Koh Samui with Kids

Koh Samui, the second-largest island in Thailand, is an excellent choice for a family vacation. With its beautiful beaches, attractions suitable for all ages, and vibrant culture, it offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure. This expert guide will help you make the most of your family trip to Koh Samui.

Why Koh Samui is Perfect for Families

Koh Samui boasts clean, well-maintained beaches, crystal-clear seas, and a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Unlike some other areas, the island has minimal nightlife outside of the Chaweng and Lamai areas, making it a peaceful destination for families. Essential facilities such as shopping centers, family-oriented hotels, pharmacies, and supermarkets are readily available, ensuring convenience and comfort throughout your stay.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Koh Samui with kids is from December to April, during the dry season. This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Top Attractions for Kids

Beaches

• Chaweng Beach: The largest and most popular beach on the island, ideal for building sandcastles and splashing in the shallow waters.
• Lamai Beach: Known for its relaxed vibe, Lamai Beach offers stunning scenery and calm waters, perfect for young swimmers.

Nature and Wildlife

• Paradise Park Farm: Located in the rainforest, this mini-zoo is home to a variety of animals, including birds, rabbits, monkeys, and iguanas. Kids can feed the animals and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
• Butterfly Garden: A must-visit for young nature enthusiasts, this garden is filled with colorful butterflies and other exotic insects.
• Secret Buddha Garden: Nestled in the hills, this serene spot features beautiful statues and lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful family outing.

Exciting Animal Shows

• Monkey Show: Near Bophut Beach, the Samui Monkey Theater offers entertaining performances where monkeys dance and perform tricks.
• Snake Show: Witness thrilling performances by cobras and pythons near Tong Krut Beach.

Adventure Activities

• COCO Splash Waterpark: Located on Lamai Beach, this waterpark offers various slides and pools, ensuring hours of fun for kids.
• Karting: Available in Maenam, Bophut, and Chaweng, karting is suitable for kids aged 10-12 and above.
• Gibbon Flight: Experience the thrill of rappelling through the jungle on a rope. This activity is suitable for adventurous kids.

Accommodation

Family-Friendly Hotels

• Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui: Located near Chaweng Beach, this resort offers a range of family amenities, including swimming pools, children’s rooms, and babysitting services.
• Centra Coconut Beach Resort Samui: Situated on the uncrowded Taling Ngam Beach, this resort provides a peaceful environment for families.
• Conrad Koh Samui Resort and Spa: This luxury resort offers a wide range of activities for kids, ensuring a memorable stay.
• Samui Buri Beach Resort: Located on Maenam Beach, this resort provides both hotel rooms and private villas.
• Sheraton Samui Resort: Part of the Sheraton chain, this resort near Chaweng Noi Beach offers top-notch comfort and amenities.

Dining with Kids

• Lamai Food Market: Offering a variety of delicious dishes at affordable prices, this market is a great place to enjoy local food with the family.
• Stop at Sopa – Bophut: Conveniently located near Samui Boat Lagoon, this restaurant delivers food directly to your villa, making it easy to enjoy a nice meal after a day of exploring.
• Crystal Bay Beach Club – Lamai: With an extensive kids’ menu and a stunning beachfront location, this restaurant is perfect for a family meal.

Getting Around

Car Rental: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Koh Samui with kids. It allows you to travel at your own pace and visit various attractions.

Taxis and Songthaews: These modes of transportation are readily available and can be used for shorter trips around the island.

7-Day Family Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

• Morning: Arrive in Koh Samui and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Head to Chaweng Beach for a relaxing afternoon of sun and sand.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 2: Exploring Nature

• Morning: Visit the Secret Buddha Garden.
• Afternoon: Explore Paradise Park Farm.
• Evening: Have dinner at Crystal Bay Beach Club.

Day 3: Animal Encounters

• Morning: Enjoy the Monkey Show near Bophut Beach.
• Afternoon: Visit the Snake Show near Tong Krut Beach.
• Evening: Dine at Lamai Food Market.

Day 4: Adventure Day

• Morning: Go karting in Maenam.
• Afternoon: Experience the Gibbon Flight jungle rappelling.
• Evening: Relax with a movie at Tesco Lotus Shopping Center.

Day 5: Water Fun

• Morning: Spend the day at COCO Splash Waterpark.
• Afternoon: Continue enjoying the waterpark.
• Evening: Have dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 6: Cultural Exploration

• Morning: Visit Wat Plai Laem temple.
• Afternoon: Explore the Big Buddha statue and temple complex.
• Evening: Dine at Stop at Sopa in Bophut.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some final beach time at Lamai Beach.
• Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your flight home.

Tourist Tips

• Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers activities involving large animals.
• Always carry water, especially during outdoor activities.
• Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the tropical sun.
• Teach kids basic Thai customs, such as greeting with a “wai” and respecting temple rules.
• Carry both cash and cards, as some smaller establishments may not accept cards.
• Remember to pack essential medicines and a basic first aid kit for your trip to Koh Samui.