The Best Island Day Trips from Koh Samui
Beyond Koh Samui: discover the best islands for day trips
We may earn a commission from purchases made through some affiliate links on this website
While the paradise island of Koh Samui itself offers plenty to explore, its location in the Gulf of Thailand makes it the perfect base for day trips to nearby islands and marine parks. From idyllic islands to hidden lagoons and wildlife encounters, here’s our ultimate guide to the best day trips from Koh Samui.
1. Ang Thong National Marine Park
A visit to the Ang Thong National Marine Park is one of the most iconic day trips from Koh Samui. This archipelago of 42 islands, with emerald waters and limestone cliffs, is a protected paradise. Start your day early with a speedboat or long-tail boat ride to the park. Kayak through the park’s hidden caves and lagoons, before snorkelling through breathtaking coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. One of the highlights of Ang Thong is the Emerald Lagoon on Koh Mae Koh, a saltwater lake surrounded by limestone cliffs. The quiet beauty of this natural wonder is unforgettable. A hike to the top of Koh Wua Ta Lap ends your trip with panoramic views of the islands, a sight that feels like you’ve stepped into the Avatar films.
hand picked tours we love:
2. Coral Island (Koh Tan) and Pig Island (Koh Madsum)
For a laid-back day of sun and sea, head to Koh Tan and Koh Madsum, two small islands located just off Koh Samui’s southern coast. With pristine beaches, clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere, they are everything a desert island escape should be. Koh Tan, also called Coral Island, is undeveloped and perfect for snorkelling, with coral reefs teeming with marine life just offshore. Koh Madsum, on the other hand, is famous for its friendly pigs that roam the beach, giving it the nickname “Pig Island.” Swim, kayak and take the obligatory Instagram shots with these quirky locals! Many day tours combine visits to both islands, including a picnic lunch on the beach.
hand picked tours we love:
3. Koh Phangan
While Koh Phangan is famous for being the original home of the Full Moon Party, the island offers far more than its legendary nightlife. A short 45 minute ferry ride from Koh Samui brings you to this lush, mountainous island with pristine beaches and hidden waterfalls. Head to Bottle Beach, one of Koh Phangan’s most secluded spots. Soft sand and turquoise waters make it perfect for an afternoon of swimming and sunbathing. If you’re after a little more adventure, head inland to Than Sadet Waterfall National Park, or work up a sweat trekking to the majestic Dome Sila viewpoint. The island has a distinctly bohemian, hippie vibe that hasn’t changed over the years. As well as the full and half moon parties, you can find yoga retreats, wellness centres, vegan cafes and organic eateries, which are some of the best in Thailand.
4. Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a world-renowned destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. Located about 1.5 hours from Koh Samui by ferry or speedboat, its isolated spot in the Gulf of Thailand makes it an ideal spot for those who love to get underwater.
Explore famous snorkelling sites like Shark Bay, where blacktip reef sharks are often spotted, or Ao Leuk, known for its incredible coral reefs. For those looking to try scuba diving, Koh Tao has some of the best diving schools in Southeast Asia, with introductory courses that allow beginners to experience the island’s underwater magic from your very first dive. For a break from the water, visit John-Suwan Viewpoint, where a short hike reveals panoramic views of Koh Tao’s beaches and lush landscapes. Wrap up your day with a fresh seafood dinner at one of the island’s beachfront restaurants before heading back to Koh Samui.
hand picked tours we love:
5. Pink Dolphin Spotting in Khanom
For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a trip to Khanom, a coastal town on the mainland known for its rare pink dolphins. A short ferry ride and drive from Koh Samui, Khanom offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure far from the crowds. Begin your day with a boat tour to the dolphins’ natural habitat in the Gulf of Thailand. These playful creatures are a rare sight, and spotting them in their natural environment is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Most tours are led by local guides who can provide insights into dolphin conservation and the region’s ecology.
After dolphin spotting, explore Khanom’s beautiful beaches, such as Nai Phlao Beach, or visit natural attractions like the Samet Chun Waterfall and the Khao Wang Thong Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
hand picked tours we love:
6. Nakhon Si Thammarat
For when you’re tired of beach hopping (it happens to all of us) a day trip to Nakhon Si Thammarat will provide you some much needed cultural immersion. It’s one of southern Thailand’s most historical cities, just a ferry and a short drive away from Samui, and is home to ancient temples, traditional crafts and fascinating local markets. The highlight of any trip is a visit to Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, an iconic Buddhist temple with a gleaming white chedi that dates back over a thousand years. After exploring the temple, visit the city’s shadow puppet museum or a local workshop to see the intricate art of Nang Talung puppetry. Round out the day with a visit to the bustling Nakhon Si Thammarat Municipal Market, where you can sample southern Thai delicacies and shop for local crafts.
Things to Do
things to do
