Thailand’s second largest island, Koh Samui is one of the most loved vacation destinations in Asia. From the kid-friendly Lipa Noi beach and pretty little fishing village Bophut to the luxury spa joints and the breathtaking rainforests, Koh Samui has everything for everyone, not to mention the water sports at Chaweng Beach and the tranquility at Lamai Beach and Maenam Beach. Best known for its thrilling water sports activities, Koh Samui offers adventure junkies unforgettable experiences. Kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or parasailing, you will be spoilt for choice. And the same thing is true for accommodation options. The island enjoys a parade of beach resorts. And those who are inclined to more private retreats and easy access to water adventures can opt for the luxury beachfront villas. If you’re looking to spice up your Thai escapade, check out these top water sports and activities in Koh Samui, Thailand.
1. Swim with the adorable pigs at Pig Island (from USD 54.0)
If you’ve been yearning to meet the cute island pigs at Koh Samui, embarking on a small-group island-hopping tour will leave you with memories to cherish. This adventure begins at Thong Krut Pier, where you’ll board a boat for an exciting day ahead. Its first stop is the famous Koh Madsum island, affectionately known as Pig Island, where you’ll have the chance to encounter and take adorable selfies with the friendly pigs.
The tour’s next stop is Koh Tean, an island paradise for water enthusiasts. Dive into crystal-clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the pristine beach. Indulge in a delicious lunch on the island, and the rest of the afternoon is yours to savor. To ensure your convenience, pick-up from all major areas and hotels on Koh Samui is provided.
Koh Samui: Coral & Pig Island Longtail Boat Small-Group Tour
Duration: 7.0 hour
2. Ride a classic Thai yacht (from USD 1357.09)
Feeling like splurging and escaping the crowds? Step aboard the Red and Blue Dragon Thai yachts with the highest levels of comfort for a private day charter. With spacious sundecks, a hot tub, a stellar sound system, and more, these remarkable yachts allow you to set sail in style. The journey begins at the river jetty, taking you to majestic locations in the Gulf of Thailand, including the mysterious Five Islands, the breathtaking Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park, and the enchanting Koh Tai Plao.
The experience is all about savoring delicious appetizers, exploring hidden caves and lagoons, and basking on white sandy beaches. Snorkeling activities await in the marine park, and an optional kayaking tour at Koh Tai Plao is offered. For an extra hassle-free trip, hotel pick-up and drop-off are also included.
Mu Ko Ang Thong: Private Day Charter in Classic Thai Yacht
Duration: 9.0 hour
3. Sea kayaking at Ang Thong National Marine Park (from USD 75.0)
Ang Thong National Marine Park is a stunning archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. As it is home to exotic wildlife and marine creatures, visiting this beautiful park is one of the best things to do in Koh Samui. It also boasts white sand beaches, hidden coves, and amazing waterfalls. The sea kayaking experience in the marine park will be one of the best parts of the trip. If you are lucky, you can spot dolphins or sea turtles swimming alongside.
This full-day tour from Koh Samui includes hotel pick-up and drop-off along with a light breakfast, lunch, and soft drinks. You will have the company of an English-speaking licensed guide, who can explain the significance, highlights, and features of the place.
Please ensure that you wear good walking shoes for this tour, as on the course you’ll make your way to the highest point of the park using wooden walkways and handmade staircases. The scenic views from the top will leave you in awe.
Sea Kayaking at Ang Thong National Marine Park from Koh Samui
Duration: 9 hours
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4. Stand-up paddle boating while admiring the sunrise (from USD 41.0)
If the unique experience of watching the sunrise from the water excites you, then book this two-hour water adventure in Koh Samui. It is a stand-up paddle tour that starts at 6.00 am from Choeng Mon Beach or Bangrak Beach. You will be paddling along the waters to watch the sunrise over the Gulf of Thailand. If paddling is new to you, professional instructors will help you learn to navigate a stand-up paddleboard.
Your package will include premium starboard paddleboard equipment and complimentary beach transfers if you are staying in Bophut, Bangrak, or Choeng Mon. Wear your swimsuit and do not forget to carry your hat and sunscreen. Drinking water and fresh fruits are provided.
The paddle tour is ideal for adults and teenagers above 15 years old. If you know swimming, that will be an added advantage. If your tour is canceled due to bad weather, it will be rescheduled or you can avail a full refund. Sounds exciting? Get ready for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Sunrise Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Tour in Koh Samui
Duration: 2 hours
5. Join a great fishing challenge (from USD 43.0)
Cooking your own catch amidst the blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand seems to be a great add on to your vacation activity list. You will be taken to two tranquil fishing locations and will be taught the tricks of catching big game fish such as catfish and carp by expert fishermen. You can also snorkel around following the fishing tour. The package includes round trip transfers by mini-van from/to hotel in Koh Samui Island, all entrance fees, lunch, fishing equipment rental, boat tour and an English-speaking guide. The full-day fishing trip will be an experience to cherish forever.
Gulf of Thailand Fishing Challenge Tour from Ko Samui
Duration: 8 hours
6. Full-day diving and snorkelling in Chumphon Pinnacle and Koh Tao (from USD 187.0)
Dive centres in Koi Samui take you to the nearby Koh Phangan and Koh Tao for an ultimate diving and snorkelling experience. Certified divers can enjoy a dive at the well-known Chumphon Pinnacle and at Koh Tao. Top highlights include the cruise across the Gulf of Thailand in a custom-made speedboat and discovering some of the best coral reefs in Thailand. Spending time at a couple of dive and snorkel sites in the blue waters of Koh Tao is a great experience. The package also includes breakfast, lunch, and beverages. The pickup point is your hotel or Petcherat Marina Pier (Bangrak). Dive and snorkel guides are always available and you will be travelling with a crew of trained emergency-first responders and rescue divers. Life vests, a first aid kit, emergency oxygen, and a marine toilet is provided on board. You can choose your dietary requirements at the time of booking. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart ailments or other serious medical conditions. If you wish to participate in a certified dive, a diver certification has to be produced.
