An Insider’s Guide – Things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand


Koh Samui is known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and dense, mountainous rainforests. If you ask me, it is one of the best islands to visit for an idyllic and romantic getaway. It has everything going for it from gorgeous beaches, lush vegetation and heaps of activities to do both on land and at sea. If you’re heading to this piece of paradise, we have just the list of things for you to do. Luxurylaunches together with the concierge of Six Senses Samui has put together some fun ways of exploring the island.


Six Senses Samui offers glorious panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand and would be the perfect place to base yourself for exploring the island. Koh Samui is small enough for you to easily drive a car around and discover new things and unique places. Or if you prefer, explore on foot or on the top of an elephant. If you like to be out in the sea, boat trips are also available to show you the most of this beautiful island. Whatever your pick, a world of fun & adventure awaits you. Let’s discover how…


Top day trip
One day trip to Koh Tao Or Angthong National Marine Park: A private speed boat or shared speed boat trip to Koh Tao (Turtle Island). This island is famous for diving and snorkeling. At Angthong National Marine Park, one can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking and also find a quiet beach on which to relax and have lunch.


Must try dish
Bai Liang Pad Kai’ (stir-fried Gnetum gnemon leaves) is a kind of vegetable that the locals in the south use to stir-fry with eggs. This dish can be found only in Koh Samui and Suratthani.

Also read -  An ideal spot for those who miss flying - Thai Airways has opened an airplane-themed café


Best activity / Excursion
Thai Cooking Class: This is a “must do” class for all guests who are interested in learning how to cook Thai cuisine. The Thai Chef at Six Senses Samui will teach you to cook up a feast in no time. You can also receive a cooking book and an apron as a souvenir.


Best view
Jungle Route 360 is located on the highest point of Koh Samui (613 meters above sea level) and gives you a 360 degree panoramic view of the island.


Best One Stop shop
Chaweng Shopping: Most of the choice shopping in Chaweng is located along the Beach Road and is compartmentalised into areas for beachwear, jewelry, sports shops, with a long thread of bazaar-like shops selling clothes and DVD’s the whole length of the road. Also visit Central Festival Samui as it is the largest lifestyle shopping complex in Koh Samui.


Best Local Secret
‘Unseen Samui Trip’ is a journey by car on the main road around the island that is arranged by Six Senses Samui. Visit local attractions like the Plai Laem Temple, Hua Thanon Muslim Market, Kow Pom plantations, Giant Summit viewpoint, OTOP coconut production, Tongkrut Fisherman Village, Laem Sor Pagoda and cave, and the Chinese Temple in Hua Thanon.


Best place for local shopping
Walking Street Market at Fisherman’s Village is the best night market in Samui that offers a huge selection of shopping and dining opportunities.


Best family activity
Pink Elephant Samui Water Park is a spacious, modern attraction near Maenam, featuring a range of high-quality rides and facilities and promises a fun and safe day for the whole family.

Also read -  Suite of the week: The Dreamy Reserve pool villa at the Phulay Bay, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, Krabi


Best cultural secret
Thai Boxing or Muay Thai is a form of martial art that is both graceful and lethal. Used since ancient times, Muay Thai has become an integral part of Thailand’s cultural heritage. You can opt to learn this art at Six Senses Samui where a personal trainer will train you on the techniques.


Best restaurant for a celebration
Dining on the Rocks has the reputation for serving some of the best food on Koh Samui and uses the freshest herbs and vegetables. A romantic dinner under the stars at the Dining on the Rocks can be a unique and superb experience.


Best cocktail with a view
Air Bar at InterContinental Koh Samui is a one-of-a-kind destination cocktail lounge on Koh Samui. The hypnotic color palette of a Koh Samui sunset and the countless shades of blue and green of the Gulf of Thailand are your backdrop as you enjoy one of Air Bar’s signature cocktails prepared by world-class mixologists.


Must see museum
Art Samui gives visitors an experience that offers the best of arts as well as a glimpse into art pieces that have redefined the art scene in Thailand. The art museum thrives on a type of art called Trick Art. Just as the name suggests, this form of art tricks the human brain into believing that the picture presented is in 3D.

Where: Six Senses Samui
9/10 Moo 5, Baan Plai Laem, Bophut, Koh Samui,
Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Phone: +66 77 245 678

Tags from the story
,