Day 1 — Arrival & Chaweng Beach
Arrive at Samui Airport. Check in, settle.
Afternoon: Chaweng Beach — Thailand’s most famous resort beach. Swim, explore the beach strip.
Evening: Chaweng Walking Street for dinner and people-watching.
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Day 2 — Ang Thong Marine Park (Full Day)
The highlight of any Koh Samui trip. Book a day tour (฿1,500–2,000) that includes:
- Boat trip through the 42-island national park archipelago
- Kayaking through sea caves and lagoons
- Snorkeling
- Climb to the emerald lake viewpoint (Mae Koh island)
- Lunch on the boat
Return by 5pm. Tired, happy.
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Day 3 — Big Buddha, Fisherman’s Village & North Coast
Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai): Golden 12-meter Buddha on a small island causeway. Free. Best at sunrise.
Bophut Fisherman’s Village: Traditional wooden houses converted into boutique hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Friday night market (if timing aligns) is excellent.
North Coast beaches (Bang Rak, Bophut): Quieter than Chaweng, family-friendly, clear water.
Evening: Dinner at one of the Fisherman’s Village restaurants overlooking the water.
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Day 4 — Na Muang Waterfalls & Interior
Na Muang 1: 30-minute walk from road. Swimming hole at the base. Beautiful setting.
Na Muang 2: 45-minute hike or short ATV ride. More dramatic than Na Muang 1.
Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim): Quirky collection of Buddhist and Hindu statues in a jungle garden. 30-minute drive into the interior. Worth the detour.
Afternoon: Spa or beach time at Lamai Beach (less crowded than Chaweng).
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Day 5 — Koh Phangan Day Trip or Departure
Koh Phangan day trip: 30-minute ferry. Visit Bottle Beach (haad khuat) — one of Thailand’s best quiet beaches, accessible by longtail boat. Return evening ferry.
OR: Final beach day, spa morning, departure.
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Ang Thong Marine Park day tours are Koh Samui’s best experience — book in advance to guarantee availability during peak season.