
Hua Thanon Village
Discover Hua Thanon, Koh Samui's authentic fishing village. Experience local life, fresh seafood, and the impressive Guan Yu Shrine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the village active

Hua Thanon Village
Best Time
See the village active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Hua Thanon, Koh Samui's authentic fishing village. Experience local life, fresh seafood, and the impressive Guan Yu Shrine.
"An interesting area to wander around... looking past the litter it's an interesting area."

🚶 Wander off the main road
Discover hidden gems and local life away from the main street. It's where the real charm lies.
⏰ Check opening times
Some places might be closed, especially on weekends. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hua Thanon Fishing Village
Experience the heart of Samui's traditional fishing culture. See boats, nets, and local life unfold.

Guan Yu Shrine
Hua Thanon
Marvel at Thailand's largest statue of the legendary Guan Yu, a serene spot with rich Chinese heritage.

Local Market Area
Wander through the market off the main road for fresh seafood and local flavors. A true taste of island life.

Masjid Nurul Ihsan Mosque
The main mosque for Samui, offering a cultural landmark and a glimpse into the island's Muslim community.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Authentic Vibe
Timing is Key for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Wander off the main road
Discover hidden gems and local life away from the main street. It's where the real charm lies.
⏰ Check opening times
Some places might be closed, especially on weekends. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.
🎣 Taste the fresh seafood
The market area is perfect for sampling incredibly fresh, local seafood.
🕌 Respect the mosque
If visiting Masjid Nurul Ihsan, dress modestly and be mindful of prayer times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Wander off the main road
Discover hidden gems and local life away from the main street. It's where the real charm lies.
⏰ Check opening times
Some places might be closed, especially on weekends. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.
🎣 Taste the fresh seafood
The market area is perfect for sampling incredibly fresh, local seafood.
🕌 Respect the mosque
If visiting Masjid Nurul Ihsan, dress modestly and be mindful of prayer times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hua Thanon Village offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Koh Samui life, with its working fishing harbor and local market being highlights. While some visitors note a lack of tidiness, the genuine atmosphere, fresh seafood, and cultural sites like the Guan Yu Shrine are highly appreciated. It's a place for those seeking an unvarnished look at island living.
"An interesting area to wander around... not the tidiness of places on Koh Samui... but looking past the litter it's an interesting area.
.
But interesting to see the fishermen and their boats...and wander through the market area, all off the main road.
The main Mosque for Samui is located here."
Jim P
"What a load of rubbish they are to lazy to even open the place I drove 60 km twice 2 weekends in a row and they was closed both times don't waste your petrol or time"
Mark Almond
"Fresh seafood, local food"
Rainy Jung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Hua Thanon Village from Chaweng by taking a Songthaew (shared taxi) heading south. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, renting a scooter or hiring a private taxi offers more flexibility.
Yes, Hua Thanon is accessible via the main ring road on Koh Samui, served by Songthaews. These operate frequently, making it a convenient option for budget travelers.
Exploring Hua Thanon on foot is ideal to soak in the local atmosphere. Renting a scooter also allows you to easily reach nearby attractions and beaches.
Parking is generally available along the main road or in designated areas near the market. If you're arriving by scooter, finding a spot is usually straightforward.
While possible, walking from further afield like Chaweng or Lamai would be a significant trek. It's recommended to use local transport or a scooter for longer distances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees to explore Hua Thanon Village itself. You can wander through the streets and markets freely.
The Guan Yu Shrine is generally free to enter. Donations are welcome to help maintain the site.
The market is most active in the mornings, especially on weekdays. Some visitors have noted that it can be closed on weekends or at certain times, so it's best to visit during weekday daylight hours.
The best time to see the fishermen and their boats is typically in the early morning as they return with their catch, or in the late afternoon as they prepare for the evening.
While not as common as in more touristy areas, some local tour operators or guesthouses might offer guided experiences. It's worth inquiring locally or with your accommodation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the fishing village, visit the Guan Yu Shrine, wander through the local market for fresh seafood and souvenirs, and experience authentic Thai culture.
