Quick summary: Explore Koh Samui with this 4-day itinerary perfect for families. Discover stunning waterfalls, relax at vibrant beach clubs, and enjoy easy day trips to nearby attractions with mixed transport options and a mid-range budget.
Route map + stops
Other
- Na Muang Waterfalls (น้ำตกหน้าเมือง)
Nearest station: Nathon Pier — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Secret Buddha Garden (สวนพุทธรักษา)
Nearest station: Nathon Pier — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) (วัดพระใหญ่)
Nearest station: Big Buddha Pier — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Chaweng Beach (หาดเฉวง)
Nearest station: Chaweng Beach Bus Stop — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Ark Bar Beach Club (อาร์คบาร์บีชคลับ)
Nearest station: Chaweng Beach Bus Stop — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Fisherman’s Village, Bophut (หมู่บ้านชาวประมง บ่อผุด)
Nearest station: Bophut Bus Stop — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Ang Thong National Marine Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะอ่างทอง)
Nearest station: Mae Nam Pier — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks (หินตา หินยาย)
Nearest station: Lamai Beach Bus Stop — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Lamai Beach (หาดละไม)
Nearest station: Lamai Beach Bus Stop — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Wat Plai Laem (วัดปลายแหลม)
Nearest station: Big Buddha Pier — Line: Best exit: check station signage — Exit: Best exit: check station signage
Timeline (hour-by-hour)
Day 1
Start your day at the Na Muang Waterfalls to enjoy nature and refreshing pools. Then visit the Secret Buddha Garden for tranquil walks and unique sculptures. Finish with a cultural visit to the Big Buddha Temple.
09:00 — Visit Na Muang Waterfalls
Why go: Experience Koh Samui’s lush nature and refreshing waterfalls, ideal for family photos and light hiking.
Do:
- Walk to waterfall viewpoints
- Enjoy a swim in natural pools
- Take family photos
How to get there: Taxi or rental scooter from Chaweng Beach, approx 30 minutes.
Cost / tickets: Free entry, small parking fee possible.
Time needed: 2 hours
12:00 — Explore Secret Buddha Garden
Why go: Discover a tranquil garden with unique statues and panoramic island views, perfect for a peaceful family stroll.
Do:
- Walk the garden trails
- View sculptures
- Enjoy scenic views
How to get there: Short taxi ride from Na Muang Waterfalls.
Cost / tickets: Small entrance fee, check locally.
Time needed: 1.5 hours
15:00 — Visit Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
Why go: See the iconic 12-meter golden Buddha statue and learn about local culture and religion.
Do:
- Explore temple grounds
- Take photos of Buddha statue
- Observe monks and rituals
How to get there: Taxi or songthaew from Secret Buddha Garden, about 20 minutes.
Cost / tickets: Free entry, donations welcome.
Time needed: 1 hour
Day 2
Relax at Chaweng Beach in the morning, followed by an afternoon at the lively Ark Bar Beach Club for food and music.
10:00 — Relax at Chaweng Beach
Why go: Enjoy Koh Samui’s most popular beach with soft sand and clear waters, great for family beach time.
Do:
- Swim and sunbathe
- Rent paddleboards or kayaks
- Visit nearby cafes
How to get there: Walk or short taxi ride from accommodation in Chaweng.
Cost / tickets: Free beach access, rental fees vary.
Time needed: 3 hours
14:00 — Afternoon at Ark Bar Beach Club
Why go: Experience a lively beach club with music, food, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Do:
- Enjoy drinks and snacks
- Relax on sunbeds
- Listen to live music
How to get there: Walk along Chaweng Beach from main area.
Cost / tickets: No entry fee, food and drinks priced mid-range.
Time needed: 2 hours
Day 3
Explore the charming Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, then take a half-day boat trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park for snorkeling and kayaking.
09:00 — Visit Fisherman’s Village, Bophut
Why go: Explore charming streets with shops, cafes, and a relaxed vibe ideal for families.
Do:
- Shop local crafts
- Dine at family-friendly restaurants
- Walk along the beach promenade
How to get there: Taxi or songthaew from Chaweng, approx 15 minutes.
Cost / tickets: Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary.
Time needed: 3 hours
13:00 — Half-Day Trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park
Why go: Discover stunning islands, snorkeling spots, and kayaking in a protected marine park.
Do:
- Boat tour around islands
- Snorkel in clear waters
- Kayak and hike viewpoints
How to get there: Boat tours depart from Mae Nam Pier, taxi from Bophut to pier.
Cost / tickets: Tour prices mid-range, includes equipment and lunch.
Time needed: 4 hours
Day 4
Visit the famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, relax at Lamai Beach, and end your trip with a visit to the colorful Wat Plai Laem temple.
10:00 — Visit Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
Why go: See famous natural rock formations with a fun local legend, suitable for a quick family stop.
Do:
- View rock formations
- Take photos
- Visit nearby market stalls
How to get there: Taxi or songthaew from Lamai Beach, about 10 minutes.
Cost / tickets: Free access.
Time needed: 1 hour
11:30 — Relax at Lamai Beach
Why go: Enjoy a quieter beach option with calm waters and family-friendly restaurants nearby.
Do:
- Swim and relax
- Visit beachside cafes
- Play beach games
How to get there: Walk from Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks or short taxi ride.
Cost / tickets: Free beach access.
Time needed: 2 hours
14:00 — Visit Wat Plai Laem
Why go: Explore a colorful Buddhist temple with impressive statues and peaceful gardens, great for cultural insight.
Do:
- Walk temple grounds
- Admire statues
- Learn about Buddhist traditions
How to get there: Taxi from Lamai Beach or Chaweng, approx 20 minutes.
Cost / tickets: Free entry, donations welcome.
Time needed: 1 hour
Logistics (read this first)
- Use taxis or songthaews for longer distances; rental scooters for flexible short trips.
- Carry water and sun protection when visiting outdoor sites.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and light hiking.
- Respect local customs at temples: dress modestly and remove shoes when required.
- Book Ang Thong National Marine Park tours in advance to secure spots.
- Mid-range budget allows for comfortable dining and entrance fees without overspending.
Local tips and guide
Local Guide to Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, and dense, mountainous rainforest. The island offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural sites. Key areas include Chaweng and Lamai for beaches and nightlife, Bophut for a charming village atmosphere, and Nathon as the main ferry port. Transport options include taxis, songthaews (shared taxis), and scooter rentals. Family-friendly activities abound with waterfalls, temples, and marine parks easily accessible.
If it rains (2 alternatives)
If something is closed (2 alternatives)
FAQ
What is the best way to get around Koh Samui?
Taxis and songthaews are convenient for families; rental scooters are good for short trips if comfortable driving.
Are the waterfalls safe for children?
Yes, Na Muang Waterfalls have safe swimming areas and easy trails suitable for families.
Do I need to book tours in advance?
It is recommended to book popular tours like Ang Thong National Marine Park ahead, especially in high season.
Are the temples family-friendly?
Yes, temples like Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem welcome families; dress modestly and behave respectfully.
Is Koh Samui suitable for a family with young children?
Yes, the island offers many family-friendly activities, beaches, and easy day trips.
How we planned this route
Byline: Expert travel planner with extensive experience in Southeast Asia family travel.
Itinerary designed based on family-friendly attractions, accessibility, and balanced activity levels.
Last updated: 2024-06-01