Best Things to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand: My Travel Guide

Koh Samui is one of those Thai islands where you can easily spend your days relaxing on the beach, exploring waterfalls, visiting local markets and discovering beautiful viewpoints. Whether you’re travelling solo, backpacking around Thailand or visiting with friends, there’s plenty to do beyond the usual beach days.

I spent time exploring Koh Samui and loved having the freedom to discover different parts of the island. From visiting Pig Island and chasing waterfalls to finding cheap local food and meeting other travellers, these are the places and experiences I’d recommend adding to your itinerary.

In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Koh Samui, how to get around without spending a fortune, where to find affordable food and how to meet other backpackers along the way.

Still deciding whether Koh Samui deserves a place on your Thailand itinerary? I’ve also shared my honest opinion on whether Koh Samui is worth visiting, including what I liked, what I enjoyed less and how the season affected my experience.

Where to Stay in Koh Samui: Best Areas and Hostels

I spent four days in Koh Samui, and honestly, I had a really good time! I flew there from Bangkok for around €70 because I simply couldn’t be bothered with the long bus and ferry journey just to save around €20. Sometimes, I’d rather spend a little extra and make my life easier, especially when I’m travelling for a longer period.

During my stay, I booked Lub d Koh Samui in the Chaweng area. The hostel itself was great, and I met some lovely people there. However, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the area surrounding it. Koh Samui has several different areas to stay in, and where you choose to base yourself can make quite a difference to your experience.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Koh Samui, especially as a solo traveller or backpacker, here’s what I’d consider before booking.

1. Chaweng: Best for Social Hostels and Nightlife

I stayed in Chaweng, one of Koh Samui’s busiest and most developed areas. It’s a popular choice for backpackers because you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, shops, nightlife and accommodation options.

I stayed at Lub d Koh Samui, and I genuinely enjoyed the hostel itself. It was beautiful, there were plenty of things to do, and I made some lovely friends during my stay. If you’re travelling solo and want to meet other people, I’d definitely consider a social hostel like this.

However, the area itself wasn’t really my favourite. I found Chaweng quite busy, intense and, personally, not the prettiest part of Koh Samui. If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful with a more laid-back island atmosphere, it might not be your ideal base.

That said, if you’re visiting during a quieter period, I’d still consider staying somewhere social. I was there in October, when things were relatively quiet, and I was glad to have a hostel where I could meet people rather than spending my days alone.

My recommendation: Choose Chaweng if meeting other backpackers, having plenty of restaurants nearby and enjoying nightlife are priorities. I’d happily recommend Lub d for its social atmosphere, even though Chaweng itself wasn’t my favourite area.

2. Lamai: A More Relaxed Alternative

If Chaweng sounds a little too busy for you, I’d look into Lamai instead.

Lamai is another popular area on Koh Samui, with a beach, restaurants, bars and accommodation options. It can be a good alternative if you’d prefer a slightly more relaxed base while still having places to eat and things to do nearby.

I didn’t stay in Lamai myself, but I met someone who stayed at Chill Inn Beach Cafe & Hostel and was happy with their experience there.

I’d consider looking into this area if you’re travelling solo but don’t necessarily want to stay in the busiest part of the island. Just remember that the atmosphere can vary quite a lot depending on the season and the hostel you choose.

My recommendation: Look at Lamai if you’d like a beach-focused stay with a more laid-back feel. Check recent reviews and social activities before booking if meeting other travellers is important to you.

3. Be Careful When Choosing a Hostel in Low Season

One thing I noticed while travelling around Thailand is that a hostel’s atmosphere can change completely depending on when you visit.

I was in Koh Samui in October, and it was relatively quiet. While that can be lovely if you’re looking for a peaceful holiday, it isn’t necessarily ideal if you’re travelling solo and hoping to meet people.

A girl I met stayed at Vibes Samui Hostel & Cafe during the same period and told me she was literally the only guest there. I’m not exaggerating! Imagine booking a hostel hoping to meet fellow backpackers and arriving to find nobody else staying there.

I’d therefore recommend checking recent reviews, contacting the hostel directly and asking about expected occupancy or planned social activities before booking, particularly if you’re travelling during a quieter month.

