Excursions on Samui

Ah, this marvelous and exotic Thailand! Yes, indeed—it’s the one. It offers countless tourist wonders, each uniquely beautiful. One such spot is the paradise island of Samui, beloved for its white-sand beaches and abundant natural riches. The vacation is amazing—truly on fire—but something still feels missing… Oh yes, sights and excursions!

Excursions from Samui to Neighboring Islands

Excursions departing from Samui are quite varied, yet each is captivating and unforgettable in its own way. Excursions to Tao and Nang Yuan, including a visit to the marine national park Ang Thong (41 islands), diving, and other excursions; a trip to Phangan with its legendary beaches; Ko Taen with its own history; Ko Madsum with a pearl farm on its southern tip (though the continuous shoreline seemed far from ideally clean).

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You can travel to these islands by speedboat, a traditional Thai tourist vessel, a regular or sailing catamaran, or a sailing or luxury yacht. More details are provided below.

Daytime Fishing on Samui + Snorkeling

Whether you have fishing experience or not doesn’t matter; what’s important is that you want to spend your time this way. Usually, this daily excursion takes about 8 hours. Note that fishing can be daytime or nighttime. You’re picked up at your hotel and brought to the pier, from which you depart onto the open seas. You may catch snapper, sailfish, cobia, sometimes barracuda, sea pike, sharks, and many other “marine residents,” although it’s not always easy. The trip also includes lunch and a barbecue with your catch, plus a snorkeling swim in the sea.

The price ranges from 800 baht (child ticket) to 1,100–1,800 baht (adult ticket).

IMPORTANT:

• Check the excursion language—it might not match yours (often English-speaking);
• Bring swimsuits, towels, headwear;
• Sunscreen;
• Waterproof cases for cameras or video equipment.

If you love diving and snorkeling, you might enjoy an excursion to TAO and SAIL ROCK, costing around 2,000 baht. Good snorkeling spots include Coral Cove, Choeng Mon Bay, Silver Beach, Taling Ngam, and Ao Phang Ka Bay. And remember, it’s not the Red Sea, so strangely enough, even on an island, don’t expect to find marine wonders everywhere.

Private Sea Fishing on Samui

If you’re not into crowds or want a purely personal experience, a more private fishing excursion is the way to go. The itinerary and timing—one day or multiple—can be arranged just for you.

Depending on your preference, you can even have a sleeping berth on board and visit certain islands. Keep in mind that routes can change based on the season and weather conditions.

Horseback Riding along the Beach and Through the Jungle

Riding well-cared-for horses along a scenic beach and through the real jungle will add a memorable variety to your vacation. You can find both group and private rides lasting from 1 hour. Routes vary among tour operators.

The price for a ride is about 1,500 baht for one hour, 2,800 for two hours. You can additionally hire a photographer for around 200 baht.

IMPORTANT!!! Follow the instructors’ rules, wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and if needed, use sunscreen and a secure hat. Avoid loud noises.

Excursion to Phangan (One-Day Tour)

Excursions to the lovely island of Phangan come in many forms: sea fishing, diving, day visits to Tao and Nang Yuan, trips to Ang Thong Park, sea safaris around the island, plus on-island spa services and massages, or island safaris.

If you’d prefer minimal boat time, a one-day tour to Phangan might be perfect—it’s about a 20-minute trip away. You can snorkel, visit stunning viewpoints, enjoy drinks and meals, and soak in a tidal wave of positive vibes.

The cost: children under 3 are free at some companies, kids’ tickets range from 1,200–1,400 baht, and adults 1,600–1,700 baht.

Marine National Park (41 Islands)

If you want to see a truly paradisiacal spot, then the Marine National Park (41 islands) is the right excursion. Lush tropics, soft sand, limestone cliffs, numerous caves, and crystal-clear water—this is what awaits you when you visit the Ang Thong reserve and national park.

You’ll travel by boat or speedboat, depending on which tour operator you choose—great for diving or snorkeling. Common marine life: sea urchins, neon fish, parrotfish, stingrays, corals, etc.

