Best Muay Thai gyms in Koh Samui

With over 1400 islands, Thailand offers a variety of retreats for vacationers. Three of the country's most popular islands are located on the east coast near the province of Surat Thani: Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket - and possibly the most popular with tourists. Just 12 kilometers to the north lies the slightly smaller island of Koh Phangan, known for its monthly Full Moon beach party. Another 45 kilometers to the northwest you reach Koh Tao, one of Thailand's best places for snorkeling and diving. This archipelago is a must-see holiday destination in the Gulf of Thailand.

Many vacationers consider Koh Samui to be the most beautiful island in the Land of Smiles. It is home to a variety of family-friendly hotel resorts in all price ranges. The beaches offer countless water sports activities and you can hike through the picturesque jungle in the heart of the island. Not to mention that this paradise is perfect for professional Muay Thai training during a fitness trip.

Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and is practiced extensively in training camps and boxing stadiums. All limbs are used in combat, including knees and elbows. This earned the sport the nickname “The Art of Eight Limbs”. Many martial artists describe Muay Thai as the toughest combat sport in the world. Martial arts gyms can be found all over the country and we would like to recommend two for your next stay on Koh Samui.

Fitness training in paradise. The picturesque beaches on a Thai island like Koh Samui provide the perfect backdrop for Muay Thai and other martial arts.

In a Muay Thai gym on Koh Samui or one of its surrounding islands you will receive martial arts training by world-class coaches. You will strengthen your muscles, stamina and balance, as well as skills such as discipline and self-confidence. For experienced fighters, there are also sparring matches and professional fights in public stadiums. If you are only interested in improving your fitness instead, this is also an excellent option. Plus, our Muay Thai camps have offers for the whole family.

Info: There is no standardized romanization of the Thai language. This is why you will often find different spellings for sights and islands on the internet. However, they all refer to the same destination.

At a Muay Thai gym in Koh Samui you will meet many like-minded fitness friends. Together you can discover the beautiful corners of the Thai islands.

1. Tom Muay Thai

Our first Muay Thai camp on Koh Samui is located in the north-eastern part of the island at Tom Muay Thai, Amphoe Ko Samui, Surat Thani, 84320.

Start your martial arts journey now at Tom Muay Thai Gym

History & Trainers

The martial arts camp leader is the Russian Artem Artemov. He studied at Brooklyn Law School in New York, USA and founded the Muay Thai gym in Koh Samui in 2013. The trainers also speak fluent English. The international nature of the gym is one of its greatest strengths. Here you will get to know like-minded athletes from all over the world. Over the years, the gym has trained many successful fighters who regularly compete in the Muay Thai stadiums on Koh Samui. If you also want to compete at a professional level, events are held several times a week for the gym's team of pro fighters. For example, the Muay Thai Super Fight at the Samui International Muay Thai Stadium, or the Fight Night at the Phetchbuncha Boxing Stadium.

Classes & program

The Muay Thai training groups are formed according to gender. By separating male and female sessions, the coaches can focus precisely on the different requirements. It also makes sparring matches fairer. Sparring matches are not mandatory, but are only arranged between the athletes on explicit request. In addition to Muay Thai, other martial arts are trained at the gym, primarily Western Boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). There is also a group course for CrossFit with a professional trainer. Experienced professionals also run the special children's courses. Taking part in your Muay Thai training in Koh Samui at a young age strengthens physical fitness, movement coordination and self-confidence.

The trainers at Tom Muay Thai Gym are passionate professionals in teaching children. They guarantee perfect fitness training for your whole family.

Location

The gym is located in a beautiful yet quiet area with many vacation apartments and homestays. The airport and the beaches in Bo Phut are within easy reach at all times. Access to the island's main road 4169 is just two intersections away.

• Restaurants and accommodation 200 m
  
• Makro Shopping center 1.2 km
  
• Si Khao Night Market 1.2 km
  
• Big C Supercenter 1.3 km
  
• Chaweng Beach 3.2 km
  
• Samui International Muay Thai Stadium 4 km
  
• Easykart Go kart and EasySurf Surfing School 4.5 km
  
• Samui Airport 5 km
  
• Football Golf 7 km
  
  

Opening hours & class schedule

• Monday - Saturday: 8am - 8pm
  
• Sunday: closed
  
• Morning group session: 8am - 10am
  
• Afternoon group session: 3pm - 5pm
  
• Girls session: Mon, Wed, Fri, 10am - 11:30am
  
• Children’s session: Mon, Wed, Fri, 5pm - 6pm
  

Muay Thai training on Koh Samui combines fitness and self-defense. Even if you don't plan to step into the ring yourself, helpful skills are taught.

