Kayaking in Koh Samui

Kayaking in Koh Samui is a once in a lifetime experience (Photo Courtesy wsexiest.com)

The thought of spending the holiday in a tropical island with white sandy beaches and surrounded with turquoise waters should already make you giddy. It is the time to relax and momentarily escape the hustle and bustle and stress of your 9 to 5 job. It’s important to recharge and come back to the real world of deadlines and chaos calm and refreshed.

Spending your much-awaited island holiday getaway in Koh Samui is a perfect choice. It is worth all your hard-earned cash. There are several Koh Samui attractions to choose from. It all depends on your budget and personal interests. Kayaking at Ang Thong National Maritime Park is one of the most exciting Koh Samui attractions that every visitor should try. It is a challenge but the fun that goes with it is priceless.

Ang Thong National Maritime Park is a stunning archipelago with more than 40 islands located northwest of Koh Samui. The marine park is truly one of the major Koh Samui attractions.  It is a protected area with rich flora and fauna, beautiful limestone islands, karst formations, caves, hidden lagoons and white sandy beaches. These islands of various shapes and sizes are mostly close to each other creating a stunning view.  All of them are uninhabited and undeveloped except Koh Palauy, which is inhabited by sea gypsies.

There are several tour operators offering tour packages from Koh Samui to Ang Thong. Be sure that they are licensed carriers. These tours depart daily from Koh Samui to the marine park. You can choose to ride a ferry and be with a larger group of around 40 people or ride a speedboat with a smaller group. Prices will definitely vary but if money is not a problem, your family and friends can do a private tour. It is more costly but at least you have more privacy. The tour usually includes pick-up from your hotel, light breakfast, speedboat transfer to the marine park, snorkelling, hiking, visiting both touristy and deserted areas and kayaking.

Kayaking is the best way to explore hidden natural Koh Samui attractions at Ang Thong National Maritime National Park. The start of the kayak trip is along the coastline of Koh Mae Koh, then passing beautiful white beaches and cruise further into some interesting rock formations, caves and hidden lagoons. These Koh Samui attractions are simply breathtaking.

Sporting Activities in Koh Samui

There tons of sporting activities in Koh Samui, including Jet Skiing

A lot of people just have to have to stay active wherever they are even if they are on vacation on a gorgeous island. Sports, after all, are a form of relaxation in itself. If you have already booked that trip to the beautiful Thai island of Koh Samui and are one of those people who eternally look for an adrenaline rush or strive to keep fit, then sports is definitely one of the things to do in Koh Samui.

One of the most interesting and most enjoyable things to do in KohSamui, aside from lounging by the sea all day sipping on your favourite cocktail, playing water sports. The island offers many including swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, kite boarding, jet ski, sailing, windsurfing and even the exhilarating parasailing.  

Non- water sports are also available in the island from the more traditional sports such as tennis, basketball, badminton, golf and football to the more extreme sports, which include muay thai, go karting, bungee jumping and rock climbing. All these and more can be enjoyed in Koh Samui. There is definitely a sport for everyone of any age.

If you are staying at a hotel that does not have the amenities for you to do one of the sports mentioned above, you may inquire to do any of these sports from the locals or get some help from one of the tourist information sites around the island. 

Usually though, all hotels have information about things to do in Koh Samui. You are in the best of luck if you are staying at luxurious resorts such as the ShaSa Resort since most of them definitely have amenities for most of these sports and can help you arrange a scuba diving or snorkelling trip. 

They can easily map out every detail of that bungee jumping experience you have been wanting to cross out from your bucket list for years. If you don't feel like going out too far and want to do a sport by your room then you should check out ShaSa Resort's swimming pool which is known for breathing view that overlooks the gulf of Thailand. The island is rich and diverse and you will surely never run out of fun activities to do especially sporting activities. 

For people who prefer staying in or shy away from the sun, there are indoor pools, indoor tennis courts and pretty clubhouses to do sports or lounge at. With the numerous things to do in Koh Samui you should never have a dull moment while you are on the island.

Visit the Zhao Mei Kuan Im Temple in Koh Samui

The Zhao Mei Kuan Im Temple is a must see Koh Samui attraction (Photo Courtesy of  thing-to-do-thailand.com)

There are numerous Koh Samui attractions from its beaches that is ideal for diving, its exotic jungle that is home to equally exotic plants and animals and the beautiful and intricately designed temples and religious shrines that are great reflections of the spiritual life, history and culture of Thailand and its people. A typical Thai temple would have lofty chapels, murals with colourful and elaborate details that almost always tell stories of the past, a pagoda, chedi and roofs with pointed spires. There are also some Chinese temples in Thailand that are related to the spiritual history of Thailand.

