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Koh Samui

Must-see · Free itinerary

3 Days in Koh Samui

16 hand-picked stops across 3 themed days — including 9 hidden gems locals actually go to — drawn on an interactive map you can customize stop by stop.

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Day 1: Big Buddha, Beaches & Fisherman's Village

  1. 1

    Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

    12m golden Buddha on its own islet — arrive by 8am before tour vans and midday heat.

  2. 2

    Bang Rak Morning Market💎 hidden gem

    Grab khao tom and fresh fruit near the pier; cheap local breakfast before the crowds build.

  3. 3

    Choeng Mon Beach

    Calm shallow bay ideal for a group swim; quieter than Chaweng with shaded casuarina trees.

  4. 4

    Fisherman's Village Bophut

    Wooden shophouse strip with boutiques and sea-view cafes; browse before the evening rush.

  5. 5

    Coco Tam's

    Beanbag sunset cocktails on the sand; book a group table early for the 18:15 fire show.

Day 2: Ang Thong Marine Park & Island Hop

  1. 1

    Nathon Pier (Ang Thong departure)

    Early speedboat check-in beats the day-tripper wave heading to the marine park.

  2. 2

    Ang Thong National Marine Park

    Emerald lagoon, hidden lake and kayaking among 42 limestone islands; full day on the water.

  3. 3

    Koh Mae Ko viewpoint

    Steep stair climb to the green inland lagoon 'Talay Nai' — the park's signature photo.

  4. 4

    Nathon Town Seafood

    Back on Samui, fresh catch grilled at the pier; big shared plates suit a hungry group.

  5. 5

    Nathon Night Market💎 hidden gem

    Stalls of mango sticky rice and grilled skewers; a low-key wind-down after a full day at sea.

Day 3: Na Muang Waterfalls & Songkran Splash

  1. 1

    Na Muang Waterfall 1

    30m cascade with a natural pool; go early for cool water and thinner crowds.

  2. 2

    Na Muang Safari & elephant camp viewpoint

    Ridge viewpoint over the coconut-palm interior; a fun group photo stop en route.

  3. 3

    Hua Thanon Market💎 hidden gem

    Local Muslim-Thai market — grab roti, curries and grilled chicken before Songkran water play.

  4. 4

    Lamai Beach

    Wide golden sand and gentle waves; central splash-zone for Songkran water fights on Apr 13-15.

  5. 5

    Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks

    The famous 'grandfather-grandmother' rock formations; quick, quirky photo stop at day's end.

  6. 6

    Lamai Night Plaza

    Open-air food court with Thai, Indian and seafood stalls — easy group dinner with split bills.

Good to know

  • •Songkran (Apr 13-15) turns streets into water fights — carry waterproof bags and expect delays.
  • •Many shops close around Apr 13-15; book boats and restaurants ahead.
  • •April is hot and humid — schedule outdoor sights before 11:00 and after 16:00.
  • •Ang Thong trips can be cancelled in rough April seas; keep a flexible Day 2.
  • •Carry small notes for markets and park fees; many stalls are cash-only.
  • •Songthaews ~50-100 THB per hop — agree the fare before boarding as a group.

FAQ

How many days do you need in Koh Samui?

3 days is a great fit for this must-see route — 3 themed days covering 16 stops without rushing.

What is the daily budget for Koh Samui?

Roughly ฿1500–฿2800 per day for food, transit and activities on this plan, and 6 of the stops are completely free.

What should I know about the season in Koh Samui?

Songkran (Apr 13-15) turns streets into water fights — carry waterproof bags and expect delays.

What local etiquette should I know in Thailand?

Never splash monks, elders or people clearly not joining the water fight. Cover shoulders and knees at temples; remove shoes at shrine steps.

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