I also heard a concerning story from a friend about being bitten by a dog near the accommodation she was staying at. She told me she needed repeated wound care and five rabies vaccinations afterwards. I can’t verify how common these incidents are or whether the situation is still the same, so I wouldn’t treat this as a general statement about the hostel itself. However, it’s a reminder to be cautious around unfamiliar dogs and to seek urgent medical advice after any bite or scratch from a potentially rabid animal.

If you’re concerned about a particular property, ask the accommodation about the immediate surroundings and check recent guest reviews before booking.

My Final Advice on Where to Stay in Koh Samui

For my four-day stay, Lub d in Chaweng worked well because I met lovely people and had plenty to do at the hostel. The busy surroundings weren’t my favourite, but having a social place to return to made a difference.

If I were choosing again, I’d decide based on what mattered most to me:

For meeting other backpackers: I’d look for a social hostel in Chaweng, such as Lub d.
For a more relaxed atmosphere: I’d explore accommodation options around Lamai, including Chill Inn.
For travelling in October: I’d check how many guests are expected and whether the hostel has activities planned before booking.

Ultimately, I’d prioritise the hostel’s atmosphere as much as its location. Koh Samui has different areas to suit different travel styles, and finding somewhere that matches yours can make your stay so much more enjoyable.

For a more detailed breakdown of the island’s different areas, including my experience at Lub d Koh Samui and other hostels worth looking into, read my guide to where to stay in Koh Samui.

How to Get Around Koh Samui

One thing worth knowing before visiting Koh Samui is that the island is bigger than you might expect. The beaches, waterfalls, viewpoints and markets are spread across different areas, so figuring out your transport makes a big difference.

You have several options, depending on your budget and how comfortable you feel getting around independently.

Rent a Scooter

For me, exploring Koh Samui independently was one of the best parts of visiting the island. I ended up finding some guys who drove us around because I don’t ride a scooter myself, and honestly, I loved it. We could visit different places throughout the day without constantly worrying about arranging another taxi.

If you’re confident and legally allowed to ride, renting a scooter gives you a similar freedom. You can stop at beaches whenever you want, visit several attractions in one day and explore places that are less convenient to reach by taxi.

Scooter rentals can start at around 200 THB per day, although prices depend on the season, rental company and type of scooter.

Just make sure you’re properly licensed, wear a helmet and check that your travel insurance covers you. Thai roads can be busy, and the roads leading to some viewpoints are steep. Don’t rent a scooter if you aren’t comfortable riding one.

Use Grab or Bolt

If you’d rather not drive yourself, Grab is a convenient option for getting around Koh Samui. Bolt may also be available for some journeys, depending on the area and current availability.

My advice is to compare the apps before booking. Prices and availability can vary depending on the time of day, your destination and demand.

It might not seem like much to pay for a few individual rides, but those costs can quickly add up if you’re visiting several attractions in one day.

Take a Taxi

You can also take regular taxis around Koh Samui. They’re useful for airport transfers, evenings out or journeys where you don’t want to worry about transport.

However, I wouldn’t necessarily choose a private taxi for every trip if you’re travelling on a budget. Agree on the price before getting in and compare it with the available ride-hailing apps where possible.

My tip: if you’re staying for several days and want to explore lots of places, plan your stops by area. You’ll save time and avoid paying for unnecessary journeys.

Stay Connected on Koh Samui with an eSIM

I use Holafly as my eSIM whenever I travel and honestly love how easy it makes staying connected abroad.

Having an eSIM means I can use Google Maps, check transport, look up restaurants, book accommodation and stay connected as soon as I arrive, without having to find a local SIM card or deal with changing SIM cards.

If you’re looking for an eSIM for your next trip, I definitely recommend Holafly. You can get 5% off with my code LIFEASSAAR.

Best Things to Do in Koh Samui

Koh Samui has a nice mix of beaches, waterfalls, viewpoints, markets and outdoor activities. These are some of the places I’d consider when planning a trip.

1. Visit Pig Island (Koh Madsum)

Pig Island, also known as Koh Madsum, is one of the more unusual day trips from Koh Samui. It’s a small island where pigs roam around the beach, making it a popular stop for visitors.

