Mermaid Statue
Tucked within the grounds of the Big Buddha Temple on Koh Samui's north shore, this whimsical mermaid statue is a small but charming point of interest that catches the eye of passing visitors. The work reflects local artistry and adds an unexpected, playful character to the temple surroundings, which also feature a handful of other statues worth exploring while on site.
Visitors describe the statue as quirky and unique, offering a nice opportunity for photos in an already photogenic setting. While there is no signage or plaque explaining the history or story behind the figure, most find the brief detour worthwhile, particularly when combined with a broader visit to the Big Buddha Temple complex. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, sitting somewhere between a cultural landmark and a casual roadside curiosity.
As the statue sits on temple grounds, visitors should dress modestly out of respect, covering shoulders and knees as is customary at Thai religious sites. The ground around the statue is reportedly uneven, so sturdy footwear is advisable. There are no listed opening hours or entry fees, and the location is most conveniently visited as part of a broader stop at the Big Buddha Temple rather than as a standalone destination.
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Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Mermaid Statue — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Mermaid Statue, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Quirky and unique statue! We would have liked to read some explanation or story behind it! Anyway, it was worth a visit.
Looks beautiful seeing the mermaids
Part of the Big Buddha Temple grounds it is a great place for a few photos. Be careful under foot the ground is uneven. There are a couple of other statues too.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 71 reviews on Google.
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Mermaid Statue: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mermaid Statue worth visiting?
Mermaid Statue holds a 4.2★ rating from 71 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Koh Samui.
When is the best time to visit Mermaid Statue?
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 Mermaid Statue located?
Mermaid Statue is at Unnamed Road H3C6+5H7, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
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 Mermaid Statue
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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

Art 'n' Design Samui
A charming Koh Samui boutique offering handmade clothing and curated books in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Wat Phra Yai
A 12-metre gilded Buddha, free entry and 360-degree views over the bays: half an hour well spent.

Wat Laem Suwannaram
Free to walk in, golden statues by a fish-filled lake, and far fewer people than the beaches.

Statue of the goddess Guanyin
A towering sacred statue set on a lake platform near Wat Plai Laem, one of Koh Samui's most striking spiritual sites.
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 Mermaid Statue
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