Lamai Thai Cooking School
Lamai Thai Cooking School offers immersive, hands-on cooking classes from a personal home kitchen in Maret, close to the beach on Koh Samui's quieter southern coast. Led by instructor Um, classes are structured around a group-voted menu, with participants working through a selection of traditional Thai dishes using authentic techniques and locally sourced ingredients. The relaxed, open-air kitchen setting gives the experience a distinctly personal feel that sets it apart from more commercial cooking schools on the island. Groups work through the full cooking process together, from ingredient preparation through to plating, and sit down to eat what they have made. Participants receive a recipe booklet to take home, making it practical for those wanting to recreate dishes after their trip. The class accommodates mixed skill levels and welcomes both solo travellers and groups. Some visitors note that helpers assist with portions of the cooking, so those seeking a fully independent kitchen experience should keep this in mind when booking. Good to know: Classes run seven days a week from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, offering flexibility across most Koh Samui itineraries. Booking in advance through the school's website is strongly recommended, as classes fill up, particularly during peak season. Wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes suited to working in a kitchen environment.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Lamai Thai Cooking School, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
We had the most incredible afternoon learning how to cook authentic Thai food! It was such a fun hands-on experience from start to finish. Our instructor was absolutely amazing so friendly, patient, and knowledgeable and her English was fantastic. She explained everything clearly and made sure we felt confident at every step, carefully guiding us and ensuring all our dishes were cooked perfectly. We even got to taste all the dishes we cooked and it was very filling. We even got a cookbook to take home so we can recreate everything ourselves! I couldn’t recommend this experience highly enough it was truly one of the highlights of our trip! 🌟
This cooking class was a really fun, tasty and memorable experience. Set out at Um’s personal home (open) kitchen in her own house, right near the beach with amazing views. Um is a true professional, she explains every step of the recipes very clearly and she grows her own herbs in her garden. The food is amazing when you cook it yourself. Highly recommended for the entire family. Kitchen is super clean, organized and very well maintained.
We absolutely loved our experience with Um at her Thai Cooking Class. There was 10 in an our group and we went through the menu options and put it to a vote on what our menu would be. The 5 meals were delicious and the ingredients were all fresh. The recipe book we were given was very helpful and we will now be cooking more Delicious Thai food when we head back home…. Good value for money as well..
Location Info
Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand+66 84 096 4994www.lamaithaicookingschool.com/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 Through Klook or GetYourGuide
These platforms offer instant confirmation, free cancellation on most activities, and prices that are often lower than walk-up rates. 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.
Also Popular in Koh Samui
Ko Pha Ngan
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Ko Tao
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Wat Phra Yai
Massive, circa-1972 gilded Buddha statue at the colorful Phra Yai temple complex.
Central Samui
Koh Samui's largest mall blends indoor and open-air shopping with local markets, dining, and family amenities.
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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). Ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs — a cheaper option.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas