Updated June 16, 2025
Koh Samui is is the third-largest island in Thailand, and part of an archipelago of 69 islands in Surat Thani province. The island itself is full of wonders, from beaches with fine white sand to widescreen views of the rainforest. And when you’re staying at any of the finest vacation rentals on Koh Samui, looking out to a sunrise or a sunset from your infinity pool is a dream come true.
That said, even with the amenities and creature comforts on Koh Samui, exploring the outer islands is still a must-try, and not just when it comes to attending the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan. Venturing beyond Koh Samui itself can introduce you to wonderful destinations and hidden gems beyond the imagination.
Related article: Places To See & Activities To Do in Koh Samui, Thailand
The Most Memorable Destinations for Island Hopping in Koh Samui
Many of the most popular island-hopping destinations in Koh Samui can be explored within the day, which makes them perfect for short trips as well as activities such as snorkeling. They’re also part of yacht charter itineraries in Koh Samui that include full-service amenities, meals, and even sport equipment.
1. Koh Phangan
Skip the Full Moon Party weekends and head to Koh Phangan in the daytime. There is more to Thailand’s fifth-largest island than pure hedonism. Koh Phangan is a rainforest-clad, mountainous island that has exquisitely long beaches and a laid-back vibe, giving the whole island a dramatic landscape that makes it a joy to visit.
The short day trip to Koh Phangan takes you to a world of incredible dive sites. Activities are also abundant on the island, and you can enjoy water sports such as paddle boarding and windsurfing as well as swimming and snorkeling. In addition, the island is home to fantastic viewpoints as well as treks to waterfalls.
2. Ang Thong National Marine Park
An hour off the coast of Koh Samui lies the magnificent Ang Thong National Marine Park; a glorious marinescape of turquoise waters dotted with 42 islands. The boat trip itself is part of the adventure as you glide past this almost-mystical world of islands.
Tours stop off just outside the park to snorkel before heading to the main island, Koh Tua Walap, which translates as Sleeping Cow Island. Here there is a chance to kayak, snorkel close to the beach, and relax in the green surroundings watching the spider monkeys at play jumping from treetop to treetop. There is also a walk up to a pretty viewpoint. Another notable island is Koh Mae Koh, or Mother Island, which is famed for its breathtaking Emerald Lake.
3. Koh Tao
Koh Tao, also known as Turtle Island, is the go-to island for scuba diving and snorkeling, accessible from the north of Koh Samui. The beaches are stunningly white, and the island is dotted with attractive hills, creating a must-visit experience.
The marine life is incredibly diverse in the waters around Koh Tao and you can spot black-tip reef sharks if you snorkel in the aptly named Shark Bay. While turtles are in decline, conservation efforts are underway, and to really appreciate the island in all its glory you can hike up to John-Suwan Viewpoint to get a bird’s eye view of an island stunner and divers’ paradise.
Related article: The Best And Most Scenic Viewpoints in Koh Samui
4. Koh Nang Yuan
Before reaching Koh Tao, a short distance north lies Koh Nang Yuan which attracts snorkelers and island-hoppers. The trio of isles are picture-perfect, with striking sand bars that link the islets. You can even walk up to a great viewpoint for Instagram-worthy shots.
Just offshore on the east side is the well-known dive and snorkel hotspot, Japanese Garden. The dive spot is shallow enough for snorkeling and reaches a depth of 15 meters. There is a dive shop on the island, so get ready to explore the coral and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, including eagle rays if you are lucky enough to spy them in the clear waters.
5. Koh Madsum and Koh Taen
Picture: Pelago
A short boat ride off Koh Samui’s southern coast can lead you to the small isle of Koh Madsum and the slightly larger island of Koh Taen. Both are perfect little island-hopping jaunts that take you to snorkeling adventures where you can relax and enjoy a picnic on the beach.
Koh Madsum is known as Pig Island, and it is home to adorable native pigs that swim in the clear waters and frolic in the lovely white-sand beaches. On the other hand, the quieter Koh Taen is home to a tiny village with beautiful natural surroundings. Both islands are home to colorful marine life and chill-out spots where you can meet locals.
Related reading: Top Activities for Teens in Koh Samui
Don’t Miss An Unforgettable Island-Hopping Trip Around Koh Samui
The best way to explore the islands around Koh Samui is with an exclusively chartered yacht or speedboat that can take you around the islands in no time. Without the hassle of sharing a group tour or ferry, you can explore as many of the islands of Koh Samui at your leisure, with luxurious amenities and impeccable service throughout your trip.
If you want to include island hopping to your Koh Samui trip, it is recommended that you make arrangements with the Guest Experience Services staff before arriving on Koh Samui. Advanced arrangements ensure that you will get exactly what you need for an unforgettable island-hopping day trip around the Samui archipelago.
Explore more of Thailand’s ultimate island paradise with our Koh Samui Travel Guide.
