Things to do in Ko Samui

Buffalo fighting

Less bloody than the Spanish equivalent, Samui-style buffalo fighting involves two buffaloes coming head to head. No spears, swords or people -- except for those bellowing from the sidelines -- are involved, and neither buffalo ends up dead. There are a few buffalo rings scattered around the island. If this is your cup of tea, keep an ear out for promotions for time and location details. Generally a pretty kid-friendly event and buffalo rides are generally also available.

More details
Around the island

Waterfalls

Inland Samui is dotted with a few waterfalls, most of which can be reached by motorbike followed by a short walk. All are far more impressive in wet season. Both Na Muang 1 and 2 have pools to swim in when there is enough water, and the former also has elephant riding nearby. Hin Lad requires a longer walk from the end of the trail and good footwear is a fine idea. Once there, the waterfall is pretty and you can take a refreshing dip. If you have your own transport, you could easily visit all three waterfalls in a day trip.

Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo

Located at the southern end of Hua Thanon on the southeast corner of the island, the Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo is a fairly contrived attraction. Samui has never been known for its indigenous tiger population. Nevertheless it remains a popular attraction for the Samui-in-a-day-style tours. A good attraction for kids who are yet to see a tiger, but overall, you're better off saving the money and lying on a beach.

More details
Hua Thanon

Butterfly Farm

Opposite Central Samui Village, the Samui Butterfly Farm is woefully overpriced, but for those who have done absolutely everything else there is to do on the island and cannot face another day on the beach, this may be worthwhile. The farm has a fair selection of butterlies and the gardens are pleasant. Try to go early in the morning as it is a steep climb to the top and can be very steamy. Also at the top is a small bee-keeping display and a souvenir shop where you can stock up on overpriced trinkets.

Viewpoints

Samui has a number of excellent viewpoints, though you'll either need to be on a tour or have your own transport to reach them. The most popular is Secret Garden, a large sculpture garden off the Airforce road towards the centre of the island. Built by a fourth generation Samui native who died a few years ago, the sculptures are based on the Buddhist scriptures and are certainly worth taking a peek at. The big selling point here though are the stunning views. Other viewpoints include Woodlands Resort and the Yod Khao Restaurant. Both are marked on maps of the island.

More details
Across the island

Hin Ta Hin Yai

These rude rocks just around the corner from the southern end of Lamai Beach resemble male and female genitalia. It's hardly worth travelling around the island to see, but if it's a slow day and you're already on Lamai, it may be worth a look.

More details
Just south of Lamai Beach

Big Buddha

Finished in the mid 1970s, Big Buddha is the most visited attraction on Ko Samui. Located on the miniscule Ko Phan island, around 1km from Samui International Airport, Big Buddha is around 15m tall and 12m wide. The island can now be reached by a causeway. Construction of a monastery on the island was begun in 1920 but stalled after the death of the monk. The plan was eventually changed and the Buddha built instead. Ko Phan, or Small Deer Island, gets its name from a legend that mentions an enchanted deer being the island's guardian spirit.

More details
Big Buddha Beach

Ban Lamai Cultural Hall

Located in Wat Lamai, this small museum houses a small but interesting collection of goods and possissions that belonged to the Samui-folk of past generations.

More details
Ban Lamai

Mummified Monk

This is Ko Samui's most famous mummified monk -- yes there is more than one. Luang Pho Daend is mummified in the grounds of Wat Khanaram on route 4169, near the Na Muang waterfall. He died over 20 years ago and all things considered is still in pretty good condition. Worth a look if you are in the area. Donations appreciated.

More details
Wat Khanaram

Monkey work coconut

Dotted all around the island you'll see signs along the lines of Monkey work coconut where you can stop and for a small fee watch monkeys climbing up coconut palms and hurl down coconuts at your or their keeper. Fun for kids but otherwise not really worth slowing down for.

More details
Around the island

Thai boxing

Both Chaweng and Lamai have muay thai or Thai boxing rings, with regular matches. Some are just demonstration matches to keep drinkers amused, but the real deal is occasionally put on. Keep an ear out for upcoming bouts and if you won't have the time to see a bout in Bangkok, it's certainly worth considering.