The 7 Best Waterfalls In Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island. It has magnificent scenery, lush forests, and amazing beaches. It received around 2.7 million tourists every year. The island is a dream destination for the daring and is on many people’s bucket lists. While there are many waterfalls on the island, we have compiled a list of the best waterfalls in Koh Samui that you just should not miss.
Khao Yai Waterfall
Begin your Koh Samui waterfall tour with the Khao Yai waterfall. It is not just one beautiful waterfall but is made of many waterfalls in the Khao Yai national park. The best time to visit is during the rainy season when all 44 waterfalls cascade freely. Water cascades down hundreds of feet, creating a stunning spectacle.
The Khao Yai’s waterfall Haew Narok is one of the gentler waterfalls on Koh Samui, surrounded by lush forest and adorned with statutes. The waterfall is also the most accessible. Although it is a little off the main road, there are signs leading to the waterfall. The road leading to the parking lot is winding and steep but not difficult to navigate.
The only way to visit the waterfalls if you’re not renting a car is on an organized tour (like this one) that has 1.5 and 4-hour options.
⛵ BEST KOH SAMUI TOURS
If you’re coming by car, you can hike your way to the waterfall from the parking lot. The path to the waterfall is quite rocky and slippery. Your journey will take you through the forest, and you will encounter several boulders and steps.
Alternatively, you can drive all the way to the waterfall. Taking the steps to the top is a must as it offers breathtaking views of Koh Samui. On your way to the waterfall, enjoy the beautiful stone structures, and stop at the Secret Buddha Garden to appreciate the architecture and offer prayers.
At the foot of the waterfalls are small pools where you can enjoy a swim. Here you can dive into the cool water, dip your legs and relax, or enjoy a picnic with your family. The waterfall is a nature lover’s paradise with its lush trees and exotic flora.
Hin Lad Waterfalls
The Hin Lad Waterfalls are yet another famous waterfall in Koh Samui. The beautiful waterfall is located between two beaches and surrounded by a dense jungle. It is in the midst of mountains and streams and is close to an elephant reserve.
The waterfall, also known as the Na Muang Waterfall, is best viewed during and after the rainy season, when it is in full swing and the surrounding area is filled with colorful flowers.
With breathtaking views, the waterfall is the epitome of beauty. Not many tourists are aware of the place, and most visitors are locals. Also, the journey to the waterfall is quite demanding, but that also means that there are fewer tourists.
To reach the waterfall, you need to undertake a 30-minute-long trek. The trek is not easy, so wear your trekking shoes and carry plenty of water. The trek path is well-marked, and numerous shops and eateries are along the way. You can also visit the Namtok Hin Lad Temple and a natural pool at the start of the trail. The temple boasts impressive architecture and a Buddha statue that you can admire.
The waterfall is hardly ever crowded, except on weekends. You can even carry a picnic and enjoy a romantic date here. Complete your date with a rewarding dip in the pool.
Apart from visiting the temple and swimming in the pool, you can also enjoy elephant rides and nature hiking through the gorgeous jungle.
Khun Si Waterfall
Khun Si waterfall is not frequently visited because it is difficult to reach. But once you reach the waterfall, you will realize that the struggle was worth it. The waterfall is located in Bhopat and is a short distance from Khun Si View Point. The waterfall offers a fantastic view of the northern coast as well as the town of Maenam.
You will need to take a shortcut road through the mountains to reach the waterfall. Once you reach the Khun Si View Point, you can follow a dirt road and trek your way to the waterfall. A small wooden sign will notify you that you have arrived at your destination.
Surrounded by mountains, tiered rocks, boulders, and a lush jungle, the waterfall ends in pools of water where you can take a dip. The surrounding area is filled with durian plantations; however, do not pluck any as the place is private land.
The waterfall is an amazing location for a family picnic as well as an adventurous yet romantic date. And while you can have the place all to yourself, the trek is not for the faint-hearted. Pack a picnic or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the small cafés, which are a must-see.
Enjoy your alone time with a plunge in the water or simply relax and appreciate the exquisite beauty around you. Through arduous trekking, you may even be able to uncover a hidden cave behind the waterfall.
Pack your swimsuit, trekking shoes, sunblock, and a camera for a great day out and Instagram-worthy pictures without a crowd in the background.
Na Muang 2 Waterfall
The name Na Muang translates to “Purple Waterfall,” and the numerical figure indicates that there is more than one. Two, to be precise. The falls are adjacent to one another.
The Na Muang 1 waterfall is the highest among all the waterfalls in Khao Yai. Na Muang 2 is higher up, more touristy, has fewer crowds, and offers amazing views. Also, unlike Na Muang 1, the best parts of Na Muang 2 require a little more effort, and you need to hike a bit.
To reach the waterfall, you must travel to the southern part of Koh Samui’s ring road. Once you have reached the parking, you can either decide to walk or take a 4×4 ride. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go on an elephant ride.