On Wua Talap, the main island, there’s a lookout point about half a kilometer high with views of the entire reserve. Expect about an hour’s walk. You may see wild monkeys. You can also rent a bungalow (~500 baht) or a tent (~300 baht), use kayaks, visit the Emerald Lagoon—Talay Nai Lake in a volcanic crater on Mae Island, the “Lotus” cave, and other highlights.

IMPORTANT!!! Apart from the excursion fee, you must pay the Ang Thong national park entrance fee. Excursion programs depend on weather conditions.

Entrance fees typically: 150 baht for kids under 130 cm, 300 baht for taller kids and adults. Kids’ excursions cost 1,100–1,300 baht, adults 1,500–1,800. The presence of English-speaking guide affects the price. Children under age three usually go free.

Ang Thong (Marine National Park) by Speedboat

Your guide on the Ang Thong excursion may be a foreign-language speaker, so pay attention to that detail. During the trip, you won’t just hear general info and notes on the tour, but also get professional attention for the group and individuals alike.

The excursion runs from about 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. English-language support is usually only offered a few times weekly.

The cost is typically higher by 100–200 baht.

Canopy Zipline in the Tropical Forest

For those seeking active thrills, there’s a zipline in the tropical forest. They’ll drive you through lush woodland to the park. After a safety briefing, you follow a route you chose in advance.

Prices vary by age, chosen tour, group size, and operator: 1,500, 1,600, 2,000, or 2,250 baht. At the end, you get a small snack and a transfer back to your hotel, and you can pay extra for photo services.

IMPORTANT!!! Wear suitable clothing that won’t limit movement, sturdy shoes, and possibly insect repellent—this excursion demands it.

Jungle ATV Tour

This tour suits any skill level—group or private—and you can choose the time span and ATV model. Experienced guides ensure safety. You’ll explore wild jungle, mountain trails, coconut plantations, ups and downs, watering holes, and scenic stops.

Prices generally run 1,800–2,800 baht. A passenger plus driver costs about 900–1,400 baht—tour length also affects this.

Jeep Safari on Samui

Jeep safari tours don’t differ much among providers. Optional elephant riding can be added to some. In any case, expect a visit to the island’s main attractions plus lunch.

On average, the adult rate is 1,400–1,500 baht, and about 1,100 for kids age 5 and up, with or without elephant riding. Under 5 usually free.

IMPORTANT!!! Check whether the guide is English-speaking.

Military Jeep Safari on Samui

A safari on unique trophy vehicles, lasting a full day. You’ll see beautiful, scenic, and intriguing places on Samui. Whichever tour company you go with, you’ll have a hearty lunch and professional guide services.

This scenic tour appeals to all ages, bringing many positive emotions and unforgettable impressions.

The cost is about 1,400 baht per adult, 1,100 for kids age 5+, and free for kids under that age.

IMPORTANT!!! Usually, English-speaking guides only work on specific days. For this excursion, bring your swimsuit.

Jetski Safari

When weather allows, after a Samui safari you might enjoy active water recreation on jetskis. The operators fully comply with safe excursion standards.

You can ride for 20 minutes or a whole day, choose group, private, or children’s tours.

Costs vary by operator and program, from about 1,200 baht up to 17,000 baht.

IMPORTANT!!! Only two people max can ride a jet ski.

Paradise Park on Samui

High on Khao Pom mountain on Samui stands the fascinating Paradise Park Farm—truly worthy of a place on your list of island excursions.

This park covers about 20 acres of real tropical forest, inhabited by various animals and birds.

Paradise Park Samui is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Adult tickets cost 400 baht, kids 300 baht.

NOTE!!! Strolling along footpaths, you not only see the animals while enjoying mountain air but can also touch them, feed them special feed, and savor this place of tranquility, peace, and amazing island-and-mountain panoramas.

Elephant Riding — Namuang Safari Park

One of the island’s oldest and most visited tourist spots is Namuang Safari Park. Daily shows feature different animals and snakes. At the elephant stable, you can feed them by hand and even bathe with a baby elephant. Also, visit the 80-meter Namuang 2 waterfall.

Elephant rides begin on a special platform you climb to board the animals’ seats—wooden stools. The path winds through jungle trails. Bring your camera (the mahout may take a few photos for 20–50 baht) or let the handler do a full photoshoot for 300 baht.

