Hua Thanon · Landmarks
Hua Thanon Muslim Fishing Village
One of Koh Samui's oldest settlements and its last traditional Muslim fishing village. Colourful longtail boats, a working fish market, the island's central mosque and old wooden shophouses offer a glimpse of Samui before tourism. Free to wander; mornings are best.
- Free
- Hua Thanon
- Checked 25 Sept
Insider tips
- Dress modestly, this is a Muslim community
- Ask before photographing people up close
- Bring small cash for fruit or snacks from market stalls
- Combine with Guan Yu shrine and Hin Ta Hin Yai on the same trip
The story
Hua Thanon, on the south coast just beyond the Hin Ta Hin Yai rocks, is one of the oldest villages on Koh Samui and home to the island's long-established Muslim fishing community. Brightly painted fishing boats line the shore, and the village supplies much of the island's seafood through its daily fish market, where the morning catch is sold on the spot alongside fruit, vegetables and halal food stalls. The village also hosts Koh Samui's Central Mosque (Masjid Nurul Ihsan, built 1984 in Neo-Mughal style), old two-storey wooden shophouses along the ring road, and, deeper in the village, the Chinese-influenced Guan Yu shrine reflecting the area's mixed Hainanese heritage.
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Hua Thanon sees little tourism compared to the beach towns, so a stroll here is one of the most authentic cultural experiences on the island. It is free to walk around; go in the morning for the market at its liveliest, dress modestly, and be respectful when photographing people at work. The beach is shallow with coral, better for walks and photos than swimming.
Good to know
- Village always open; fish market liveliest in the morning
- Free
- Early to mid-morning for the fish market and boats
- Family friendly: Yes
Plan a visit
Free route: you go by your own scooter, car or on foot and we work out the order. Private tour: a local driver picks you up and takes you.
Checked 25 Sept 2026 · 5 sources
Sources and last check
- Last checked
- 25 Sept 2026
- What was checked
- Details checked 25 Sept 2026
- Next check due
- September 2027
Official sources
No official source published yet for this page.
Plus 5 other references and local research.
