Koh Samui holidays are pure bliss. From the moment we arrived, we were swept away by turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and the lush, tropical charm of the island. Our journey took us to vibrant night markets, peaceful temples, and quiet beaches, all while we soaked up the warm sun and kind smiles of the locals.

We discovered new places and returned to old favorites. Whether riding scooters through coconut groves or watching fiery sunsets melt into the sea, every moment felt magical. And of course, we found some amazing vegan food along the way! In this blog, we share our personal highlights, tips for vegan and vegetarian restaurants, and favorite attractions. So come along, dream with us, and maybe even plan your own Koh Samui adventure.

Arriving on Koh Samui felt like the start of something special. The small airport greeted us with balmy air and the scent of exotic flowers. With only carry-on luggage, we were quickly in a car with our private driver, heading to our first accommodation: The Tree Samui in the island’s quieter north.

The hotel instantly charmed us. Clean, cozy, and away from the tourist bustle, it was the perfect place to ease us back into island life. We spent our first two nights relaxing, knowing that our Koh Samui holiday was off to a dreamy start.

Just a short walk from our hotel lies the famous Fisherman’s Village. We met friends and wandered through alleys filled with shops, bars, and eateries. While not the most authentic corner of Koh Samui, it still offers a unique and buzzing charm that shouldn’t be missed.

The next morning, we explored Bo Put Market. Surrounded by friendly locals, we savored a Thai breakfast at one of the many street food stalls. The vibe was so authentic and vibrant, we knew we had found something special.

For the next few days, we fully embraced island life and made the Marina Villas Hotel in Lamai our home.
This charming beachfront property offered us not only clean and comfortable rooms but also a picture-perfect setting for our island adventures.

The bathrooms took a little getting used to (hello, flooded floor!), but that’s part of the charm. We loved how central the hotel was—restaurants, shops, and attractions were all within walking distance.

Right across from our hotel was our personal hidden gem: a charming Italian restaurant that spoiled us with delicious wood-fired Margherita pizza. At Restaurant Mozza, we spent many cozy evenings enjoying a taste of Italy in the heart of Thailand.

Tip: This small and simply decorated spot has excellent air conditioning (a lifesaver in the Thai heat!), and the Italian owner, Luca, always welcomes you with a big smile. Definitely give it a try if you’re spending time on Koh Samui!

But it wasn’t just Italian delights that tickled our taste buds. Lamai offers a wide range of restaurants and food stalls with something for every craving and preference.
From authentic Thai cuisine to international specialties – you’ll find everything your heart (and stomach) desires.

If you’re looking for vegan and vegetarian options, we’ve put together a list of our favorite spots in our blog post “A Vegan Guide to Lamai, Koh Samui.”
The variety and creativity of the local plant-based dishes didn’t disappoint – and we’re pretty sure that even after you’re back home, just thinking about the food will make your mouth water all over again.

Our evening explorations took us to the Lamai Night Market – a vibrant and bustling hotspot.
The narrow lanes were filled with lively chatter, tempting aromas, and a colorful sea of stalls offering everything from local street food to handmade crafts and souvenirs. We wandered through the buzzing streets, sampling local treats and soaking up the fun atmosphere of the market.

By day, we spent our time by the sea – because honestly, we had missed being near the water. We basked in the warm sun, felt the soft sand between our toes, and listened to the gentle sound of the waves. Admittedly, the ocean in hot April wasn’t exactly refreshing, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying every second on the beach and fully embracing island life.

For the next part of our Koh Samui adventure, we switched accommodations and checked into the Crystal Lamai Hotel.
Even though the hotel isn’t located directly on the beach, it’s still a very tempting alternative. With a beautiful pool and bright, airy rooms, it offers a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere.

One of the best things? The price! The Crystal Lamai is more budget-friendly, which means we can save a bit without giving up comfort. Another reason we chose it: back in 2016, during our four-month sabbatical through Southeast Asia, we already stayed here once, and the fond memories brought us back.

So, if you’re looking for a clean and comfortable hotel close to all the action without breaking the bank, feel free to book your stay at the Crystal Lamai via our personal link*.

Renting a scooter is our favorite way to experience Koh Samui. For just 150 Baht a day, we zoomed around to hidden beaches and quiet temples. If you want to witness how much fun we had and what we all saw, hop over to your Exploring Koh Samui on the Scooter YouTube Video!

Tip: If you’re planning to rent a scooter, make sure you have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) with you.
Not every rental place will ask for it, but the local police often carry out random checks—so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Having your own scooter gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, discover hidden corners, and escape the usual tourist hotspots.
But don’t worry if you’re not comfortable driving yourself: there are plenty of alternative ways to get around. Taxis, songthaews (shared Thai minibuses), and private drivers are widely available and offer a convenient way to explore Koh Samui’s beauty—without getting behind the wheel.

