Pig Island Experience By Speed Boat, Snorkeling, Kayaking Relaxing on the Beach

This tour in Koh Samui promises a combination of adventure, relaxation, and adorable animal encounters. We’ve gathered plenty of honest feedback to paint a clear picture of what you can expect, so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we love: The chance to get up close with the friendly pigs at Pig Beach, the smooth organization from hotel pickup to drop-off, and the variety of activities like snorkeling and kayaking.
One thing to consider: The tour can get crowded, and weather conditions might impact some activities like snorkeling, which could limit your experience.
Best suited for: Families, animal lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed day on the water with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to unwind on a beautiful beach.

Good To Know

• Animal Encounters: Feed, pet, and watch the pigs that roam freely on Koh Madsum.
• Snorkeling & Kayaking: Enjoy shallow waters teeming with fish, with equipment included, but water clarity can vary.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, round-trip transfers, and lunch on the beach make this a hassle-free day trip.
• Group Size & Atmosphere: Tours typically accommodate up to 35 travelers, with some feedback on crowded conditions.
• Cost & Value: At approximately $54 per person, the tour offers a good balance between activity variety and relaxed pace, though some think the experience could be better organized.
• Wildlife & Environment: Pigs and dogs are friendly, but some reviews mention litter and less-than-ideal beach maintenance.

Introduction: What Is the Pig Island Experience?

Imagine cruising across the waters of Koh Samui on a speedboat, with the breeze in your hair and an exciting day ahead of you. This tour blends water-based activities—snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming—with a visit to Koh Madsum, famously known as Pig Beach, where adorable rescued pigs roam and lounge freely. It’s an experience that ticks all the boxes for a relaxed yet fun-filled day.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the chance to see and interact with the pigs is genuinely charming; they’re surprisingly friendly and often seek petting or food. Second, the ease of logistics—hotel pickup, round-trip transfers, and all gear included—means you can focus on enjoying the day rather than stressing about the details. Lastly, the mix of activities like snorkeling at Koh Tan and kayaking around Koh Madsum keeps the experience dynamic and engaging.

That said, it’s not without its quirks. Some reviews note that the day can feel rushed or crowded, especially when multiple boats dock at Pig Island simultaneously. Plus, weather and water conditions may impact snorkeling or swimming, so flexibility is key.

This tour suits travelers looking for a chilled-out day with playful animals, scenic views, and a taste of Thai hospitality. If you’re into nature, friendly animals, and light adventure, you’ll likely find this a worthwhile addition to your island itinerary.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Stop 1: Koh Tan – Snorkeling and Exploring

Your day kicks off with a speedboat ride to Koh Tan, a shallow coral reef area. Expect to snorkel in waters that are supposed to be clear but can sometimes be murky, depending on recent weather. Snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided, but some reviewers mention that water visibility can vary—so don’t expect a full-blown coral spectacle every time. Still, you’ll have the chance to see fish and coral up close, which makes for a fun and accessible underwater experience.

A highlight for many is the relaxed vibe—this isn’t a deep-sea dive but a shallow, beginner-friendly spot perfect for families or casual snorkelers. One reviewer mentioned that wearing a life jacket helps keep you floating and safe, especially if you’re not comfortable in deep water.

Stop 2: Koh Madsum (Pig Beach) – The Main Attraction

Next, you’ll head to Koh Madsum, or Pig Island, a favorite among visitors for its friendly, rescued pigs that roam the beach freely. The pigs are often seen wandering, resting, or eagerly waiting for food—some even approach you at your table or while you’re relaxing on the sand. Several reviews mention that the pigs are surprisingly gentle and enjoy being fed or petted, making this a uniquely memorable animal encounter.

However, some visitors note that the beach tends to get crowded and littered, with stray dogs and unkempt surroundings. One reviewer described the environment as “not well maintained,” with garbage and feces present on the beach. Despite this, many still find the pigs adorable and a highlight of the day.

Activities here include feeding the pigs (food available for purchase), walking around the small island, or simply relaxing on the white sandy beach. A few reviews also mention a short hike to the top of the island for better views.

Stop 3: Kayaking and Beach Relaxation

Kayaking is included, and most guests find it a fun way to explore the calm waters around Koh Madsum. However, quite a few reviewers point out that the kayak area can be crowded, and sometimes there aren’t enough oars for everyone—so you might be limited to just a few in the water at a time.

Lunch on the beach is generally well-received, with a buffet that offers variety, including vegetarian options. Reviewers mention the food as plentiful and tasty, with some noting that the environment—flies, stray dogs, and stray animals—might not be perfect, but the overall experience remains enjoyable.

