Koh Samui is a great place for a family vacation. It goes without saying that the beaches are stunning and perfect for kids of all ages to enjoy the ocean and the sand. Plus, a range of hotels and resorts from luxury to budget provide excellent accommodation for families. And Koh Samui offers a whole host of family activities so you can kick back and have fun. Here are a few suggestions:
1) Swim and Snorkel in the Ocean
Koh Samui is ideal for introducing the kids to the water, or helping older children learn to snorkel. Families also take part in diving sessions, and you can always swim when it is safe to do so. Rent a kayak if you prefer to be on top of the water. The ocean is always attractive to children and on Koh Samui you have plenty of choice in terms of beaches, whether you are looking for something busy or quiet.
Image via Jude Freeman/ Flickr
2) Go on a Koh Samui Road Trip
The island may not be very big, but there are plenty of places you can drive to that are beautiful and a little off-the-beaten-track. Hiring a four-wheel-drive is a fun way to take the whole family to the best spots on the island, with little hassle. Make sure you have plenty of snacks and water, plan your route with the help of some current maps, and set off. You’ll have a fantastic time.
3) Pay Attention to the Wildlife
You don’t have to go far, or do anything particularly special, to entertain the kids by investigating the local wildlife. Just go for a walk around the resort spotting the little geckos, and watch butterflies in the trees. Find all the interesting trees with strange fruits, and go wading in the shallows to see the fish. Don’t forget to coat everyone in insect repellent, and don’t go touching any of the wildlife.
4) Visit Temples
Children will love seeing the sparkling, shining sculptures and looking at the intricate decorations in Thai Buddhist temples on Koh Samui. Make sure your family is all dressed appropriately and you can also teach older kids a little about the Buddhist religion.
5) Get in the Pool
Nothing beats a day at the pool and on Koh Samui vacations you’ll be spoilt when you stay at a resort – a great pool, plenty of sunshine, and maybe even some water toys, fountains, and floats. You may have plenty planned in terms of activities but often the best-loved moments will come from simply hanging out at the pool.
6) Go to Angthong Marine Park
This is a great trip for older children, although young kids may find it a bit tiring and you’ll be exposed to a lot of strong sun.
7) Enjoy the Beach Sports
There’s nothing so fun – or so simple to arrange – as a few games of tennis, soccer or volleyball on the beach. Make sure you pack some beach games in your bag when you hit the sand and you can entertain the kids with your competitive tournaments. Keep the sunscreen handy and avoid the sun during the hottest time of the day – morning and evening beach sport sessions are the safest and most fun.
Image via Rob Briscoe/ Flickr
8) Spend All Day on the Beach
So long as you are stocked up with water, toys, snacks and sunscreen then you can happily spend all day on the beach. Look for beach creatures along the shore, build sandcastles, lounge under the umbrellas and go swimming. Take a sun-proof tent for babies or toddlers to shelter under when the sun is strong.
9) Don’t Worry About the Rain
If you happen to have a rainy day on Koh Samui, don’t worry – kids will love the different weather and the way the rain pours from the sky. Hang out on the terrace watching the storm or play cards in the Koh Samui resort lounge. Or you could head out into the rain – you won’t get cold, and it’s fun to get out into the elements.
10) Hit the Town
Children will love the hustle and bustle of the towns in Koh Samui. Take a walk through town in the early evening, stopping for a smoothie or some dinner. Kids are very much welcomed in the towns and villages of Koh Samui and you’ll notice lots of other families out together enjoying the island life. Make sure to take a flashlight with you if you are out walking at night because power cuts happen, and not everywhere is well-lit.
For more hints, tips and travel advice on Koh Samui, Phuket, Hua Hin, Bangkok and more, take a look at PhuketOn. Find Koh Samui resorts and accommodation for families at PhuketOn.