Hin Ta - Hin Yai

These rock formations are known as the Grandfather and Grandmother rocks. The site is a popular attraction for locals and tourist alike for their close resemblance to male and female genitals.

Their formation and shape has been personified by a local tale describing their existence on the island. The story goes that old couple whose ship was wrecked in the bay sank and their body's were washed ashore to create these remarkable rock formations.

The Big Buddha:

The Big Buddha statue is one of Samui's most popular attractions. Known in Thai as Wat "Phra Yai", it is located on the Northeast part of the island on route 4171 close to the international airport.

Sitting 15 meters high, the statue was constructed in 1972 by locals to give visitors a place to pay respect to The Lord Buddha.

Within the temple grounds you can find a number of shops selling souvenirs, T-shirts, protective amulets and refreshments.

Hin Lad Waterfall:

"Hin Lad" Falls are located 2 km south of Nathon Town on the eastern side on route 4172. From the main road it is about 2-3 kilometers walk down a jungle path to get to the falls.

Its recommended that you have tough shoes and leg protection for the walk.

The falls are situated in a lush tropical rainforest setting. There are several cascades which tumbling down into a large pool below. At the bottom the water is cold and indeed very refreshing. If you feel adventurous enough carry along your swimming togs and cool off after a balmy trek.

Secret Buddha Garden:

The secret Buddha garden is hidden in the hills of Samui. You can see several statues, temples and waterfalls which were built by one man in the last 20 years.

The only access road to the temple is on a military road and getting there can be difficult if the access road is closed.

The only other way to get to the site is by four-wheel-drive where you traverse through jungle, rivers and mountains. Beginning in Lamai at the back of the main temple, the journey takes around 2 hours. If you are intent on exploring the temple, make sure you are experienced in cross country and off road driving otherwise carry a mobile phone if you get stuck.

Another and perhaps less stressful way of getting to the site, is by joining one of the many jungle tours offered by travel agencies and resorts.

Butterfly Garden

Perched on a hillside on the south eastern corner of the Island, is "Na Tian" Butterfly Garden.

Here you can see some of the most spectacular butter fly species on earth.

There are also other interesting features in the garden including a bee house which allows the visitor to observe the activities of bees and an insect museum, where colorful and weird shaped insects from Thailand and other countries are on display.

Naga Pearl Farm

Discover how pearls are cultured. A 30 minute boat ride from "Ban Thong Krut" landing will bring you to Koh Matsum and the Naga Pearl Farm.

After you learn about pearl culture, you will enjoy eating Thai food and spend the afternoon on the white sandy beach. Don't miss the Naga Pearl Shop, located at 81/1 Ban Thong Krut, where all varieties of pearl and pearl products are offered. Pearl shells and special handicrafts are very nice souvenirs to bring back home.

Snake Farm

A definite must see for all those visiting the island. Follow the road signs for show times commencing at 11.00 and 14.00 everyday in "Talingngam" south of Nathon.

Shows feature snakes indigenous to Samui as well as some of the more poisonous scary species found throughout Asia. Included are displays of Centipedes and Scorpion and of course the famous Thai Cock Fighting show.

The programs are both informative and entertaining in typical Thai fashion - Great for the entire family! Just follow the signs to get there, as displayed throughout the island.

Ancient House

A house made of teakwood without any nails at "Ban Thale". This is the oldest house on the island, built approximately 150 years ago. It is constructed of teak planks and shows off many beautiful woodcarvings.