Hello, I’m Robert and I’ve just come back from Koh Samui with my family. Planning 10 days in Koh Samui is the perfect way to experience Thailand’s second-largest island at a relaxed pace. With its pristine beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Koh Samui is an ideal destination for families, couples, or anyone seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation. In this 10-day Koh Samui itinerary, I’ll take you through the highlights of our journey – from tranquil beaches and marine parks to hidden temples, waterfalls, and even a side trip to Koh Phangan. If you’re dreaming of a memorable Koh Samui trip, this detailed guide will give you inspiration and practical tips for planning your very own 10-day Koh Samui trip.
Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, is the perfect destination for a family holiday, with its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural experiences. That’s why I planned a 10-day Koh Samui trip that also included Koh Phangan, striking a balance between relaxation, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly cultural activities.
During the first three days of our 10 days in Koh Samui, we mostly stayed around Bophut Beach – one of the best beaches in Koh Samui. Beyond enjoying the sea and sand, we also explored nearby highlights such as the Big Buddha Temple, Fisherman’s Village, and the stunning Ang Thong National Marine Park. The following days of our 10-day Koh Samui itinerary were filled with outdoor fun in Lipa Noi and Lamai, from jungle safaris and swimming at Na Muang Waterfalls to watching sunsets and enjoying fresh seafood by the beach.
Of course, a Koh Samui trip wouldn’t be complete without exploring the surrounding islands. On days 7 and 8 of our 10-day Koh Samui trip, we visited Koh Phangan, a small island just an hour away by ferry. There, we enjoyed tranquil beaches and snorkeling around Koh Ma. Finally, we returned to Bophut for the last two days, dedicating the time to rest, relax, and savor the final highlights of our journey. For anyone wondering what to do in Koh Samui, this 10-day Koh Samui itinerary shows that the island offers the perfect blend of relaxation, nature, and cultural immersion – making it an ideal destination for families.
Our 10 days in Koh Samui began in the most relaxing way possible, on the peaceful shores of Bophut Beach. On our very first day of this 10-day Koh Samui trip, we simply enjoyed the soft white sand and calm waters. While the kids played happily on the beach, my wife and I relaxed and soaked in the tranquil atmosphere. Bophut felt comfortable and family-friendly – far from the busy crowds. In the afternoon, we visited Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple, one of the island’s most famous landmarks. The 12-meter golden Buddha sits majestically on a small islet connected to the mainland by a causeway. Climbing the steps, I was impressed not only by the panoramic sea views but also by the spiritual energy of the place. We ended the first day of our Koh Samui trip with a quiet evening at the hotel, ready to recharge for the adventures ahead.
The next morning, our family joined a full-day excursion to Ang Thong Marine National Park. Exploring its breathtaking nature and joining in on fun activities was without a doubt one of the best things to do in Koh Samui. This experience became a highlight of our 10-day Koh Samui itinerary. With its lush forests, towering limestone cliffs, and the stunning Emerald Lake (Blue Lagoon), the park felt like paradise. We spent the day swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling among colorful coral reefs. By late afternoon, we returned to Koh Samui to rest. In the evening, we headed to Fisherman’s Village to enjoy the lively street food scene. Between seaside stalls, tempting Thai dishes like mango sticky rice and crepes, and even exotic snacks such as crocodile skewers, the atmosphere was buzzing. The kids were especially thrilled by the fire show at Coco Tams – truly a memory to treasure from our Koh Samui trip.
If you’re wondering what to do in Koh Samui with kids, here is what we did the next day with ours. On the third day of our 10-day Koh Samui trip, we spent the whole day at Samui Elephant Sanctuary – a meaningful stop that made the journey even more special. Unlike elephant rides, this ethical sanctuary allows visitors to feed, bathe, and learn about rescued elephants in a respectful way. Watching my children feed the elephants by hand was heartwarming and gave our 10 days in Koh Samui a deeper sense of purpose. We ended the day back at the resort, relaxing by the pool and preparing for the next chapter of our adventure.
After leaving Bophut, we moved on to discover another side of the island during our 10 days in Koh Samui. Our family headed west to the Lipa Noi area, famous for its quiet, uncrowded beach. We stayed at Kanok Buri Resort, which has its own private beach with shallow, safe waters for children. That entire day, we didn’t do much besides swimming, letting the kids build sandcastles, and simply relaxing on sunbeds under the coconut palms. In the evening, we enjoyed a delicious seafood dinner at the beachfront restaurant while watching the fiery sunset – one of the most memorable moments of our Koh Samui trip.
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On the fifth day of our 10-day Koh Samui itinerary, we filled the day with adventure. Riding in a jeep, we ventured deep into the jungle, bouncing along rugged trails. The kids were thrilled sitting up top with the wind rushing through their hair. We visited the Secret Buddha Garden, where mysterious Buddha statues and mythical figures are hidden in the lush mountains. Afterwards, we explored the island’s most famous waterfalls – Na Muang 1 and 2. At the first waterfall, we swam in the refreshing natural pool, while the second required a short hike but rewarded us with stunning, untouched scenery – the perfect spot for unforgettable family photos.
