Things To Do with Kids in Koh Samui
Koh Samui, a gem in the Gulf of Thailand, is a favourite destination for travellers seeking a tropical paradise escape. Boasting beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, lush greenery and local charm, Koh Samui is a dream holiday spot. The island offers more than its breathtaking natural beauty- it’s a playground for families, with plenty of activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained. Whether you are staying in one of the luxurious beachfront villas with private pool at Clay Beach or exploring other parts of the island, there’s no shortage of fun for families. Let’s dive into some of the best kid-friendly activities to make your family vacation unforgettable.
Why is Koh Samui Ideal for Kids?
Koh Samui is ideal for families because of its safe and welcoming environment. The island’s gentle waves, soft sandy beaches, and warm weather create the perfect setting for children to play and explore. Families can take advantage of the beautiful settings and bond in paradise. Unlike the smaller islands, Samui still offers many activities that suit a mixture of ages, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to teens can find something exciting to do. With friendly locals and family-oriented facilities, Koh Samui is a top choice for a stress-free and enjoyable family vacation. There are also many Koh Samui holiday packages available.
Top Activities in Koh Samui to Enjoy with Kids
1. Immerse Your Family in Nature
Seeing nature is one of the easiest things to do in Samui, especially with kids, as it is brimming with it. From national parks to beaches and wildlife, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Ang Thong National Marine Park
Ang Thong National Marine Park is a stunning archipelago of 42 islands, offering opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, and hiking. Located northwest of Koh Samui, it is accessible by boat tours. This is an excellent trip in Koh Samui for families! The park is home to pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and flourishing forests. This is a fantastic opportunity for kids to be at one with nature, see tropical wildlife, and participate in water activities. Guided tours often include lunch and equipment rental.
Cost: Around 2,000 THB per person, including the park entry fee and boat ride.
Beaches
Koh Samui boasts numerous beautiful beaches where kids can build sandcastles, swim, and play. Some favourites include Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut and Lipa Noi. Most beaches are family-friendly, with shallow waters and soft sands. Many beachfront restaurants and resorts offer facilities catering to children as well as fun for adults! Whether you go for an early morning swim, evening meal and sunset or a full day of fun at one of the beaches, the whole family will be happy.
Cost: Free, though renting sunbeds and umbrellas may incur a small fee.
Secret Buddha Garden
The Secret Buddha Garden or ‘The Magic Garden’ is a serene and enchanting garden filled with statues and sculptures hidden in the hills. A waterfall cascades down the hill surrounding the Buddha statues. Situated in the central part of Koh Samui, near Nathon, the garden offers a peaceful retreat with its lush greenery and whimsical statues, perfect for a quiet family outing. The oasis was crafted by local durian farmer Nim Thongsuk, whose tomb is nestled among intricate carvings of Buddhist spirits and animals. It is a great opportunity to learn about Thai culture in a family-friendly setting.
Cost: Entry is approximately 80 THB per person.
2. Adventure Samui- trips and excursions
There are plenty of day trips in Koh Samui or excursions to nearby attractions and islands that the kids will enjoy. Adventure is always around the corner in Samui. Travel Samui in style!
Quad Mountain Excursion
The Quad or Buggy Excursion on Koh Samui offers an exciting adventure for families and kids. This guided tour takes you through the island’s lush jungle, wide trails, and hidden waterfalls, providing stunning viewpoints along the way. With automatic, easy-to-drive vehicles, even young children can join, making it a fun and safe activity for all ages. The full-day experience includes a Thai lunch on the island’s heights, ensuring a memorable day out in nature for the whole family.
Cost: Varies depending on the tour operator. Creative Adventure has prices from 4,600 THB.
Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
For an adrenaline rush, families can try zip lining and canopy adventures in Koh Samui’s lush forests. These activities offer a thrilling way to see the island from above and are safe for children with the right supervision. This is a great way to get active in nature with the family.
Cost: Prices typically range from 1,800 THB to 3,000 THB per person.
Jungle Safari Tours
Jungle Safari is an adventurous tour through Koh Samui’s lush jungles, including a fun-packed itinerary perfect for a family day out. These tours are off-road vehicle adventures, with visits to temples, waterfalls, viewpoints, and tropical gardens. You can get involved in off-road walks and have lunch at a rooftop restaurant with views of Samui. Kids and adults alike will be immersed in culture in a fun and exciting way.
Cost: Prices are 1,600 THB for kids and 2,200 THB for adults. Group bookings are available.
Boat trips
There are so many fun boat trips to take from Koh Samui with your kids. Whether you want to visit nearby islands, snorkel Koh Samui, enjoy the thrill of a speedboat or get stuck into activities, there is something for every family.
The Pig Island Snorkeling tour, accessible by speedboat, offers a fantastic family-friendly adventure on Koh Samui. This excursion includes visits to Koh Mudsum and Koh Tan, where kids can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and interacting with friendly pigs on the beach. The tour provides opportunities to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life, making it a fun and educational experience for children. The scenic boat ride and beach activities ensure a memorable day out for families.
