Oh no – you’ve arrived in stunning Koh Samui ready for sun, sea and sand, only to find it’s raining cats and dogs. But hey, don’t let some showers get you down! Even when the weather takes a turn for the worse, this island paradise has plenty of indoor options to keep you and the whole family entertained. So get your umbrellas ready, and let’s take a look at the best ways to make the most of Koh Samui, rain or shine!

Here’s What to Do In Samui When It Rains!

1. Shop ’til you drop at Central Festival

Central Festival Samui is Koh Samui’s largest shopping mall, with over 200 stores spanning four floors. When the weather isn’t ideal for the beach, this is the perfect place to do some retail therapy. Shop for the latest fashions at stores like H&M or Uniqlo, pick up some souvenirs at the Thai crafts market, or indulge in some luxury brands like DVF or Marc Jacobs.

2. Catch the latest movie at the cinema

Central Festival also has a wonderful cinema complex for you to catch the latest blockbuster or Oscar-worthy film. Buy some popcorn and your favourite drink and enjoy a movie day with the fambam! Alternatively, if you’re too lazy to go outside, you can always just turn on the TV and have a movie marathon within the comforts of your hotel room or villa.

3. Indulge in a spa day

When it’s pouring outside, it’s time to pour into your cup and treat yourself to any of the island’s many indulgent spas and wellness resorts. With a wide range of treatments on offer, you can pamper yourself from head to toe within their warm, dry surroundings. Unwind with a soothing massage, exfoliate with a body scrub or refresh your skin with a facial. You could also steam away any stresses in a herbal sauna, unwind in a bubbling hot tub or soften your skin with mineral and milk baths. We say make the most out of it!

4. Get a foot massage

If you don’t want to spend big bucks on a spa day, getting a foot massage is the next best thing. An hour with a foot reflexologist only costs about 300-400 THB (US$8-12) at any beach town massage shop. They know all the right pressure points for them to target and work their magic on. It’s the perfect way to soothe away any tensions after all the travelling you’ve been doing.

5. Eat to your heart’s content

Samui has no shortage of cafés and restaurants serving fantastic food with great ambience. Most of the beachside restaurants have covered areas, so the rain won’t dampen your appetite. Just think of it as an excuse to tuck into the finest local grub without worry. With nowhere to rush off to, you can take your time sampling everything the kitchen has to offer. Sit back, relax, and eat!

6. Hit the gym or do some yoga

Slip into some comfy activewear and go for a quick workout in your villa or hotel’s gym. If that doesn’t cut it, you can always google the closest gym to you with a certified trainer to push you to your limits. Chaweng and Lamai are known to have plenty of good yoga studios too, with classes catering to all sorts – whether you’re a pro or just finding your feet on the mat. There are loads of fitness activities on offer around the island, so you’re bound to find something to suit you.

7. Learn some Muay Thai

Traditional Thai martial arts is so fascinating to watch, but getting involved and learning the moves yourself takes it to a whole new level. Muay Thai lessons are available for all ages, so you can get the entire family sweating together. On a rainy day when you’re stuck inside, there’s no better way to spend your time than boosting your self-defence skills and fitness. Get out there and unleash your inner warrior!

8. Try a Thai cooking class

Thai cuisine is known to be one of the best in the world, so why not learn how to make authentic Thai dishes that you can make for your family and friends back home? Learn how to make the famous tom yum goong (hot & sour shrimp soup), pad Thai (stir-fried noodles), khao soi (Thai coconut noodle soup), and khao pad (Thai fried rice). All of these are so tasty you’ll want seconds and thirds, guaranteed! Cooking classes for kids are available, too, so if you have a little Masterchef on your hands, make sure to sign them up as well.

9. Get your mind blown at the 3D Art Museum

Bring your cameras out and take some mind-boggling photos at Samui’s 3D Art Museum. Interact and get creative with your shots when you pose with the 65 optical illusions created by professional Korean artists. Posing at the right angle with these artworks will make it look like you’re stepping out of the painting or being attacked by it. Both adults and kids alike will have lots of fun exploring this museum, so if you want a fun family activity to do on a rainy day, buy some tickets to this awesome museum.

10. Relax all day in your villa

And finally, what better way to spend a rainy day in Samui than simply relaxing in your gorgeous villa? Make use of all the modern amenities you have, or snuggle up in your cosiest pyjamas and read your favourite book. You can also whip yourself up a hot cup of tea or cocoa and watch the storm through the big glass windows. Is it just me, or is there just something very relaxing about watching raindrops fall from the sky?

So there you have it! Even when the skies open up, there’s still plenty to keep you and your crew smiling in Koh Samui. Between cooking classes, movie marathons, and art museums, you’ll find ways to fill those gloomy days with activities that will bring you and your loved ones closer together.