Island guide · Koh Samui, Gulf of Thailand
Koh Samui island guide
The Gulf’s sophisticated island: hillside villas and wellness resorts, the Big Buddha, Lamai’s rocks and Ang Thong’s marine park.
The best beaches
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The east coast
Lamai Beach
A long beach on Samui’s east coast.
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Hat Lamai is a well-known beach on Samui’s east coast (TAT).
- Swimming
Where to stay
Things to do & see
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On its own islet
Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)
The great golden Buddha on an islet in the north-east.
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Wat Phra Yai, founded in 1972, is one of Samui’s most famous sights (TAT). Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and take your shoes off before entering the halls.
- Temple
- Dress modestly
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Granite shaped by the sea
Hin Ta Hin Yai
Granite rocks shaped by the sea at the end of Lamai beach.
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Hin Ta Hin Yai are granite boulders eroded by sea and weather into curious shapes, at Lamai (TAT).
- Landmark
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Around 40 islands
Ang Thong Marine National Park
An archipelago of around 40 islands, by day boat from Samui.
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Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park lies about 20 km from Samui; day boats run from Samui and Phangan, and a trail climbs to a viewpoint on Ko Wua Ta Lap (TAT).
- Kayaking
- Viewpoint
Getting there
Share your Koh Samui tips
Been there? Share your experience and tips with other visitors.
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