You don't have to venture too far from the Villa to be entertained. Here are our top recommendations for things to see and do in Choeng Mon and the surrounding area.
Choeng Mon Beach
A 10 minute walk downhill will bring you to the gorgeous Choeng Mon Beach (the closest access point is to cut through SALA Samui resort). Renowned for its peaceful ambiance, calm waters and soft white sand, this beach is an easy place to spend the whole day. There are plenty of restaurants, and beach front massage shops lining the beach, some offering lounge chairs for their patrons. There are paddleboards and kayaks for rent. Sunset is a particularly lovely time to be here, especially when the tide is out and you can walk across a sand bar to the neighbouring Ko Fan Yai Island. In the evening the beach transforms and lights up with beachfront dining, BBQ buffets and fabulous seafood displays. Some of the resorts put on entertainment in the form of traditional music, Thai dancing or Fire throwing (Poi).
Choeng Mon Village
Running parallel to Choeng Mon Beach is Choeng Mon Village. Here you will find a perfect mix of Thai, Asian and European restaurants, bars, convenience stores, ATM's, massage parlors, and, of course, shopping. 711 and Family Mart carry everything from beer & cereal to eggs & diapers, and have a few ATM's posted outside. Our top picks for Thai food include The Mother, and Pui Relax Restaurant and Bar (just past Cheong Mon Village on the way to Chaweng). Pecero Nere serves up authentic Italian fare including perfect wood fired pizzas which pleases kids and parents alike (note: they are closed on Fridays). For Happy Hour fun, check out Lucky Shaker Bar ("Shakers" to the locals) and be sure to try one of their mojitos! There are numerous massage and spa spots along the main strip offering a wide range of treatments. Our go-to is Aromatic Thai Massage; the staff are friendly, the space is large, clean and air-conditioned and they can accommodate groups (appointment recommended for groups over 4). Word to the wise: if you haven't had a Thai Massage before and you aren't very big on pain or contortionism, start with an Oil Massage and work your way up. There are lots of cute little shops selling beachwear, bathing suits, water toys, art and souvenirs.
Wat Plai Leam
Wat Plai Laem is visible in the distance when enjoying the view at Baan Chuddanip. It is a relatively new temple but has quickly grown in popularity among locals and tourists. It is a Buddhist temple which features a huge 18-armed statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. The elaborate Buddhist-themed art and architecture attracts many tourists daily while local devotees come to pay homage to Guanyin and the Buddha. The murals, telling the story of the Buddha, are particularly noteworthy. The surrounding lake is chock full of catfish so be sure to bring a few 10 baht coins for the fish food dispenser and watch them slithering over each other as they eat. The proceeds go towards the temple. Please remember to dress modestly to show respect.
Big Buddha
The silhouette of Big Buddha stands out clearly against the sea from almost every view at our Private Pool Villa. This 12 metre tall monument has been one of Koh Samui's most popular attractions since it was built in 1972. Located on a small piece of land at the end of a causeway, the statue sits atop a long set of stairs. The complex is continuously building so if you wish to make a donation to the temple in the form of a purchasing a brick, you can sign your name on the brick so that a part of you remains there. At the base of the statue is a courtyard with a nice selection of shops, restaurants, refreshments stands and food stalls. There are lots of unique items here including leather shoes and bags, clothing, art and sculptures. This is another venue where modest dress is expected and appreciated.
Bangrak Fish Market
A glimpse into daily Thai life, Bangrak market is an incredible assault on the senses. This is popular spot for foodies and photographers where the sights, smells and tastes will take your vacation to the next level. Mounds of colourful curry pastes, tropical fruits, the daily catch and freshly made Thai dishes are guaranteed to give you some shots for your Instagram and some new flavours in your belly.
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding or Swim Lessons
Stand-up Paddle boarding has become increasingly popular in recent years. Fortunately, there are opportunities for SUPing right in Cheong Mon (or nearby in Bangrak). iSUP Samui offers lessons, as well as sunrise and sunset tours. Their sister company iSWIM Samui also offers private swim lessons and Tammy, the instructor, will come right up to the villa pool. If you are looking to improve your children’s swimming skills while on vacation, we can personally attest to her excellent teaching style. It is recommended to book either SUPing or swim lessons in advance as they are both very popular and come highly recommended.
Bangrak Pier- High speed ferry to Koh Pha Ngan
Bangrak Pier is just a short drive from Choeng Mon which provides easy ferry access to Koh Pha Ngan for a fun day trip. the ferry will take you to Tong Sala where you can shop, eat or hire a Songthaew or Motorbike to cruise around the island. Koh Pha Ngan has a slower pace than Koh Samui, with many stunning quiet beaches and quaint little villages. It is also the original location for the world famous monthly Full Moon Party. Find the Seatran ferry schedule here.
Samui Football Golf
Samui Football Golf is one of Trip Advisor's top rated activities on Samui. This 18 hole Football Golf course offers guaranteed fun for all ages. Transfers to and from the villa are available with your course fee, but a reservation is required. Drop-ins are welcome any time.
Yodyut Muaythai
Feel like getting fit while on vacation? Or want to learn some serious Muaythai (Thai Kickboxing) skills? Yodyut Muaythai offers private and group training classes for all skill levels.
Bophut Fisherman's Village (Not quite in Choeng Mon but absolutely worth the 10 minute drive)
Bophut Fisherman's village is a particularly picturesque place to walk through and peruse the many quaint little shops and dozens of restaurant and bar options. For those who enjoy trivia, The Frog and Gecko Pub has a Quiz night every Wednesday at 8:30pm. Reservations are recommended. Friday nights, however, are particularly worth making the trip for as the whole area is shut down to traffic and it becomes a walking street market. Here you can grab a cocktail with one hand, some grilled meat on a stick in the other hand and shop till you drop! The stalls, food carts and bars stretch from one end of the village to the other and will keep you entertained for hours. It starts a little after 5 and goes until late but its best to get their early for the freshest food selection.