Things to do in Taling Ngam

Enjoy the beauty of Koh Samui’s coastline as you relax on Lamai Beach, discover the Buddhist culture at temples and wander market stalls to taste the local coconut sweet called galamae.

Wander lanes filled with wooden Chinese shop-houses from the 19th century, enjoy night markets and dine around the world in restaurants serving up Italian, French, Thai, Japanese, Euro-fusion and freshly caught seafood in Bo Phut’s Fisherman’s Village.

With Bang Rak to the east and Maenam Beach to the west, Bo Phut is the longest beach on Koh Samui. Bo Phut village, lying somewhere around the centre, has come to be known as Fisherman's Village. As the oldest village on the island, Fisherman's Village has seen the comings and goings of many different cultures, and has retained a certain flavour of each. Combining a subtle blend of Thai, Chinese and French colonial influences, not to mention the considerable effect of the recent tourist wave, this charming village has something for every taste.

Thong Krut Beach is one of the main destinations for visitors to Koh Samui's south coast. And, once you get here, it's not hard to see why – the traditional, multicoloured Kolae boats make for a wonderful contrast against the expanse of sea and sky, and you can catch and eat some of the finest seafood in Koh Samui. What's more, the picturesque islands of Koh Mudsum and Koh Tan are just a short boat ride away.

Possibly the most chilled out, secluded part of the island, Pangka is the place to go on Samui for those in search of a romantic island getaway. Tucked away in the south-west of the island, it's as far as possible from the buzzing nightlife of the north and east coasts. As a result, there's really not much on offer here in terms of entertainment, with the village catering primarily to the locals. But, if your plan for Samui is to laze in the sun and maybe take the odd dip or two, you've definitely come to the right place.

Collect your thoughts while appreciating the serenity that envelops the Laem Sor Chedi (Laem Sor Pagoda). Admire the pagoda’s magnificent architecture and enjoy the spectacular coastal views. Laem Sor Chedi forms part of Wat Laem Sor, a complex of temples, pagodas and shrines tucked away in a quiet part of Koh Samui. While here, spot an antique boat and sit among pilgrims at a peaceful lake.