Updated: February 2024

Culture, outdoor adventure or party? Samui’s scenic beaches, lush landscape and myriad attractions offer much to see and do, so you’ll have plenty of activities to take your pick from if you’re planning a tropical team retreat. Here’s our handy guide to get you started on drawing up your retreat itinerary:

Cultural exploration: Discovering Samui’s mystical temples

The cultural buffs in your team will be eager to set out on a day trip to visit the island’s renowned temple attractions. The striking Big Buddha Temple is a must-see site you can’t leave out of your itinerary. The statue, standing at a height of 12-metres, is a magnificent sight to behold. Take your time to explore the temple grounds, where you’ll set sight on Buddha statues, Brahmist and Buddhist architectural elements and naga (cobra) statues.

When you’ve explored every nook and cranny of the Big Buddha Temple, it’s time to head over to the next attraction: The Secret Buddha Garden. Located within close proximity, this hilltop attracion is worth stopping by. The garden isn’t large – it takes just 45 minutes to explore the grounds – but the waterfall, stream and a fine collection of statues and structures offer a charming sight.

If you’re residing close to the southern coasts of Samui, Laem Sor Pagoda, set along the coasts of Bang Tao beach, is easily within reach. The gold structure of the temple is a captivating sight on the quiet coast. Don’t leave right away after you’ve visited the temple – amble on towards a small meditation forest located close to the pagoda for a bout of mind-clearing meditation.

Paintball: Outdoor Battle

Got a colleague or two you secretly loathe? It’s time to shoot them down!

Just kidding. But there’s no denying that paintball is a lot of fun, so gear your team up for an outdoor battle that involves plenty of shooting, ducking and running. Paintball Party’s the perfect venue – the owner, Dave, offers transport to and from the venue (larger groups may have to make their own transport arrangements), is very conscious about safety and offers clean equipment of excellent quality. Avoid the heat by booking a slot in the morning or late afternoon.

Where: Samui Paintball Party

Location: 28/32 Moo 1, Mae Nam, Ko Samui 84320, Thailand

Contact:  +(66) 86 9778859

Canopy adventures: Swinging like Tarzan

How does flying over Samui’s tropical jungles on a zipline sound? It’s not meant for the faint-hearted, but this activity will definitely appeal to the adrenaline junkies in your team. Unleash your inner Tarzan (or Jane) as you take off from the platform and glide along the cable. It promises to be a visual feast – you’ll be rewarded with a bird’s eye view of the island’s lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls and rugged coastlines.

Where: Canopy Adventures

Location: Mae Nam, Ko Samui 84320, Thailand

Contact: +66 77 300 340

ATV Tours: Navigate Samui’s diverse terrains on four wheels

Navigate your way through mud trails, rocky mountains, lush jungles, meandering rivers and sandy coasts on the powerful ATV. Depending on what your team is comfortable with you can opt for a brief 20-minute tour, or a ride that last up to 2.5 hours.

Cycling tours: Exploring Samui on two wheels

Not quite an adventure junkie? Round up your team members, and get everyone to hop on a bike to discover Samui’s pictureque beauty on two wheels.  For a leisurely trip join in a half-day tour that takes you past along the south eastern coasts of the island, where you’ll ride past rugged coastlines, coconut groves and rubber plantations. Those who prefer a challenging and intensive bike ride may opt for a customised tour that involves navigating steep terrains and tricky trails.

Aquapark: Getting wet ‘n wild

Forget adventures on dry land – you’re one who likes it wet and wild. The perfect team activity for you is the Aquapark, where you’ll find large inflatables like bridges, trampolines and objects of various shapes and sizes that you can climb on. The little ones are welcome in this family-friendly activity, so it’s a great choice if your team members are bringing their family along for the retreat.

Location: Chaweng Beach and Bophut Bay

Beach clubs: Partying like a rockstar

At the end of the retreat it’s time to let your hair down at a fun-filled party. Samui throws up plenty of trendy party spots, and some of the best ones on the island are dotted along Chaweng’s lively coasts. For a night of dancing and revelry head to Hush Bar, Green Mango Club, or Ark Bar; if you prefer a relaxing night sipping cocktails, Coco Tam’s or Amaya Bar are chic venues that come with our recommendations.

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