Buddha’s Footprint is one of those hidden gems on Koh Samui that offers a different kind of experience. Tucked away in a small, remote shrine on a hillside, this sacred footprint isn’t grand or flashy—but it does carry a quiet charm all its own.

We couldn’t find much detailed history or explanation about the site, but perhaps that’s part of its mystique. To reach the footprint, you’ll need to climb a steep staircase, surrounded by dense jungle and the sounds of nature. It’s a peaceful and slightly adventurous journey.

The real reward? The stunning views at the top! Both the short hike and the panoramic vistas make the visit to Buddha’s Footprint a special and memorable experience for us.

That said, keep your expectations in check—this is a very humble monument. But maybe that’s exactly what makes it so unique.

On our scooter ride, we unexpectedly came across the Overlap Stone—a fascinating geological formation that instantly caught our attention. This giant boulder appears to be balancing effortlessly on top of another rock, creating a natural spectacle that looks almost too perfect to be real. We didn’t climb up to the stone itself, but even from a distance, it made quite the impression. Nestled in the lush green hills, the setting adds to its mystique and makes it a great photo stop during a ride.

For adventurers and those who enjoy a little jungle hike, there’s a trail that leads right up to the Overlap Stone. But even just spotting it from the road was a fun surprise on our ride—and one of those little island moments that make exploring Koh Samui by scooter so rewarding.

Wat Kunaram is a significant Buddhist temple on Koh Samui, famous for the remarkable statue of the mummified monk Luang Pordaeng. This revered monk has been sitting in the lotus position for decades, and his remarkably well-preserved remains continue to astonish visitors from all over. While there are several mummified monks in Thailand and on Koh Samui, Luang Pordaeng is by far the most venerated.

Visiting Wat Kunaram offers a unique chance to dive into the fascinating world of Buddhism and experience this sacred place firsthand.

Tip: Admission is free, but donations to help maintain the temple are warmly appreciated. As with other temples, it’s important to dress respectfully: wear long pants, skirts, or sarongs covering the knees, and tops that cover the shoulders.

The Na Muang Waterfall is known as a lush oasis surrounded by vibrant greenery and crystal-clear water. Although we didn’t get the chance to visit it ourselves during this trip, we’ve heard from others that it’s truly breathtaking.

The upper Na Muang 2 Waterfall is especially impressive and reachable after a short hike. It features a large natural pool that invites visitors for a refreshing swim — surely an unforgettable experience and a perfect way to cool down from the tropical heat.

The Ta Nim Magic Garden on Koh Samui is home to a fascinating collection of stone sculptures and is nestled on a secluded hill. This enchanted garden offers a magical backdrop for visitors who want to dive deep into Thai culture. Each sculpture tells a story from rich Thai folklore — from mythical creatures to sacred monks.

The garden was created in the 1970s by a local fruit farmer named Nim Thongsuk, who continued working on his impressive artworks well into old age. Surrounded by dense jungle and the gentle sound of a nearby stream, the Ta Nim Magic Garden radiates an almost mystical calm that captivates every visitor and invites them to pause and marvel.

We found the Sweet Sisters Cafe for a delicious vegan lunch on Koh Samui. Although the prices here are a bit on the higher side, we were rewarded with fresh, flavorful dishes that make it worthwhile. This cozy café is a must-visit for anyone seeking quality vegan food in Lamai or around Koh Samui.

The Laem Sor Pagoda, a Buddhist temple located at the southwestern tip of Koh Samui, offers not only spiritual enlightenment but also stunning views of the sea and surrounding nature. This peaceful temple is nestled in a quiet setting that invites visitors to meditate and reflect. We found welcome relief from the tropical heat in the shaded areas and enjoyed the sweet fragrance of frangipani trees. The temple grounds feature many intricately designed statues, including impressive depictions of Buddha and mythical guardians. During our visit, friendly temple dogs added a charming touch to the serene atmosphere.

What fascinated us most about Laem Sor Pagoda on Koh Samui was the temple’s calm and serene atmosphere. A true highlight was having this special place almost entirely to ourselves—no tourists in sight, making the experience even more authentic and memorable. We could have easily spent hours soaking in the peaceful vibes and spiritual ambiance.

The Wat Phra Chedi Laem So temple, located right on the coast, impressed us with its elegant architecture and idyllic setting. This pagoda, clad in golden colored tiles that shimmer brilliantly in the sunlight, truly looks like a golden pagoda. We enjoyed listening to the waves and breathing in the fresh sea breeze while admiring the temple’s beauty. Known for its distinctive pagoda, Wat Phra Chedi Laem So is an important landmark for the local community. We took our time to soak in the breathtaking views of the ocean.

