Koh Samui isn’t just known for its stunning beaches and luxury resorts—it’s also a photographer’s paradise filled with incredible wildlife and unique locations. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a pro with a DSLR, this island offers the perfect backdrop for capturing nature, wildlife, and cultural beauty.
From lush jungles and hidden waterfalls to vibrant markets and serene beaches, Koh Samui’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for incredible shots. Let’s dive into the 15 best wildlife and photography spots you’ll want to add to your list!
Lamai Viewpoint: A Scenic Lookout
Address: 127, 199, Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand
| Type | Wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
Lamai Viewpoint offers sweeping panoramic views of Koh Samui’s coastline, perfect for capturing stunning shots of the island’s natural beauty. Besides photographing the views, you might catch glimpses of tropical birds soaring overhead.
The area’s lush environment and the cool breeze make it an ideal spot for both landscape and wildlife photography. It’s also a great place for a quick stop to take in the scenery, making it an excellent location for both amateurs and professionals.
Silver Beach: Tranquil Paradise
Address: Koh Samui, Thailand
| Type | Beach, marine life, Photography |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
Silver Beach is a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear water and soft white sand. It’s not only perfect for capturing serene beach photos but also offers opportunities to photograph marine life. The calm waters make it a great spot for underwater photography.
You can also capture local fishermen and the natural coastal environment. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for tropical fish as you snorkel or for exotic birds perched on the trees surrounding the area.
Namuang Waterfalls: Nature’s Power
Address: Koh Samui, Thailand
| Type | Waterfall, jungle wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
Namuang Waterfalls are one of the most stunning natural attractions in Koh Samui. Surrounded by lush jungle, the waterfall offers beautiful opportunities for capturing both the cascading water and the vibrant tropical flora.
You can photograph monkeys and other wildlife that roam the area, adding dynamic life to your images. The falls themselves create an incredible backdrop, making it an ideal location for nature photography. If you’re up for a hike, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views and fresh air.
Angthong National Marine Park: Underwater Wonderland
Address: Koh Samui, Thailand
| Type | Marine life, national park |
| Time to Spend | Half day (4-5 hours) |
Angthong National Marine Park is a must-see for wildlife and marine photography. The park is a stunning cluster of islands with clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and underwater photography. You can capture vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even sea turtles.
On land, the park’s rocky cliffs and jungle-covered islands offer great vantage points to shoot breathtaking landscapes and dramatic coastlines. It’s a place where you’ll want to spend several hours exploring both above and below the water.
Fisherman’s Village: Culture and Local Life
Address: Thanon Laan Thong Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
| Type | Cultural, street life, photography |
| Time to Spend | 1-2 hours |
Fisherman’s Village is a charming spot that combines local culture with stunning seaside views. The colorful buildings, traditional wooden boats, and bustling markets provide endless opportunities for street photography.
It’s also a great place to capture wildlife such as local birds and the fishing boats in action. Early morning or sunset are the best times to visit, as the lighting adds warmth and character to your photos. It’s an excellent location to capture the essence of local life on Koh Samui.
Koh Tan Island: Snorkeler’s Dream
Address: 104/56 Moo. 3, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
| Type | Snorkeling, marine life |
| Time to Spend | 3-4 hours |
Koh Tan Island is a perfect destination for those passionate about underwater photography. The island is home to colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles. If you’re into snorkeling or diving, this is a great place to capture unique underwater shots.
Above the water, you can also photograph the serene beaches and vibrant local culture. A half-day trip is ideal to enjoy both the underwater and above-water landscapes, and you’ll have ample time to explore.
Grandpa and Grandma Rocks: Iconic Formations
Address: 92 84310 126/92 Moo 3 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand
| Type | Coastal, nature photography |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hour |
Grandpa and Grandma Rocks are a quirky and iconic landmark on Koh Samui, perfect for capturing unique coastal shots. These natural rock formations have a distinct shape, which provides an interesting subject for landscape photography.
While you’re photographing the rocks, keep an eye on the surrounding area for seabirds and other coastal wildlife. The blue waters and clear skies make it an excellent place for wide-angle shots of the coastline. It’s a quick stop but offers a memorable photography experience.
