Things to do in Koh Samui

There are many varied curiosities and attractions to see on the island of Samui, enough to satisfy both family and independent tourists of all ages. The attractions can easily be visited either by hiring a motorcycle or car, or taking advantage of the island tours which operate.

Hinta Hinyai (Grandfather and Grandmother rocks)

Certainly one of the most visited places of interest, this site consists of rock formations which represent the male and female genital organs. Their formation and their appearance have been made famous by a local tale describing their origin and their existence on the island. The tale tells that the bodies of an old couple ran aground in the bay after their boat sunk thus creating these weird rock shapes. Souvenir shops and fresh drinks are sold on the street which leads to the site. The rocks are located at the south of the beach of Lamai and well indicated by a road sign.

Butterfly Garden

You will be able to observe many butterfly species in the wild, spreading themselves in a tropical natural environment which is among the most beautiful of the region. Observers can witness the cycle of multiplication of some species which increase on the spot. This attraction is particularly popular with families. There are also other insects to see and there is a hive in which visitors can watch bees working in production. In addition, there is a museum of insects from Thailand and other countries. The farm is located on a hill at the southeast end of the island at Na Tien.

Crocodile farms

There are two crocodile farms on the island, one of which is located behind the airport on a 7,000 square metre area where more than 100 animal species such as Siam and sea water crocodiles, caymans, snakes, lizards and apes can be found. There are two daily shows, one at 14:00 and the other at 16:30. The second farm is situated in the south of the island, at Namuang Waterfall II. It also has a dramatic show, where a beautiful young woman puts her head in the mouth of a crocodile. Apart from crocodiles, this farm gives good opportunities for visitors to admire the country's wild fauna without needing to venture into the deep jungle.

Aquarium and Tiger Zoo

For those who are not into diving or snorkeling, the Aquarium presents an opportunity to see the underwater delights of the sea. It can be found in the south after the village of Huathanon. Many species of fish and coral can be seen, as can turtles, sharks and catfish and many others forms of marine life from the depths of the ocean. Also at the Aquarium exit, a display of caged tigers can be seen. Photos are positively encouraged.

Buffalo fighting

This is one of the most popular sports in Southern Thailand. There are a half dozen stadiums around the island which can be recognised by their bamboo-made walls and coconut palm branches which obstruct non-paying viewers from seeing the battle. These fights do not occur all the time, but signs are posted on the roads to advertise the events. The fight ends when one of the two buffaloes retreats. This is almost always well before harm occurs, with fights sometimes only lasting a few seconds. For the locals, the betting is in many ways more important than the event.

Ancient House

This house was built of teak more than 150 years ago using the techniques of the time, which means the house was assembled without the use of nails. It can be found on road 4170 coming from Huathanon village.

Snake Farm

The Snake Farm can be found in the south of the island where there are shows twice daily. Some of Asias most venomous snakes can be seen here, as can centipedes and scorpions. There is even a chance to see a cock fight, which is a very popular sport in Thailand.

Magic Garden (or Heaven's Garden)

This is a resting place on Samui's heights. It has a small waterfall and all around it are statuettes which were carved in the rock by Nim Thongsuk, a Samui islander. He began to build the garden in 1976, when he was 77 years old. It can be found on a military road between Lamai and Nathon.

Monkey Theatre

On Samui, the monkey is mans best friend, having been utilised for centuries to harvest coconuts, which are found at the top of the trees. The Monkey Theatre puts on shows where the monkeys exhibit their skills and dexterity. The theatre is located on the left after Chaweng on the way to Bophut.