Hua Thanon: The Muslim Fishing Village

Hua Thanon is a working fishing village on the southeast/south coast, just south of Lamai and the Hin Ta Hin Yai rocks. It is home to one of Samui's oldest communities: a largely Thai-Muslim population whose daily life still revolves around the fishing fleet. The brightly painted longtail and fishing boats along the shore are one of the island's most photographed sights. The village has a daily seafood market, traditional wooden shophouses, and the island's principal mosque (often described as the only one on Samui, though a few small prayer rooms exist elsewhere). The village also shows the island's mixed roots: a Chinese-influenced Guan Yu shrine and the Buddhist Wat Sila Ngu (the 'Red Temple', known for deep red carvings and a Buddha relic) sit close by. Very little here is aimed at tourists, which is exactly its appeal.

Details

Hua Thanon is a working fishing village on the southeast/south coast, just south of Lamai and the Hin Ta Hin Yai rocks. It is home to one of Samui's oldest communities: a largely Thai-Muslim population whose daily life still revolves around the fishing fleet. The brightly painted longtail and fishing boats along the shore are one of the island's most photographed sights. The village has a daily seafood market, traditional wooden shophouses, and the island's principal mosque (often described as the only one on Samui, though a few small prayer rooms exist elsewhere). The village also shows the island's mixed roots: a Chinese-influenced Guan Yu shrine and the Buddhist Wat Sila Ngu (the 'Red Temple', known for deep red carvings and a Buddha relic) sit close by. Very little here is aimed at tourists, which is exactly its appeal.

Highlights

• One of Samui's last traditional fishing fleets, with brightly painted boats
• Largely Thai-Muslim community; home to the island's main mosque
• Daily seafood market with the day's catch
• Chinese Guan Yu shrine and the red Buddhist temple Wat Sila Ngu nearby

Local tips

• Dress modestly in the village; it is a conservative Muslim community
• The beach is scenic but shallow with coral - better for walks and photos than swimming
• Morning is best to see the fishing boats and the market active

Frequently asked questions

Where is Hua Thanon?

On the southeast/south coast of Koh Samui, just south of Lamai Beach, along the ring road.

Can tourists visit Hua Thanon?

Yes. Visitors are welcome; it is a living village, not an attraction, so be respectful - modest dress and ask before photographing people.

Is there really a mosque on Koh Samui?

Yes. Hua Thanon is home to the island's best-known mosque, serving the village's Muslim community.