Updated on August 8, 2025
Koh Samui’s beauty extends beyond the shoreline, with lush landscapes, intricate temples, and vibrant pockets of local life offering some of the most captivating things to do in Koh Samui. There’s an ease to the island’s rhythm, a balance between sophistication and simplicity, that makes every visit feel both indulgent and intimate.
When traveling, it is often the moments away from the spotlight that leave the deepest impressions. The winding paths, the hidden views, the encounters that seem to happen by chance—these are the experiences that shape a different side of Koh Samui. It’s an island that rewards those who dare to stay a little longer, look a little closer, and allow themselves to be surprised.
Explore Non-Beach Activities in Koh Samui
While the beaches are the headliners, Koh Samui’s land-based attractions are equally captivating. The island’s cultural treasures, lush inlands, and vibrant local life prove there’s plenty to enjoy without getting your feet sandy.
Koh Samui offers plenty of things to do that’s perfect for the entire family or group of friends traveling. Aside from beach activities, the island has a trove of experiences waiting to be explored—from spiritual sites to jungle adventures, local markets to adrenaline sports—Koh Samui’s non-beach activities deserve a spot on any itinerary. Here’s our shortlist of just some of the fantastic places to visit and fun adventures to do:
1. Elephant Safari
Quite popular is Koh Samui’s Elephant Safari: take an adventure in the depths of the island’s wilderness on the back of a massive elephant. Featuring elephant rides and guided tours through some of the island’s most scenic locations, these safaris are an incredible way to experience the beauty both of Koh Samui and see these majestic creatures first hand.
2. Waterfalls
Waterfalls are a beautiful natural wonder, one which almost always makes its home in stunning and eye-catching surroundings. Koh Samui is plentiful with beautiful waterfalls, giving you plenty of options to explore. The Na Muang region contains two waterfalls renown for their beauty. In Hid Lad we find another stunning cascade, perfect for a photo opportunity or a relaxing visit.
3. Golf
Golf is a game best played in a beautiful location—of which Koh Samui has plenty. Experience the green like never before with a stunning tropical backdrop. Koh Samui plays host to some beautifully manicured golf courses, such as the Santiburi Samui Country Club, the Bophut Hills Golf Club, and the Royal Samui Golf Course & Country Club.
4. Muay Thai
Muay Thai is a style of martial arts that originated in Thailand. Highly popular among martial artists and often the center of competitive sporting events, Muay Thai is practiced the world over. However, nowhere in the world is the presence and influence of Muay Thai so potent as in its home country. As such, Koh Samui is a fantastic place to take up the art of Muay Thai, polish your existing skills or find yourself training to new levels under the tutelage of dedicated, authentic Muay Thai masters, or watch an exciting fight at the Muay Thai Stadium in Chaweng.
5. Rum Distillery
In the entire country of Thailand, there is but a single rum distillery. Known as “La Rhumerie De Koh Samui,” the distillery calls Koh Samui its home; the base from which it produces its fine rum. An excellent destination, especially for those with an inclination for a tasty drink! But be warned: a trip to the distillery may well leave you tipsy.
Related article: Best Beach Clubs and Bars in Koh Samui
6. Walking Street Market
The street markets are practically heraldry of Asian cultures, on display just about everywhere. While no doubt a theme common everywhere in the world, it seems almost as if this ancient tradition has reached no greater apex than that found within Thai walking street markets. Browse through an incredible array of sights, sounds, products, foodstuffs, and much more. Koh Samui offers plenty of street markets, so many you could spend practically every day browsing in the hustle and bustle for goodies and excitement!
There are many street markets in Koh Samui, each with a unique flavor to offer visitors. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, the Chaweng market provides all sorts of intrigue and excitement. On Thursdays, in Maenam, we find another well-equipped street market. The Friday Night Market at the Fishermans Village in Bophut is the king of street markets, offering an incredible selection in this historic town. Even on Sunday, the street markets do not rest, with an explosion of activity and commerce in Lamai.
7. Binge-Eat
If you want a feast worth remembering, Prego Samui serves authentic Italian dishes in a refined atmosphere, while Sexy Fish Samui makes seafood dining an art form, and The Page at The Library offers inventive menus in a setting as stunning as the beachfront. The dining scene in Koh Samui can just be as exciting as a fun-filled game.
8. Cooking Classes
From here, step into the kitchen and bring the island’s flavors to life. At Sala Samui, learn Thai classics in a breezy, beachfront setting, or join Amber at Intercontinental Samui for hands-on lessons where world-class techniques meet local ingredients. Each class is a taste of Koh Samui you can take home.
9. Temples
Artifacts of the past, living history, a fundamental connection to the people, their culture and their religion—Koh Samui’s temples are always an intriguing stop on any visit. For as important historically and culturally as these sites are, they are equally brilliantly designed and constructed, providing an endlessly fascinating place to visit. As much as these temples have become a favorite go-to place for tourists, it’s also important to follow basic Thai etiquette especially, when interacting with monks. You can also wear your comfortable sneakers, flip-flops, or any footwear on these excursions since you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Related articles: Top 3 Temples to Visit in Koh Samui, Thailand, 11 Must Visit Temples in Thailand
10. ATV Adventures
Take an off-road expedition into the beautiful wilderness in the driver’s seat of a high powered ATV. ATV Adventures are offered from various companies in different locations around Koh Samui. The adventure can be a fantastic way to take in the wonderful natural beauty of the island while having a thrilling adventure. Many guided tours are available, featuring experienced guides who can coach you in the use of your ATV and guide you to the best spots for riding and sightseeing.
11. Rejuvenating Spa
Begin your Koh Samui escape with a journey into pure relaxation. Nestled in lush surroundings, Tamarind Springs offers jungle hideaways, while Baan Thai Spa by HARNN blends Thai traditions with modern elegance. Eranda Herbal Spa soothes with natural therapies, and Six Senses Spa completes the experience with holistic treatments that leave you feeling renewed.
12. Zipline
Get a look at Koh Samui from above as you sail through the air fastened to a long line. Zip-lines are an exhilarating adventure which not only gets the heart racing but also provides a unique method of sightseeing.
Related Articles: A Brief Guide to Crafting the Perfect Wardrobe for Every Island Activity in Koh Samui
13. Sunset Bars
As the afternoon fades, follow the glow to Koh Samui’s most breathtaking sunset spots. Sip vibrant cocktails at the stylish WOOBAR, take in sweeping views at Airbar, or settle into Drinks on the Rocks, where the horizon feels close enough to touch.
14. Evening Shows
When night arrives, the island comes alive in its own light, especially when watching the glittering performance of Starz Cabaret that’s filled with energy, charm, and spectacle.
Go Beyond the Beaches
Koh Samui’s non-beach activities can be just as exciting—sometimes even more so—than days spent in the water. From temple tours to jungle adventures, these experiences reveal sides of the island apart from the beaches. On your next visit, set aside time to explore beyond the sand—you may discover that Koh Samui’s greatest treasures lie inland—in its local markets, temples, and hidden trails.
Pair these discoveries with the indulgence of a private luxury villa, where your return from a temple tour or mountain trail is met with the stillness of your infinity pool and the soft rustle of the ocean breeze. Evenings can unfold boring days to exciting curated dining or turn wine nights under the stars extra special. With The Luxury Signature’s handpicked collection and topnotch service, Koh Samui becomes not just a destination, but a haven suited to your preferences.
Darrel Bella is the Managing Partner at The Luxury Signature. He is often traveling between the islands of Phuket, Koh Samui, and Bali. Connect with Darrel via Linkedin, or Email
