Natural Attractions of Samui


Samui is a naturally beautiful and green Tropical Island with soft beaches, palm trees and warm blue waters, but to leave without visiting the interior is really missing out big time. There are a number of excellent places to see and a great choice of tours.

Waterfalls


Na Muang One & Two

Found 10 kilometers South of Nathon on the ring road to Hua Thanon, before you reach Ban Thurian, climbing a natural staircase formed of tree roots brings you to a pool at the base of the Na Muang 1 falls, which are 18 meters high.

Further south on the ring road, still before Ban Thurian, via a concrete road to the left that turns into a track, the 80 meter high falls of Na Muang Two can be reached by a worthwhile rocky path walk, at the end of which you will find one of the most enjoyable scenic experiences on Samui, and certainly the best waterfall.



Hin Lat Falls

These falls are a little more arduous to reach. Located 2 kilometers South of Nathon on the East Coast road, it takes an approximate 3 kilometer walk through jungle paths before you emerge to see multiple cascades of water falling into a very cold and refreshing pool. After your treck you may well fancy a dip so have your swim gear at the ready. Sturdy shoes and jeans are recommended for the walk.



Wang Saotong Falls

From Nathon on the ring road to Hua Thanon, turn left near Ban Tha Po and drive around 2 k's past the Elephant Trecking of Baan Chang. Walk for a similar distance and you will be rewarded by a beautiful waterfall, only recently accessible to the public.



Other Natural Wonders

Hin-Ta & Hin-Yai Stones (Grandmother & Grandfather)

Two unusual rock formations, naturally formed by the elements to resemble male and female genitalia, are a popular spot with both tourists and local Thai's. Reached by taking the ring road from Hua Thanon to Lamai, look for the signs south of Ban Tung. Local legend tells of an older couple who's ship was wrecked and the unusual rocks were formed when their bodies were washed ashore.

There are some rather interesting gift shops along the road leading to the natural wonder, where you can buy bowls and other items made from coconut palm wood, plus this is one of the few places to get Samui coconut candy.



Overlap Stone

Balanced precariously above Lamai, accessed by a dirt road opposite Wat Sia Ngu, off the ring road between Hua Thanon and Lamai, is the rock formation known as the overlap stone. The top makes an excellent viewpoint but the going is rather challenging, most of the way being possible by dirt bike, but you should walk the last part as it becomes very steep.



Mountain Viewpoints

There is a track leading from Lamai that goes right across the island to the northern and north west coastal towns. Best reached by experienced Jungle Tour operators with good four wheel drive vehicles, there are several viewpoints:- Yaod Khao - at 630 metres, the highest point of Samui- weather permitting the view is simply amazing!; Best Mountain Viewpoint- probably the other best known location; Woodland Park View; View Top ; Samui Gallery Hill.

If you attempt this trip on your own the chances are that you are going to get lost - so take the tour, at least for the first visit!

Best Mountain View Point can also be reached from a point just south of Nathon on the main ring road. The entrance road is on the left, just past Wat Chaeng temple. Look out for the sign "Tazan View" for the 5 or 6 kilometer drive, most of which is paved, but the last part is a steep and dusty track. Dusty that is, unless it has been raining, in which case we suggest booking a tour from Nathon! On a clear day you can see Phangan Island and there is (at the time of writing) a simple eatery where you are able to sit on the terrace eating your lunch whilst overlooking Bohput Bay and Maenem.