8 Islands Near Koh Samui That Are Too Mesmerizing To Skip!
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Adventure

Islands around Koh Samui

1. Koh Wua Talap
2. Ang Thong National Marine Park
3. Koh Phangan
4. Koh Tao
5. Koh Mae Koh
6. Koh Taen
7. Koh Mudsum
8. Koh Nang Yuan

Enjoy most of your tropical holiday by visiting some of the best islands near Koh Samui. Located off the mainland, these islands are not only secluded, but also offer a wide range of activities to visitors. Some of these islands, such as Koh Phangan, are also perfect for a weekend getaway, away from the hustle and bustle of Koh Samui.

Boasting immense natural beauty, the islands of Koh Wua Talap, Koh Mae Koh and Koh Tao are also home to lush tropical forests, white sand beaches, exotic wildlife as well as majestic limestone cliffs, among other things. Tucked within the serene Ang Thong National Marine Park, there are a total of 42 islands around Koh Samui.

From vibrant beach parties and nightlife to thrilling adventure activities, bustling night markets and some of the freshest seafood options, there is a lot that these islands have in store for you.  So, wait no more, and head to these islands for a rejuvenating time amidst nature.

Here are some of the best islands near Koh Samui:

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Explore All (13)
01

Koh Wua Talap

Headquarters of the Ang Thong Marine National Park, Koh Wua Talap is one of the most secluded islands near Koh Samui. While most travellers opt for a one-day trip to the island from Koh Samui, you might want to consider staying overnight, given that it is much less crowded compared to the latter.

There are around six odd beach bungalows on this island, along with camping tents for those who wish to live a truly tropical fantasy. If you find yourself bogged down a little by the swarm of travellers in Koh Samui, the little heaven of Koh Wua Talap promises to relieve you of that! Dip your toes in the world of water sports, or just lie down, soaking up that radiant sun.   

Activities:

- Snorkelling

- Kayaking

- Scuba diving

- Hiking

Location: Ang Thong Marine National Park

Distance from Koh Samui: Approximately 39.0 km

02

Ang Thong National Marine Park

A stunning archipelago consisting of 42 islands, Ang Thong National Marine Park is lined with lofty limestone mountains, verdant forests harbouring waterfalls and coves, lakes, and pristine white-sand beaches. Spanning an area of over 100 square kilometres, the archipelago is home to a beautiful land and marine biodiversity.

Whether you’re hoping to spend some quiet, peaceful moments amidst nature, or want to dive into the world of marine adventures, Ang Thong is the place to be. Do try to take time for snorkelling, kayaking, or hiking when travelling here. It is one of the most visited islands near Koh Samui.

Activities:

- Snorkelling

- Diving

- Kayaking

- Hiking.

Location: Thongsala Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, Thailand

Distance from Koh Samui: Approximately 40 km

03

Koh Phangan

A quiet little island sheltered in the southeastern reaches of Thailand, Koh Phangan is the first biggest island in Thailand, spanning an area of 167 square kilometres! Accessible from Koh Samui by ferries, Koh Phangan is famous for the iconic Full Moon Parties it hosts every month.

Composed majority of granite, the island’s white-sandy beaches are towered by lush green hills that also guard a beautiful, dense jungle. If you’re seeking a less-crowded getaway, do not plan your trip to Koh Phangan around the full moon days.

While those parties are sensational, there’s much more to Koh Phangan than just that. Embrace the soothing quietude of the beaches by going for a dive into the waters, or wandering through the beautiful forests.

Activities:

- Late night parties

- Snorkelling

- Sun bathing

- Scuba diving

Location: Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani, Thailand

Distance from Koh Samui: 115 km

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04

Koh Tao

Koh Tao can be translated to mean ‘Turtle Island’, which it does justice to, considering it is home to a great number of turtles. It is also the scuba diving hotspot in Thailand. Fenced by pristine white-sand beaches, Koh Tao is littered with a number of beautiful corals home to a rich range of marine life, including turtles, as the name suggests.

