Very often you ask us what is a must-see in Thailand with children. And when you say that you will be staying on Koh Samui, our answer always makes everyone smile. Koh Mad Sum Pig Island in Thailand is an island attracting millions of visitors: here pigs live on the beach and swim in the sea. We promise your children will not want to leave. So, if you are planning a trip to Thailand, save this place.
Koh Mad Sum pig island in Thailand
Koh Mad Sum, also known as Pig Island in Thailand, is a small and photogenic island that became famous for pigs that roam freely along the shore and swim in shallow water. In fact, it strongly resembles the very famous Pig Beach in the Bahamas. According to local stories, the island’s pig phenomenon started with a few rescued piglets. Mr. Kitt saw four pigs kept in poor conditions at a market in Surat Thani, bought them, and brought them to the island to save them from abuse. Since then, they have grown into a whole group. As a result, the island has become one of the most interesting and popular attractions near Koh Samui, one of the most visited islands in Thailand.
How to visit pig island while staying on koh samui
Visiting Pig Island is truly interesting and worth it, especially because children usually love it. In addition, the beach here is incredibly beautiful, so parents can sunbathe or relax on loungers. The water around the island is very clear. Therefore, you will not only see pigs swimming in the sea, but also spend wonderful time with your children.
There are several ways to visit Pig Island:
- Most tourists choose private tours that you can book online or through any local agency. These organized trips are often combined with snorkeling near the reefs of Koh Tan. The advantage is simple, you do not need to worry about anything. They pick you up from your hotel and bring you back. However, the downside is that many tourists arrive at the same time. As a result, you will visit during peak hours and have limited time on the island.
- We traveled independently to the southern coast of Koh Samui, to Thong Krut Pier, and booked a private longtail boat there. A private boat for one person and four hours on the island cost 17 euros. We were three adults, so the whole trip cost us only 50 euros. The boat ride from Thong Krut Pier took about 15 to 20 minutes. The big advantage was that we had plenty of time. Moreover, we arrived when most tour groups had already left, so we could enjoy the peace.
During the hottest hours, when most tourist boats reach the island, the pigs usually hide in the shade. Later, around 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., they come back to the beach and swim again. Therefore, if you go by private boat, you will see many more pigs and have a much more unique experience. We highly recommend it, because our children absolutely loved it.
