Tan Rua Waterfall
Tucked into the hills near Mae Nam on Koh Samui's quieter northern coast, Tan Rua Waterfall draws visitors looking to trade the island's busier beach strips for a more natural setting. Surrounded by dense jungle vegetation, the waterfall offers cascading pools suitable for swimming and cooling off, along with natural trails that make for a straightforward and rewarding exploration on foot. The atmosphere here is noticeably more peaceful than Koh Samui's commercial attractions, attracting travellers who prefer outdoor scenery over resort amenities. The surrounding terrain is well suited to light hiking, and the lush greenery creates a pleasant environment throughout the warmer months. The site carries a solid reputation among visitors and serves as a genuine highlight for those spending time on the island's northern side. The waterfall is accessible throughout the day and open every day of the week. Water flow is significantly better during or shortly after the wet season, which runs roughly from May to November, so visits during this period offer the most rewarding experience. In drier months, flow can reduce considerably, so it is worth checking conditions locally before making the trip. Sturdy footwear is recommended for the natural paths, and visitors should bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and plenty of drinking water. No website is currently available, so directions are best confirmed through a local map application using the Mae Nam area address.
Book tours & tickets in Koh Samui
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Tan Rua Waterfall — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Tan Rua Waterfall, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Samui

Ko Pha Ngan
A laid-back Thai island of white-sand beaches, jungle interior, and the legendary monthly Full Moon Party.

Ko Tao
A small Gulf of Thailand island renowned for white sand beaches, coral reefs, and world-class scuba diving.

Thong Nai Pan
Thong Nai Pan is the pair of horseshoe bays on Koh Phangan's northeast corner that many rate the island's best all-round base — Thong Nai Pan Yai, the larger southern bay with a village feel and family resorts, and Thong Nai Pan Noi, the more polished northern bay where the island's smarte.

Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat)
Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat) on Koh Phangan's north coast is the island's poster child for earned seclusion — a wide crescent of soft sand backed by jungle hills, with no road in.
Tan Rua Waterfall: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tan Rua Waterfall worth visiting?
Tan Rua Waterfall holds a 4.3★ rating from 736 Google reviews — a strong rating for activities & tours in Koh Samui.
What are the opening hours of Tan Rua Waterfall?
Tan Rua Waterfall is typically open 00:00-23:59 — 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 Tan Rua Waterfall?
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 Tan Rua Waterfall located?
Tan Rua Waterfall is at GXQR+2C5, Mae Nam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Location Info
GXQR+2C5, Mae Nam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, ThailandTours & tickets nearby
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
Where to stay near Tan Rua Waterfall
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand

Safari World
A sprawling open-zoo and entertainment park combining safari drives, animal shows, and marine attractions.

Nongnooch Pattaya Garden
A vast 500-acre tropical garden and cultural park blending themed gardens, elephant shows, and cultural displays.

Lumphini Park
Bangkok's beloved green lung — a vast urban park offering lake boats, wildlife, and a peaceful city escape.

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
An immersive aquarium hidden beneath Siam Paragon mall, featuring sharks, rays, and walk-through ocean tunnels.
Where to stay near Tan Rua Waterfall
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Tours & tickets nearby
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