Koh Samui Itinerary – Our Comprehensive Guide to a Perfect Vacation
Koh Samui Itinerary – Our Comprehensive Guide to a Perfect Vacation on the Thailand Island of Love is full of activities and Adventures.
If you’re craving an exotic escape, Koh Samui is your destination. As one of Thailand’s most popular islands, Koh Samui boasts stunning white sand beaches, breathtaking jungle scenery and buzzing nightlife.
Whether you’re looking to relax, explore or party, this Island has something for everyone. From snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to enjoy a traditional Thai massage, your time on Koh Samui promises to be exciting and unforgettable. Our 9-day Koh Samui itinerary gives you the perfect guide to maximise your stay.
Koh Samui beckons! Leave the ordinary behind and explore this tropical paradise – a bouquet of pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, lush jungle interiors and an electrifying nightlife await your discovery. So prepare for an unforgettable journey to one of Thailand’smost remarkable gems!
Getting to Koh Samui!
Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations and is easily accessible by land and air. The closest airport to Koh Samui is the Koh Samui International Airport (USM), with direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong and more.
Alternatively, you can take the train to Surat Thani and then get a ferry from Donsak Pier or Nathon Pier, which will take you to the Island.
Best places to stay in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has various budget accommodation options, from luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. For the best views and easy access to nightlife, stay in Chaweng, the Island’s most popular area.
If you’re looking for something more secluded and peaceful, Lamai Beach is perfect for you with its quiet atmosphere and stunning sunsets. Alternatively, if you want somewhere more tranquil but close enough to explore other parts of Samui, Bophut or Maenam are great places to stay; they have plenty of good restaurants and bars nearby.
The Mai Samui Beach Resort and Spa is a must-visit location for anyone travelling to Samui. With its prime location on the beach, the Resort offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding area. It’s hard to imagine any other alternative being able to match its beauty and luxury all in one place.
And while the scenery will leave you in awe, the amenities and services provided will leave you feeling pampered and indulged. The Mai Samui Resort and Spa is a destination in itself and a stay that will be remembered for a lifetime and will be the ultimate five-star Koh Samui Accommodation.
Find your stay in Paradise with Booking.com!
Best way to get around in Koh Samui
The easiest way to get around the Island is by car or motorbike. You can rent a vehicle from local shops or online and explore the Island at your own pace. Another popular option is to take one of the many songthaews (shared pick-up trucks), which run between towns and beaches throughout Koh Samui.
Be aware that these are usually crowded, and prices may vary depending on where you go, so make sure you agree on a fare in advance. Lastly, plenty of private taxi services are available if you want something more luxurious.
Get around in style on the magnificent Samui Island with private transfers from Get Your Guide!
Best Activities to Do in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is full of exciting activities to keep you busy throughout your stay. Spend a day exploring the many temples dotted around the Island, take a boat tour to neighbour islands and enjoy stunning ocean views, or relax on one of its beautiful beaches.
Try parasailing or kiteboarding in Chaweng Beach for thrilling adventure sports, or head to Lamai Beach for rock climbing and ziplining. If you’re brave enough, venture into the jungle for an ATV ride through off-road trails. There’s more to do; ensure you bring your camera for all activities in Samui you’ll endure in paradise!
1. Visit the Big Buddha
The Big Buddha is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Koh Samui. The 12-meter tall statue is located on a small island just off the coast of Koh Samui and can be reached by a short boat ride. Visitors can climb to the top of the statue for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
2. Go snorkelling or diving
Koh Samui offers some great snorkelling and diving opportunities. Many coral reefs around the island are teeming with colourful fish. Visitors can also go diving to see shipwrecks and other underwater attractions.
3. Visit Ang Thong Marine National Park
Ang Thong Marine National Park is a group of 42 islands off Koh Samui’s coast. The islands are known for their dramatic limestone cliffs, jungle-covered hills, and white sand beaches. Visitors can go kayaking, hiking, and swimming in the clear waters around the islands.
4. Take a cooking class
Koh Samui is known for its delicious Thai Food, so why not take a cooking class and learn how to cook some of your favourite dishes? Many cooking schools on the island offer classes for all levels of experience.