Prices

• Group session Men 1 time: 400 Baht
• Group session Men 12 times: 4.000 Baht
• Group session Women 1 time: 300 Baht
• Group session Children 1 time: 300 Baht
• Group session Women/Children 12 times: 3.000 Baht
• Private session 1 time: 1.000 Baht

Find out more about Tom Muay Thai on our booking platform.

Tom Muay Thai

2. Muay Thai Chinnarach

Our second gym is not located on Koh Samui, but on the nearby island of Koh Phangan to the north. The address is 148/22 M.1 Ko Phangan, Surat Thani, 84280.

Book your fitness trip now with Muay Thai Chinnarach

History & trainers

The Chinnarach Muay Thai camp in Koh Phangan is one of the island's longest running Thai boxing gyms, being established in 2005. The owner of the Chinnarach Gym and head coach is Suchin “Kru Chin” Kanjanasuwan. During his active time in the early 2000s, he dominated the featherweight division in Thailand. He won the Lumpinee and Rajadamnern stadium titles several times and was a two-time World Champion. Shortly after his retirement, he moved to Koh Phangan with his family. Together with his team, he now delivers expert Muay Thai training.

Kru Billy is a master of Muay Thai and western boxing. With over 150 Muay Thai and 50 boxing matches under his belt, he has a wealth of experience in both sports. And his successes are impressive. During his active career, he was the best super flyweight boxer in Thailand and, according to the World Boxing Council, one of the best in the world. He also maintained a five-year winning streak.

Kru Keng and Kru Tem are skilled in the Muay Khao fighting style, which specializes in the use of knee techniques. Both were Southern Thailand champions. Kru Keng is a veteran of the Muay Thai stadiums in Bangkok. He fought over 150 fights in Lumpinee and Rajadamnern. He can help you with all matters if you want to pursue a professional boxing career. Kru Tem often gets into the ring himself at the Koh Phangan fight nights.

Pad work offers you the opportunity to train the strength and accuracy of your attacks. Your coach in a private session can assess your progress up close and provide you with advice.

Classes & program

The Muay Thai group session includes typical warm-up and training methods such as rope skipping, shadow boxing, sparring and punching bag. In the one-hour private session, the trainer identifies your areas for improvement and focuses on your individual training.

The Muay Thai classes are open to everyone, regardless of previous experience or age. However, if you are completely new to martial arts, you can receive a short private introduction from the coach. He will familiarize you with the training methods and striking techniques of Muay Thai. You also don't need to do any sparring or clinching training if you don't want to. If you want to stay as close as possible to the gym, Chinnarach offers basic accommodation at a low price.

The management at Chinnarach Muay Thai gym can also arrange fights for you in one of the four stadiums on the island. They have their own stadium, called Chinnarach Muaythai Stadium. They often organize the big West vs. East battle there. Athletes from Western countries compete against fighters from Asian countries.

Strength training also plays a major role in a Muay Thai gym. The Body Pump Class focuses on muscular endurance exercises.

Location

Koh Phangan or Ko Pha Ngan is an island that is a little smaller than Koh Samui but just as paradisiacal. It is not yet as widely developed for tourism as its neighboring island. You can easily reach it from many places on Samui by boat. Possible piers include Nathon Pier, Bangrak Pier and Maenam Pier. Ferries and speedboats travel between the two islands several times a day. The trip takes 30-60 minutes and costs between 200 and 350 baht, depending on the type of boat and operator. The most convenient way to buy a ticket is online on a travel agency platform. Alternatively, you can also book a trip at the Samui airport or directly at the respective pier. To reach the Chinnarach Muay Thai gym, take a ferry to Thong Sala Pier. From there it is only a 20 minute walk or 5 minutes by cab and scooter.

