Plai Laem Beach Koh Samui
A vibrant Buddhist temple on Koh Samui, famous for its giant Guanyin statue and serene lakeside setting. A cultural gem offering peace and stunning vi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Plai Laem Beach Koh Samui
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Buddhist temple on Koh Samui, famous for its giant Guanyin statue and serene lakeside setting. A cultural gem offering peace and stunning visuals.
"Wat Plai Laem is an iconic and peaceful temple, a must-see for its giant Guanyin statue and colorful architecture."
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees for temple visits. Donations welcome! :temple_buddha:
🛵 Scooter for Freedom
Rent a scooter for easy access to temples and beaches. :motorcycle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Guanyin Statue
Wat Plai Laem
Marvel at the serene, towering statue of Guanyin, a symbol of compassion and mercy. A truly iconic sight.
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Colorful Temple Architecture
Wat Plai Laem
Explore the vibrant and intricate details of this unique Thai temple, a feast for the eyes.
+1
Peaceful Lakeside Setting
Wat Plai Laem
Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere surrounding the temple's lake, offering a moment of calm reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Temple Etiquette is Key
Getting Around Koh Samui
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees for temple visits. Donations welcome!
🛵 Scooter for Freedom
Rent a scooter for easy access to temples and beaches.
📸 Capture the Colors
Bring your camera for vibrant statues and intricate details.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Koh Samui can be hot; carry water, especially when exploring. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees for temple visits. Donations welcome!
🛵 Scooter for Freedom
Rent a scooter for easy access to temples and beaches.
📸 Capture the Colors
Bring your camera for vibrant statues and intricate details.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Koh Samui can be hot; carry water, especially when exploring. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews highlight Plai Laem Buri resort as a tranquil oasis with excellent facilities, including a deep pool and well-equipped kitchens. Guests appreciate the quiet atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and the kindness of the owner, creating a strong sense of community among long-term residents. It's praised for offering great value and a peaceful vacation experience.
"Beautiful jewel hidden in Plai Laem. Close to everything, only a 10 minute drive by bike from the fishermen's village and 5 minutes from some beautiful Temples, nearby beaches and commerces, Plai Laem Buri resort is an oasis of tranquility for anyone who seeks to relax and vacation. It has a big Pool, which to my surprise was very deep on one side (most Samui pools are not very deep nor suitable for real swimming). Also, besides the very accommodating facilities (renovated and top of the line kitchens with very good equipment and good air conditioning), The premises hold a beautiful garden where you can sunbathe, and enjoy peaceful bliss.
Strongly recommend this hotel, whether it be for a short stay, or for monthly rent (I stayed there 3 months)."
Luis “Кусочек Брата” Realme
"Nice and quiet, though quite close to the main road and gas station. Nice pool surrounded by comfortable bungalows, friendly manager, discreet staff. Most residents are long-term customers, creating a sort of village atmosphere"
paintball party
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"recommend"
The hotel is nice, quiet, has a swimming pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Suitable for relaxation The best value price And most importantly, the boss is very kind."
Bordin Chansopha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Plai Laem is conveniently located about 10 minutes from Chaweng Beach by scooter or taxi. Many visitors opt for a private driver for a day to explore multiple sites, including Wat Plai Laem, Big Buddha, and various beaches.
Yes, parking is generally available at Wat Plai Laem, especially if you arrive earlier in the day.
Plai Laem Beach is very close to Wat Plai Laem, often just a short walk or a few minutes by scooter.
For visiting multiple temples like Wat Plai Laem and the Big Buddha, hiring a private driver for 8 hours is a popular and cost-effective option, costing around 3,000 Thai Baht.
While direct public bus routes might be limited, local taxis and songthaews (shared taxis) are readily available on Koh Samui and can take you to Wat Plai Laem. Negotiate the fare beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Wat Plai Laem is free, though donations are highly encouraged to help maintain the temple grounds.
Wat Plai Laem is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site.
No, tickets are not required for Wat Plai Laem as entry is free. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
The main restriction is dress code; visitors must dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Yes, donations are welcomed and appreciated to support the upkeep of the temple. Donation boxes are usually available on site.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
The giant Guanyin statue, the colorful temple buildings, and the serene lake offer fantastic photo opportunities. Early morning light is particularly beautiful.
Yes, Wat Plai Laem is a peaceful and visually engaging place for families. Children can appreciate the large statues and the tranquil surroundings.
It's essential to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
The Guanyin statue is a prominent feature, representing the Bodhisattva of Compassion in Mahayana Buddhism.
Yes, Wat Plai Laem is often visited alongside the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), and is close to Plai Laem Beach and Choengmon Beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Nearby Plai Laem Beach offers a relaxed setting for families to enjoy the sand and sea. While the beach itself is quiet, its proximity to other family-friendly activities on Koh Samui makes it a good option for a day trip. Consider combining a temple visit with beach time for a well-rounded family experience.
+1🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
For those looking for a truly relaxing stay, accommodations near Plai Laem Beach, like the Plai Laem Buri resort, are highly recommended. These places are often described as oases of tranquility with beautiful gardens and pools, perfect for unwinding after exploring the island.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Wat Plai Laem: A Cultural Gem
+2The temple's design is a fusion of Thai and Chinese influences, evident in the colorful murals, intricate carvings, and the presence of both Buddhist and Taoist elements. Besides the Guanyin statue, you'll find a large white Buddha statue and other decorative elements that make for a unique visual experience. It's a popular stop for those exploring the island's religious sites, often paired with a visit to the nearby Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai).
+2When visiting, remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect. While entry is free, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this beautiful sanctuary. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
Plai Laem Beach: A Relaxing Coastal Escape
+1While not as developed as Chaweng or Lamai, Plai Laem Beach provides a peaceful setting with opportunities for sunbathing and enjoying the sea breeze. Accommodation options nearby, like the Plai Laem Buri resort, are often praised for their tranquil ambiance, good facilities, and proximity to both the beach and local amenities.
The beach's proximity to other attractions, including the Fisherman's Village and various temples, makes it a strategic base for exploring the northern part of Koh Samui. It’s a place where you can enjoy the sun, sea, and good vibes without the overwhelming crowds.
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