Sustainable and eco-friendly activities in Koh Samui

Shop at Local Markets

A great way to experience the local culture is by visiting Samui's many night markets. This is a perfect opportunity where you can support small businesses while indulging in delicious Thai street food and seeing carved works of arts and souvenirs made by local artisans on the island.

• Fisherman’s Village Night Market: Also known as Bophut Night Market, the market is the heart and soul of the island. This charming beachfront market offers an array of food stalls, local crafts, and live entertainment offering a long walking trial inviting visitors to immerse themselves with the atmosphere.
• Nathon Night Food Market: A food lover's haven, this market showcases a variety of street food made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the sea, promising an authentic taste of Thai street food with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Relatively small in size but filled with character, it’s an ideal spot for those who prefer a more easy-going and intimate food market experience.

Dine at Sustainable Restaurants

Koh Samui’s vibrant culinary scene is home to many restaurants that prioritise sustainability and local sourcing, from fresh fruits to vegetables grown in their own farm or the fresh seafood from the Gulf of Thailand. Enjoy delicious meals at these sustainable restaurants while supporting local businesses and communities:

• Khaw Glong: This restaurant has their own organic farm, Khaw Glong Hills, which provides all their fruits and vegetables. Khaw Glong serves authentic Thai cuisine made with the finest, fresh ingredients. 

• Phensiri: Highlighting local, seasonal produce, Phensiri creatively reduces food waste through thoughtful menu planning and deep knowledge of Thai culinary traditions, reflecting their commitment to sustainability.

• Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort: Nestled within the lush canopy of a 120-year-old tree, Tree Tops Signature Dining is located at the heart of the resort, built to preserve its beautiful nature. Tree Tops is more than just a restaurant, it’s an enchanting escape into a world of romance and culinary excellence. Within this serene haven where nature meets gourmet sophistication, Chef Maël Monchauzou unveils an innovative fine dining experience rooted in sustainability, where each dish reflects a commitment to the environment. More than 80% of the ingredients are locally sourced, with fresh vegetables and herbs from Thai highland farms and certified organic growers. This dedication demonstrates Tree Tops’ commitment to supporting local farmers and reducing their carbon footprint.

Visit the Samui Elephant Sanctuary

For an wildlife experience, always do your research and visit an ethical place that is recognised by the conservationist community and leading animal welfare organisations. The Samui Elephant Sanctuary in Bophut is supported by Lek Chailert, world renowned elephant conservationist, founder of Save Elephant Foundation and world famous Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. With numerous awards for their work, including the Best Animal Welfare award from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, this sanctuary provides a safe haven for elephants rescued from the tourism industry, allowing visitors to observe these gentle giants in a peaceful environment, free from harmful and exploitative practices.

Relax at Eco-Conscious Spas

Koh Samui’s wellness scene has plenty of options to choose from including spa establishments that prioritise sustainability. This can range from the carefully thought-out design that focuses on minimising energy consumption to the use of organic and locally grown ingredients.

One of that is at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, the Anantara Spa recently introduces their exclusive treatments featuring Moringa oleifera, known as the “miracle tree” for its healing properties. This nutrient-rich plant, packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium, potassium, and protein, enhances immune function and supports skin health. Grown in the verdant hills near Hua Hin, the use of the plant aligns with the spa’s commitment to both environmental and social sustainability by supporting local farming communities and livelihoods as well as promoting the growing the cultivation of regional plants.

Surrounded by lush greenery and lotus ponds, the spa's serene setting enhances the overall wellness experience, allowing guests to relax while supporting eco-friendly practices and using sustainably sourced ingredient. 

Explore Eco-Friendly Water Activities

Koh Samui offers various eco-friendly water activities to explore its natural beauty sustainably.

• Kayaking in Ang Thong National Marine Park: Paddle through emerald waters while minimising environmental impact. This eco-friendly option allows you to appreciate the park's stunning scenery without harming marine life.
• Snorkelling with Responsible Operators: Opt for eco-conscious snorkelling tours from operators like Samui Island Explorer, which emphasise coral preservation and sustainable practices, educating visitors on protecting fragile marine ecosystems.

Hike in Samui’s Nature Reserves

Nature enthusiasts can find plenty of hiking opportunities that promote eco-friendly exploration.

• Hin Lad Waterfall: This easy hike leads through lush tropical forest to a picturesque waterfall, ideal for relaxation and reflection.

• Pha Chan Charat Viewpoint: Hike up to the viewpoint, a journey that takes about 40 minutes to an hour. From there, you'll enjoy a panoramic view of the entire marine park, offering breathtaking view from every angle.

By embracing these responsible and eco-friendly activities in Koh Samui, you can enjoy the island's beauty while supporting practices that promote sustainability and conservation both for the environment and for the local people.