Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
Bang Rak 1.5 hrs
Marvel at the iconic 12-meter golden Buddha statue overlooking the sea.
Where to stay
Hotels in Koh Samui
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At a glance
Climate
Tropical
Languages
Thai and English
Local currency
THB
(THB)
Local time
(GMT+7)
Ideal trip length
5–10 days
Cost level
4 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Chaweng
Tap water
Bottled water recommended
Tipping
Not mandatory, appreciated
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
85 · Very good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Pad Thai
Tom Yum Goong
Massaman Curry
Mango Sticky Rice
When to visit Koh Samui
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: January, February
Busiest: Dec-Feb, Jul-Aug
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Jan90
Cool, dry, sunny
-
Feb90
Warm, dry, sunny
-
Mar80
Hot, dry, sunny
-
Apr75
Very hot, humid
-
May60
Start of rainy season
-
Jun65
Occasional showers
-
Jul85
Good weather, less rain
-
Aug85
Good weather, less rain
-
Sept60
Increasing rainfall
-
Oct40
Heavy monsoon rains
-
Nov45
Heavy monsoon rains
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Dec85
Cool, dry, festive
Things to do in Koh Samui
8 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 8 of 8 places ·
Best in the morning
4 places
Na Muang Waterfalls
Na Muang 2 hrs
Discover two beautiful waterfalls, with opportunities for swimming and elephant encounters nearby.
Thai Cooking Class
various 3 hrs
Learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes using fresh local ingredients.
Elephant Sanctuary Visit
various 3 hrs
Interact ethically with rescued elephants in a natural, caring environment.
Best in the afternoon
1 place
Chaweng Beach Relaxation & Nightlife
Chaweng 4 hrs
Sunbathe on white sands, swim in clear waters, and enjoy vibrant evening entertainment.
Best in the evening
1 place
Fisherman's Village Walking Street
Bophut 3 hrs
Stroll through charming streets, enjoy street food, and browse local handicrafts.
Any time of day
2 places
Ang Thong National Marine Park Tour
Gulf of Thailand 8 hrs
Explore pristine islands, emerald lagoons, and stunning limestone karsts by boat.
Spa & Wellness Treatment
various 2 hrs
Indulge in a traditional Thai massage or a rejuvenating spa package.
Things to book
Tours and activities in Koh Samui
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Standard tour
Sunset Luxury Boat Party with Floating Bar Trip from Koh Samui
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Luxury Floating Bar and Snorkeling at Koh Madsum
Free cancellationFind deals
Unstructured tour
Private round trip Transfers from Samui Airport
Free cancellationFind deals
Activity tour
Elephant Nature Care, the largest elephant sanctuary on Koh Samui
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan by Speed Boat from Koh Samui
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Private Half-Day Blue Dragon Yacht for Snorkeling Koh Tan & Visit Pig Island
Free cancellationFind deals
Unstructured tour
Private Beach Picnic in Koh Samui
Free cancellationFind deals
Unstructured tour
Wellness Tour in Koh Samui
Free cancellationFind deals
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Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Koh Samui
Straight-line distance from the centre of Koh Samui.
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