5. Go shopping
Koh Samui has some great shopping opportunities, from markets selling local handicrafts to luxury malls selling designer brands. There’s something for everyone on Koh Samui, so don’t forget to pack your credit card!
6. Relax on the beach
Of course, no trip to Koh Samui would be complete without relaxing on one of the island’s many beautiful beaches. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or enjoy the view, a beach on Koh Samui is perfect.
7. Visit a temple
Koh Samui is home to many beautiful temples that are worth visiting. The most famous temples include Wat Phra Yai, Wat Plai Laem, and Wat Kunaram.
Best places to eat in Koh Samui
Whether street food stalls serving delicious Thai delicacies or fine dining restaurants offering a more luxurious experience, Koh Samui has something for everyone.
Head to Chaweng Beach Road for some of the best street food in town, and make sure you try the local specialities like sticky mango rice and som tam (papaya salad).
For a more upscale experience, try one of the many beachfront restaurants on Lamai Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a car and explore some of the Island’s hidden gems; you won’t be disappointed!
Best Tourist Attractions to Visit in Koh Samui
One of the best things to do in Koh Samui is to explore its many tourist attractions. Start your day at the famous Big Buddha Temple, an impressive statue on a hill overlooking Chaweng Beach.
After that, visit Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, two bizarrely shaped rocks located near Lamai beach which are believed to be petrified ancient ancestors. If you’re into nature and wildlife, take advantage of Secret Buddha Garden or Na Muang Waterfall.
Lastly, take a boat trip around Ang Thong Marine National Park for stunning views of fishing villages, beaches and limestone mountains.
Best Beaches in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has many stunning beaches, each with its unique atmosphere. Chaweng Beach is the most popular and excellent spot for swimming and watersports.
Lamai Beach is perfect for those seeking peace, while Bophut Beach is ideal for sunset strolls. Head to Taling Ngam after more seclusion, or visit Maenam if you want somewhere with many restaurants and bars nearby.
Lastly, if you’re looking for the best beach to stay in Koh Samui, Na Thon Beach offers some beautiful views of Koh Phangan Island in the distance. Koh Samui has something for everyone, no matter what beach experience you want!
Koh Samui Itinerary – Our Comprehensive Guide to a Perfect Vacation
Embark on an unforgettable nine days of exploration and discovery in Koh Samui! Ensure you don’t miss a beat as you take advantage of all these incredible destination offers – from white sandy beaches to busy night markets.
Follow Fair Dinkum Traveller’s Koh Samui Itinerary to discover some fantastic attractions and experiences that will make this vacation one for the books.! Beginning your journey into the beautiful Thai culture and scenery.
Day 1- Arriving in Koh Samui and Settling into the Mai Samui Resort
Koh Samui is a true paradise on earth, and there’s no better way to witness its sheer beauty than from above. As our plane descended into the Island, I couldn’t help but marvel at the stunning vistas surrounding us. As we disembarked, I was pleased to find that we didn’t have to waste any time waiting for our luggage, as our driver was already waiting for us to get our Koh Samui Itinerary off to a perfect beginning.
As we made our way to the Resort, we drove through the township, where we saw great-looking sights and less-than-appealing ones. However, as soon as we arrived at the Mai Samui resort, everything seemed to fall into place. From the magnificent beachfront rooms to the four incredible pools and large palm trees that dotted the property, it was easy to see why so many visitors fell in love with this slice of paradise. With three fantastic restaurants on site, including the famous BBQ beach buffet, our stomachs were in for a real treat.
Upon arrival at our destination, we have greeted with the news that our room was not ready yet. Not wanting to waste any time, my wife and I headed to the pub restaurant for lunch, and we weren’t disappointed. The Thai salad with satay chicken was a delicious start to our vacation. After finishing up, we enjoyed a beer and the beautiful views of the Resort.
Finally, our room was available, and it was worth the wait. The spacious room had a king-size bed, a large shower, and a balcony overlooking the Resort. After freshening up in the humid conditions, we took advantage of the five-hour happy hour. We enjoyed some delicious cocktails at the swim-up pool bar and soaked in the scenery on the sun chairs, the beach, and even the resort pier. It was a perfect start to our trip.