Cost: Adult and child ticket for 2,700 THB.
3 See Wildlife & Animals
Elephant Sanctuaries
Visiting an elephant sanctuary is a wonderful experience for children to learn about these magnificent creatures in a humane and ethical setting. Sanctuaries like Samui Elephant Sanctuary offer programs where families can get insights into the nature and importance of elephants. Visitors have the unique opportunity to feed, walk with, and observe these majestic animals as they forage and socialise. These sanctuaries aim to provide a happy, natural home for the elephants where they can express their natural instincts and receive the care and respect they deserve.
Cost: Entry fees typically start at 3,000 THB per person for a half-day visit.
Paradise Park Farm
Paradise Park Farm is an animal park and adventure playground located on a mountain, offering panoramic views of the island. It is located in the Taling Ngam area, in the southwestern part of the island. The park features various animals, a swimming pool, and playgrounds, making it an excellent spot for a day trip.
Cost: Admission is around 400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children.
4 Dive into Water Sports & Sports Activities
Koh Samui offers a wide range of water sports activities, such as jet skiing, paddle boarding, windsurfing and body boarding. All perfect for kids! Many beaches and resorts have facilities for renting equipment and taking lessons. This is a great way for families to enjoy the ocean together and try something new.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the activity and duration, starting from 500 THB.
Samui Water Park
Samui Water Park on Koh Samui is a family-friendly attraction located near Maenam Beach, offering modern water attractions suitable for all ages. The park features thrilling water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and dedicated areas for kids, including safe play zones and themed attractions like a pirate ship. Visitors can also relax in a jacuzzi area and enjoy meals from a diverse menu at the on-site restaurant. The park operates from Tuesday to Sunday and provides special offers for visitors.
Cost: Tickets cost from 650 THB
Aqua Park
If you are feeling more adventurous, try Aqua Park! It is an inflatable water park located off the shores of Chaweng Beach. Kids can enjoy bouncing, climbing, and sliding on various inflatable structures set up in the sea. It’s a fun and safe way to experience the ocean in a unique manner. Adults can also join in so you can enjoy as a family!
Cost: Entry fees are around 300-500 THB, depending on the length of play.
Samui Football Golf
Samui Football Golf offers a unique and entertaining experience for families on Koh Samui. Combining the fun of football with the strategy of golf, players navigate an 18-hole course set in beautiful botanical gardens. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the game involves kicking a football into holes with as few kicks as possible. The well-maintained course provides a fun and challenging activity, complete with shady areas and cool breezes. It’s a great way to enjoy some active family time surrounded by nature.
Cost: Tickets from 300 THB.
Go Karting
EasyKart Koh Samui at Chaweng Lake is an exciting family-friendly go-karting experience with tracks suited for both beginners and experienced drivers. Kids and adults can enjoy low-speed karts on a 350m beginner track, while thrill-seekers can race on an 800m track with 270cc karts. The facility also features panoramic views, a terrace with food and drinks, and additional activities like pool and soccer tables, making it a perfect destination for fun with kids on Koh Samui.
Cost: Prices from 499- 1499 THB.
Laser Tag
Koh Samui Laser Tag offers an exciting indoor laser tag adventure for the whole family, with various games and challenges suitable for ages 6 and up. This activity is perfect for those rainy days that tropical paradise sometimes brings. Situated at The Outrigger Resort, there are plenty of amenities nearby to keep the family entertained and the kids happy!
Cost: Half-day pass: THB 350++ per person, Full-day pass: THB 500++ per person.
Go to the Markets & Shopping
Exploring local markets such as Fisherman’s Village Walking Street and Lamai Night Plaza can be a fun experience for families. These markets offer a glimpse into local culture, with stalls selling everything from street food to souvenirs.
If you are after a more modern shopping experience, Central Festival Mall in Chaweng provides a break from the beach with numerous shops, restaurants, and a play area for kids. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if the weather is not ideal for outdoor activities.
Cost: Free to enter and explore, with costs depending on shopping and dining choices.
5. Enjoy Resorts & Villas in Samui
Koh Samui offers numerous resorts and villas equipped with excellent kids’ facilities, ensuring a memorable vacation for families. These accommodations often feature kid-friendly amenities, private pools and beach front views. Let the kids play in the pool whilst you relax in the luxury villa. Clay Beach Samui offers the perfect Koh Samui family holiday as it offers a full team- including a chef, maid, gardener and villa manager. This means you can sit back and enjoy spending quality holiday time with the kids with no worries.
Conclusion
Koh Samui is a treasure trove of exciting and memorable activities that cater to families and children of all ages. From exploring vibrant marine life to splashing around in water parks and uncovering hidden gardens, there’s something for everyone. After a day of adventure, retreat to the luxurious comfort of Clay Beach Luxury Beachfront Pool Villas for rent Samui. Our spacious beachfront villas, complete with butler and private chef services, offer the perfect haven for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you’re here with family, friends, or as a couple, Clay Beach Samui promises an exceptional stay in paradise. Book your luxury villa in Koh Samui with us.