Khao Naw
Khao Naw is a natural hilltop attraction located in the quieter Lipa Noi area on the western side of Koh Samui, away from the busier tourist centres of the island. The elevated terrain makes it a rewarding destination for those looking to explore Koh Samui beyond its beaches, offering elevated perspectives over the surrounding landscape and a chance to experience the island's more rugged, natural character.
Visitors can expect a relatively peaceful outdoor setting that contrasts with the bustle of popular beach zones. The area appeals to those who enjoy light hiking or simply taking in scenic viewpoints, and its location on the less-developed western coast means it tends to attract a more adventurous and independently minded type of traveller rather than large tour groups.
Book tours & tickets in Koh Samui
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Khao Naw — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Khao Naw, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Samui
Wat Phra Yai
A 12-metre gilded Buddha, free entry and 360-degree views over the bays: half an hour well spent.
Central Samui
Air-con when you need it, open-air wings when you don't, and a food court worth the trip on its own.
THE COCOON - SAMUI VIEWPOINT
Hanging nets over the jungle canopy, sunset timed right, and a live band once it gets dark.
Wat Plai Laem
Free to enter, quick to walk, and the 18-armed Guanyin rising out of the lake is the reason to come.
Khao Naw: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Khao Naw worth visiting?
Khao Naw holds a 4.7★ rating from 35 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Koh Samui.
What are the opening hours of Khao Naw?
Khao Naw is open 24 hours a day — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Khao Naw?
The best months to visit Koh Samui are January – August, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in July – August & December — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon).
Where is Khao Naw located?
Khao Naw is at Lipa Noi, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Location Info
Lipa Noi, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas
Where to stay near Khao Naw
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Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
Vet Elephant Sanctuaries
Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.
Book Popular Activities Online
Booking platforms like GetYourGuide give you instant confirmation and, on many activities, free cancellation — and you can read recent reviews before committing. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Nearby Places
Samui Zipline & Adventure
Jungle ziplines, ATVs and UTVs up the mountain, run by guides who double as your photographers.
The Xperience
A Burning Man-inspired art park in Koh Samui with immersive installations that transform after dark.
Lat Wanon Waterfall
A quiet off-the-beaten-track waterfall in Lipa Noi, ideal for a peaceful jungle escape from Samui's busier spots.
Hin Lat Waterfall
A secluded jungle waterfall on Koh Samui with natural swimming and trails through tropical forest.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket
No rides, no shows, just feeding, mud and washing rescued elephants in the Kathu jungle.
Safari World
A full day out east of the city, and the shows are what people remember most.
Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
Half a day minimum, 500 acres of themed gardens and dinosaurs, and you'll want to be there by 8am.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's green lung, free to enter, and full of water monitor lizards the size of your leg.
Where to stay near Khao Naw
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas