Melo Villareal
Koh Samui Travel Guide
Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand and is by far the most beautiful one. This splendid paradise welcomes visitors with pristine beaches, emerald warm waters, and a lush jungle interior. From diving, kayaking, elephant trekking to temples, and unique rock formations, Koh Samui will amaze you with its fantastic exotic adventures. Below you have 10 reasons why people fall in love with this idyllic island.
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai Ko Pan) by Maksim Sundukov – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
#1. The Big Buddha
The Big Buddha is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Koh Samui. This 12 meters high golden statue can be seen from a couple of miles away as it is located at the top of a huge staircase. From the top of the staircase, you can see some of the most beautiful views on the island, views that will simply take your breath away.
The Grandmother and Grandfather Stone
#2. The Grandmother and Grandfather Rock
Right at the south end of Lamai Beach, there are the strangest natural geological formations on the planet- The Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks. These rocks have been shaped by the ocean and wind to resemble female and male genitalia.
Elephant Trekking Koh Samui by Richard Herbert via Flickr
#3. Elephant Trekking
One of the most unique experiences is Elephant Trekking. You can ride an elephant for 30 or 60 minutes through the wonderful tropical jungle and discover the splendid waterfalls, lakes, and caves. It’s a great way to really feel like you are on an exotic island that is completely different than anything you have ever seen.
Kayaking in Koh Samui by Katie Sadler via Flickr
#4. Kayaking
A day kayak tour to Ang Thong National Marine Park reveals amazing sceneries, gorgeous white sand beaches, and emerald calm waters. And the best part is that you will even kayak through caves, tunnels, and unusual rock formations.
Koh Samui Ice Bar by Soma-Samui.com via Flickr
#5. The Ice Bar
As incredible as it may sound, there is an ice bar in Koh Samui. Swap the hot outside temperatures for a pleasant 7 degrees Celsius bar experience while savoring some delicious flavored cocktails and vodka.
Sky Lanterns in Koh Samui
#6. Send a lantern into the sky
When walking along the beach you will surely see locals selling paper Sky Lanterns. These are very popular in Asia. You can light them up and launch them into the sky. After this you can relax and enjoy a few minutes of serenity while your paper lantern ascends higher and higher into the starry night sky.
Sunset in Lipa Noi Beach by Manfred Werner – picture taken by Manfred Werner. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
#7. Relax in an infinity pool
Koh Samui is famous for its luxurious beach front villas adorned with an extravagant and very modern infinity pool facing the emerald ocean. Just imagine the splendid feeling of relaxing in such a beautiful pool under the sunset. Any stay at one of these opulent Koh Samui properties will be a unique experience that you will never forget.
#8. Dinner on the beach
What better way to savor Thai food than dining under the stars with the sound of the ocean singing in your ear? At sunset, the beaches of Koh Samui change their appearance completely. This is when the restaurants start laying out cushions and set up tables redefining their wooden sun loungers into comfy dining platforms. The spectacular ambiance is completed by fairy lights, lanterns, and torches.
#9. Thai Dancing shows
Classical Thai Dancing shows are very fascinating and entertaining. Many of the restaurants and hotels offer these types of shows to impress the tourists with the unique colorful Thai costumes and vibrant dance styles.
“Namuang Waterfall” by Maksim Sundukov – Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
#10. Swimming under the Na Muang Waterfall
There are two Na Muang waterfalls which are the most beautiful cascades in Koh Samui. These can be visited following a very picturesque footpath from the entrance to the park, and the first waterfall has even a natural pool- perfect for a swim.
Guest Post by Diana Liam