At Nine Point Samui Café, time seemed to stand still as we lounged in comfortable deck chairs overlooking the sea. Surrounded by tropical palms and the soothing sounds of the ocean, we felt like we were in paradise. This stop wasn’t planned, but that’s the beauty of exploring on a scooter—being free to pause wherever and for however long you want. We savored the peaceful moment and enjoyed another relaxing day on our Koh Samui vacation.

On another day of our Koh Samui adventure, we set out to discover some of the island’s most popular sights and shopping spots.
Our first stop took us to the impressive Big Buddha and the nearby Wat Plai Laem.
The Big Buddha, a majestic 12-meter-tall statue, is one of Koh Samui’s most iconic landmarks and an absolutely striking sight to behold.
Wat Plai Laem is a colorful Buddhist temple filled with intricate statues and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to soak it all in.

After this spiritual experience, we made our way to Central Samui Shopping Center – a paradise for shopping lovers and foodies alike.
Here, we stumbled upon a fantastic night market filled with a wide variety of street food and local delicacies.
Amidst all the shops and restaurants, we discovered an open-air food hall that was simply perfect for sampling delicious bites from around the world.
The shopping center was especially a hit with kids, thanks to fun playgrounds and bright pink motorized toy cars zipping around.

After our shopping adventure, we explored a few of the island’s famous beaches, like Crystal Beach and Chaweng Beach.
Although both are known for their beauty and lively vibe, we were happy to head back to our quieter beach in Lamai, just the way we like it.

To be honest, the lazy days by the sea were the true highlight of our trip. We had been to Koh Samui a few years ago and had already seen many of the sights, so this time, we simply let the warm sun spoil us, strolled along the beach, and soaked in the salty ocean breeze. It was the perfect chance to escape everyday life and fully embrace the art of doing nothing. We watched the world go by with our toes in the sand and hearts full of gratitude.

At the end of our unforgettable trip, we treated ourselves to a stay at the luxurious Aura Samui Hotel, beautifully located right by the sea.
This exclusive resort spoiled us with a top-notch breakfast and spacious rooms set in charming two-story bungalows.
The bathroom was a true highlight – generously designed with a separate shower and bathtub that made us feel right at home.
Even though it’s located at the far end of Lamai Beach, it’s still quite central: everything is within reach either by a pleasant 20-minute walk along the beach or a quick 7-minute drive into the heart of town.

We truly enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the hotel, its beautiful setting, and the spacious design of the rooms – it was the cherry on top of our Koh Samui holiday.

If you’re looking to create your own unforgettable stay at the Aura Samui Hotel, feel free to use our link here to book your stay*. We’d love to share this little slice of paradise with you!

The Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, better known as Hin Ta and Hin Yai, are among the most famous sights on Koh Samui.
These unusually shaped rock formations on the island’s southern coast attract countless visitors curious to see their uncanny resemblance to male and female genitalia.

According to local legend, the rocks were formed when an elderly couple, Ta Kreng (Grandfather Kreng) and Yai Riem (Grandmother Riem), set out on a sea voyage to arrange a marriage for their daughter. Tragically, their boat was caught in a storm and they drowned.
Out of their deep desire to prove their sincere intentions to the future in-laws, they transformed into these iconic rocks, which still stand today as a symbolic expression of love and devotion.

Aside from their cheeky appearance, the rocks offer a beautiful view of the ocean and the surrounding coastline.
Nearby, you’ll also find plenty of small stalls selling local snacks and souvenirs, making it a fun and well-rounded stop on your Koh Samui itinerary.

These natural sculptures are not only a source of fascination and amusement, but also a great place to connect with local folklore and culture. And they are only a short stroll away from the Aura Samui Hotel!

For the final days of our trip, we soaked in the relaxed atmosphere at the hotel, took long walks along the beach, and let ourselves be enchanted by the endless horizon of the sea.

But eventually, it was time to say goodbye and continue our journey.
We flew back to Bangkok, where a private taxi was already waiting to take us on to our next destination – Hua Hin.

Best time to visit Koh Samui: December to April offers dry weather and sunshine, while September to November is best for lush greenery and waterfalls.

Currency: Thai Baht (THB). Cash is king in small shops and markets.

How to get there: Koh Samui has its own airport (USM), with direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, and international hubs like Singapore.

Getting around: Rent a scooter (150–250 THB/day), take songthaews (shared taxis), or book private transfers.

How long to stay: We recommend at least 5–7 days to enjoy beaches, explore temples, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

Is it affordable: Yes! There’s a wide range of accommodation, food, and transport options for every budget.

Good to know: Respect local customs, especially in temples—cover shoulders and knees. And don’t forget mosquito spray!

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