Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

The main reason for traveling south is the pagoda itself: golden, intricately decorated, and situated almost directly on the water, overlooking the bay and the islands beyond. Most temples on Koh Samui have parking lots full of minibuses. This one doesn't. Reviewers consistently describe it with the same words: quiet, authentic, relaxed – and that perfectly suits its location near Bang Kao, off the beaten tourist track.

Take an hour to explore. Inside the boathouse, you'll find a large ship with a statue of a monk, surrounded by small model boats left behind by people whose wishes came true. This place is just as worth seeing as the pagoda. There's a pavilion to relax in, crabs on the rocks, a pleasant sea breeze to ease the heat, and dogs frolicking around the grounds in the evenings. Photographers will be in their element here. If you still have energy, you can then visit Wat Khao Chedi.