Na Muang Waterfall 1
Go for the swim, not the spectacle. In the dry months the cascade can look thin, and plenty of people come away thinking it was a bit bare. But there's a proper pool under it, deep enough for kids to jump into, and a stream that wanders off between mossy rocks and vines where you can lose the crowd in about two minutes. Between May and October the rain does the heavy lifting and the whole thing gets far more dramatic.
Getting there is easy. It's a five to ten minute walk from the car park along a shaded, tree-lined path, so age and fitness aren't really a barrier. There's a small cluster of stalls and cafes before the falls, plus toilets. The souvenir sellers can be pushy. And a warning worth taking seriously: there are elephant rides operating by the parking area, and reviewers describe distressed animals in a cramped enclosure. Walk past it.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Na Muang Waterfall 1, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
If you like a waterfall that also has a flowing stream from it to explore then visit this one. The waterfall itself is fairly large and buried deep in the rainforest area. From the main pool the water meanders between moss covered rocks, tree vines and dense foliage. It is perfect for a picnic, swim and to relax. There are small shops on the outside and cafes for food/drink as well as toilets. Once you wander the forest area which is 100 metres or so from the car park you feel a million miles away.
Beautiful place! A little bare, to be honest, and the waterfall itself is a tad underwhelming, but as part of a day tour across the island this is a solid spot to visit. Swimming is possible in a small lake under the waterfall. Lots of shade and very tall tress. A small hub before the waterfall proper that has a souvenir shop and some food stalls. Also elephants that have saddles and benches on them, though we haven't checked that out. I believe riding them is possible for booking. Overall a nice spot.
The waterfalls themselves were enjoyable. It was busy, crowded in water. Still allowed the “kids” to have some fun and jump a few times. The elephant showcase is nothing compared to our last visit of the day. I recommend that versus this strictly money grab. Worth the stop for falls and quick dip. Parking lot is busy with some small souvenir stands that are bit pushy. Enjoy.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 4,460 reviews on Google.
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Na Muang Waterfall 1: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Na Muang Waterfall 1 worth visiting?
Na Muang Waterfall 1 holds a 3.8★ rating from 4,460 Google reviews. Reviews are mixed, so check recent visitor feedback above to see if it fits your plans.
What are the opening hours of Na Muang Waterfall 1?
Na Muang Waterfall 1 is typically open 09:00-17:00 — 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 Na Muang Waterfall 1?
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 Na Muang Waterfall 1 located?
Na Muang Waterfall 1 is at 4169, Tambon Na Mueang, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84140, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Location Info
4169, Tambon Na Mueang, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat 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 Na Muang Waterfall 1
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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 Elephant Kingdom Sanctuary
A responsible elephant sanctuary in Koh Samui's Namuang area, offering guided wildlife encounters focused on animal welfare.
Na Muang 2 Waterfall
A 40-minute uphill scramble with ropes, natural pools at the top, and mosquitoes that mean business.
Na Mueang viewpoint
A rewarding jungle hike on Koh Samui leading to a scenic viewpoint and natural swimming hole.
Sun Star Viewpoint
A free, well-maintained scenic viewpoint in Na Mueang with sweeping island and ocean views, a small shop, and free parking.
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 Na Muang Waterfall 1
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