Thai culture is one of the richest and most vibrant cultures in the world. Many flock to Thailand to discover and experience its effervescent streets; scrumptious dishes (even their streets foods have their distinct charm); remarkable history; immaculate islands and beaches; and lovely, endearing locals. One of these divine islands is Koh Samui located in the Gulf of Thailand.

There is a Chinese temple in Koh Samui that is dedicated to the goddess Zhao Mei Kuan Im and is one of the Koh Samui attractions that you should not miss especially if you are a culture buff or is simply interested in seeing beautiful temples. The walls of the temple dedicated to the goddess are filled with gorgeous paintings that depict the life and times of the great and esteemed goddess. The temple is especially flocked by people and filled with different kinds of offerings during the festival marking the advent of the Year of the Dragon. Most of the people visiting the temple are ethnic Chinese and Chinese tourists who deem the temple as more than just a Koh Samui attraction.

In the temple of the goddess Zhao Mei Kuan Im as well as other Chinese temples such as the Hainan Temple, dragon dances and other ancient Chinese traditions can be observed. These traditions are a peak at resemblances of Chinese and Thai history that are sometimes merging from hundreds or even thousands of years ago up to the present day. The temple of the goddess is also the perfect place to watch the sunset as it is located on the southwest of Samui. From the temple, one could see the view of several islets surrounding Koh Samui as well. This vista is definitely a Koh Samui attraction that should not be missed and is sure to never be forgotten.

Take a Memorable Day Trip to Ang Thong

Make sure to go on an Ang Thong day trip while in Koh Samui (Photo Courtesy Thailand-travelonline.com)

Koh Samui is known for its spectacular sights, generally sunny weather, and bright blue waters. It is an island that is considered to be a haven by a lot of locals and tourists alike. One of the most notable Koh Samui attractions is Ang Thong. This place is made up of 42 islands and is considered to be a must see sight. It is known for its lime stone massifs, tropical rainforests and deserted beaches. Ang Thong is famous for its picturesque sceneries and is befitted the name given to it---The Gold Bowl. Stunning rock formations never cease to amaze visitors from all over the globe. It is an island rich in natural resources and is a home to a number of Koh Samui attractions like The Ang Thong National Marine Park, where one could kayak and explore the underground treasures found on the island.

It is definitely one of the Koh Samui attractions that is considered the most popular. There are so many things one can do here. First, you can visit some of the famous landmarks like the Wat Khun Inthapramun, an ancient temple built during the Sukhothai period. There’s also Wat Siroi that is famous for its mural paintings. Aside from these two, you can also take a trip and visit Wat Oi, an old temple representing a symbol of Mueang Wiset Chai Chan. This traditional Thai architecture and features a brass and tin image of the Buddha.

The Ang Thong National Marine Park still remains to be one of the most popular Koh Samui attractions. A trip here is bound to be memorable as there are lots of amazing features like dry evergreen forests, caves, hidden lagoons, and shallow coral gardens. This is an ideal place to snorkel and explore the hidden wonders of the sea. There are also plenty of interesting fauna here. There are langurs, crab eating monkeys, whales, and silver-haired bats. It is a home to smaller kinds of animals and larger species are seldom found here.

To get here from Koh Samui, just take a boat, which oftentimes will supply you with lunch along your journey. The trip is a great way to meet locals and see plenty of tourists who are also here to see the sights offered on the island. Ang Thong is just one of the most frequented KohSamui attractions however, it might be the most memorable. 

Koh Samui Monkey Show

You have never seen a show like this before! (Photo Courtesy Krablininformation.com) 

The tropics are always diverse and rich. Exoticness is their great charm, the culture is the heart of everyone’s fascination and attractions the most enjoyable part of the trip. Koh Samui attractions are definitely unlike any other. The diversity of the whole island is evident in the mesmerizing species of plants and animals that grow and live on the island. An excellent place to stay on the Island is the majestic ShaSa resort located along the tranquil Laemset beach.

One of the most frequented Koh Samui attractions is the monkey shows that are held daily. In Asia, most especially in Thailand, monkeys are man’s best friend, known for their intelligence and interesting abilities that entertain and captivate tourists. It’s always a great show whenever animals act like humans, sometimes they even perform certain things better than we do.

Monkeys on the island have become a Koh Samui attraction with the help of expert trainers that patiently train them into doing awesome tricks and performances that delight tourists and guests of the island. People watching the shows, will witness monkeys climbing lofty palm trees, picking up fruits such as ripe coconuts, riding bikes and even dancing. There is a school in the mainland that trains monkeys called Surat Thani School. Monkey training has been going on in Thailand for years and is preserved through the existence and operation of the school. Monkeys are such intelligent creatures and the things that they can do surprises people.

Another natural Koh Samui attraction are the monkeys that roam freely around plantations, picking up fruits as if it was the most natural thing for them to do. People who pass by these plantations have the opportunity to enjoy this fascinating sight. At Bophut, there is an animal theatre where you can enjoy great animal shows performed not only by monkeys but elephants as well. What is more fun is the fact that visitors can get close to monkeys and get to ride elephants in between shows with the guidance of trainers, of course.

