Koh Samui is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and popular attractions but beyond the busy spots lies a quieter, more authentic side of the island. These are the hidden gems that locals love: peaceful viewpoints, secret cafés, untouched nature trails, and cultural corners that most tourists never find. This guide shows you the real Samui, perfect for travelers who want atmosphere, authenticity, and unforgettable memories.
Coral Cove Beach A Secluded Bay With Turquoise Water
Located between Chaweng and Lamai, Coral Cove is a small, intimate beach known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful rocky formations.
Why locals love it:
✔ Quiet even in high season
✔ Perfect for snorkeling
✔ Great sunrise light
Overlap Stone A Stunning Viewpoint Above the Jungle
A massive stone perched high above Lamai with one of the best overlooks on the island. Many visitors miss this place because the road is narrow, but the view is breathtaking.
Why it’s special:
✔ Panoramic jungle-to-sea view
✔ Small café with swings and wooden decor
✔ Great for photography
Wat Sila Ngu The Red Temple by the Sea
Translated as “The Snake Temple,” Wat Sila Ngu is a deep-red monastery located beside a cliff overlooking the ocean. It’s atmospheric, spiritual, and rarely crowded.
Highlights:
✔ Unique red architecture
✔ Peaceful seaside location
✔ Great cultural photo spot
The Secret Café: Lamai Viewpoint Café (Hidden Above the Cliffs)
A quiet café with enormous trees, ocean views, and rustic wooden seating. It feels like a treehouse overlooking the sea.
Why locals come here:
✔ Calm atmosphere
✔ Breeze all day
✔ Beautiful coconut farms nearby
Samui Panorama Viewpoint (Not the Tourist One!)
There are many viewpoints in Samui, but the lesser-known one near Hua Thanon offers a wide, peaceful landscape of mountains, coconut farms, and the ocean.
Best time to visit: early morning or near sunset.
The Fishermen’s Jetty in Hua Thanon
This charming wooden pier is a favorite among locals and photographers but rarely appears in travel guides.
Why it’s a hidden gem:
✔ Authentic fishing village atmosphere
✔ Boats, nets, and colorful wooden houses
✔ Excellent for sunrise photography
Laem Sor Pagoda The Golden Temple by the Sea
Far in the south of the island, Laem Sor Pagoda is a peaceful golden pagoda built right beside the waves.
Why you should visit:
✔ Quiet and spiritual
✔ Beautiful gold reflections at sunset
✔ Perfect for drone photography
Tarnim Magic Garden A Hidden Sculpture Garden in the Mountains
Deep inside the mountains of Samui lies a mysterious sculpture garden built by an old fruit farmer. It’s cool, shady, and filled with statues, waterfalls, and moss-covered stones.
✔ Feels like stepping into a storybook
✔ Forest stream atmosphere
✔ Cooler climate at higher elevation
Wang Sao Thong Waterfall (The Hidden Waterfall)
Unlike the famous Na Muang waterfall, this one remains quiet and peaceful. The walk is short, and the surroundings are natural.
Why it’s special:
✔ No crowds
✔ Natural pools on rainy months
✔ Good spot for relaxation
A Secret Beach: Thong Krut’s Quiet Corners
Thong Krut village is known for boat trips, but hidden along its coast are small beaches that barely anyone visits. These beaches have soft sand, gentle waves, and zero noise.
Perfect for:
✔ couples
✔ reading under palm trees
✔ escaping the crowds