You usually visit by boat, and trips can sometimes include snorkelling around the neighbouring island of Koh Tan.

It’s a fun option if you want to spend a day on the water and do something a little different from visiting another beach on Koh Samui.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to arrange a boat trip to get there, so factor that into your budget. Be respectful of the animals, follow local guidance and avoid feeding or touching them unless you’re explicitly told it’s safe.

2. Explore the Secret Buddha Garden

Secret Buddha Garden, also known as Magic Garden, is hidden in the green hills in the interior of Koh Samui.

Instead of another beach, you’ll find statues, sculptures and little pathways surrounded by tropical vegetation. It’s a different side of the island, but to be honest, this was probably my least favourite stop in Koh Samui. While it’s worth considering if you enjoy unusual gardens and exploring the island’s interior, I wouldn’t put it at the top of your list.

Getting there can be more challenging than reaching the beaches because the garden is located in the hills. You can visit as part of a guided island or 4WD tour, or arrange transport if you’re exploring independently.

I’d recommend checking the road conditions before attempting to ride there yourself, especially if you’re inexperienced on a scooter. If you’re short on time, I’d personally skip Secret Buddha Garden and focus on some of Koh Samui’s beaches, waterfalls or viewpoints instead.

3. Visit Na Muang Waterfalls 1 and 2

If you want to see some nature during your stay, add Na Muang Waterfalls to your itinerary.

There are two main waterfalls, and you can visit them separately.

Na Muang Waterfall 1 is generally the easier one to reach, with a relatively short walk from the parking area. It’s a good option if you want to see a waterfall without committing to a longer hike.

Na Muang Waterfall 2 is higher up and involves a steeper, more challenging walk through the forest.

Water levels depend on the season and recent rainfall, so the waterfalls may look very different depending on when you visit. Wear shoes with a good grip, as the rocks can be slippery.

If you’re exploring the island by scooter or with a driver, you can combine the waterfalls with other stops in the southern or central part of Koh Samui.

4. Visit Samui Elephant Home

If you’d like to have an elephant-related experience, Samui Elephant Home is another place to look into.

Before booking any elephant activity in Thailand, I recommend researching the specific experience and its animal-welfare practices rather than choosing a place based on photos alone.

Look for transparent information about how the elephants are cared for, whether visitors are encouraged to ride or bathe with them, and whether the experience prioritises the animals’ needs.

It’s worth checking the current activities and policies directly with the venue before deciding whether it’s right for you.

5. Visit the White Market and Fisherman’s Village Market

One of my favourite ways to experience a destination is by visiting its local markets. They’re a great place to find affordable food, browse small stalls and experience a different atmosphere once the sun starts to set.

White Market

Add White Market to your list if you want to browse market stalls and look for food or little souvenirs. Check the current opening days and location before going, as market schedules can change.

Fisherman’s Village Walking Street

Fisherman’s Village in Bophut is another popular stop. The area has restaurants, shops and a beachfront setting, and its walking street market is particularly well known on Friday evenings.

You can wander around, grab some street food and spend the evening exploring without needing to plan a full activity.

If you’re travelling on a budget, markets are also a good alternative to eating at more expensive beachfront restaurants.

6. Discover Coral Cove Beach

Coral Cove Beach is a small beach on the east coast of Koh Samui, between the Chaweng and Lamai areas.

Compared with some of the island’s larger beaches, it feels like a more tucked-away spot. It’s a nice place to stop for a swim, relax on the sand or take a break while exploring the coastline.

As always, check the sea conditions before swimming, especially if the water looks rough.

7. Spend Time at Silver Beach

Silver Beach, also known as Crystal Bay, is another beautiful beach to add to your Koh Samui itinerary.

It’s known for its clear water, pale sand and rocky surroundings. If you’re looking for a beach day that feels a little different from the busier stretches of coastline, it’s worth considering.

You can easily combine it with other stops around Lamai and the eastern coast, depending on where you’re staying.

8. Watch the Sunset at Nathon Beach

Nathon is on the western side of Koh Samui and is known as one of the island’s main ferry and town areas.

I would consider heading towards the west coast if you want to watch the sun go down over the sea. Nathon Beach and the surrounding waterfront can be good places to slow down at the end of the day.