Compared to popular tourist beaches, Hua Thanon is generally much less crowded, offering a more peaceful and authentic experience.
Expect a laid-back, authentic fishing village atmosphere. It's less polished than resort areas but offers a genuine glimpse into local life.
While not known for pristine swimming beaches like other parts of Samui, there are coastal areas and smaller coves near Hua Thanon that offer a quieter seaside experience.
Light, comfortable clothing is recommended. If you plan to visit the mosque, ensure you have modest attire that covers your shoulders and knees.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market area off the main road is the prime spot for incredibly fresh seafood. You can often buy it directly from fishermen and have it cooked at a nearby stall.
You'll find local eateries and street food stalls, particularly around the market area, offering authentic Thai dishes and fresh seafood. It's not a place with a wide variety of international restaurants.
Focus on the fresh seafood! Grilled fish, prawns, and squid are specialties. You'll also find classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry.
Eating in Hua Thanon is generally very affordable, especially compared to tourist-centric restaurants in other parts of Koh Samui. You can get great value for money.
While seafood is the focus, most local Thai restaurants can prepare vegetarian versions of popular dishes like stir-fried vegetables or curries upon request.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the colorful fishing boats, the bustling market scenes, the impressive Guan Yu Shrine, and the daily life of the villagers.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children. Be respectful of local customs.
Early morning light is great for capturing the fishermen's activities. Late afternoon offers softer light for village scenes.
The Guan Yu Shrine with its large statue is a prominent landmark. The colorful fishing boats lined up on the shore are also very photogenic.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of privacy, especially around residential areas and the mosque.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Guan Yu Shrine for a visually impressive experience, though the cultural significance might be better appreciated by older children. The key is to approach Hua Thanon as an educational outing, showcasing a different side of island life than the typical beach resorts.
💰 Budget Travelers
Getting to Hua Thanon via Songthaew is also a very economical way to travel around Koh Samui. By focusing on local experiences and food, you can significantly reduce your daily expenses while still enjoying an authentic taste of the island.
couples
Visiting the Guan Yu Shrine together can be a serene cultural outing. The village provides a backdrop for genuine connection, allowing you to experience Koh Samui's local life side-by-side. Consider renting a scooter to explore the surrounding quieter coastal areas for a romantic adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Hua Thanon: A Working Fishing Village
Visitors can wander through the village, observing the rhythm of daily life. The market area, located just off the main road, is a hub of activity. Here, you can find incredibly fresh seafood, local produce, and a variety of small shops selling everyday goods. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pulse of traditional Samui, away from the more commercialized tourist zones.
While some reviews mention litter, looking past it reveals the raw, unvarnished charm of a community deeply connected to the sea. It's an experience that appeals to travelers seeking authenticity and a break from the typical resort scene.
Cultural Encounters: Guan Yu Shrine and Local Faith
Beyond the shrine, Hua Thanon is also home to the Masjid Nurul Ihsan, the main mosque for the island's Muslim community. This serves as a spiritual center and a symbol of the diverse religious landscape of Koh Samui. Visitors can observe the mosque from the outside and, if respectful and appropriately dressed, may be able to witness community activities or prayer times.
These cultural sites offer a deeper understanding of the multi-faceted community that calls Hua Thanon home, providing enriching experiences for those interested in local traditions and beliefs.
Culinary Delights: Fresh Seafood and Local Flavors
Beyond seafood, the local eateries serve up classic Thai dishes at very reasonable prices. You can expect flavorful curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes, prepared with local ingredients. It’s an opportunity to savor the genuine tastes of Thai cuisine without the inflated prices found in more touristy areas.
While vegetarian options might require a specific request, most places can accommodate by preparing vegetable-based versions of popular dishes. The focus here is on fresh, local ingredients and traditional preparation methods.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit