Must-See Spots in Koh Samui That Aren’t in the Guidebooks
- Charlie Carlin
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
1. The Best Samui (Overlap Stone 2)
Tucked away in the hills above Lamai, The Best Samui offers incredible panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands. A short 4x4 uplift (included in the 200 THB entry fee) takes you to the top, where you’ll find unique sculptures, photo installations, and a relaxed restaurant and cocktail bar with one of the best vantage points on the island. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset!
2. Coral Cove Beach
Between Chaweng and Lamai, this small cove is one of Samui’s best kept secrets. Soft sand, turquoise waters, and large granite boulders give it a postcard-perfect look – but the real draw is the snorkelling. You don’t need to join a boat trip here; just swim a short distance from shore and you’ll find colourful coral and plenty of fish.
3. Wat Ratchathammaram (The Red Temple)
This beautiful seaside temple in Hua Thanon stands out for its deep terracotta colour and intricate carvings. The detailing on the walls and doors is impressive, and the ocean backdrop makes it especially photogenic. It’s usually quiet, so you can take your time to enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
4. Five Islands Beach
While many visitors see the famous Five Islands from a distance on boat tours, few know you can enjoy the same view from a quiet beach in the southwest of the island. Head to Taling Ngam and you’ll find stretches of sand with almost no one around – plus perfect views of the islands as the sun begins to set.
5. Treehouse Beach Bar
In Bang Por, this laid-back spot has wooden seating platforms built into the trees overlooking the beach. It’s perfect for an afternoon drink or a chilled evening listening to the waves. Bring your camera – the mix of driftwood décor, lanterns, and sea views make for some great photos.
Tips for Visiting These Hidden Gems
Transport: A scooter is the easiest way to reach most of these places, but if you’re not confident driving, hire a local driver for the day.
Timing: Visit beaches early in the morning for the calmest conditions and fewer people.
Respect the Locations: Many of these spots are in local neighbourhoods – be mindful of noise, litter, and dress codes at temples.
Bonus Tip – Book a Photographer!
Exploring Koh Samui’s hidden gems is even more special when you can take home professional-quality photos of the experience. A local photographer knows the best angles, lighting, and secret spots to capture memories you’ll treasure forever – whether it’s a solo adventure, a couple’s getaway, or a family holiday.
At SamuiDigitalMedia we offer professional photography services across the island, combining local knowledge with years of experience to create stunning, natural images. Instead of worrying about selfies or shaky shots, you can focus on enjoying the moment while we handle the rest.
