October 19, 2006

:: Attractions of Samui

Hat Chaweng (Chaweng Beach)
The longest, most popular and developed beach on the east coast of Ko Samui, this 7 kilometer beach has clean white sand and sparkling water.

In addition to numerous accommodations, this charming beach is packed with restaurants, spas, souvenir shops, bars and discos catering to all the needs of visitors. In addition, there are a number of dive shops on the beach, some of which also organize night dives.

Hat Na Thon (Na Thon Beach)
This is the island's major settlement on the west coast offering a wide selection of souvenirs and handicrafts, silks and jewelry. In addition to being the shopping center of the island Na Thon Bay also provides visitors with the necessary facilities - a post office, banks, a police station, telephone services, and a hospital. Moreover, this is where express and night ferries from the piers in Surat Thani dock.

Hin Lat Waterfall
Located at the end of Route 4172, 3 kilometers south of Na Thon Bay, the waterfall is encircled by palms, ferns and creeping plants. Hin Lat Waterfall also provides a few natural pools for bathing. An enjoyable 2-kilometer walk to the top allows visitors to get a panoramic view of the waterfall.

Hin Ta - Hin Yai
Strangely shaped rocks south of Lamai Beach are locally dubbed Hin Ta Hin Yai. According to legend, an old couple were shipwrecked in the bay and died and their bodies washed ashore creating the rocks.












Jungle tours
Adventure lovers will enjoy the virgin forest on a mountain on the island. Please contact only certified guides and tour agencies.

Ban Lamai Cultural Hall
Serving as a folk museum, the Hall houses many local ancient objects. Interesting objects on display include earthenware, household utensils, hunting weapons and equipment used in coconut planting.

Ban Thale
This is the oldest house on the island which was built approximately 150 years ago of teakwood without any nails. In addition, there the house displays elaborative wood carvings.




Bungy Jumping
For adrenaline lovers who seek the thrill of facing their own fears, this is definitely a challenge. The site is located behind the Reggae Pub and the operation is under professional control of British Jumpmasters. This activity is guaranteed as safe.

Canopy Adventures
For those interested in gliding from tree houses, Ko Samui provides visitors with this unique chance. No experienced required. Visitors just glide from tree house to tree house above the magnificent jungle canopy.

Animal Farms and Shows
Phang Ka Snake Farm
at Tambon Taling Ngam, has daily shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-3247.

Samui Buffalo Village
At Tambon Na Mueang, has daily shows at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., 350 baht per person, Tel: 0-7741-8680.

Butterfly Garden and Honey Farm
In the south of the island, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 120 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4020-21.






Monkey Training Center
At Tambon Bo Phut, has daily shows at 10.30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., 150 baht per person, Tel: 0-7724 -5140.

Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo
At Ao Laem Set, opens daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4017-8.

Crocodile Farm
Near Na Mueang Waterfall, daily shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person.

Buffalo fighting
This is an exciting bout that attracts a huge crowd, both local residents and tourists. Held monthly, it serves as a traditional festival on the island.

Monkey & Elephant Shows
At the show, it is actually possible to see how monkeys collect coconuts and present their other exceptional abilities. In addition, visitors will be impressed by the intelligence and loveliness of elephants that can perform many lovely tricks, or even play football.

On Ko Samui, the coconut island, the monkey is considered man's best friend. Local people have used monkeys to climb up and pick the ripe coconuts for centuries. At present, monkeys are not just good at picking coconuts, they are also good at entertaining.

Snake show
A stunning show that is not suitable for a people with heart diseases. The show offers a thrilling experience especially when the poisonous reptiles are skillfully caught by a handler with bare hands. Shows feature snakes indigenous to Ko Samui as well as centipedes, scorpion and cock fighting shows.




Samui Crocodile Farm
Siam crocodiles, Caimans, Saltwater crocodiles, snakes, lizards, monkeys and many others are gathered here for entertainment.

Credit:

- Tourism Authority of Thailand
- memberthai.net
- www.thailand-hotel.net
- www.samui.org