The first night was early; we were buggered; it had been a complete trip. Dinner was the BBQ Seafood buffet located n the sands of the beach. Never before have I had dinner in a better location. The Food was delicious with BBQ prawns, barramundi, and steak with an array of Thai Food, salads and course dessert. Taking our time and enjoying more beer, we ate as much as our stomachs could handle. Delicious.
Read more about Mai Samui at Fair Dinkum Traveller!
Day 2 – Settling in Koh Samui and a waterfall
I can hardly believe my eyes as I wake up on my first morning in Koh Samui. The Resort’s beauty is breathtaking, and the soaring temperature is a welcome break from the relentless winter chill back home. I can’t help but give myself a pinch to make sure I’m not dreaming. Breakfast is a delightful buffet-style affair, with a chef on hand to cook my eggs to order.
I opt for a delicious mushroom and bacon omelette and wash it with traditional Australian breakfast foods and a cheeky bloody Mary. Although my choice of drink might have been a bit too strong for this time of the day, one thing is for sure; I am awake and alive in paradise as we kick off the Koh Samui Itinerary for a day of adventure.
The first destination of the morning is a must-see tour for anyone who loves a bit of adventure involving waterfalls. If you’re up for a challenge, then the waterfall and temple tour organised through the Mai Samui Resort is definitely for you.
After arriving at Hin Lad waterfall, take a thirty-minute hike through the rainforest, and endure the rough terrain to get to the waterfall. It might be underwhelming to some, but the sound of the water flowing is simply magical, and trust me, it’s worth burning a few calories.
A brief visit to a local temple follows the hike, and although it is short, it is an experience you will never forget. Plus, it’s completely free of charge! Get ready to make some great memories on this exciting adventure. There’s nothing quite like a game of squash regarding keeping the momentum going after a tiring hike. Located right within the Resort, my wife and I head straight for the court and play an intense game, much like we used to back in Australia. This time, I finally got the bragging rights. And after a couple of hours of full-on exercise, nothing beats a swim in the pool and a refreshing drink from the bar during happy hour.
But we don’t stop there. After a few hours of rest, we hop on a shuttle bus to the night markets at Nathon Pier on the Island’s west side. The food-only market features delicious cuisine at affordable prices – the perfect way to cap off a busy Sunday. With so many activities, a trip to this Resort is a truly fulfilling experience.
Koh Samui Itinerary – Day 3 – A Visit to Chaweng
As the morning rolls by, it’s always a delight to wake up to a bit of a sleep-in and then fuel up with a nourishing breakfast. It is a perfect intro to an exciting dad, especially when it involves exploring Koh Samui’s main shopping area in Chaweng. With the Resort’s thirty-minute shuttle bus, you’ll be cared for and arrive comfortably with the air-conditioned van.
Welcome to the livelier side of the Island, where there’s plenty of action in the form of restaurants, pubs, and great shopping. But even better is the long beach that awaits you, stretching far and wide. With plenty of massage parlours and resorts scattered throughout, you’ll find safe and calm waters perfect for swimming. Just be wary of those jet skiers who might whiz by!
Chaweng is the destination for travellers seeking the perfect mix of street markets and high-end shopping experiences. The shopping street is alive with energy and colour, boasting an array of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
And shopping here isn’t complete without a pit stop at one of the Irish pubs for a quick pint or two. Tucked in the heart of Chaweng is the Islands’ only shopping mall, guaranteeing you access to everything you need under one roof. The cherry on top is Central Festival Samui, an outdoor-style mall that runs over two levels and stretches far and wide.
It boasts international brands like Nike, Adidas, Quicksilver, and Rip Curl that tempt any shopper. Plus, if you need a break from shopping, there’s a cinema, food court, and coffee shops like The Coffee Club or Starbucks to take a breather. What’s not to love?
After a few hours of wandering the shopping mall, it was time to hit the streets again. Where everything is much cheaper,r and the brands are pretty reputable. A light lunch followed at a quiet Thai restaurant called. Will Wait, opposite the leading shopping mall, but many are available.
Of course, I bought myself a singlet, a tradition of mine whenever I go into any other country, before needing to head back to the shuttle bus and back to the Resort and feeling weary after being on our feet in hot, humid conditions. Returning to the Resort is a dip in the pool and a quick beer before happy hour ends.
A casual stroll on the beach follows, enjoying the marvellous sunset views with dinner for the second time at BBQ Beach restaurant; the night’s theme is pasta. This meal came complimentary due to our package with the Resort.
It was an early night on the fourth night. After a tough day walking in the head,t exhausted my wife and me. Yet we soldier on and look forward to the next day.
Day 4 – A visit to Angthong National Park
The anticipation is palpable as I wake up with a surge of energy, ready for the day ahead. Today is the day I finally go on a day cruise to Angthong, which I’ve been eagerly looking forward to when planning our Koh Samui Itinerary.
We hop on the transport at the Resort, ready to make the short drive to Nathon Pier. As we approach the dock, my excitement grows as I see the long boat taking us on our adventure. Although it may look old and run down, I try to remain optimistic as I climb on board. The overcast morning sky may not offer us the best view, but I am confident our destination, the Angthong National Park, will not disappoint.
As we head towards the park, I can feel my heart beating faster. All I can do is hope that the weather clears and that I can experience the stunning viewpoints I’ve heard so much about.
Upon arriving at the central Island at Angthong, I was delighted to find that the old boat runs like a dream, proving that sometimes looks can be deceiving. The journey was smooth sailing, and to make things even better, the skies began to clear up.
However, the real treat lay ahead- the first Island, which offers a breathtaking view of the National Park. The hike up the 500-meter-high hill might be challenging, but it is worth the effort, as the panoramic view at the top is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Standing in the stunning vista, I realised I had never seen anything as beautiful as the amazing Angthong. It is a sight that leaves one feeling genuinely humbled and grateful to witness. Just be careful on the way down – especially from the higher point.
As we hop back on the boat after a satisfying, if not particularly excellent Thai buffet lunch, I feel exhilarated, ready for whatever the day has in store. And my expectations are not let down as we set off towards the next Island, Angthong.
The serene waters surrounding the Island are an absolute marvel. As we kayak around, I find myself lost in the beauty of the place: cave formations, coral reefs, and other islands come into view – it’s truly an experience I’ll never forget.
Of course, no visit to Angthong is complete without snorkelling and taking in the sights of the colourful marine creatures below us. As I take my last look at the islands while enjoying my ice cream, I can’t help but feel content and grateful for this adventure – an experience I’ll cherish forever.
After a long day of exploring and sightseeing, the perfect way to relax is at Beryl’s Bar. Located just a short distance from Mai Samui Resort, this quaint restaurant provides great Food and unbeatable prices – allowing us to take in a stunning sunset without breaking our budget! It’s time for some R&R, so let’s grab dinner at Beryl’s tonight!
Koh Samui Itinerary – Day 5 – A rest day and a Relaxing Thai Massage
If you’re looking for the perfect way to unwind and indulge, a complementary massage at a luxurious resort might be just the ticket. After starting the day with breakfast and a refreshing swim, you can take a leisurely walk on the beach, enjoying the scenery without any pressure from beach masseuses.
Lunch at a cozy local bar could offer flavorful dishes like chicken coconut curry, a perfect pairing to fuel up before taking advantage of the massage centre. Once inside, the attentive staff will greet you with a welcome drink, a change of clothes, and an hour of restful Ancient Thai Massage that will leave you feeling like a million bucks. End the experience with a cup of Thai tea, and you’ll have all the energy you need to enjoy the rest of your day.
Despite an unexpected storm and heavy rainfall, dinner at the Mai Samui pub restaurant went without a hitch. After booking in advance, we found ourselves waiting some time to get our table – but with free vouchers for a set meal, it was well worth braving the elements! Our patience paid off. Eventually, all of us could enjoy this extraordinary experience together with no panic or impatience whatsoever.
Day 6 – Return to Chaweng for Food, beach and shopping
Chaweng is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. With its stretches of pristine sand and crystal clear waters, it is easy to see why visitors return time and time. Today was no exception as we hopped on the free shuttle bus and went to the beach. Starting our day with an iced coffee on the beach, we quickly became lost in the relaxed atmosphere.
Shopping for an hour and indulging in a half-hour foot massage, we grabbed a quick bite from the food stalls on the street before the rain came. Luckily, we returned the Resort thanks to the shuttle bus. After a brief rest, we ate dinner at the local bar, PJs. We kept things light with a Thai Salad and chicken satay, washing it all down with a few beers for two dollars each. It may be tough to leave this paradise, but tomorrow holds even more adventure.
Koh Samui Itinerary – Day 7 – a trip around the Island.
If you’re looking for a day filled with adventure and laughter, look no further than a four-wheel drive tour around the beautiful Island of Koh Samui. With benches on either side of the tray, you can sit back and enjoy the stunning views as the wind brushes through your hair. The day is full of excellent and nasty surprises, making it all the more exciting. Who knows what kind of adventures await you? Book a tour on a budget and find out for yourself.
The Wat Plai Laem Buddhist temple is an incredible site to behold. With over 200 years of history, this beautiful temple boasts stunning sculptures and architecture, including the impressive Chinese Lady Monk. As the day officially begins, visitors are welcome to explore and experience the rich culture and history of the area.
And for those looking to take home a piece of Koh Samui history, the temple’s souvenir shop offers a wide selection of unique souvenirs. A visit to Wat Plai Laem is a must for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and richness of Thai culture.
Nestled in the northeastern part of Bo Phut, the Big Buddha temple is a must-visit destination on any traveller’s Koh Samui itinerary. Yes, there are many temples on the Island, but this one stands tall and mighty, with a giant statue of the Buddha at its summit.
To reach the top, visitors must ascend seventy-seven steps of stairs, which may seem daunting initially, but the rewards are well worth the effort. This popular tourist attraction offers an immersive experience with bustling markets and cafes where visitors can buy souvenirs and snacks while enjoying the stunning views.
For an unforgettable cultural experience on Koh Samui, the Big Buddha temple is a must-see.
During my trip, I had the chance to experience many unique activities – one of which was attending an elephant show and trekking alongside a monkey show. However, I won’t spend much time talking about it, as I have already shared my opinions on the treatment of elephants in a previous article. Nevertheless, this experience opened my eyes, making me more aware of the plight of these majestic creatures.
Moving on from the show, we visited a nearby coconut farm, where I learned to utilise coconuts for more than just the tasty white flesh inside. From coconut drinks to pillows, every part of the coconut has its use and purpose. This little insight into the versatile benefits of coconuts was a great learning experience that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.
As we embarked on our journey, we ventured into the land to explore the hidden gems of Thailand. The thrill of sitting on top of the ute with the wind in our hair and the incredible view of Koh Samui was something we would never forget. As we dodged incoming branches, searching for our next destination, we couldn’t help but feel alive and exhilarated.
We were in for another Buddhist theme this time, but the impeccable view made it stand out. It was indeed an unreal experience that we were grateful to have embarked upon. Onwards we went, excited for what else Thailand had in store for us.
As the lunch hour approached, we made one last stop to marvel at the magical garden of Koh Samui. The theme was enchanting, with fantastical creatures and tiny houses dotted along the creek. Moreover, the shade covered the area, providing respite from the heat. As we sat down to eat, we were treated to a buffet-style feast of Thai cuisine. Although the Food was delightful, it couldn’t compare to the stunning view from our dining table. The delicious food and breathtaking scenery were indeed a feast for the senses.
The Namuang Waterfall is a must-see destination for anyone in Thailand. Its beauty is unmatched, and the feeling of the cool mist on your skin as you stand in its presence is indescribable. The vibrant burst of fresh water falling from above is a sight, and locals flock to swim in the pool below. No wonder this waterfall is a popular location for tourists and locals, drawing crowds from all over. Take a dip in its crystal clear waters or majestic beauty from afar; either way, the Namuang Waterfall is a place you won’t want to miss.