The road is a bit steep but completely accessible. It will take you to the foot of the waterfall, which is spectacular; however, if you are looking for a more remarkable experience, you need to climb to the top of the waterfall.
There is a small shop at the base of the waterfall. You can spend some time here or take the steps close by to get to the top. The trek is not easy but very rewarding. There are two pools where you can cool off while taking in the breathtaking views of the island. You can even sunbathe while admiring the awe-inspiring scenery straight out of a movie.
Pro-tip: Do not forget to bring your camera.
The waterfall gets its name from the purple tint that the water takes on from the purple rocks when the sun shines. The waterfall is hardly crowded, and the upper pools are much less so. You can have the pools all to yourself if you visit early in the morning, around 8. This is the perfect time because the temperature is slightly lower, making the 30-minute hike more tolerable.
Despite being one of the most famous waterfalls on the island, it is not overly crowded due to the difficult trek. So, whether you decide to enjoy a picnic at the waterfall or prefer relaxing at the tranquil and captivating pools with breathtaking mountain views, your visit to the waterfall will be an unforgettable one.
Wang Sao Thong Waterfall
The Wang Sao Thong Waterfall is close to the Na Muang Waterfalls. Although it is not as big as most waterfalls on the island, it offers serenity and solitude, making it unique and a must on your itinerary.
Reaching the waterfall is quite easy, and you can take your vehicle to the destination. Alternatively, you can enjoy a short jungle trek, which will take you through a vibrant jungle filled with Thailand’s exquisite flora and fauna.
The waterfall is surrounded by mountains and jungles and flows into a natural pool. It is ideal for a leisurely afternoon with family or friends. You can bask in the beauty of the place while relaxing in the cool waters.
The waterfall has two levels, both of which have signage and are easily accessible. The small pool at the base of the waterfall is great for swimming. You can also unwind in the pool and absorb the tranquility the place offers.
The waterfall is incredibly tranquil, with only the rustling of the water and the songs of the birds to be heard. Bring a picnic and enjoy it on the makeshift tables and chairs set up around the waterfall. Relax on the large stones or enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters. The place will wash away all your worries and leave you feeling calm and rested.
Tip: As the waterfall is relatively small, it is better to visit it during or after monsoon. Also, there are no shops or restaurants in the area, so carry your own food, beverages, and other essentials.
Tan Rua Waterfall (Secret Falls)
Tan Rua is Koh Samui’s third-largest waterfall. However, because it is tucked away in the bush, it is rarely crowded. Because the waterfall is hidden in the woods, it is often known as Secret Falls.
However, the waterfall is no longer as hidden, and you may approach it with minimal effort. You can drive up to the concrete road in your vehicle. Then traverse the dirt route to the falls, either by scooter or foot. You will find small wooden steps that lead to Mae Nam View Point. You can hike your way to the waterfall from there.
True to its name, the waterfall is nestled between cliffs, trees, and vines, which makes it difficult to locate. However, once you sight the waterfall, you will realize the hunt was worth it.
The charming waterfall is deep, breathtaking, and unlike any other. There is a pool at the bottom, which is full during the rainy season and for a few months afterward. However, swimming in the water is not recommended due to the presence of rocks and vines.
The waterfall offers amazing vistas and is a must-visit for adventurous and nature-loving people. The place is lush, and you can enjoy the calm breeze while relaxing near the waterfall.
There is a café about 250 meters away from the waterfall that offers excellent food and stunning views.
Zong Raue Waterfall
The waterfall is not so famous and isn’t marked on most maps. It is a small waterfall, but it offers plenty of privacy. The waterfall is located in the middle of a fruit plantation, which makes up for its small size.
Visiting this waterfall is a great option if you want to zipline through the forest. There are numerous signs directing visitors to the waterfall and the zipline. The street across the pier has lots of shops. Trailing the shops and following the signs will help you easily find the waterfall. You can also park your car at any empty or abandoned house.
Your short trail will lead to the waterfall, but continue hiking the steep trail for a more satisfying experience. The water levels are low even after you reach the second level. However, the water is cool, and the surroundings are lovely.
The best time to visit the waterfall is during the rainy season, as the water levels are otherwise low, and the ponds dry up quickly.
The waterfall is for adventurous people who love privacy. The small pools are also ideal if you have small kids tagging along.
Getting to Koh Samui
If you’re planning to visit one of these majestic waterfalls, check out our transportation guides:
- Bangkok to Koh Samui
- Chumphon to Koh Samui
- Donsak to Koh Samui
- Khao Lak to Koh Samui
- Koh Phangan to Koh Samui
- Koh Tao to Koh Samui
- Phuket to Koh Samui
- Surat Thani to Koh Samui
Conclusion
When visiting Koh Samui, don’t forget to have a dip in the cool pools offered by the waterfalls. We hope you check out these 7 best waterfalls in Koh Samui that will satisfy your adventurous side and give you memories to cherish.
