Nathon Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to try, and cultural customs in Nathon, Ko Samui, Thailand. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide.


Nathon is a small town located in Ko Samui, in the Central Gulf Coast region of Southern Thailand. It is a charming and tranquil town that has managed to preserve its traditional vibe despite modern-day development. Nathon offers a diverse range of exciting activities, a rich history, and natural landmarks that will make your trip a memorable one. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to Nathon, Ko Samui’s hidden gem.

Introduction to Nathon

Nathon is a small town with a population of about 10,000 people. It is the administrative center of the Ko Samui district and the largest port on the island. In the past, Nathon was the main trading hub of the Gulf of Thailand, and its bustling port traded with nearby countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and China.

Today, Nathon’s harbor serves as a ferry terminal for those traveling to and from the mainland. The town’s development is minimal compared to other tourist hotspots on the island, preserving its authenticity and heritage. Visitors can explore local shops, indulge in delicious street food, and discover Nathon’s rich history.

List of Places to Visit in Nathon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Nathon Pier: The main pier in Nathon is an excellent place to watch the sunrise or sunset. The pier offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and is the departure point for many island tours and boat trips.

  2. Nathon Walking Street: Every Saturday, Nathon’s main street transforms into a vibrant open-air market with food stalls, handicrafts, souvenirs, and live music. The walking street is a great opportunity to rub shoulders with locals and indulge in authentic Thai street food.

  3. Wat Kiri Wongkaram: This stunning golden temple is located on a hilltop overlooking Nathon town. It is one of the most significant temples on the island and serves as a place of worship for the locals. Visitors can climb the steps to the temple and take in the breathtaking view of the sea and the surrounding area.

  4. Samui Cultural Center and Fine Art of South: This cultural center is dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Thai art and culture. Here, visitors can enjoy classical Thai dance performances, traditional music concerts, and exhibitions of traditional Thai artwork.

Natural Attractions of Nathon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Na Muang Waterfall: A must-visit for nature lovers. Na Muang waterfall is one of Ko Samui’s most stunning natural wonders. Located deep in the jungle, this waterfall has two cascading falls. Visitors can swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall and enjoy the surrounding dense vegetation.

  2. Hin Ta and Hin Yai: This amazing rock formation is located on the south coast of the island, about 30 minutes’ drive from Nathon. The Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks are also known as the Grandfather and Grandmother rocks due to their unusual shape.

  3. Koh Nang Yuan: Koh Nang Yuan is a stunning trio of islands that are a short boat ride from Nathon. The islands are known for their crystal clear waters, vibrant marine life, and coral reefs, making it an excellent place to go diving and snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nathon

  1. Samui Green Bike: Explore the natural beauty of Nathon on two wheels with Samui Green Bike. They offer electric mountain bike rentals, guided tours, and route suggestions that cater to different skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Nathon: Activities and Tours

  1. Island Hopping: Take a tour around the nearby islands, including Angthong National Marine Park and Koh Tao, known for its clear waters, colorful marine life, and high limestone cliffs.

  2. Thai Cooking Classes: Learn the art of traditional Thai cooking with a local chef who will guide you through the process of creating authentic Thai meals. There are classes available that cater to all skill levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nathon

Day Activity
1 Explore Nathon Walking Street
2 Visit Wat Kiri Wongkaram, Nathon Pier
3 Snorkeling at Koh Nang Yuan
4 Bike tour around Nathon
5 Island hopping to Ang Thong National Marine Park
6 Visit Na Muang Waterfall and Hin Ta and Hin Yai
7 Relax at a nearby beach

Food and Drink Scene of Nathon

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Khao Soi: A Northern Thai dish that is a mix of both sweet and savory flavors. Khao Soi is usually a yellow curry made with coconut milk, chicken, and noodles.

  2. Som Tam: This is a Thai-style papaya salad that is made with shredded green papaya, chili, and lime juice. It is usually served as a side dish for dishes like grilled meat or fish.

Local Beverages

  1. Chang Beer: Chang is the most popular beer in Thailand known for its refreshing taste.

  2. Thai Iced Tea: A refreshing drink made with black tea, condensed milk, and sugar, giving it a sweet and creamy taste.

Where to Stay in Nathon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Nathon Sunset Hotel: Located a few steps from the pier, the Nathon Sunset Hotel offers stunning views of the sunset, with all rooms featuring a balcony overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.

  2. The Mud: Private Rooms & Dorms: Located in the heart of Nathon, The Mud offers cozy private rooms and dormitories with a communal kitchen, terrace, and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Nathon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handicrafts: Nathon has a variety of street-side stalls and markets where you can find beautiful handmade crafts such as pottery, carving, and handcrafted clothing.

  2. Coconut Oil Products: Thailand is known for producing high-quality coconut oil products, including creams, lotions, and soaps.

Local Culture and Customs of Nathon

Nathon’s culture is a mixture of northern Thai and southern Thai culture, with influences from the island’s history and the many cultures that have passed through the island. The locals value Buddhism and are known for their hospitality, friendliness, and warm smiles.

Best Time to Visit Nathon

The best time to visit Nathon is between December and April when the weather is dry, and the seas are calm. The temperature averages around 30°C (86°F), and there is little to no rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nathon

Do:

  1. Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other cultural sites.
  2. Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
  3. Learn a few basic Thai phrases.

Don’t:

  1. Touch someone’s head as it is considered sacred.
  2. Public displays of affection between couples are not appropriate.
  3. Disrespect Buddha statues and images.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nathon

Nathon is a relatively safe and peaceful town. However, visitors should still take precautions to safeguard their belongings while in crowded areas.

Health in Nathon

Visitors should take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, which may carry dengue fever or other diseases. It is also recommended that visitors bring mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves and pants.

Getting to Nathon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nathon

The closest airport to Nathon is Samui International Airport. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or private transfer to Nathon.

Bus Stations Near Nathon

Visitors can take a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then change to the ferry that will take them to Nathon on Ko Samui.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or take a taxi to Nathon from nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Nathon

The best way to explore Nathon is by foot or bicycle. Visitors can rent a bicycle or motorbike from local rental shops. Taxis and Songthaews (shared taxis) are also available for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Nathon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Chaweng: Chaweng is Ko Samui’s biggest and busiest beach town, located about 30 minutes’ drive from Nathon.

  2. Lamai: A slightly more laid back beach town also known for its nightlife, located about 25 minutes’ drive from Nathon.

Conclusion

Nathon is a charming town that offers a unique experience on Ko Samui. Whether you’re seeking an authentic Thai experience or want to relax and unwind, there is something for everyone in Nathon. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and explore the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem.