Big Buddha  (Wat Phra Yai)

This is the most popular, famous and photographed location on Samui. It is clearly visible on the approach to the airport and is therefore often the first thing visitors see. It is situated on the tiny island of Koh Faan which has a road connecting it to Samui. At the foot of the temple there are numerous little shops and stores to enjoy.

Full Moon Party 

Haad Rin Nok Beach on Koh Phangan is regarded by many as one of the best places in the world for viewing the full moon. It’s also known throughout the world for its famous Full Moon Party. What started out as a private gathering of friends with knowledge of the beach and the spectacular full moon has now developed into a monthly beach party where literally thousands of people attend.

Wat Khao Hua Juk 

Although this mountain is only 90 metres tall the views at the top are breathtaking. From here the airport, Chaweng bay, and the islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Sum, Koh Lum Noi, Koh Tao Poon, Koh Faan, the Big Buddha, Wat Bang Rak, and the sunset are all visible.

Wat Plai Laem 

This is an incredible collection of temples that, although not completely finished, is well worth a visit. At present it isn’t included on the organised tours and yet it’s only a very short distance away from the Big Buddha temple. You’ll find a mixture of temples floating on huge man-made lotus leaves as part of this complex, including some intricate and unusual designs. There’s no other temple on the island quite like this.

Crocodile Farm 

Again this is an attraction that may help educate you about these incredible creatures left over from prehistoric times. There’s also a show that is definitely one to watch rather than participate in.

Elephant Trekking 

The elephant is a beautiful and revered animal and it’s one with a long history in Thailand. Originally used for working in the jungle, the improvements in industrial technology saw many elephants left without a role. However, elephant rides have become popular throughout the whole of Thailand and Samui is no exception. Once again the elephants have a job to do that pays for their considerable food and care. There are elephant treks available in different parts of the island and it’s certainly a memorable experience to travel on the back of one of these magnificent animals.

Golf Course 

Golf is a sport that’s really taken off on Samui. The Santiburi Golf Club is one of the finest and demanding courses in Asia. A nine-hole course at Bophut Hills gives golfers an alternative and the Royal Samui Country Club is another nine-hole course that will be extended to be a full18 holes in the future. But golf comes in many forms and the crazy-golf and football-golf courses may well attract a number of non-golfers to enjoy.

Monkey Theater 

Koh Samui is synonymous with coconut trees, there are plantations all over the island and, until tourism arrived, coconuts provided the island’s main source of income. To harvest the coconuts farmers need a way to get them down from the tall palm trees. Therefore monkeys are trained to do the job, and they do it well. For demonstrations on how talented these animals are visit the Monkey Theatre in Bophut.

Samui Go Kart 

Samui Go-Kart track is located on the main road in Bophut. Their are three types of karts you can choose from: The Fun Kart is suitable for all ages; The Pro Kart is for those who prefer a bit more speed. The Speed Kart is the ultimate adrenalin fix which is recommended for more experienced drivers.

Samui Park Avenue 

Situated at the new Samui Airport, Samui Park Avenue is a quality shopping arcade with a collection of retail shops and restaurants.

Samui Shooting Sport 

Samui Shooting Sport is not far from Tesco Lotus and gives you the opportunity to hone your shooting schools and get some target practice. Under careful guidance from qualified instructors you can choose from a variety of weapons and use live ammunition.

Thai Boxing Stadium 

Muay Thai is the national sport in Thailand and although gruesome at times it is a popular spectator sport on the island. There are stadiums in Chaweng and Lamai and there are also a number of specific Muay Thai gyms around the island where you could learn to fight Thai-style.