Luang Pho Daeng, died in 1973 and his body is now a source of marvel for local Thais and Buddhists in the location.

He passed away while sitting in a meditative position and his remains is in surprisingly good condition for someone who passed away over forty years earlier.

Be sure to follow appropriate dress code when visiting any temples in Thailand (no shoulders or knees revealing).

Place: Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140

Hours: 7 am to 5 pm, open every day

Expense: Free

LEARNT MORE: This post tells you whatever you'll ever need to learn about taking a trip to Thailand!

3) Go To the Huge Buddha

The Huge Buddha should absolutely belong on any list of things to see in Koh Samui.

Officially referred to as Wat Phra Yai, this Buddhist temple complex is located on a small island off of Koh Samui's northeastern coast.

The huge golden Buddha sitting at the top of the temple stairs is 12 meters tall and was built in 1972.

If you're flying into Koh Samui you can sometimes see the giant Buddha from the plane.

The temple grounds also host a small market with mementos, interesting clothing and religious accessories on sale.

Area: Big Buddha Beach, off Path 4171, Bophut

Hours: Open all day, every day

Expense: Free

Big Buddha, Things To Do In Koh Samui

Looking up at Koh Samui's Huge Buddha

4) Indulge in a Thai Massage

Thai massage is an ancient healing practise that is revered all around Thailand.

Though the massage isn't as unwinding as standard massages, it is supposed to invigorate the body and feel amazing later on.

Trained Thai masseuses bend and twist your body into odd positions during a massage, and this gets the blood flowing and relieves as well as reinforces your muscles.

There are a lot of medical spas all over Koh Samui, so check them out if you seem like treating yourself.

5) Try Stand Up Paddleboarding

With ocean surroundings as spectacular as Koh Samui, do your best to spend as much time in the water as possible.

For a relaxing and easygoing yet active day in Koh Samui try stand up paddleboarding. (You can book your SUP experience here.).

Paddleboards are heavy and durable, so they are simple to balance on even if it's your very first time.

This is a fantastic method to soak in the views and spend quality time with the ocean, and it is a family-friendly activity also.

Try paddling at dawn or sunset to beat the heat and see the sky's natural colours dancing above the water.

BOOK A SUNSET SUP TOUR.

REWARD-- Interested in booking a trip online? Use the coupon code "NMDSKLK" on Klook when checking out and you'll get $5 off your very first booking!

6) Relax Away on one of Koh Samui's Beautiful Beaches.

You just can't visit Koh Samui without visiting a few of the island's attractive beaches.

Chaweng Beach is the most popular put on the island, with tons of Koh Samui attractions and nightlife surrounding the beach.

So if you're wondering what to do in Koh Samui, hit Chaweng Beach first, then figure the rest out from there.

Lamai Beach is the 2nd most popular beach, and however it is less congested and much more peaceful than Chaweng.

Coral Cove Beach is lovely for snorkelling and is hidden in a small bay behind a hotel.

Choeng Mon Beach is found on the north of the island near the Huge Buddha, and there are lots of great hotels and beach bars up here.

Lipa Noi Beach is the most kid-friendly of Koh Samui's beaches, as it has shallow, clear water and hardly any coral or rocks.

Pretty much every beach here has silky white sand and coconut palm trees providing shade, and the water is clear and revitalizing everywhere too.

So select any beach on Koh Samui and you'll seem like you're in paradise.

Chaweng Beach Things To Do In Koh Samui Thailand.

The busy shores of Chaweng Beach.

7) Explore the Secret Buddha Garden.

The Secret Buddha Garden is one of the most intriguing Koh Samui destinations.

Back in 1976, a local farmer called Nim Thongsuk started producing the garden by establishing statues around his land.

Years later on, the statues of Buddhas, other divine beings, animals and random animals have actually taken control of and the lush jungle gardens offer a good background to all the artwork.

Spend an hour walking through the peaceful green forest and admiring all the intriguing statues; there is a sense of secret here that is intriguing.

Some adventure tours around Koh Samui stop here as part of their schedule, though you can also drive by yourself.

Place: Off Route 4169 at Baan Saket, Thanon Dhupatemiya, Na Mueang, Koh Samui.

Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, open every day.

Expense: 80 Baht.

READ MORE: Don't miss out on all the best things to do in Ao Nang when you remain in southern Thaiand!

8) Taste Regional Food at the Chaweng Night Market.

