Am Samui Palace
Tucked away in the Maret subdistrict of Koh Samui, Am Samui Palace offers visitors a genuine encounter with Thai Buddhism away from the island's more commercialised tourist trail. The site serves as an active cultural and spiritual landmark for the local community, making it a meaningful stop for travellers who want to look beyond the beaches and experience the quieter, more contemplative side of island life.
Visitors can expect traditional temple architecture set within peaceful grounds that reflect the spiritual character of the site. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried, with the space welcoming both curious travellers and practising Buddhists. Those who time their visit for the early morning are likely to encounter locals conducting prayers and rituals, providing a more authentic window into everyday religious life on the island.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Am Samui Palace, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
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THE COCOON - SAMUI VIEWPOINT
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Am Samui Palace: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Am Samui Palace worth visiting?
Am Samui Palace holds a 4.5★ rating from 674 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Koh Samui.
When is the best time to visit Am Samui Palace?
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 Am Samui Palace located?
Am Samui Palace is at 124/39, 39, Tambon Maret, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84310, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Location Info
124/39, 39, Tambon Maret, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84310, Thailand077 960 306www.amsamuipalace.com/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
Where to stay near Am Samui Palace
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
Royal Cottage
A quiet, well-kept residential retreat in Koh Samui, ideally located near restaurants, shops, and local amenities.
Wat Lamai
A peaceful Buddhist temple in central Lamai, known for its striking statues and calm, local atmosphere.
Pearl of Samui
A beachfront villa resort on Lamai Beach, offering private cottages, a pool, and direct beach access.
Overlap stone
A balanced rock formation with real meaning for local Buddhists, and a ten-minute stop at most.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Am Samui Palace
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