Koh Tao is a relatively new discovery, having been recognised in the early 1980s, and remains easily accessible. Lined with a vast variety of guesthouses, hotels, and beach bungalows, catering to all budget types, Koh Tao has quickly become one of the most visited islands near Koh Samui. Distance yourself from the buzzing city streets and escape into a tropical wonderland!

Activities:

- Scuba diving 

- Snorkelling

- Wakeboarding

- Cliff jumping

- Kayaking

- Fishing

- Hiking

- Mountain biking

Location: Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani, Thailand

Distance from Koh Samui: 68 km

05

Koh Mae Koh

Koh Mae Koh is a sleepy little island nestled in Mu Koh National Marine Park. Marked by emerald-green waters of the Talay Nai sea in the laps of towering limestone mountains, Koh Mae Koh is one of the most exotic-looking islands near Koh Samui.

The island is a beautiful cluster of powdery beaches, mountains, and secret caves harbouring stalactites and stalagmites. Far away from the busting coasts of other islands, Koh Mae Koh also nurtures a beautiful diversity of marine and wildlife. Besides the quiet beauty of the island, it is also known for a world of marine adventures that the beaches offer.

Activities:

- Snorkelling

- Sea kayaking

- Scuba diving

Location: The island sits inside Ang Thong National Marine Park.

Distance from Koh Samui: Approximately 36.1km

06

Koh Taen

Another secret little island forming part of the Samui Archipelago, Koh Taen is an ever quite neighbour of Koh Madsum. Nestled along the southern end of Samui, the island is a perfect respite for adventure enthusiasts who wish for solitude amidst nature.

The idyllic white-sand beaches guarded by lush greenery are also home to plenty of vibrant coral reefs nurturing a great variety of marine life. While snorkelling is almost a given when visiting Koh Taen, you cannot miss hiking through the verdant mangrove forests here. One of the most delightful islands near Koh Samui, especially if you enjoy solitude.

Activities:

- Snorkelling

- Diving

- Hiking through a mangrove forest

Location: Taling Ngam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand

Distance from Koh Samui: Approximately 18 km

07

Koh Mudsum

A picturesque tropical paradise, Koh Madsum is one of the smaller islands around Koh Samui. Belonging to the Samui Archipelago, Koh Madsum lies hidden off the southern coast of Koh Samui. This secret little beauty is an ideal retreat for those looking for some peace and privacy.

Home to beaches bordered by beautiful sandy stretches, Koh Madsum shelters a quiet restaurant by the bay where you can head to treat your taste buds after a breathtaking kayak ride.

The island is not very popular, which means you can escape the crowd easily and spend some priceless moments amidst nature. While Koh Samui might offer you tonnes of adventure, Koh Mudsum is the place to be if you wish to just relax and unwind, away from the crowd.

Activities:

- Kayaking

- Diving

- Boating

Location: Koh Madsum, Taling Ngam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand

Distance from Koh Samui: Approximately 22 km

08

Koh Nang Yuan

A blissful detour from the tropical bounds of Koh Tao will bring you to the small island of Koh Nang Yuan, famous amongst the many islands around Koh Samui . A thrilling haven marked by clear blue-water beaches bordered by white sandy stretches, the island looks like something out of a movie! Its proximity to travel hotspots like Koh Tao and Koh Samui has led to a steady rise in footfall.

There is a beautiful resort by the beach where you can stay to avoid the crowds of Koh Samui; it is the only mode of accommodation there.

Activities:

- Snorkelling

- Scuba diving

- Kayaking

Location: Koh Nang Yuan is located near Koh Tao

Distance from Koh Samui: Approximately 70 km

Note: The island stays open only until 05:00 PM, after which only those travellers staying at the beach resort are allowed.

People Also Ask About Koh Samui

  1. Which are the best to visit islands near Koh Samui for couples?

    1. Koh Wua Talap: This is one of the Best islands near Koh Samui for couples. In addition to being secluded, the island is also great to enjoy water sports like scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking.

    2. Koh Phangan: Koh Phangan is amongst the most popular islands around Koh Samui that couples can explore. This quiet island is known for its vibrant nightlife, beach parties and a plethora of water activities, including scuba diving.

    3. Koh Tao: Couples who love adventure must definitely head over to Koh Tao, which is also known as Turtle Island. Considered a scuba diving hotspot, the island has many vintage guesthouses, beach bungalows and resorts, and offers many interesting experiences to visitors, including coral explorations, wakeboarding and cliff jumping.

    4. Koh Mae Koh: Known for its white-sand beaches, secret caves and limestone mountains, the island is a paradise for couples who seek serenity. This exotic island boasts emerald green waters, along with a diverse range of wildlife and marine creatures.

  2. What are the best things to do in Koh Wua Talap Island?

    1. Visiting the Emerald Lagoon: One of the Best islands near Koh Samui, Koh Wua Talap is home to the Emerald Lagoon, which you must visit here. Famous for being the place where “The Beach” was shot, the lagoon is located at the heart of the island and is surrounded by limestone cliffs.

    2. Snorkelling: One of the best things to do in Koh Wua Talap is snorkelling. Since the waters here are rich in vibrant coral reefs and a wide range of marine creatures, snorkelling is the perfect activity to indulge in on this island.

    3. Camping: Koh Wua Talap offers several camping spots to visitors who wish to spend the night under the stars, in the lap of nature here. All you have to do is bring the essentials, rent out the tent and other camping gear and you are good to go!

    4. Hike to Pha Jun Jaras View Point: The steep hike to this viewpoint may be strenuous and difficult, but it is well worth the effort since upon reaching the viewpoint, you can soak in some of the most panoramic views of the lush jungles, ocean as well as faraway limestone mountains.

  3. Which are the best island near Koh Samui to visit with friends?

    1. Koh Taen: Koh Taen is one of the best islands around Koh Samui that you can visit with friends. A part of the Samui Archipelago, this island is great for adventure junkies who seek solitude. Some of the best things you can do with your friends here include snorkelling, hiking, nature walks and more.

    2. Koh Madsum: This island ranks among the Best islands near Koh Samui, and is great for a visit with friends. This tropical paradise is quite hidden, and is home to stunning beaches, along with crystal clear waters where you and your pals can enjoy kayaking, boating, diving, etc.

    3. Koh Nang Yuan: Take a detour from Koh Tao and visit the Koh Nang Yuan with your friends during your tropical holiday. It is here where you can enjoy a thrilling time exploring the white sand beaches and clear blue waters, while indulging in water sports like scuba diving, kayaking and snorkelling, among others.

    4. Koh Phangan: Party enthusiasts must definitely visit Koh Phangan, which is known in the region for being the biggest Thai island, as well as a party hotspot. From full moon parties and open beachfront bars to late-night parties, snorkelling and more, there is a lot that you can do here.

  4. What are the best water sports to try on islands near Koh Samui?

    1. Scuba diving: Scuba diving is undoubtedly one of the best water sports to try in islands around Koh Samui. The water around these islands is quite clear, and is home to a wide range of exotic marine animals as well as beautiful coral reefs, which you can explore by diving deep into the waters.

    2. Snorkelling: When exploring the islands near Koh Samui, you must include a snorkelling experience in your itinerary. This water sport is best tried near the islands of Koh Taen and Koh Madsum, and offers you a chance to witness amazing underwater creatures, such as stingrays and barracudas.

    3. Parasailing: A parasailing experience in the islands near Koh Samui will let you soak in verdant views of the ocean, beaches and surrounding natural landscapes from high up in the air. This is one of the best water sports to try here, where you can make your dream of flying come true.

    4. Kayaking: The beaches in islands near Koh Samui are well equipped with kayaks, which you can rent and go for a tranquil kayaking tour in the clear waters of the ocean. From exploring the beaches and serene waters around the islands to catching the sights of various marine creatures and coral reefs, a kayaking experience offers you all this and more.

  5. What is the best time to visit Ang Thong National Marine Park?

    The best time to visit Ang Thong National Marine Park is between the months of February to October when the waters of the ocean are warm and rather calm. This makes these months the perfect time to explore the nearby islands and indulge in water sports and other activities.
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