100 Travel Stories
A Glimpse of Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a popular island destination in Thailand. Covering an area of 228.7 square kilometres (88.3 sq mi), it is the country’s second-largest island after Phuket.
Koh Samui offers plenty to see, but venturing into Ang Thong National Marine Park is a breathtaking adventure, with emerald lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and untouched islands.
Take a visual journey through Koh Samui and its surroundings.
Ang Thong National Marine Park
Ang Thong, which means ‘bowl of gold,’ is located in Surat Thani province in the Gulf of Thailand (part of the South China Sea). The marine park is home to 42 islands, featuring sandy beaches, limestone cliffs, vibrant coral reefs, and lush mangrove forests.
Tourists sunbathing on the way to Ang Thong National Marine Park
Sailing across the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand
Paddling toward a secluded sandy beach
Koh Wua Ta Lap Island
Koh Wua Ta Lap is a tranquil island in Ang Thong National Marine Park, known for its emerald waters, pristine beaches, snorkeling spots, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding islands.
Climbing the steep 650 steps to the mountain summit is grueling in July, with temperatures soaring to 40°C…
… but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile!
Koh Mae Ko Island
Emerald Lake (Blue Lagoon)
Koh Mae Ko is a beautiful island, famed for its picturesque Emerald Lake. Reaching the lake takes some effort, but the journey is well worth it. Interestingly, the lake connects to the sea through a series of underground tunnels.
Emerald Lagoon
Koh Samui
Koh Samui blends relaxation and adventure with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural attractions. Here’s a glimpse of the island’s must-see sights.
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
The Big Buddha Temple is one of Thailand’s most iconic landmarks, home to an impressive 12-meter-tall gold-painted Buddha statue.
Wat Plai Laem
Wat Plai Laem is a modern Buddhist temple combining elements of Thai and Chinese culture.
Wat Plai Laem
Statue of “Guanyin with eighteen arms”
Fisherman’s Village (Bophut)
Once a humble fishing community, the Fisherman’s Village has transformed into a tourist destination while retaining its old-world charm, with wooden shop houses and street-side restaurants.
Fisherman’s Village
Dining on the beach
Oyster
Grilled Shrimps
Pig Island (Koh Madsum)
Koh Madsum, also called Pig Island, is a small island near Koh Samui, famous for its resident pigs that roam freely along the beach. Friendly and used to human visitors, the pigs are often seen swimming in the sea or lounging on the sand.
The Big Miss: Koh Tao Island
Koh Tao, a small tropical paradise renowned for its world-class diving beaches, was off-limits due to stormy seas.
Map
- Koh Samui Guide
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