Prices for adults: a 30-minute elephant ride is 700 baht, for children 600 baht; all shows plus an elephant ride cost 750 baht (children 600); a 30-minute ride plus waterfall 900 (kids 800), 45-minute ride plus waterfall 1,100 (kids 1,000). If you pick 15 minutes on elephants, a visit to the animal show, and lunch, it’s 1,400 for adults and 1,100 baht for kids.

IMPORTANT!!! Check with your tour company if ziplining, ATV rides, photos with exotic animals, or elephant riding is included in the cost or extra.

Also note: kids’ tickets typically apply to ages 5–12. Children under 5 usually go free. And prepare for possible “tips” in every opportunity.

Ko Tao and Nang Yuan by Catamaran

A comfortable high-speed catamaran will ferry you to the island group Nang Yuan—three islets like a string of sandbars connecting them.

Nearby lies Ko Tao. After lunch, we recommend visiting the viewpoint and the “Japanese Garden.”

IMPORTANT!!! This tour is suitable for everyone. It starts early, around 6:30 AM, ending near 5 PM.

The adult fare is 2,300 baht, kids ages 2–11 pay 1,200, and under 2 go free.

Lake Fishing at Top Cats

Top Cats isn’t just a tropical lake—it’s an angler’s paradise! An extraordinary fishing spot, with fish up to 150 kg in weight. Over 30 species and about 4,000 fish, comfortable gazebos, a restaurant, and professional staff are at your service during your stay.

The lake harbors 6 types of carp (20–77 kg), two huge arapaima (special “Arapaima” package), giant Mekong catfish, golden carp, alligator gar, giant Siamese carp, Amazon and tiger catfish, leopard catfish, and many other tropical lake dwellers.

IMPORTANT!!! Transfer to and from the lake is extra.

On average, it’s 1,000 baht. Package prices depend on fishing duration: 4 hrs – 3,500 baht, 6 hrs – 4,500, 12 hrs – 7,000, special “Arapaima” 5-hour package – 10,000 baht. Morning and afternoon sessions run daily with English-speaking guides.

The Red Baron — a Sailing Yacht

The “Red Baron” sailing yacht is one of Samui’s most popular excursion tours. Cozy and well-equipped, it creates a special vibe no matter which tour program you choose. Below are brief descriptions of some offerings:

A romantic cruise to Koh Som with pristine beaches ends with dinner against a tropical sea sunset. The cruise departs after lunch, three times a week. The cost is 2,500 baht for adults, 1,250 for kids.

A cruise around Phangan island shows off untouched bays and gorgeous beaches. Snorkeling, island, and sea sights, plus a buffet with barbecue, fruit and dessert platters, and varied drinks on board. Adults pay 2,900 baht, kids 1,500. The trip runs Wednesdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

An island-circumnavigation cruise around Samui with its dreamy beaches and some wild islets, clear sea, a filling breakfast, and a traditional seafood lunch. It’s a full-day excursion. 3,500 baht for adults, 1,750 for kids.

A voyage to Angthong Marine Park will leave vivid memories and stunning photos: the Emerald Lake in a volcanic crater, viewpoints on Mae and Wua Talap islands, and hidden bays with all their marine treasures. The cost for children is 1,750–1,900 baht, adults 3,600–3,750, and under four usually free.

IMPORTANT!!! Departs every Thursday for 10 hours, guided in English and German. Private tours are available.

Prices for these tours for 20 people (+1):

• A romantic sunset dinner cruise is 41,000 (+1,400) baht;
• A six-hour cruise costs 52,000 (+1,600) baht;
• A nine-hour cruise to Angthong, Samui, and Phangan is around 72,000 (+1,900) baht.

Additionally, you pay the Angthong National Reserve entrance fee: 300 baht for adults, 150 baht for children up to 130 cm.

Full Moon Party on Phangan (Transfer from Samui)

Full Moon Party is the liveliest, most mind-blowing event held once a month on Phangan’s Haad Rin Beach. The entrance fee is 100 baht. At exactly 10:00 PM, the DJ music blasts off. Before that, you can drive around the island by songthaew (100–600 baht). For 200 baht, you can get neon body paint or buy colorful trademark accessories and clothes. Using the restroom costs 10 baht, so bring change. Food carts, a 7/11 store, and bars are at your service.

