If you are planning a 5-day itinerary Koh Samui and are not sure what to do, then you have come to the right place. Koh Samui is the second biggest island in Thailand, and there are plenty of things to do here.
After visiting Koh Samui a few times myself as a tourist and digital nomad, I’m here to share my 5-day Koh Samui itinerary – featuring a mix of relaxation on beautiful beaches and adventurous activities climbing waterfalls.
Besides sharing the best things to do in Koh Samui in 5 days, I’ll also give you tips on how to get around, where to stay, and much more!
How Many Days In Koh Samui Is Enough?
If you’re looking for a quick beach getaway or a stopover destination, 2-3 days might be enough to get a taste of Koh Samui. However, if you want to fully experience the island and explore its hidden gems, 5 days is an ideal duration.
This 5-day itinerary will give you a good balance of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to make the most out of your time in Koh Samui.
Things to Do In Koh Samui In 5 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Day And Relaxing At Chaweng Beach
If you are visiting Koh Samui, chances are, you want to indulge in some of its best beaches. That is why once you have arrived and checked in your accommodation, you’ll spend the day relaxing on Chaweng Beach, the most popular beach on the island.
Relax on the soft sand, soak up the sun and swim in the crystal clear waters. You can also try out some water sports like jet skiing, kayaking or parasailing if you’re feeling adventurous.
If you are staying near Chaweng Beach, there are plenty of other beaches on Koh Samui that are perfect for relaxing. Our favorites are:
- Lamai Beach – a quieter alternative to Chaweng Beach on the southeastern part of the island
- Bophut Beach – beautiful beach in Fisherman Village, lots of facilities nearby, but busy
- Lipa Noi Beach – a hidden gem on the western part of the island with calm waters and very small crowds
- Maenam Beach – beautiful beach on the northern part of the island with fewer crowds
Day 2: Visit Ang Thong National Marine Park
Wake up early, have breakfast, and head to Ang Thong National Marine Park. This stunning archipelago is made up of 42 small islands, and it’s a must-see when visiting Koh Samui.
With pristine beaches, emerald green waters, and lush forests, the park offers a range of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and trekking.
Because this is a protected area, you’ll need to book a tour to experience its beauty.
We recommend booking a tour such as this one that includes the following:
- Speedboat to the Ang Thong National Marine Park (don’t take the big boat!)
- Snorkeling Opportunities
- Hiking to Mae Koh Island Viewpoint
- Lunch (preferably buffet style)
- Relaxing on the beaches on Koh Wua Ta Lap
This is a full day activity and you’ll usually come back around 5 PM.
After a quick dinner, we recommend going to watch a traditional Muay Thai fight at Samui International Muay Thai Stadium at Chaweng. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and entertainment scene.
Day 3: Island Exploration Day And Fisherman Village
On day 3 of our 5-day Koh Samui itinerary, you’ll explore the island and see its most famous landmarks. We recommend you to either charter a car or rent a scooter, but only do so if you are experienced.
Start the day off in Lamai. Check out the famous Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks (Hin Ta & Hin Yai) – natural rock formations that resemble male and female genitalia.
Next head up to Chaweng and visit the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) – a 12-meter tall golden Buddha statue. This is one of the most famous landmarks on Koh Samui and offers stunning views of the island from above.
Chaweng is also home to Wat Plai Laem – a temple with an 18-arm statue of the Goddess Guanyin and a giant laughing Buddha.
Enjoy a late lunch in Chaweng before heading towards the Fisherman Village. This is a charming and traditional village where you can see old Chinese-style wooden houses.
Make sure you stay till nighttime to check out Koh Samui’s most famous night market – Night Market Fishermans Village. This is a great place to try out local street food and shop for souvenirs.
📚 Read More: Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting?
Day 4: Koh Samui Waterfall Day
No visit to the tropical island of Koh Samui is complete without seeing at least one waterfall. On day 4, you’ll visit the most popular waterfall on Koh Samui – Na Muang Waterfall.
Start your day at Na Muang Waterfall, a picturesque waterfall with a natural pool for swimming. The best part of Na Muang Waterfall is that it is actually made up of 2 waterfalls.
Na Muang Waterfall 1 is easy to get to and requires about 5 minutes of hiking from the parking area. This waterfall is a good size and has a deep pool at the bottom perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Na Muang Waterfall 2, on the other hand, requires you to hike about 1 kilometer through a jungle trail. This will take you to the base of Waterfall 2, where there is a smaller pool and waterfall for swimming.