The Hin Ta and Hin Yai are not your ordinary rock formations. The Grandfather and Grandmother rocks, as they are commonly known, are unique landmarks that have become a popular tourist attraction in Thailand.
These rocks testify to the country’s daring and playful spirit, reminding us that life is not meant to be taken too seriously. And while their shape may be considered taboo in other cultures, the Thais have embraced it with open arms – and a lot of laughter. So the next time you find yourself in Thailand, don’t forget to visit the Hin Ta and Hin Yai and experience their quirky charm.
The nine-hour day had drawn to a close, and as the rain poured down outside, the guests of the Mai Samui Resort sought refuge in the hotel’s cocktail party. The Resort offered complimentary cocktails and nibbles for ninety minutes as the attendees chatted and laughed.
Even as the storm raged on outside, the guests were content in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Resort. It was easy to see why the Mai Samui Resort was renowned for its hospitality- whether it was through their excellent service or their generous offerings, they had undoubtedly made an impression on their guests.
Koh Samui Itineraary – Day 8 – A Walk into Na Thon
The perfect way to wind down a trip is by indulging in spontaneous adventures. That’s precisely what happened on a relaxing morning during the second last day of the trip.
The decision was made to head towards Na Thon on foot, as there wasn’t much else planned for the day. The idea of soaking up the sun and experiencing the outdoors was too enticing. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy Friday. There’s something so refreshing about feeling the cool breeze on your face while exploring new places. It’s the ultimate way to make the most of the remaining time before returning to reality.
The walk to Na Thon took about forty-five minutes under the hot and sticky humid conditions of Koh Samui. We started at the Resort’s beach before moving onto the main road, where we stumbled upon a quaint little town. Not as big as Chaweng, it allowed us to explore its local shops and restaurants.
The first thing we did was seek refuge from the heat and grab an iced coffee. After a disappointing lunch at a local restaurant, we did some more shopping, finding better singlets than earlier in the trip. To keep costs down, we decided to buy dinner at the supermarket and eat in our resort room later that evening. Although we were disappointed with our lunch, we didn’t let it dampen our spirits and continued to explore the town.
After a day of exploring Na Thon, the Mai Samui resort calls us back to its luxurious embrace; we decide to save some money and take a ride back in the back of a ute instead of a taxi, soaking in the last bit of island life on the way. A refreshing swim washes off any remaining sweat and salt from our day’s adventures, and we make our way to our final massage.
The staff at Mai Samui continue to impress us with their skill and professionalism as I blissfully drift off during my oil massage. In the evening, we enjoy a peaceful meal in our hotel room, reminiscing on all our incredible experiences during our vacation. This trip may be coming to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime.
Day 9 – Heading home, but first, a quick stop in Phuket
When it comes to travelling, it’s essential to have some downtime before embarking on the next leg of the journey. The Koh Samui airport is a perfect example of a place that allows you to relax and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
It’s a fitting farewell to the paradise that is Koh Samui. As you sip on your last breakfast, you can’t help but take a moment to admire the tropical look of the airport. But the adventure doesn’t end there. As we venture to Phuket, we are greeted with the task of finding something to do for seven hours. The official break away from our Koh Samui Itinerary.
Fortunately, we stumble upon the quaint town of Nai Yang Beach, which offers a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of the airport. It just goes to show that sometimes, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.
As we conclude our Koh Samui itinerary and venture into Nai Yang, we’re met with a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist spots. This small town showcases all the markets, restaurants, and bars Thailand offers but with fewer people. We indulge in a light lunch of flavorful soups and cold beers, all at an affordable price.
After satisfying our appetites, we decide to stroll on the magnificent beach of Nai Yang, which boasts an impressive swell and countless windsurfers. Without a doubt, Nai Yang has exceeded our expectations, and we can’t wait to see what other hidden treasures Thailand has in store for us.
Related Article: Best Honeymoon Destinations in Asia!
Get Your Free E-Book Today!
Stay in the loop with our monthly newsletter! Get expert travel tips and destination advice, and snag a free E-Book!
You have Successfully Subscribed!