Destination Guide · Gulf of Thailand
Koh Madsum (Pig Island) by Private Boat from Koh Samui
A small uninhabited island famous for its swimming pigs, powder-white sand, and calm turquoise bay — one of the most photographed day-trip stops near Koh Samui.
- ~25 Min by Private Boat
- Half Day or Full Day Tours
- Swimming Pigs & Snorkeling
Travel Time
20 – 30 Min
Best For
Families & Photos
Entrance Fee
~100–200 THB
Tours Available
Half & Full Day
Koh Madsum, better known as Pig Island, is a tiny private islet roughly 25 minutes by private boat from Koh Samui’s main piers. The island earned its nickname from a small family of swimming pigs that live along the shoreline and happily paddle out to greet passing boats — a quirky, unforgettable moment that has made it one of the most-shared stops in the Gulf of Thailand.
Beyond the pigs, Koh Madsum offers a postcard-perfect bay of pale, powder-soft sand framed by clear, shallow turquoise water. The shallow reef just offshore is calm enough for snorkelers of every level, with visibility that’s typically best in the morning before afternoon winds pick up.
Most visitors combine Koh Madsum with a nearby stop such as Koh Taen on a half-day or full-day private charter, giving time to swim, snorkel, relax on the beach, and capture photos with the pigs before continuing the cruise. Because it’s privately run, a small access fee applies on arrival, separate from your boat charter price.
Swimming Pigs
A resident family of pigs that wade and swim out to meet arriving boats.
Powder-White Beach
Soft pale sand and a gently sloping shoreline ideal for relaxing.
Shallow Reef Snorkeling
Calm, clear water close to shore with colorful reef fish.
Turquoise Bay Views
Sweeping panoramic views perfect for photography and drone shots.
Photo-Famous Stop
One of the most photographed and shared island stops near Samui.
Easy Half-Day Access
Close enough to Samui to combine with other islands in one trip.
Best Months
December – April
Calmest seas, clearest water, and the most reliable sunshine of the year.
Best Time of Day
Morning Departure
Mornings bring flatter water, better snorkeling visibility, and fewer crowds.
Avoid
Oct – Nov Monsoon
Rougher seas and rain are more common; routes may be adjusted for safety.
- Departure from Naval Base, Koh Samui Koh Madsum (Pig Island), approx. 20–30 minutes by private boat
Travel Time
1. Approx. 20–30 minutes by private boat from Koh Samui
2. Often combined with Koh Taen in the same trip
Admission Fees
1. Island access fee approx. 100–200 THB per person
2. Paid locally, not included in charter price
What to Bring
1. Reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
2. Swimwear, towel, and a light cover-up
3. Cash for entrance fee & island drinks
Visit Koh Madsum
Half Day Morning
65K
Half Day Afternoon
68K
Full Day — Pig Island & Koh Tan
125K
Ideal Conditions
Dec – Apr
Good to Know
- 42 islands across a protected national park
- Full day only — not offered as a half-day trip
- Viewpoint hike involves ~ 400 steps
- Routes may change due to sea conditions
Can you actually swim with the pigs on Koh Madsum?
Yes. The pigs are accustomed to visitors and will often swim out to greet boats. Always follow your crew’s guidance, never feed pork products, and keep movements calm and slow.
How far is Koh Madsum from Koh Samui?
Koh Madsum sits roughly 20 to 30 minutes by private boat from the main departure points around Koh Samui, depending on sea conditions and your boarding location.
Is there an entrance fee for Pig Island?
A small local entrance or beach access fee is typically collected on the island. This is usually around 100 to 200 THB per person and is separate from your charter price.
What should I bring for a trip to Koh Madsum?
Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a light cover-up, cash for the entrance fee and any drinks on the island, and a waterproof phone pouch for photos are all recommended.
Is Koh Madsum suitable for children and non-swimmers?
Yes. The bay is calm and shallow near shore, life jackets are provided on board, and the pig encounter and beach time do not require swimming ability.
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