• Ko Pha-Ngan District office & Immigration office 0.4 km
• Pantip market & Pier 0.9 km
• Local clinics 0.9 km
• Supermarket 2.1 km

Opening hours & class schedule

• Monday - Saturday: 7am - 8pm
• Sunday: No group classes
• Morning session: 8am - 10am
• Afternoon session: 4pm - 6pm
• Private sessions available: 10am - 4pm

Prices

• Muay Thai Group session: 400 Baht
• Muay Thai 10 sessions: 3.500 Baht
• Muay Thai sessions 1 week (1 session/day): 2.000 Baht
• Muay Thai sessions 1 month (1 session/day): 8.000 Baht
• Private session: 800 Baht
• Private session with Kru Chin: 2.500 Baht
• Body Pump session: 250 Baht

The martial art of Muay Thai allows knee kicks. These can be practiced in quick succession on the punching bag. In this way, rarely used muscle regions are activated.

Discover the Chinnarach Muay Thai Camp on our booking platform.

Tom Muay Thai

Attractions & activities

After sweat-inducing martial arts training in a Muay Thai gym in Koh Samui, there are plenty of recreational activities for you to enjoy. The most efficient way to explore both Koh Samui and Koh Phangang is with a rental vehicle. Both cars and motorcycles are available for cheap prices at the many rental offices and hotels. However, as everywhere in Thailand, caution is advised when driving your own vehicle. The roads are not the best in some places and both the traffic and the weather can be unpredictable.

Koh Samui offers numerous attractions for the whole family. It is worth exploring the entire island during your stay.

1. Koh Samui

The 50 km long ring road 4169 completely circles Koh Samui. If you decide to rent a car or scooter, you can reach all the most important places on the island from there. The most popular highlight of Koh Samui are definitely its beaches.

• Chaweng Beach: Located on the east coast of Koh Samui. It stretches over six kilometers and is the most popular beach on the island. With many resorts, restaurants and stores nearby, the beach has a dynamic atmosphere. If you've come for a relaxing vacation by the pool or for the exciting nightlife, you'll find just that here. A few hundred meters off the coast of Chaweng Beach lies the uninhabited island of Koh Matlang. You can explore it by kayak or at low tide.

• Crystal Beach: Also known as Silver Beach and Thongtakian, is a small but fine sandy beach. Hidden in a bay, it is managed by several resorts. Nevertheless, you can enter and enjoy the beach for free. There are kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for hire. As it is no longer an insider tip these days, you should visit the beach in the early hours of the morning before it gets crowded.

Nowhere else in Thailand will you find so many high-class vacation resorts as on Koh Samui. But there are also some options for those on a budget. The three islands in the southern Gulf of Thailand are very diverse.

• Tongson Beach: This small stretch of beach is located at the north-eastern end of Koh Samui. From the northernmost point of the island, you have a lovely view of the neighboring island of Koh Phangan on a clear day.

• Choengmon Beach: This beach is arguably less crowded than nearby Chaweng Beach. It offers activities for the whole family in a quieter atmosphere. After a day of various water sports, you can spend the day with a massage on the beach or relax in the many restaurants and bars. The nearby island of Koh Fan Yai can be easily reached by swimming or walking at low tide.

• Maenam Beach: A truly peaceful beach is the 7-kilometer-long Maenam Beach. Also located in the north of the island, but further away from the large tourist resorts. After a leisurely stroll or a swim against this dream backdrop, you can relax in the beach bars and massage stands. You can sample authentic Thai delicacies in the many small cafés and go shopping in the evening at the nearby night market.

The gorgeous beaches are the ideal backdrop for Muay Thai training and other activities in Koh Samui.

• Crystal Cove Beach: Another well-hidden beach cove on Samui's east coast lined with palm trees, rocks and a small restaurant.

• Lipa Noi Beach and Taling Ngam Beach, located in the south and southwest of Koh Samui respectively, are also less crowded. Nevertheless, there are already beautiful luxury accommodations and cozy beach restaurants.

There are around 40 beaches and bays along the whole coastline of Koh Samui. So these few are just our highlights. The next time you explore the coastal road, you might find your own personal dream beach. The selection of neighboring hotel resorts also leaves nothing to be desired. From cozy bungalows and affordable hotels with pools to luxurious beachfront villas, there is something for everyone. The highlight is a dinner in one of the many restaurants with spectacular sea views.

• Samui International Airport: The island's airport is a small attraction in itself. Koh Samui International Airport is one of the most unique airports in the world. You may have already seen it in some of the ranking lists of the most beautiful airports. It is an open-air airport with thatched roofs and a tropical ambience. Its appearance is reminiscent of a large beach bar in an idyllic holiday resort. The vacation atmosphere makes you forget that you actually came to catch a flight.

• Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple, is the most famous Buddhist temple on Koh Samui. The temple complex houses many cozy cafés and food stalls. It is located in the northeast on the small island of Koh Fan (Ko Phan), which is connected to Samui by road. The twelve-meter-high golden Buddha statue is the impressive landmark of Koh Samui.

• Wat Plai Leam Temple, also known as Nuan Na Ram, is a peaceful and colorful temple not far from the Big Buddha. It is located in a lake inhabited by fish and turtles. The grounds are home to some beautifully decorated statues, most notably the 18-armed goddess Guanyin and the Laughing Buddha.

In Koh Samui you can visit some beautifully decorated Buddhist temples.

On Koh Samui you will find a variety of zoos and animal shows. However, most of them are rather unethical attractions. The animals are exploited for entertainment purposes. If you are planning to visit one of these activities, please find out in advance how the animals are treated. One truly ethical facility we recommend is the Samui Elephant Sanctuary in Bophut. Here elephants are kept in their natural habitat. Visitors are allowed to feed them and walk with them through the jungle. However, they are not allowed to ride, bathe or constantly touch them, as this is cruelty to the animals.

• Tarnim & Magic Garden: This secret Buddha garden is hidden in the dense jungle in the heart of Koh Samui. You can hike through the wooded hills and indulge in the tranquil atmosphere. The statues created by a local fruit farmer depict various deities, animals and scenes from Buddhist mythology. Admire the lush vegetation, waterfalls, artful statues and exotic animals.

In the dense jungle in the center of Koh Samui, you will come across many picturesque waterfalls. They are particularly stunning during the rainy season when there is more water.

• Fisherman's Village: A charming historical part of the island near Bophut Beach The Walking Street features old wooden Chinese shop-houses and trendy restaurants. A vibrant night market takes place every other day. You can sample the local street food cuisine, listen to live music, buy souvenirs and watch the spectacular fire artists.

• Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks: The Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks are a famous rock formation that resemble male and female genitalia. They are located on the south coast of Samui near Lamai Beach. The breathtaking beauty of nature is complemented by the Thai folklore that is told about the rocks. The nearby beach invites you to linger and on the street you will find many food stalls and souvenir stores.

Koh Samui offers some fascinating rock formations. The Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks are by far the most famous.

There are several viewpoints on Koh Samui. Most of them require a steep climb before you are worthy of taking a panoramic picture for your Instagram. Here are the ones with the best views.

• Lamai Viewpoint: A scenic viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Lamai Beach and the surrounding areas. The site features a small waterfall and the Valentine Stone, a heart-shaped stone that is a popular spot for couples. You also have the option of taking the cable car from above to increase the thrill.

• Wat Khao Chedi: This small temple is located on a mountain in the south of Koh Samui. Here you are far away from mass tourism. The golden Buddha statue can be seen from afar and the view out to sea is breathtaking.

• Overlap Stone: A large stone stands on a rock platform. It looks so surreal that you could be forgiven for thinking it was manmade. But it's not! And the view of the beach and jungle is magnificent.

The viewpoints on Koh Samui, such as the fascinating Overlap Stone, offer you many great photo opportunities.

Where to watch Muay Thai on Koh Samui?

Do you need a break from training and want to watch your fellow gym mates battle it out in the boxing ring instead? Or maybe you're interested in where you could get into the ring yourself? Check out these Muay Thai stadiums on Koh Samui to watch professional fights.

• Samui International Muay Thai Stadium: This boxing stadium on Koh Samui is located near the crowded Chaweng Beach in the popular nightlife area of Soi Reggae. The Fight Nights take place every Tuesday and Friday and additionally on Sundays during high season. The best local and international fighters go all out in traditional Thai boxing and bare knuckle fights.

• Phetchbuncha Boxing Stadium: The other popular Muay Thai stadium at Chaweng is just a few bars down the road. Fight Night takes place here every Wednesday and Saturday. And as a tip: If you pre-order your ticket for the stadium online, it's usually cheaper.

2. Koh Phangan

• Full Moon Party: Koh Phangan is known worldwide for the Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach. This huge beach party attracts tens of thousands of travelers to the Thai island every month around the day of the full moon. The entire promenade is lined with bar tents and dance floors, the music of one louder than the other. The partygoers dress up in glow-in-the-dark clothes and have themselves painted with neon colors. Alcohol is drunk together from buckets. People dance all night long and there are light shows and fire artists to marvel at. You can also prove yourself by skipping with a burning rope - but after a few drinks, we wouldn't recommend it. Better visit your Muay Thai gym for some rope jumping. Also, find out in advance what to be aware of, such as wearing sturdy shoes and where you should get a good night's sleep the next morning.

In the evening, the Thai fire artists transform the beaches on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan into a sparkling spectacle.

• Bottle Beach: This picture-perfect beach is remotely located in the north of the island. There are three ways to reach the beach: By four-wheel drive vehicle, by boat, or (we recommend) after an exciting hike through the jungle. Good footwear is required. For adventurous hikers, the viewpoint on the forested mountains in front of it offers a mind-blowing view.

Than Sadet National Park: On a hike through the jungle-covered hills, you can discover waterfalls, viewpoints and a beach cove.

Surrounding islands

While you take a short break from your Muay Thai training, you can also take a trip to the surrounding waters. There are many other lovely islands around Koh Samui that are well worth a visit.

South of Koh Samui are the two small islands of Koh Taen and Koh Matsum, or Koh Mudsum. As they are only a 20-30 minute boat ride away, a visit is an ideal day trip. At the southern Thong Krut Pier, you can book a traditional Thai longtail boat and go on a private discovery tour. As not many tourists visit the two islands and they are only inhabited by a handful of people, you will find mostly untouched nature. You can relax undisturbed on the long sandy beaches and enjoy the Thai sea. The coral reefs surrounding Koh Taen are one of the best snorkeling spots in the entire archipelago. A hike through the jungle to the viewpoint with a Buddha statue in the southwest is also recommended, as is an exploration of the bat cave in the bay. Koh Madsum is significantly smaller, but offers a small attraction in the form of unusual beach dwellers: a family of wild pigs enjoy themselves by the sea and are happy to be fed by tourists. According to the common story, they were taken out of captivity a few years ago by the owner of the island resort and released at the beach.

One destination that is currently very popular with backpackers is Koh Tao. This island also impresses with its beautiful beaches and secluded bays. The highlight is clearly the small neighboring island of Koh Nang Yuan. The viewpoint, which you reach after a short hike, is one of the most popular spots for memorable photos. Another, less crowded spot is John-Suwan Viewpoint in the south of Koh Tao, located next to Freedom Beach. You reach the panoramic view over the mountains and bay after a challenging hike surrounded by jungle and rocks. As already mentioned, Koh Tao is a perfect destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can book a reasonably priced day tour directly at most accommodations. They will take you to all the well-known bays on the island, from where you can marvel at the Thai underwater world.

The world-famous viewpoint on Koh Nang Yuan is located directly off Koh Tao and attracts photographers and influencers every day.

The natural paradise of Mu Koh Ang Thong National Park is located just 30 kilometers northwest of Koh Samui. There are over 40 protected islands here, covering an area of over 100 square kilometers. As the average water depth is only around 10 meters, the area is ideal for activities such as kayaking and snorkeling. There are many hidden bays and caves among the huge limestone cliffs. On the largely uninhabited islands, there are beautiful sandy beaches and breathtaking viewpoints that you can reach after a short hike. Access to the national park is only permitted as part of a guided tour. You can book these at all hotels and travel agencies on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.

NOW

Koh Samui is probably the most popular vacation island in Thailand. And for good reason, as it offers a variety of relaxing, exciting and family-friendly activities. The island paradise is also becoming increasingly popular with martial arts fans. Muay Thai camps on Koh Samui and the neighboring island of Koh Phangan offer top quality courses. There you can learn the techniques of Thailand's national sport up close.

Discover for yourself and book your training at a Muay Thai gym in Koh Samui on our booking platform. Then nothing can stand in the way of your next vacation in Thailand, the Land of Smiles.

Muay Thai gym in Koh Samui