Samui Big Buddha: Iconic Landmark
Address: Koh Samui, Thailand
| Type | Cultural, spiritual, wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
The Big Buddha statue, one of Koh Samui’s most famous landmarks, offers incredible photo opportunities both of the statue itself and the surrounding area. The statue is situated on a hill, providing a spectacular view of the island’s landscape.
The nearby gardens and ponds are also home to koi fish and local wildlife, adding a unique touch to your photos. Capture the serenity of the place, especially during early mornings when the sunlight creates a golden glow around the statue.
Lipa Noi Beach: Peaceful Escape
Address: Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
| Type | Beach, wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
Lipa Noi Beach is one of the quieter beaches on the island, offering peaceful surroundings ideal for landscape photography. The beach provides stunning views of the surrounding islands, making it a perfect spot for sunset shots.
You can capture wildlife such as crabs, small fish, and birds, adding to the charm of your beach photos. This spot is perfect for those who want to photograph a less crowded, more tranquil side of Koh Samui. Take your time here to fully appreciate its natural beauty.
Secret Buddha Garden: Hidden Wonders
Address: FXMV+5Q9, Tambon Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand
| Type | Cultural, nature photography |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
The Secret Buddha Garden is tucked away in the hills and is one of Koh Samui’s best-kept secrets. This tranquil location is filled with Buddhist statues and lush jungle surroundings.
The garden is an excellent place to capture the spiritual essence of the island, with shots of statues set against the natural beauty of the jungle. You may also spot some local wildlife such as birds and insects. It’s a peaceful place that offers a blend of nature and culture, making it perfect for both photography and relaxation.
Overlap Stone: For Adventurers
Address: 438/35 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand
| Type | Scenic viewpoint, wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
Overlap Stone is a must-visit for those seeking adventure. Located at a higher altitude, this spot offers breathtaking views of Koh Samui’s rugged landscape. You can capture the vastness of the island, with its lush jungle and coastline spread out below.
Along the way, look out for wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and insects that live in the area. The hike to Overlap Stone can be challenging, but the rewards in terms of both the experience and the photographic opportunities are well worth it.
Taling Ngam Beach: Quiet Beauty
Address: Koh Samui, Thailand
| Type | Beach, nature photography |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
Taling Ngam Beach is a peaceful location perfect for those who want to capture the untouched beauty of Koh Samui. The beach is less crowded, making it an ideal spot for serene landscape shots.
The surrounding environment is rich in nature, and you can photograph a variety of birds and marine life. It’s a great place to sit back, relax, and wait for the perfect moment to capture the beauty of the island’s coastline. Sunset here offers some of the best natural light for photography.
Chaweng Beach: Bustling and Full of Life
Address: Koh Samui, Thailand
| Type | Beach, street life photography |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
Chaweng Beach is the busiest and most vibrant part of Koh Samui, offering a contrast to the island’s peaceful spots. Capture the lively atmosphere of beach activities, local vendors, and tourists.
You can also photograph the lively ocean with people enjoying water sports or the beach at sunset, with the waves reflecting the vibrant colors. The area is filled with life, so it’s ideal for street photography as well. It’s a dynamic location for those looking to capture Koh Samui’s energy and vibe.
Wat Plai Laem: Cultural and Colorful
Address: Wat Plai Laem, Road 4171, Thailand, Thailand
| Type | Cultural, wildlife |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
Wat Plai Laem is a colorful Buddhist temple located near the northeast coast of Koh Samui. The vibrant statues, particularly the large Kuan Yin statue, provide fantastic cultural photo opportunities. You can also capture the surrounding ponds, which are full of koi fish.
The area is peaceful, and you may spot local wildlife like birds and butterflies. This location offers a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty, with plenty of photo opportunities both inside and outside the temple complex.
Koh Samui Jungle Safari: Into the Wild
Address: Ko Samui, Ko Samui District, Thailand
| Type | Safari, wildlife photography |
| Time to Spend | Half day (4-5 hours) |
The Koh Samui Jungle Safari is a guided tour into the island’s interior, offering a chance to photograph some of the local wildlife in their natural habitat. You can spot elephants, monkeys, and various birds as you explore the jungle.
The safari also gives you a chance to capture the island’s lush greenery and rugged terrain. It’s an adventurous and exciting experience for wildlife photographers, allowing you to capture animals in their natural surroundings, with plenty of opportunities for action shots.