For some of the best street food in Koh Samui, head to the Chaweng Night Market.

This is one of the busiest areas on the island, so the marketplace has lots of things to see and is packed every night with residents and travelers alike.

Test flavorful regional treats for remarkably inexpensive rates, or even get a full meal for less than 2 USD.

The market is primarily made up of food, but you can likewise find some clothes, jewellery, and other classic mementos on sale.

Area: 14/102 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach Road, Chaweng, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320.

Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, open every day.

READ MORE: Strategy your trip to Thailand with our detailed Thailand Travel Guide.

9) Visit Wat Plai Laem.

Another among the best Koh Samui tourist attractions is Wat Plai Laem, a Buddhist temple on the northeast coast of the island.

The temple is well-known for its statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion.

Bathed in white and sporting 18 arms, the Guanyin statue towers over the temple grounds and the surrounding lake.

Wat Plai Laem is close to the Huge Buddha, so you can easily come by both during your Koh Samui sightseeing.

Place: Road 4171, accessible by means of 4169 Highway Ring Roadway.

Hours: 6 am to 6 pm, open every day.

Expense: Free, Donations welcome.

Wat Plai Laem, Things To Do In Koh Samui.

The 18-armed Guanyin statue at Wat Plai Laem.

10) Trek to a Hill Temple.

For a bit of workout and breathtaking views, check out Koh Samui's hill temple called Khao Hua Jook Chedi.

You'll have to drive or take a taxi here as there is no public transport running directly to this destination.

The mountain on which the temple lies is called Chom Daow Mountain, and there is a shimmering gold pagoda as well as statues and Buddhist art work in the temple complex.

The viewing platform offers a fantastic view over Chaweng Lake, so make sure to bring your cam.

Area: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320.

Hours: 8 am to 5 pm, open every day.

Cost: Free.

11) Cool off at the Na Muang Waterfalls.

These two waterfalls are some of the best natural sights in Koh Samui.

They are located just a five-minute drive away from each other and they are both extremely stunning.

Na Muang Waterfall One is super easy to access since you can basically drive right approximately the entrance.

And it has a wide natural swimming pool that is perfect for swimming (specifically throughout the rainy season).

Getting to Waterfall Two needs a little climbing, so use sturdy, water resistant shoes.

The thick jungle supplies stunning natural landscapes, and the view from the top of Waterfall 2 is quite well-known amongst backpackers.

Location: Off Path 4169, Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140.

Hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm, open every day.

Cost: Waterfall One has no entrance fee, Waterfall Two expenses 30 Baht. You also have to spend for parking at Waterfall Two, 20 Baht for scooters and 60 Baht for cars and trucks.

LEARNT MORE: 21 of the best locations to visit in Thailand.

12) See the Strange Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks.

Of all the things to do in Koh Samui, this is most likely the oddest.

Set on a rocky beach on the island's southeast coast, the Hin Ta and Hin Ya Rocks are famous due to the fact that they resemble male and female genitalia.

They are also called the Grandpa's and Grandma's Rocks, and there are a few regional myths about how the rocks happened.

Whether you have an interest in the stories behind the landmarks or not, the neighboring beaches are lovely so it deserves a stop.

Place: simply off Route 4169, about 2 km south of Lamai Beach.

Hours: Open all day every day.

Cost: Free.

Hin Ta And Hin Ya Rocks Things To Do In Koh Samui.

Views while climbing up near the Hin Ta and Hin Ya Rocks.

13) Check out the Guan Yu Shrine.

Symbolic of the Chinese culture that has actually spread out throughout Thailand, the Guan Yu Shrine is a powerful landmark in Koh Samui.

There is a 16-meter high statue of Guan Yu, the Chinese God of War and a symbol of guts, commitment, and bravery.

You most likely won't find a lot of other tourists here, so you can delight in a little bit of peace and quiet while checking out the shrine's history.

If you wish to continue your education about Chinese culture after visiting the statue, there are some regional Chinese dining establishments out front.

Location: 190/1 Moo 1, Tambon Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84310.

Hours: 8 am to 5 pm, open every day.

Expense: Free.

14) Attend a Ladyboy Cabaret.

One of the best things to do in Koh Samui, or throughout Thailand, is going to a ladyboy cabaret.

The local Thai ladyboys are men that alter their look to look like attractive females, and they often place on fantastic performances around the country.