Sunset times and visibility depend on the weather, so don’t expect a spectacular sky every evening. But if you’re already exploring this side of the island, it’s a lovely way to finish your day.

9. Visit Heaven’s Gate

Heaven’s Gate is another viewpoint to look into if you enjoy scenic spots and taking photos.

It’s worth checking the exact location, access arrangements and current visitor information before you go, as some attractions around Koh Samui are privately operated and access can change.

If you plan to visit several viewpoints in one day, group them together rather than travelling back and forth across the island.

10. See Overlap Stone

Overlap Stone is one of Koh Samui’s most recognisable viewpoints. The large boulder sits above the surrounding landscape, with beautiful views over the green hills and coastline.

It’s a popular place for photos, and honestly, the views make it worth a visit if you’re exploring the Lamai area. Entry costs 200 baht, and you get free water included in the price.

There’s also a bar with a really beautiful view, so you can grab a drink and enjoy the scenery while you’re there.

Getting there can involve steep roads, so if you’re riding a scooter, be particularly careful on the uphill sections and don’t attempt the route if you aren’t confident.

I’d combine Overlap Stone with other places around Lamai rather than making a separate journey just for one viewpoint.

11. Try Tree Bridge Zipline

If you’d like something more adventurous than a beach day, Tree Bridge Zipline is another activity to consider.

It’s a way to experience Koh Samui’s greener, more forested interior from a different perspective. It could be a fun addition if you’re travelling with friends or want to meet other people while doing something active.

Check the current prices, opening times, age or weight restrictions and booking requirements directly with the operator before you go.

Where to Eat Cheaply in Koh Samui

Eating out can become surprisingly expensive in the more touristy parts of Koh Samui, especially if you stick to restaurants along the main beach roads.

Personally, I mostly kept things simple and looked for affordable local food rather than spending a lot on every meal.

Green Bird in Chaweng

Green Bird in Chaweng is a place I’d recommend checking out if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly meal.

I ate there and enjoyed it. It’s a good option to look into if you’re staying around Chaweng and want something straightforward without spending too much.

Check the current menu and prices when you visit, as these can change.

Chaweng Night Market Food Center

Another good option for budget travellers is the food market in Chaweng, where you can find different stalls serving Thai dishes and other inexpensive meals.

I like places like this because you can choose what you feel like eating, compare different options and keep your food budget under control.

It’s also a good alternative to sitting down at a restaurant every evening.

Look for Local Food Stalls

One of my biggest tips for travelling around Thailand on a budget is to look beyond the restaurants directly on the busiest tourist streets.

Small local eateries and market stalls can be a great way to find affordable meals. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to eat well, and trying different Thai dishes is part of the experience.

If you’re staying in a hostel, ask other travellers where they’ve been eating. You might discover a little place you wouldn’t have found otherwise.

How to Meet Other Travellers in Koh Samui

If you’re travelling solo, or simply want to meet people to explore the island with, there are several ways to connect with other travellers.

I always find that meeting people can make a trip even more enjoyable. It’s also useful when you want to share the cost of a taxi, organise a day trip or find someone to explore with.

1. Use the Hostelworld App

Even if you’re not staying in a hostel, the Hostelworld app can be useful for connecting with other backpackers.

Depending on the hostel and the app’s current features, you may be able to join group chats, connect with people staying nearby or find other travellers planning similar activities.

It’s worth checking whether there are active chats for Koh Samui or your specific accommodation.

2. Try Nomadtable

Nomadtable is another platform worth looking into if you want to meet people while travelling.

It can be useful for finding people to share meals or activities with, particularly if you’re travelling alone and don’t want to spend every evening by yourself.

Check which meetups or connections are available in Koh Samui during your stay.

3. Try TripBFF

TripBFF is another app I’d recommend checking out if you’re looking to connect with fellow travellers.

You can use travel communities and matching platforms to find people who are visiting the same destination or have similar plans.

In my opinion, Hostelworld group chats, Nomadtable and TripBFF are three useful places to start when you’re trying to meet people while travelling.

Of course, activity levels depend on the destination and the dates you’re there, so don’t worry if one app seems quiet. Hostel common areas, group tours and local activities are also great ways to meet people in person.