Full-Day Diving and Snorkeling in Chumphon Pinnacle and Koh Tao
Duration: 8 hours
7. Kitesurfing lessons in Koh Samui (from USD 132.0)
If you love extreme water sports, and you are new to kitesurfing, do not worry. You can go home labelled as an IKO qualified “independent” kiter from Koh Samui. The highly experienced and multilingual IKO certified instructors will ensure you learn the steps of setting up and flying a kite with trainer lines. Choose a two-hour Discovery lesson, one-hour advanced lesson or the three-five day beginner kiteboarder course and eventually enjoy the kitesurfing experience. Lessons can be tailored to suit your kiteboarding requirements ranging from simple flying basics to performing big jumps. One thing is guaranteed – unlimited enjoyment! Do not forget your sunglasses, sunscreen and long-sleeve lycra to beat the scorching sun.
Kitesurfing lessons in Koh Samui
8. Tornado Water Xtreme Ride in Koh Samui (from USD 62.0)
Get ready for a roller coaster, exhilarating and fun-filled water riding experience with Tornado Water Xtreme Ride in Koh Samui. Sailing at super speed with water splashing all over you, spinning at 360 degrees and diving into the waves and out, this ultimate 20-minute water experience will get your adrenaline pumping. The tour runs four times a day (11:00am / 1:00pm / 3:00pm / 5:00pm) from Sunday to Friday. Hotel pick-up is offered for this tour and passenger insurance and life vests are provided. If the ride is cancelled due to poor weather or an insufficient number of people, it will be rescheduled or you can avail the refund. The ride, however, is not recommended for people with heart ailments, back pain problems or pregnant women. Minimum age to be eligible for the ride is nine years. If you are a healthy adult who loves water sports, then this ride is for you!
Tornado Water Xtreme Ride in Koh Samui
9. PADI freediver beginner course (from USD 238.0)
If freediving was something you always wanted to do, then Koi Samui is the right place. You can join a PADI course for beginner freedivers that certify participants to free dive to a maximum depth of 53 feet (16 meters). Your instructor will teach you breathing techniques and other safety procedures. You will have various sessions including the knowledge development session, confined water session and the open water session that will prepare you for the free dive. Initially, you will be trained in swimming pools and later taken for the open water sessions. All participants will be required to complete a health questionnaire before diving, as some pre-existing medical conditions may prevent you from freediving. Your package includes beverages, lunch, diving equipment, and hotel pickup and drop options.
PADI Freediver beginner course
10. Two-day overnight private skippered and crewed catamaran charter (from USD 3.0)
Sailing with a private group through the azure waters on the island is a bliss. Get on board of the most modern equipped sailing catamaran around Samui – The NAUTINESS II and gear up for an unforgettable experience. An overnight stay at any of the beautiful destinations in the archipelago along with a romantic dinner night with your loved ones is worth the money. The package will include transfers from/to the boat from the airport or your hotel on the Koh Samui island, breakfast, lunch and dinner on board or in any selected restaurant in a beautiful bay in the archipelago around Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tan, Koh Matsum and/or Angthong National Park, fishing gear and bait, entrance fees to the Angthong National Marine Park and other taxes and insurance. So, what are you waiting for?
2-Day Overnight Private Skippered and Crewed Catamaran Charter
11. Koh Tao Koh Nangyuan tour by speedboat (from USD 64.0)
The emerald bays of Koh Nangyuan, the colourful coral reefs, and an exotic marine life experience await you at the islands of Kho Tao and Kho Nangyuan. Enjoy the speedboat trip through the blue waters and admire the beautiful backdrop. Once you reach Koh Nangyuan, you will be headed to one of the beautiful bays in Koh Tao in a snorkel boat for a snorkelling adventure. After your lunch, you can indulge in any activities you prefer including swimming or hiking. Post that, you will be dropped back at your destination. A great deal for spending a perfect day in Koh Samui.
Koh Tao Koh Nangyuan Tour by Speedboat
12. Discover scuba diving (from USD 200.0)
The sparkling blue waters of Koh Samui are the best for some scuba fun! You can enjoy the exotic underwater life with the PADI Discover Scuba Diving program in Koh Samui. For beginners, this one-day program with a professional guide would be a great deal. You will be taught the basic concepts and skills before you head off on an open water dive that takes you as deep as 12 meters (39 feet). The Discover Scuba Diving experience is a perfect way to get a head start on your PADI Scuba Diver or Open Water Diver certification. The package also includes round-trip hotel transport and lunch.
Discover Scuba Diving from Koh Samui
Duration: 9 hours
Enjoying water sports and activities in the sapphire waters of Koh Samui
Blue waters, emerald islands, colorful surroundings -the backdrop is just drop-dead gorgeous for a perfect getaway. An excellent place to unwind, Koh Samui’s water activities, adventure sports, and numerous sightseeing options make it an irresistible choice. The island’s beauty, history, and rich ecosystem will be forever etched in your hearts.
Frequently asked questions about the water sports and activities in Koh Samui, Thailand
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