Koh Samui's finest place for seeing a spectacular ladyboy efficiency is the Paris Follies Cabaret in Chaweng.

There are three shows every night here, and various dances and songs from all over the world are integrated into the sets.

For a night full of tune, dance, and charm, go to the Paris tourist attractions in koh samui Follies Cabaret and prepare to be entertained by Koh Samui's best ladyboys.

Area: 166/92 Moo 2, off Chaweng Beach Road.

Hours: Performances at 8 pm, 9:30 pm and 11 pm, every night.

Expense: Free entry, however you are expected to purchase a beverage at the bar which can be over 200 Baht.

READ MORE: Plan for all of the amazing things to do in Phuket!

15) Stroll Through the Angler's Town Walking Street Market.

Bophut is an area on the northern coast of Koh Samui known for its local angler's village.

The town is among the oldest locations of the island, with rustic old structures and charming local culture.

Every Friday night starting at 5 pm, Bophut Beach Road develops into a vibrant street market loaded with mementos, art work, street food, and live music.

Some of the local shops bring their merchandise to the streets while other suppliers set up brand-new stalls and street entertainers put on a show.

Place: Bophut Beach Road, Bophut 84320.

Hours: 5 pm to 11 pm, every Friday.

Street Market Koh Samui.

A local street market in Koh Samui.

16) Hike the Elephant Rock.

Those trying to find active things to do in Koh Samui can head to the Elephant Rock, situated in between Chaweng and Lamai Beach.

This massive rock development is named "Elephant Rock" merely because it appears like a giant stone the exact same size as an Asian Elephant.

You can climb the Elephant Rock to get a fantastic bird's-eye view of the surrounding ocean and beaches.

This is a good outdoorsy activity to do while hanging out near Chaweng or Lamai Beach; simply make certain you use tough treking shoes.

Location: In Between Chaweng and Lamai Beach, Path 4169.

Hours: Open throughout the day, every day.

Cost: Free.

17) View a Muay Thai Boxing Match.

Muay Thai is a major part of Thai culture that travellers ought to try to experience in Thailand.

Koh Samui's best location to watch a Muay Thai boxing match is Chaweng Boxing Arena, which is also the oldest arena on the island.

Here you can observe the talented local professional athletes as they engage in combat, the strategies and tricks of which developed from the ancient fighting methods of the Siamese Empire.

Chaweng Boxing Stadium even has a program where they take youths off the streets and train them to combat Muay Thai in a safe and secure location.

Fighters you might enjoy during a match can vary from young kids to expert grownups, male or woman.

This boxing stadium stays true to regional traditions and still makes the battles engaging and interesting for travelers.

Location: 166/16, Moo 2, Chaweng, Tambon Bo Put, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320.

Hours: Battles every Tuesday and Friday beginning at 9 pm.

Expense: Tickets range from 1,500 to 2,000 Baht.

18) Take a Thai Cooking Class.

The food is absolutely among the highlights of travelling through Thailand.

Thai food is so full of flavour and fresh ingredients, and every meal seems like an experience for your taste.

The local cuisine differs somewhat depending on which area of Thailand you remain in.

If you're a real foodie you may desire to take a few different Thai cooking classes throughout the country.

Koh Samui has lots of cooking schools that offer full-day trips cooking classes, the majority of which include a trip of the local market followed by directed directions for making traditional dishes.

The food you prepare yourself might be some of the best you eat in Thailand.

So devote a minimum of one day in Koh Samui to an enjoyable Thai cooking class.

Green Curry Cooking Class Thailand.

Thai green curry, a dish you may make during a cooking class.

19) Admire Laem Sor Pagoda.

Another among Koh Samui's finest landmarks, Laem Sor Pagoda is found on a peaceful beach far from the popular tourist areas.

Down in the southwest corner of the island, the Laem Sor Pagoda stands tall as part of the Wat Laem Sor temple complex.

The Pagoda seems completely covered in gold, though it is actually small yellow tiles that offer it that radiant look.

Near the pagoda is a little forest with a lake and picnic benches, in addition to another Pagoda called Khao Chedi, located atop a hill that provides scenic views.

So there are a couple of things to do down in this corner of the island, and this location makes a good escape from the more crowded, touristy parts of Koh Samui.

Place: Off Route 4170, past Bang Kao town on a little beach.

Hours: Open all the time, every day.

Cost: Free.