Visiting the stunning Lamai Viewpoint, Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a stunning Island off the East Coast of Thailand. The terrain is hilly, covered in jungle with some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of South East Asia. The coastal parts of the Island provide some amazing spaces to view the whole of the jungle and out towards the pristine turquoise sea. One of my favourites is the Lamai viewpoint on the South East of the Island.

Visiting the Lamai Viewpoint

Koh Samui is a relatively small island so you should be able to squeeze in a visit no matter where you’re staying. Once you pull into the car park head straight to the ticket office.

When you’re ready it’s a short walk through a pretty garden with several stone steps up to the funicular which will take you up to the top. It’s in this garden that you’ll see the Valentines Stone and Sivatara Waterfall. Legend has it that if a couple touches the stone they will be granted with everlasting love…. hmmmm. The heart shape is pretty cool though. Near the stone is a fish foot spa, we gave this one a miss but it is included in your ticket price.

The Lamai Funicular

Once you get to top of the steps you’ll see a small pink funicular style train and its friendly operator ready to whisk you up the hillside. And by whisk I mean slowly, safely and securely! It’s open air however the viewpoint provide umbrellas you can use to shelter from the powerful sun.

The trip up only take a few minutes and you’ll be able to take in some lovely views on the way up. Step off carefully and explore.

Head across to the white fenced platform for the best, uninterrupted views. You could always grab some of these sweet signs to liven up your photos.

From the top you can gaze across the jungle terrain to the stunning Lamai Beach. Definitely one to visit when you’re back down to sea level. You might even be able to see Pig Island from up there!

If you feel like being a little more active, you can hike up to the viewpoint. This isn’t hard (although it is a bit steep) and should only take you 15 minutes. However we had 3 kids under 9 with us, all a bit grumpy from the heat. Plus what kid doesn’t enjoy an open air train up a mountain!

If you’re also heading to Phuket or Khao Lak during your Thailand holiday then I highly recommend a trip to the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint. It offers some fabulous views of the Phang Nga Bay.

Cafe at the top of the viewpoint

Right next to the exit from the funicular is a lovely bar/restaurant providing a beautiful place to sit with a cold beer whilst you take in the view.

This is all hanging chairs and comfy seats. Whilst not the cheapest in Thailand, the prices are pretty good for such amazing surroundings.

The Zipline

If you’re feeling adventurous during your visit you could also try the Zipwire across the jungle and valley. This is a 450 metre long ride and reaches 80 metres high. Moreover there are two lines in operation so you can even ride next to a friend.

Read next: Stunning Koh Samui Viewpoints

Cost of Entry

The trip up to the Lamai viewpoint on the funicular will cost you just 150 Thai Baht. Which is under $5 per person.

Lamai Viewpoint opening hours

The viewpoint and gardens open at 9am and close at 6.30pm.

How to get to the Lamai Viewpoint

Located just outside of the small town of Lamai, the viewpoint is very easy to get to. Follow the signs to Valentine Rock and you’ll find the carpark. It’s on Moo 3, Lamai, Maret.

Parking for the Lamai Viewpoint

There is a large, free car park at the Lamai Viewpoint.

What else is the to do around the Lamai Viewpoint.

I’ve heaps of other suggestions of things to do in Koh Samui here or you could try these which are close by.

Visit the Fisherman’s Village, Bophut to pick up some authentic souvenirs and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Head to Lamai Beach

See a mummified monk at Wat Khunaram Temple

Climb on Hin Ta / Hin Yai rocks

Visit another gorgeous sandy beach. Bophut beach, Koh Samui is just half an hour drive from the Lamai Viewpoint.

Read next: Where to stay on Koh Samui with kids.

Make sure you pin for later to plan your visit to the Lamai Viewpoint.