A major tourist attraction is Koh (Island) Samui, a palm-fringed paradise with a coastal road that encircles the complete island. Aside from the lovely beaches and coral beds, it is abound with coconut plantations and forested hills. The more popular beaches are on the northern and eastern coasts, namely Chaweng Beach, for its party scene and combination of luxury accommodations, and Lamai Beach. It is Thailand’s 3rd largest island.

       Many international diving schools have been established on Koh Tao (Turtle Island) because of its pristine beaches and abundant coral reefs around the island, making it the best scuba diving spot in the Gulf of Thailand.

       The Angthong Marine National Park consists of roughly 40 islands, mostly comprised of limestone masses rising to heights of 400 meters, pristine beaches and lush forests. The emerald saltwater lake on Ko Mae Ko (Mother Island) entails a strenuous climb and is a major scenic attraction. Another popular venue is the Ko Sam Sao (Tripod Island) with an extensive coral reef.

       The ever popular Full Moon party is held annual at Ko Phangan where revelers from all over the world come to dance the night away and be merry. It also has many beautiful natural attractions, such as waterfalls, hillside temples, and pristine beaches.

       Khao Sok National Park is becoming more popular every day as more people discovers that the lush jungles and mountainous complexes are still inhabited by numerous wildlife, including elephants, tapirs, bisons, bears and black panthers. Highlights include the Sip Et Chan (11-tiered) Waterfall, and many other spectacular waterfalls all within close proximity to the park office. Ideal for camping, trekking and viewing wildlife.

       Watch students as they are trained to pick coconuts at the Monkey School on the mainland and at Koh Samui. Majority of students are pig-tailed monkeys captured in the local forest that undergo an intensive 3-month program.

       The oyster farms concentrated in the estuarine areas of the Kadaeh and Ta Thong rivers produced the largest oysters found anywhere else. Visitors can see the harvesting by hiring long-tail boats to get to the farms.

       Don Sak

       Namtok Vibhavadi This waterfall is located 38 kilometres east of the provincial capital along Highway No. 401. The entrance to the waterfall is between the 60-61 km. markers. The petite waterfall enjoys bucolic surroundings and attracts a lot of local people during weekends.

       Wat Khao Suwan Pradit Located 1 kilometre from Don Sak district, this temple was founded by Luang Pho Choi, one of southern Thailand's most revered Buddhist ecclesiastics. The hilltop 45-metre pagoda contains Buddha relics and commands striking coastal views.

       Kanchanadit

       Monkey School Located some 7 kilometres along Highway No. 401 and 2 kilometres along an access road, the school trains monkeys to pick coconuts. Most 'students' are pig-tailed monkeys captured in local forests. Training usually takes some 3 months. Would-be visitors are advised to check with local travel agents for full details.

       Chaiya

       Wat Suan Mokkhaphalaram Better known as Suan Mokkh, this 150-acre forest temple is located beside Highway No. 41, some 50 kilometres north of the provincial capital. Suan Mokkh's founder, the late Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, was highly respected both locally and internationally. His 'back to basics' form of Buddhism, mirroring that led by the Buddha's earliest disciples more than 2,500 years ago, attracted many Buddhist monks and lay meditators from many countries. The enclave is devoid of extravagant ceremonial and elaborated chapels. The forest tranquility is ideal for a life of contemplation.

       Phra Borom That Chaiya Located some 4 kilometres northeast of Suan Mokkh, and 1 kilometre from Chaiya railway station, this elaborately restored and revered pagoda is believed to be more than 1,200 years old. The pagoda contains Buddha relics and provides a direct link with the Srivijaya Empire. A small adjacent museum houses artefacts from the vicinity. The museum is open Tuesday-Friday from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

       Phumriang Village Located some 7 kilometres east of Chaiya, this Muslim settlement is an arts and crafts centre well known for its silver brocaded silk cloth and jute headwear.

       Tapi River Estuary Located some 7 kilometres from the town, this area is noteworthy for its quality seafood restaurants.

       Khao Tha Phet Wildlife and Nature Education Centre About 6 kilometres from the provincial capital along Highway No. 4009 (the Surat Thani-Na San route) and 1.5 kilometres along an access road, this centre is located on a hill called Khao Tha Phet and covers an area of 2,906 rais, or 4.65 square kilometres. The hilltop, some 200 metres above sea level, offers commanding panoramic views of Surat Thani town, the Tapi River and Ban Don Bay. Si Surat Stupa, known locally as Phra That Khao Tha Phet, is located on the summit of Khao Tha Phet. The candle-like stupa was built in 1957 and contains Lord Buddha’s relics donated by the Indian government.

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