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What to do off the beach in Koh Samui, Thailand
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Big Buddha - Barbra Stuter
One of the great things about Koh Samui, is that when you get tired of lounging under your umbrella on one of her beautiful beaches, there are plenty of cultural and natural attractions to see off beach as well. With temples, scenic waterfalls and “interesting” rock formations, you are sure to find something that will tickle your fancy.
The last time I was in Koh Samui, I decided to see a bit of the island by renting a vehicle and touring about. I splurged and got the Jeep instead of the scooter for around 800 Baht per day (about $25). I thought it would be a little safer than a scooter, and it also turned out to be a nice workout (no power steering). Get a real map when you pick up your transportation - the stylized maps of Koh Samui that are everywhere are just that, and not very helpful when it comes to navigation.
I know it sounds strange, but I both love and hate big tourist-attractions. I find the best strategy is to seek out and enjoy the cheesy spectacle that surrounds most big tourist attractions, and keep my eyes open for more native pursuits along the way. That being said, my first stop was the Big Buddha.
It must be pointing to the waterfall, right?
At about 40’ high, you will be able to spot this giant golden statue as you land on the island. The Big Buddha sits in the middle of the Phra Yai Temple complex on the very north east corner of the island on a high wooden platform. The steps are steep, but worth it as the views from up top are spectacular. Food courts and souvenir stands surround the Buddha on the temple grounds, where you can get anything from a Singha beer to Buddhist amulets. All overpriced of course. Regardless of how kitschy you think the site is, show some respect when visiting the Big Buddha or any other Buddhist sites while in Thailand or anywhere else. A good rule of thumb is to make sure your knees and shoulders are covered, and to remove your shoes when entering temples.
My next stop was to see one of the natural wonders I had been hearing so much about; the Na Muang Waterfalls. By looking at my stylized map and following sketchy road signs, I arrived at what appeared to be the Na Muang trailhead. My only clue was the lady behind a makeshift bamboo counter selling water, beer and insect repellant. Since I didn’t purchase any insect repellant, I got a vague wave in the direction of the jungle when I asked for directions to the waterfall. No problem, I saw what looked like a path and struck off into the jungle. After enough time passed that I was SURE I was lost, I saw this spectacular red arrow (see photo). Shortly after I followed the arrow, I met a small brown man in a sarong who told me through sign language that he could take me to the top of the falls, where I could swim in a pool at the top (you cannot make this stuff up).
Waterfall and Barbra - Devon N.
We hike, we climb up over rocks and I think about headhunters, deliverance and cannibals as we continue to hike. I get “it’s just a little bit further” in sign language, and I look at my cell phone to see if I have coverage. I don’t, but who would I have called anyway!? Of course, we ended up at the top of the falls in this beautiful hidden pool, where I was able to swim and climb up into a cave behind these little falls. It was an absolutely magical experience. After cooling down and drying off, I headed for Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks.
Grandfather and Grandmother rocks are natural rock formations that are on the coast south of Lamai beach. Legend has it that rocks appeared after two lovers drowned themselves in the sea to escape the disapproval of their families. Romeo and Juliet, Thailand style. A very touristy spot, you will find concession stands, street performers and depictions of these (ahem) unique geological anomalies on postcards, statues and key chains. I’ll let you be the judge on what makes Hin Ta, Ta, and Hin Yai, Yai, but the whole spectacle is not to be missed.
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