Samui & Koh Tao, Thailand: things to do, prices and tips 2026

Things to do in Samui & Koh Tao (Thailand): Samui Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai), Fisherman’s Village, Bophut. Prices, opening times and the author’s tips.

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What to see

🙏Samui Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)

A 12-metre golden Buddha on a tiny islet linked to Samui by a causeway. You can see it from planes landing at the airport, and next door is the modern Wat Plai Laem with a colourful many-armed deity.

Price Free

Insider tip Shoes come off at the stairs and the tiles get scorching by midday, so come in the morning or at sunset. No shorts or vests — sarongs are lent at the entrance.

🦐Fisherman’s Village, Bophut

An old Chinese seafront street of wooden shophouses, cafés right on the sand and views of Koh Phangan. On Friday evenings the Walking Street fills the whole promenade with food, music and souvenirs.

Price Free entry

Insider tip Come for sunset, grab a table on the beach, then wander the market. Seafood at the stalls is sold by weight — ask the price per 100 g before they cook it. Parking is jammed on Fridays, so take a taxi.

🛶Ang Thong Marine Park

42 islands, a hidden emerald lake and a viewpoint worth every drop of sweat.

Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide

🐠Koh Nang Yuan

Three islands joined by a sandbar — Thailand’s most famous postcard, and how to shoot it without the crowds.

Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide

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