Koh Samui is full of breathtaking beaches, colorful temples, dramatic viewpoints, and trendy cafés. Whether you’re a casual phone photographer or a full-time content creator, Samui offers endless photogenic locations. This guide highlights the top Instagram-worthy spots that guarantee stunning shots, plus tips on the best time to take them.

Crystal Bay (Silver Beach)

One of Samui’s most beautiful beaches  bright turquoise water, smooth granite rocks, and soft white sand. Every angle here is a postcard.
Why it’s Instagrammable:
✔ clear, bright water
✔ photogenic rocks
✔ soft tropical light
Best time:
Morning (7:00–10:00 AM)

The Jungle Club Viewpoint

Perhaps the most iconic view in Samui  overlooking the entire Chaweng Bay with a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Photo ideas:

• sitting on the orange cushions
• holding a drink with the bay behind
• drone shot of the terrace

Best time:
Late afternoon → sunset

Wat Plai Laem (The Lake Temple)

A colorful, vibrant temple surrounded by water. The statues and reflections make it perfect for creative shots.
Why it’s a must:
✔ colorful art
✔ peaceful lake reflections
✔ unique angles
Best time:
Morning (soft light)

The Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)

A signature Samui landmark. The golden statue shines beautifully under the sun and during sunset.
Photo ideas:

• from below the stairs
• wide angle showing the full statue
• sunset behind the Buddha

Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks (Lamai)

These natural rock formations are famous  fun, quirky, and beautiful with the ocean behind.
Best angles:

• rocks with waves crashing
• playful compositions

Best visited in the morning to avoid crowds.

Overlap Stone (Lamai View)

A huge boulder perched above a jungle viewpoint  perfect for dramatic photos.
Why it’s trending:
✔ unique rock shape
✔ panoramic sea views
✔ quiet & natural
Tip: Bring water, the slope is steep.

Fisherman’s Village Old Street

A charming street full of colorful shops, lanterns, murals, and vintage wooden houses.
Photo ideas:

• pastel shopfronts
• lanterns during sunset
• street photograph

Coco Tam’s Swing (Bophut Beach)

A famous beachfront swing perfect for sunset shots.
Why it goes viral:
✔ the iconic swing
✔ fire show at night
✔ sunset glow
Best time: 5:30–6:30 PM.

Tan Rua Waterfall Rope Bridge

Hidden within the jungle, the bamboo bridges here make stunning nature photos.
Photo ideas:

• standing in the middle of the bridge
• rainforest background

Why it’s Instagrammable:
✔ tropical jungle aesthetic
✔ no crowds

Sunset at Taling Ngam (West Coast)

One of Samui’s most underrated sunset spots  wide beaches, calm water, and golden skies.
Perfect for:
✔ silhouette shots
✔ romantic photos
✔ landscape photography

Bamboo & Boozy Café Spots (Treehouse / Summer by Coco Tam’s)

Samui cafés are incredibly photogenic with bamboo furniture, pastel drinks, flowers, and ocean views.
Best props:

• colorful smoothies
• coconuts
• sun hats / sarongs