On the sixth day of our 10-day Koh Samui trip, we decided to explore the culture and natural landmarks of the Lamai area. Our first stop was Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks – two unusual rock formations nicknamed “Grandpa and Grandma.” The kids giggled at their funny shapes, while we all admired the surrounding ocean views. In the afternoon, we continued to Lamai Beach, a calmer and quieter spot than Bophut. It was ideal for swimming and relaxation. We had lunch at a beachfront café before spending the rest of the day unwinding by the sea breeze – a simple yet perfect way to end another day in our 10 days in Koh Samui adventure.
As part of our 10 days in Koh Samui, we decided to leave the main island and spend two days and one night on another gem of the archipelago – Koh Phangan. Our family stayed at a hotel near Salad Beach, one of the most peaceful beaches I have ever seen, with calm waves, fine sand, and crystal-clear waters. The kids had fun swimming and playing, while my wife and I took the chance to go kayaking. We spent the whole day relaxing at the resort, enjoying delicious food, and simply unwinding. For an ocean lover like me, this 10-day Koh Samui trip was truly the perfect way to satisfy our family’s endless passion for the sea.
What to do in Koh Samui in 10 days? On the eighth day, we went on a snorkeling trip to Koh Ma. This small island is famous for its colorful coral reefs and transparent waters, which left my children in awe as they watched schools of fish gliding beneath the surface. After snorkeling, the boat took us to Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat) – a pristine beach only accessible by boat. The tranquil atmosphere, far from the tourist crowds, made it the perfect spot for us to lie on the sand, rest, and enjoy the peace. To end the day, my wife relaxed with a Thai massage right on the beach, while I sat watching our children play, feeling that this Koh Samui trip had truly brought us closer together.
On the ninth day of our 10-day Koh Samui itinerary, we returned to the island to make the most of our final days. We visited Maenam Walking Street to buy souvenirs and explore local street food while soaking up the warm atmosphere. The kids happily picked out small gifts, and I refreshed myself with a glass of sugarcane juice. In the afternoon, we went back to our hotel to relax by the pool and enjoy an outdoor massage with the sound of the waves in the background. In the evening, our family shared a cozy seafood BBQ dinner at the resort.
On the tenth day, before heading to the airport, we stopped by Bophut Night Market – an absolute must in any Koh Samui trip. It was our last chance to taste street food, shop for souvenirs, and feel the island’s vibrant spirit. With live music, colorful stalls, and lively crowds, it was the perfect way to wrap up our 10-day Koh Samui trip. Watching my children laughing with ice creams in hand, I thought to myself: this journey through 10 days in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan will forever remain one of the most precious memories of their childhood.
- Day 1-3 : Maya Resort Bophut
- Day 4-6: Kanok Buri Resort
- Day 7-8: Cookies Salad Resort
- Day 9-10: Ibis Bophut Samui
After spending 10 days in Koh Samui with my family, I’ve gathered several useful insights that will surely help anyone planning their own Koh Samui trip.
First, when organizing your 10-day Koh Samui itinerary, make sure to alternate between relaxing beach days and sightseeing days – especially if you’re traveling with children. This balance allows the whole family to enjoy both relaxation and exploration without getting too exhausted from constant moving around.
Second, if you’re wondering where to stay in Koh Samui, don’t worry. The island offers different areas, each with its own atmosphere. Bophut is ideal if you want to stay close to the beach while having easy access to night markets, Lipa Noi is quieter and perfect for a peaceful retreat, while Lamai strikes a nice balance between beautiful scenery and good dining options. For more variety, consider dedicating one or two days to nearby islands such as Koh Phangan, where you’ll find stunning untouched beaches.
Getting around Koh Samui can also be tricky. Taxis are expensive, so I recommend arranging hotel transfers or renting a private car if you’re traveling as a family group. For island-hopping tours, always choose reputable organizers and check itineraries in advance to ensure they’re child-friendly.
Finally, don’t forget to prepare essentials: sunscreen, hats, light walking shoes, and some basic medicine for kids. And make sure to save time for local cuisine – from grilled seafood and mango sticky rice to night market street food – because food is one of the best ways to experience Koh Samui’s culture during your 10-day Koh Samui trip.
Our 10-day Koh Samui itinerary turned out to be a truly unforgettable experience. From the serene days on Bophut Beach and the adventures in Ang Thong Marine Park, to the cultural discoveries in Lamai and the peaceful escape to Koh Phangan, every moment of our Koh Samui trip was filled with beauty and family bonding. And if you’d like to enjoy a hassle-free experience, I highly recommend traveling with Autour Asia, a Thailand travel agency specializing in tailor-made trips. Thanks to their local expertise, they can design a customized 10-day Koh Samui trip that matches your interests and travel style – so all you need to do is relax and enjoy this tropical paradise.
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You can definitely spend 10 days in Koh Samui alone, enjoying the island’s peaceful atmosphere. Traveling solo in Koh Samui is generally safe, as the island is known for its friendliness towards visitors and well-developed tourism services. However, you should still take basic precautions, avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas, and keep your belongings safe to ensure a smooth trip.
3 days in Koh Samui can be enough to visit some main attractions like Chaweng, Bophut, and Big Buddha, but the schedule will be quite rushed. If you only have 3 days, it’s better to focus on relaxing at the beaches and enjoying the night markets rather than trying to include too many island-hopping tours, so that your itinerary remains balanced and enjoyable.
The best time to visit Koh Samui is from December to April, when the weather is sunny, the sea is calm, and it’s perfect for outdoor activities. From May to September, travel is still possible but expect occasional showers. October and November are usually the peak rainy season and less recommended if you want to fully enjoy your holiday.
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