Advertisement

Fishing & Sailing in Koh Samui

Koh Samui isn't just about beaches and temples. If you spend some time out on the water fishing or sailing, you’ll see a side of the island most tourists miss.

Fishing trips here aren’t your usual cast-and-wait affair. Locals often head out near Koh Tan or around the Ang Thong Marine Park for some seriously good catches, like barracuda, grouper, or even giant trevally if you’re lucky. Don’t be surprised if your guide shows you some old-school Thai fishing tricks too , it’s part of the fun. And if you’re not into fishing, sailing around the island offers a peaceful way to soak up the coastline. I always recommend renting a day sailboat from Maenam; you’ll find the waters calm in the morning, perfect for exploring hidden bays and beaches few make it to.

A quick tip - try to book your trip early in the morning to avoid afternoon winds, plus you’ll catch the sea at its calmest. Also, local fishing boats sometimes allow guests on board for hands-on experience, which is a great way to connect with fishermen and learn a bit about their everyday life. Honestly, it’s one of those things that make Koh Samui more than just a postcard view.
🌍 Part of the My Guide Network 180+ destinations worldwide
Search by Map

Not quite what you’re looking for yet?

Use filters to narrow things down or explore other categories.

Refine filters

What I know about Koh Samui’s waters

The sea around Koh Samui is surprisingly varied. If you want a peaceful sail, head out early from Maenam or Silver Beach when the wind’s mild. For fishing, I swear by a spot just a short boat ride from Koh Tan , the coral reefs there attract all sorts of fish. Bring your own gear if you’re picky; rentals are fine but a decent rod and lure make a big difference. Also, be prepared for sudden rain in the afternoon during monsoon season,it comes fast and heavy, so mornings are your friend. Oh, and don’t sleep on the sunset sails that leave from Big Buddha Pier , it’s one of those things I didn’t expect to love, but watching the sun drop behind the island while on a small boat is pretty unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about fishing and sailing around Koh Samui? Here’s what locals often get asked.

The dry season from December to April is ideal since the waters are calmer and the weather’s kinder. I’ve tried fishing during the rainy months, and the sea gets rougher, making it a bit tricky to get a good catch.

You can, but only if you have sailing experience and the right licenses. Most locals prefer to hire a skipper who knows the waters, especially around the island’s reefs. If you’re a newbie, better to go with a pro.

Definitely. The waters around Koh Tan and the channels near Koh Matsum are popular among fishermen. These spots have deeper waters and plenty of fish. Plus, they’re not far, so you spend more time fishing, less on the boat.

Big game fishing isn’t as common directly off Koh Samui itself but you might get lucky if you head further out towards the Gulf of Thailand. Usually, boats set off early and go beyond the marine park, so it’s more of a dedicated trip rather than a casual after-breakfast outing.

There are occasional local fishing competitions, especially around the dry season. They’re low-key compared to big international events but super fun to watch. If you’re interested, ask around in Fisherman’s Village in Bophut, locals usually know when the next one happens.

Explore Things To Do Categories

City Tours (792 places) If you want to see Koh Samui through the eyes of someone who knows the island’s quirks, city tours are a fantastic way to start. Forget the usual stops everyone talks about,you can find tours that t Explore
Attractions & Tickets (742 places) Koh Samui isn’t just about lounging on the beach or chilling with a coconut in hand. If you want to actually get out and see what this island offers, you’ll find plenty of attractions that make yo Explore
Nature & Wildlife Tours (640 places) If you're craving a break from the usual beach scene in Koh Samui, getting out into the island's jungles and coastal waters is the way to go.There’s more to Koh Samui than palm trees and cocktails. Explore
Safari / Nature Tours (606 places) If you’re spending time on Koh Samui and crave a break from beaches, the island’s nature tours offer something refreshing. Think dense jungle trails, secret waterfalls, and encounters with local w Explore
Family-Friendly Experiences (588 places) Koh Samui isn’t just about beaches and parties , there’s a surprisingly chill side that kids and parents both love. You can wander through the colorful Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo, where the litt Explore
Day Cruises (574 places) If you’re in Koh Samui and want to escape the noisy beaches for a bit, day cruises are the way to go. These trips take you around the coastline, often stopping at places you won’t easily reach on Explore
Zipline / Ropes / Caving (486) • Hiking & Trekking (478) • Day Trips (426) • Multi-day Excursions (394) •

Top Things To Do in Koh Samui

See All →

Top Things To Do in Koh Samui

Click to See All

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Koh Samui is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

My Guide Network Locations
Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
{[{slotLabel(slot)}]}

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel