The tiny island of Koh Matsum (also spelled Koh Madsum) lies just south of Koh Samui. It's a neighboring island of Koh Tan and is usually included in boat trips to Koh Tan, either through travel agencies or by hiring a longtail boat from Thong Krut beach. In recent years, so-called wild boars have been released on the island – although "so-called wild boars" is a misleading term – to attract more visitors who take selfies with them on the beach. The island's lagoon is idyllic and photogenic. There's a small restaurant with a bar and even a 4-star hotel, "The Treasure Koh Madsum," on Koh Matsum.

In Ko Matsum, an entrance fee of 30 THB must now be paid upon arrival.

Besides the numerous tour operators offering boat trips from Koh Samui to Koh Taen and Koh Matsum, you can also travel independently to Thong Krut beach and hire a longtail boat to take you snorkeling off Koh Taen before dropping you off at Koh Matsum. The cost is approximately 1,800 THB per boat, plus 100 THB for equipment (mask and snorkel). However, keep in mind that tour operators often offer more comprehensive programs, including visits to the temple and cave on Koh Taen.

How to get there

How do you get to Koh Matsum? Besides the numerous tour operators offering boat trips to Koh Taen and Koh Matsum from Koh Samui, you can also travel independently to Thong Krut beach and hire a longtail boat that will take you snorkeling off Koh Taen and then drop you off at Koh Matsum. The cost is around 1,800 THB per boat plus 100 THB for equipment (mask and snorkel). Tour operators often offer more comprehensive programs, including visits to the temple and cave on Koh Taen.