Final Thoughts on Koh Samui

Koh Samui has plenty to offer beyond its beaches. You can visit waterfalls, explore the island’s green interior, take a boat trip to Pig Island, discover local markets and find beautiful places to watch the sunset.

For me, one of the best parts of exploring the island was having the freedom to visit different places throughout the day. I loved being able to stop wherever we wanted rather than having to arrange separate transport for every attraction.

If you’re travelling on a budget, my biggest advice is to compare transport prices, look for affordable local food and try to connect with other travellers. Sharing rides and activities can make exploring the island more affordable and a lot more fun.

And don’t feel like you have to do everything. Pick a few places that genuinely interest you, leave some room for spontaneous plans and enjoy discovering Koh Samui at your own pace.

Planning Your Thailand Trip?

If you’re planning a trip around Thailand, I’ve also put together destination guides with things to do, practical advice and honest opinions based on my own experiences.

START HERE: Thailand Travel Guide

Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion
Where to Stay in Koh Samui: Best Areas & Hostels

Explore my Thailand travel guides for more inspiration, useful tips and ideas for planning your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Koh Samui

What are the best things to do in Koh Samui?

Some of the best things to do in Koh Samui include visiting Pig Island, exploring Na Muang Waterfalls, relaxing at Silver Beach, discovering local night markets and enjoying the views from Overlap Stone. You can also try ziplining, visit elephant sanctuaries and explore different parts of the island.

How many days do you need in Koh Samui?

I’d recommend spending around three to four days in Koh Samui if you want to explore the main attractions without rushing. This gives you time to visit beaches, waterfalls, viewpoints and markets, and possibly take a boat trip to Pig Island. If you prefer a slower pace or want extra flexibility for rainy days, consider staying longer.

Is Koh Samui worth visiting?

Yes, Koh Samui is worth visiting if you enjoy tropical beaches, nature, viewpoints and a mix of relaxing and adventurous activities. Personally, I found it beautiful but not my favourite Thai island. I visited in October, when it was relatively quiet, and felt that the atmosphere depended quite a lot on the people I met and where I stayed.

How do you get around Koh Samui?

You can get around Koh Samui by scooter, taxi or ride-hailing apps such as Grab and, where available, Bolt. Renting a scooter can give you more freedom to explore, but only ride if you’re properly licensed and confident on the roads. If you don’t ride, you can arrange taxis or find other travellers to share transport with.

Is Koh Samui expensive for backpackers?

Koh Samui can be more expensive than some other destinations in Thailand, particularly for accommodation, transport and organised activities. However, you can keep costs down by staying in hostels, eating at local food stalls, visiting markets and sharing transport or boat trips with other travellers.

Is Koh Samui good for solo travellers?

Koh Samui can be a good destination for solo travellers, especially if you stay in a social hostel and join group activities. However, the atmosphere can be quieter during certain periods. I’d check recent hostel reviews and look for organised activities if meeting other backpackers is important to you.

What is the best area to stay in Koh Samui?

Chaweng is a good option if you want plenty of restaurants, nightlife and social hostels. Lamai is worth considering if you’d prefer a more relaxed base with a beach and places to eat nearby. Your best choice depends on your travel style, budget and whether meeting other travellers is a priority.

Can you visit Koh Samui on a budget?

Yes, you can explore Koh Samui on a budget by staying in hostels, eating at local restaurants and markets, and planning your transport carefully. Sharing rides with other travellers can also help reduce costs. Some beaches are free to visit, so you don’t need to book paid activities every day.

Does it rain a lot in Koh Samui?

The weather depends on the season, and rain is possible throughout the year. I visited in October for four days, and one day had heavy rain while the other days mostly had showers lasting around half an hour. If you’re visiting for only a few days, rain could affect your plans. With a longer stay, it’s easier to rearrange activities around the weather.

Is Pig Island worth visiting?

Pig Island, also known as Koh Madsum, can be a fun day trip if you want to take a boat ride, spend time on a different beach and see the island’s pigs. Trips may also include stops for snorkelling around nearby Koh Tan. Check what is included in your tour and follow local guidance on interacting with the animals.