These animal shows provide great and fascinating experiences for everyone who visits the island. The diversity translates not only through the incredible topography and nature of the isle but also through the Koh Samui attractions that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Many even wish to extend their time in the island, if only everyone has the privilege of not having to worry about visa rules. There is certainly nothing like living on the island. 

Turn Back the Hands of Time in Bophut

Bophut Beach Fisherman's Village will give you glimpse of how Thai's lived in the past (Photo Courtesy of holidaycheck.com)

Change is good and all that, but sometimes, don’t you think it would be nice to go back in time to whne things were simpler. You can even teach your kids about how things used to be before in the past? In Koh Samui, most of the island’s fabled entertainment establishments have undergone a major makeover, giving the buildings a look that’s a far cry from their original appearance. Only the clear waters and powder-fine sand have retained any trace of the old Samui.

If you’re looking for a place that still retains most of its old-time charms and appearance, Bophut is the place to be. The place, unlike some of its contemporaries, has kept in touch with its roots. Take Fisherman’s Village, for instance. The place has kept its tradition of serving slow-cooked meals and relaxing beverages. Get your fix of Koh Samui seafood as well as international dishes, like Mexican, Italian, and Indian.

Head over to Alla Baia to satisfy your Italian craving and enjoy some good old pizza. Try something new like the mango burgers in Fifty-six Fusion, which are highly recommended by locals and tourists alike. For the ultimate seafood lover, My Friend whips up excellent seafood dishes without burning a hole in your pocket.

Late-night drinking is generally discouraged in Bophut. This is to keep up with the desire of the local officials to maintain Bophut’s laid-back and low-key reputation. Should you want to fill your night in Koh Samui with dancing and drinking, nearby Chaweng is the perfect venue.

This doesn’t mean that Bophut is without bars and clubs, though. They do have bars, like the Frog and Gecko, where you can drink your beverage of choice but without the noise and craziness common in most nightclubs. Note that the establishment gets crowded during Wednesdays, when the pub quiz, a weekly event, takes place.

Bophut, just like most of Thailand, is home to impressive beaches. If you’re out for some quiet reflection in Koh Samui, make a beeline for the Bophut beaches. It’s rare to hear the drone of Jet Ski engines in this part of the island, which is a very seldom crowded and loud.

With changes of all sorts occurring every second, it’s nice to know there’s always Bophut, where you can always go to when you feel like going back in time. 

Let us know what or where in Koh Samui you would like to learn about, so this ultimate Koh Samui blog and can help. 

Delicious Koh Samui Restaurants

Beyond the Sea is without a doubt serves some of the best food in Koh Samui

Part of the fun in exploring new places (and faces) is the thrill that comes upon the discovery of great food at a great price. Koh Samui restaurants are just that. Vacationers will have no problem finding places to enjoy delectable meals in Koh Samui.

If you happen to be in Koh Samui in December, particularly during Christmas, expect the big-name hotels and accommodations in the island to have gala dinners and entertaining presentations. While these venues sound fine for a hearty Christmas meal, not everyone prefers hotels. Don’t worry if you fit this category. You can take your pick from the wide variety of food places and restaurants present in Koh Samui.

One of the most well-known Koh Samui restaurants is Beyond the Sea at the ShaSa Hotel. The restaurant specializes in scrumptious Thai dishes that’s sure make your stomach ecstatic. Try their Thai Tapas dishes. Get your caffeine fix with Beyond the Sea’s coffee beans from Starbucks. For dessert, you can also try a special sweet treat designed by After You, the most renowned bakeshop in Thailand. Beyond the Sea is fine dining at its finest.

Buffet enthusiasts will squeal in delight with the Christmas buffet offered at the Big Buddha Café, or simply the BBC to its loyal customers. One of the most popular Koh Samui restaurants, the BBC serves a unique fusion of Thai and Western cuisine. There’s the ever-present tom yam gung soup, roast turkey, samosas, apple pie, and stuffing. The buffet is an all-day affair, so you can drop in whenever you wish and help yourself to the delicious meals in this restaurant.

Dining on the beach is made possible by the Beach Republic. Located on Lamai Beach, the fun kicks off at 11:00 PM on Christmas Eve when the house DJ, Simon, cranks up the beat. Help yourself to generous servings of turkey, lamb, beer, and wine. Please your auditory senses as well through the live tunes played by the Rock Island Band. Whoever said fine dining and beer don’t mix has obviously never set foot in the Beach Republic.

There are also Koh Samui restaurants and bars with a Western theme to them. Walk around the island, and you’ll see what these restaurants have to offer through their signs and boards propped up outside their premises.

With so many food choices available in Koh Samui, running out of options isn’t an option!