IMPORTANT!!! Not a place for kids. Bottles should be opened in front of you. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, and don’t bring a lot of money. Boats to Samui depart every hour from 1:00 to 7:00 AM. Transfer vehicles at the pier will bring you back to your hotel.

In 2025, parties are planned for October 14, November 11, and December 11. See the official site for details. One-way transfer is 600 baht, round-trip 800, VIP 1,200. From Huatanon, Namuang, Lipa Noi, Taling Ngam, and Tong Krut areas, it’s 200 baht more.

Tiger Zoo and Aquarium on Samui

Samui’s attractions and excursions are quite diverse. “Aquarium & Tiger Zoo” suits all ages. The zoo has rare animals: monkeys, birds, other tropical creatures; the aquarium houses sharks, graceful stingrays, crabs, tropical fish, and more. You can feed some animals and take pictures with them. This two-hour show program is included.

IMPORTANT!!! Daily tours from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, guides encountered are generally English-speaking, and don’t forget your swimsuit—you can use the pool. The tour costs 1,400 or 1,100 baht, and kids under 3 go free. A small snack is included.

Flyboard

Some tourists want a more thrilling and active pursuit on Samui. Flyboarding provides freedom and excitement, letting some realize a childhood dream of being a superhero.
Controlling the power of the water jet, you can rise 10 meters above the water or dive and maneuver in different ways.

IMPORTANT!!! The attraction is open to ages 16+ and weight 40 kg+. Typically, you adapt to controlling the flyboard within five minutes. You receive all gear from an English-speaking instructor, with morning or afternoon sessions available. From personal experience, gauge your ability for such a dynamic activity.

Prices: 2,000 baht for 15 minutes, 3,000 for 30 minutes, or 5,000 for a Flyboard plus Jetpack combo.

Crocodile Farm

A trip to Samui’s Crocodile Farm suits the entire family—interesting and a bit extreme. During the show, we found ourselves mesmerized, forgetting everything else. Testing a croc’s reflexes with a chicken on a pole gave us wild thrills in a short time. They’re shockingly quick. The place also hosts an exotic show with king cobras.

IMPORTANT!!! This tour lasts about two hours. Typically, the ticket is valid for two consecutive days. Without transfer, adult admission is 600 baht, kids 300 (5–12 years old). Because the farm is near the airport, close to Bophut Beach, self-driving can be tricky.

With transfer, it’s:

• 900 baht (adults) and 500 baht (kids) from Chaweng, Choeng Mon, and Bang Rak areas;
• 1,200 and 900 baht respectively from Bophut, Maenam, Bang Po, and Lamai;
• 1,500 and 1,000 baht from Hua Thanon and Nathon.

Crocodile and cobra shows alternate every hour starting at noon. The first show is at 12:00, next at 2:00 PM, then 4:00 PM. Snake shows at 1:00, 3:00, and 5:00 PM.

Island Driving Tour

A driving tour around Samui in one day lets you see many beautiful and astonishing island spots in little time. Depending on the tour company, you’ll ride in a car or a minibus with A/C.

The tour options vary, suitable for every budget. Cars can seat four or six. Costs range 5,000 or 6,400 baht, respectively.

Morning tours start at 9:00, afternoon at 1:00. Typically, tourists pick from three routes, with prices from 350 to 10,500 baht per person. All can be group or private tours. With a minibus:

• A 4-hour trip costs an adult 350 baht, children 3–10 years old and under 130 cm tall 250 baht, running 9:30 AM–1:30 PM;
• A 6-hour excursion is 450 baht adult, 350 baht child, from 9:30 AM–4:30 PM;
• Other programs vary. Note that departure time depends on your area of Samui.

IMPORTANT!!! Some companies let you add extra hours for an additional fee. Often the guide speaks English. Meals aren’t always included, so bring money or water and snacks. Some programs offer an elephant ride as an add-on.

Saunas and Spas on Samui

An excellent complement to the beach vacation is Samui’s saunas and spas. The island has many varied and rather good spa centers and saunas.

