With its stunning white beaches and balmy seas, Koh Samui has become one of Asia’s most popular islands, but there’s plenty to see and do here beyond the beach. While simply relaxing on the sands has much appeal, adventure lovers will love the chance to climb aboard a boat for some spectacular yachting, snorkelling and diving journeys.
The nearby Ang Thong national park beckons with its untouched marine landscape while the annual Samui Regatta every May brings in those with the competitive sailing spirit to battle for the prize in superb surrounds. And no diving holiday is complete without at least one visit to the sites around Koh Tao, Turtle Island, with its rich sea life and incredibly clear waters.
Samui’s spiritual side is revealed in some of its eye-catching Buddhist temples including the 12-metre-tall golden Big Buddha and Wat Khunaram, home to the astonishing image of a mummified monk. Some of the island’s natural wonders including the unusual Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks, or ‘grandma and grandpa’ rocks, have legendary tales behind their formation and are considered sacred in their own right.
Nearby Koh Phangan and its Full Moon parties are famous the world over, yet Samui is no slouch when it comes to nightlife either. The island holds a number of scaled-down versions of the Full Moon party while any time it’s easy to find dance clubs, beach clubs and cocktail bars to enjoy after dark – from simple huts serving beer to swanky clubs with international DJs there’s no reason to go to bed early on Samui. Chaweng Beach is the hub of Samui nightlife, but one need not travel far on Samui to find a place to dance and drink the night away.
Dining on Samui is another traveller’s delight with a fantastic variety from Thai cuisine served fresh and easy in the markets and simple streetside shops to gourmet style in chic surrounds. And those hoping to bring those delicious tastes back home with them could also sign up for a Thai cooking class to learn the secrets of the Thai chefs.
Samui is also a place to nurture the body and soul with several yoga and fitness studios to try, plus a fabulous range of body treatment options from a simple beachside massage to luxury spas. Those staying in a rental villa on Samui could also arrange to bring in specialists for some personal fitness or yoga sessions in the privacy of their holiday home.
From its lush interior to its sparkling seas, from sunny days to carefree nights, it’s easy to live the tropical life to the full on Koh Samui.
