What to do in Koh Samui?

Hi there, we’re planning a trip to Thailand. Is the island of Koh Samui worth spending 12 days on? What is there to see and do? We’re not really into beach-only vacations. Thanks for your tips! Nath

Hi there,

Apart from the beaches, sea activities, and a few temples, nightlife, markets, and bars/restaurants, that’s pretty much it—this island is mostly in beach mode. It’s dry from February to April, which is the best time to visit. It’s also known for attracting a lot of French retirees.

Good evening,

Hello, we’re planning a trip to Thailand. Is the island of Koh Samui worth spending 12 days on? (...) Given that we’re not really into beach vacations? Thanks for your replies. Nath

?!? I have to admit, I’m struggling to understand your reasoning about going to a Thai island when you’re not into "beach vacations"! If someone told you that beach stays or island trips are mandatory in Thailand, they lied to you. The most beautiful and interesting parts of this country are definitely *not* in those over-touristed ghettos—quite the opposite. Most of the time, you’ll find them far from the sea, inland, where there are a thousand places that might suit you and even... real Thais!

Songsam is absolutely right. In Destinations (the blue banner at the top of the page), you can click on Thailand, and on the next page, you’ll find nearly 200 travel journals dedicated to Thailand.

Plenty to help you make your choice...

Good evening,

Hello, we’re planning a trip to Thailand. Is Koh Samui worth spending 12 days on? (...) Given that we’re not really into beach vacations? Thanks for your replies. Nath

?!? I have to admit, I’m struggling to understand your reasoning behind going to a Thai island when you’re not into "beach vacations"!... If someone told you that beach or island stays in Thailand are mandatory, they lied to you. The most beautiful and interesting parts of this country are definitely not in those over-touristed ghettos but, on the contrary, most often far from the sea, inland where you’ll find 1,000 places that might appeal to you—and even... Thai people!

Hello Songsam, and thanks for your reply,

Yes, I’m starting to read up on Thailand, and I can see that Thai islands are mainly popular for their beaches. I just wanted to make sure that, in our trip, a detour to Koh Samui was worth it or not. Thanks so much for confirming this. Have a great day. Nath

Hi Jojoone1,

Yes, I’m starting my research on Thailand, and specifically this island. Apart from the beaches, I don’t see anything exceptional. The question was to confirm whether that’s the case or not. Thanks so much for sharing. Have a great day, Nath

🙂Hi there

If you're not a beach lover, don't bother going—explore the island's interior instead😉

Thanks so much for your feedback.... I’ll definitely keep it in mind. Have a great day. Nath

Hi, Thanks for your reply.... we’ll skip it.

Have a great day! Nath