Staying active on Samui: padel, golf, Muay Thai and wellness

Samui has quietly become a great island for staying active. Padel has grown fast, the Muay Thai scene is strong and welcoming to foreigners, and there is a spa for every budget.

Padel

Padel Tropical in Bophut is the premium club with roofed courts, pool, sauna and ice bath. Padel Samui in Choeng Mon publishes clear prices and has good coaching for kids. In Lamai, Padel Paradise is fully covered and has a friendly WhatsApp group to find partners. Bantai Padel in Maenam has open air courts among the trees.

Muay Thai

For authentic training go to Lamai Muay Thai Camp, but be ready for hill runs. Punch It Gym in south Lamai is great for beginners and solo female travellers. Superpro Samui in Chaweng Noi combines Muay Thai with MMA, BJJ and a full gym. Yodyut in the north east is my tip for clean technique.

Golf

Santiburi Samui above Maenam is the island's only 18 hole course, hilly with beautiful views. Book early in December and January.

Wellness

Tamarind Springs in the Lamai hills has herbal steam caves in the jungle. Kamalaya is the place for a real reset. Banyan Tree has a hydrotherapy circuit with sea views.