Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

Big Buddha Temple, locally known as Wat Phra Yai, is majestically located on a small rocky island off Koh Samui’s north-eastern corner (Koh Faan). The golden, twelve-meter seated Buddha statue was built in 1972 and is one of the island's most popular attractions.

• Address:

  Bophut, Koh Samui

• Phone:

  +66 929234510

• Opening hours:

  Open all day

• More info:

  Route 4171, near the airport. Since this is a sacred place, one should dress appropriately (cover the shoulders and wear trousers or long shorts).

Bophut's Fisherman's Village

Fisherman's Village is located near the beach, on the northern coast of Koh Samui. The pier is actually in decay, but the village still retains its charm. The area comes alive every Friday night when the main street is blocked off to vehicles to make space for stalls that sell everything from coconut carved monkeys to clothes and other souvenirs. During the rest of the week, it's still a picturesque place for a walk.

• Address:

  Bophut, Koh Samui

Koh Nang Yuan

If you would like to see what paradise is like, you should take a day trip to Koh Nang Yuan, which is an island located only a few hundred meters from Ko Tao and linked to two other islands by a limb of white sand. Here you can unwind free from all cars and hustle, but also snorkel in beautiful waters.

• Web:

  www.nangyuan.com

• Address:

  Koh Nangyuan, Thailand

• Phone:

  +66 819581766

Koh Tao

Koh Tao means 'Turtle Island' in Thai, as this was once an important breeding ground for sea turtles, which have been reintroduced to the island's ecosystem in 2004. Koh Tao is worldwide famous for its beautiful coral reef and marine life, which make it a popular place for snorkelling and scuba diving. Hikers might want to try and reach John-Suwan Viewpoint or Mango Viewpoint.

• Address:

  Koh Tao, Thailand

• More info:

  Up to 2.5 hours from Koh Samui by ferry

Na Muang Waterfalls

Na Muang Waterfalls, also called "Purple Waterfalls", are located in a lush jungle environment. They can easily be reached going off the main Ring Road Route 4169 about halfway between Nathon and Lamai Beach. These waterfalls are considered to be among the most scenic ones, hence popular places for families to relax and swim.

• Address:

  Na Muang, Koh Samui

• Tickets:

  Free

Paradise Park Farm

At Paradise Park Farm you can watch a small collection of native and non-native creatures that live up in the beautiful mountains. There are various types of birds, miniature rabbits, guinea pigs and a little hedgehog. As the name suggests, this is a farm and not a zoo, and the animals seem to be happy and healthy. This is a great place for children and adults alike.

• Address:

  217/3 Moo 1, Taling Ngam, Pom Mountain

• Phone:

  +66 812551222

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9am–5pm