But the beauty of Na Muang Waterfall 2 isn’t at the base of the waterfall, but rather at a secluded rock pool near the top. If you continue on the path for around 30 minutes, you’ll reach the rock pool – a hidden gem with beautiful and stunning views.
This is a great place to spend a day, just relaxing with your friends or loved ones. We highly recommend packing some food.
💪 Pro Tip: Make sure you have adequate footwear for this. The trail from the base of Na Muang Waterfall 2 to the rock pool can be tricky.
Day 5: Thai Spa and Massage Day Before Departing
Before you head home, spend the last day pampering yourself with a Thai spa and massage. Koh Samui is famous for its affordable yet luxurious spas and massages, so it’s the perfect way to end your trip.
Choose from traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy massage, or even a hot stone massage – all at budget-friendly prices. You can find many spa options along the busy streets of Chaweng or Bophut. Our favorite massage place on Koh Samui is Baan Massage.
Additional Activities To Your 5 Days in Koh Samui
Flexibility is key on our 5-day Koh Samui itinerary, which is why we are including some additional things to do.
1. Samui Football Golf
If you’re a fan of both football and golf, this is the perfect activity for you! Samui Football Golf combines the two sports into one fun and unique game.
Located in Maenam, this 18-hole course is suitable for all ages and skill levels. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon with friends or family.
2. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui
Get up close and personal with these majestic creatures at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui. Located in Bophut, this ethical sanctuary allows you to interact with elephants in their natural habitat without riding or harming them.
You’ll have the chance to feed, bathe, and observe these gentle giants while learning about their history and conservation.
3. Tarnim Magic Garden
Located in the hills of Koh Samui, Tarnim Magic Garden (aka Secret Buddha Garden) is a beautiful and tranquil place to visit. This garden features statues and sculptures made by the late Thai farmer Nim Thongsuk – all inspired by Buddhist and Hindu mythology.
4. Full Moon Party On Koh Pha Ngan
If you are visiting Koh Samui during a full moon, don’t miss out on the famous Full Moon Party on Koh Pha Ngan. This all-night beach party is known for its neon body paint, fire shows, and endless dancing.
Take a ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Pha Ngan in the evening and return in the morning. Just be sure to pace yourself as this party goes on until sunrise (but of course, you can leave earlier)!
📚 Read More: Koh Pha Ngan or Koh Samui: Which One Should You Visit?
Where To Stay In Koh Samui?
Koh Samui offers a range of neighborhoods each with its own vibe and benefits. If you prefer to be in the heart of the action, Chaweng is the bustling beach hub replete with a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
For travelers seeking tranquility, Bophut presents the Fisherman’s Village with a more laid-back atmosphere and traditional charm.
Lamai strikes a balance with a more relaxed ambiance than Chaweng but with plenty of amenities and entertainment options.
For the ultimate in seclusion and nature, consider the southern or western parts of the island, where accommodations are nestled in more peaceful and picturesque settings.
5-Day Koh Samui Itinerary FAQs
When Is The Best Time To Visit Koh Samui?
The best time to visit Koh Samui is between December and April when the weather is warm, dry, and sunny. The monsoon season in Koh Samui runs from May to September, with heavy rains and potential flooding occurring during this time.
Is 5 Days Enough In Koh Samui?
5 days in Koh Samui is definitely enough time to experience the highlights of the island. However, it is not a bad idea to stay for longer and give yourself more time to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, relax by the beach, and fully immerse yourself in Thai culture.
Do I Need to Rent A Scooter To Get Around Koh Samui?
Renting a scooter is perhaps the cheapest and most convenient way to get around Koh Samui. However, you can also rely on taxis and tuk-tuks, but those are more costly. You can also consider chartering a car for a day and visiting as many hard-to-reach attractions as possible.
Final Thoughts: 5 Days In Koh Samui Itinerary
Koh Samui is a beautiful island that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Koh Samui has it all.
With this 5-day Koh Samui itinerary, you’ll get a taste of the best the island has to offer while also leaving room for some additional activities and flexibility. Don’t forget to explore beyond the main tourist spots and immerse yourself in the local culture for a truly unforgettable experience.