They offer numerous services, including hotel pickup. Many have gyms and pools. Well-known options: Mr. Pak’s Sauna (250 baht all day, 200 baht for groups of 10+), Thai Herbs on Samui (a traditional herbal sauna), “Euro Herb” sauna, “Samui Sauna.”

IMPORTANT!!! Often you’ll be provided with comfortable clothing, towels, and footwear; some places offer a decent meal. You need swimwear and some extra cash for optional expenses. If you want a photoshoot at these venues, you must pre-order or ask staff for help.

Prices vary; spa package tours for adults cost about 1,700–2,900 baht, kids 4–12 up to 130 cm about 1,200–2,300 baht, under 4 free with an adult.

Tropical Spa Treatments

Spa treatments are the best relaxation and rejuvenation for your trip. We suggest visiting Tropical Spa in the Bo Phut area of Samui. You’ll enjoy maximum relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall health benefits—adding energy and well-being. From personal experience, it’s an unforgettable place with blissful treatments.
You can choose from 30-minute to 4.5-hour sessions, costing 1,000–5,500 baht. Programs vary for every taste.

We wish you a feeling of lightness and freedom—you truly deserve it!

Diving on Samui, Ko Tao, and Nang Yuan

Diving in tropical waters is a remarkable pastime, and doing it at your holiday destination is a stroke of luck! As with many tours, there’s a wide selection: diving around Samui, Ko Tao, and Nang Yuan, in different price brackets.

A dive center on Ko Tao offers services for all skill levels, even newbies, using PADI training. They have monthly packages with dives of varying complexity under full safety standards. The minimum diving age is 10. Rates run roughly 2,400–2,800 up to 22,500–25,000 baht. For detailed pricing, book via the official website.

Samui’s dive center can show you underwater life in various spots. They offer try dives, day tours, and dive safaris at different difficulty levels, including trips to Ko Tao and Nang Yuan. Prices range 1,800–2,000 to 12,000–13,000 baht. Minimum age is typically 10–12. English-speaking instructors are available daily.

Tornado Water Attraction

The Tornado water ride is akin to a roller coaster—this high-speed speedboat storms along for 20 minutes at speeds up to 90 km/h.

Unbelievable spins, swirling around its axis, wave-hopping, and crazy braking—this extreme adventure has it all.

IMPORTANT!!! The boat seats 12, equipped with safety harnesses and life jackets. Footwear and electronics stay behind in secure boxes at the pier. We recommend swimsuits or a change of clothes, plus a towel (sometimes provided). You can buy photos and videos afterward. The attraction runs certain days from 11:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Admission averages 2,000 baht per adult, kids aged 9–15 above 140 cm can ride for the same rate. Groups of up to 12 pay about 20,000 baht.

Adult Entertainment

Summarizing all the above, adults can enjoy every excursion without exception: sea and lake fishing, island diving, jungle zipline, various safari tours, Tornado Water extreme Powerboat, jetski rides, parasailing, jetpack, flyboard, wakeboarding, underwater walks, elephant rides, canopy tours above the jungle, Thai boxing, and yoga retreats.

For adult fun, there’s also the Full Moon Party, clubs and go-go bars, golf, horseback riding, spa and massage, water parks. You can also pursue these courses on the island:

• Language lessons
• Cooking and coffee-making classes
• Kite- and windsurfing
• Massage skills
• Diving, yoga, reiki
• Music, dancing
• Jewelry-making
• School study, etc.

Excursions for Kids on Samui

As seen above, kids’ activities are plentiful. Samui offers a unique chance for them to experience marine and terrestrial wildlife. Numerous children’s programs suit every age and preference.

Popular choices: the Crocodile Farm, Monkey Theater, Paradise Park, Butterfly Garden, Tiger Zoo and Aquarium, water parks Pink Elephant and COCO SPLASH, go-karts, Elephant and Snake farms, etc. The island also has playgrounds and small parks for children.

Note!!! For parents seeking structured growth opportunities, the island has children’s daycare—Thai or English-speaking. Generally, English-based ones are pricier, Thai-based cheaper. These may not always have an official website; we suggest reading reviews before choosing.

In conclusion, we wish you a truly heavenly vacation packed with vibrant adventures and emotions!!!!