Final stop: Bang Kao Pier

The tour concludes back at Bang Kao Pier, on the southwest coast of Koh Samui. It’s a straightforward drop-off point, and from here, guests can arrange their own transport back to their hotels. Some reviews mention the convenience of the pickup and drop-off service, which streamlines the whole experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Round-trip transfer from your hotel, making logistics stress-free
• Snorkeling equipment and life jackets, for easy underwater adventures
• Lunch served on the beach, with options for different dietary preferences
• Bottled water to keep everyone hydrated
• Accident insurance for peace of mind
• An English-speaking guide to answer questions and share local insights
• Kayaking equipment for those wanting to paddle around

Not Included:

• Entrance fee to Pig Island, costing around 50 THB (roughly $1.50 USD) per person, payable on-site

Additional considerations:

Many reviewers emphasize the value of the included transfers and gear—these make the experience more accessible and less stressful. However, some have pointed out the need for better organization regarding the kayak availability and more consistent beach maintenance.

The Experience from Reviews and Insights

Many guests praise the friendly, helpful guides like Arlix, who are attentive and informative. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ humor and good communication, which help make the trip more enjoyable. One guest noted that the tours are well-organized from pickup to drop-off, with clear instructions at each stage.

The animal encounters are a major highlight; the pigs, including piglets, are described as “adorable,” “gentle,” and “friendly.” Feeding them is a common activity, and many travelers comment on how surprising it is to pet pigs that seem so well cared for—though some warn about the litter and unclean surroundings. The dogs on the island are also friendly, adding to the lively atmosphere.

On the water, snorkeling can be hit or miss depending on weather. Several reviews mention that wind and rain can cloud the water and reduce visibility, which might be frustrating for snorkelers expecting vibrant coral reefs. Kayaking can also feel somewhat limited when the water gets crowded or equipment isn’t enough for everyone.

Food quality receives mixed feedback. Many guests find the buffet plentiful and tasty, especially after a day out on the water. However, some mention that the environment for eating—flying insects, stray dogs—could be cleaner or better maintained.

The crowd factor

A recurring theme across reviews is crowding. Pig Island can get busy, especially during peak seasons, and some visitors found the experience less intimate than they hoped. One reviewer observed that the island’s overbreeding pigs and the crowded beach diminish the feeling of a genuine sanctuary. If you prefer quiet, this might be a downside.

Price and value

At around $54 per person, the tour offers a good variety of activities—snorkeling, kayaking, feeding animals, and relaxing on a scenic beach. Many reviews highlight the value for money, especially considering all gear, transfers, and lunch are included. That said, if your primary goal is high-quality snorkeling or pristine beaches, you might find this tour more about the fun activities and animal encounters.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is ideal for families, animal lovers, and relaxed travelers wanting a light adventure day. If you enjoy seeing animals in a friendly environment, capturing fun photos with pigs and dogs, or just floating in shallow waters, you’ll find plenty to love here. The included transfers and hassle-free organization make it a straightforward choice for travelers who appreciate convenience.

Those seeking more solitude or top-tier snorkeling should be aware that water visibility can vary, and the beach environment isn’t pristine. If you’re looking for a peaceful, untouched paradise, other options might suit you better.

The Sum Up

The Pig Island Experience offers an enjoyable mix of animal fun, scenic water activities, and relaxing beach time. It’s a well-organized tour that’s especially attractive for families, casual water lovers, and anyone wanting a gentle day out with a quirky animal twist.

Although it can get crowded, the chance to feed and interact with the friendly pigs and explore Koh Madsum remains a highlight. The included gear, lunch, and transfers add to the value, making it a convenient and scenic way to spend a day in Koh Samui.

For travelers who prioritize light adventure, animal encounters, and easy logistics, this tour provides a memorable outing. If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun-filled day with plenty of photo ops and a taste of island life, it’s likely to meet or even exceed your expectations.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from your hotel, which makes getting to and from the pier stress-free.

How much does the entrance to Pig Island cost?
The entrance fee is approximately 50 THB (around $1.50 USD) per person, payable directly on-site.

What activities are offered on this tour?
You’ll experience snorkeling at Koh Tan, kayaking around Koh Madsum, and relaxing on the beach. Feeding the pigs and enjoying the scenery are also main highlights.

What should I bring?
It’s good to bring a towel, waterproof shoes for snorkeling or walking, and some cash for extra purchases like pig food or souvenirs. Sunscreen and water are provided.

Is the water clear enough for snorkeling?
Water clarity can vary depending on recent weather conditions. Some guests mention murky water, so don’t expect crystal-clear visibility every time.

How crowded does Pig Island get?
During peak seasons, the island can be busy, and the beach environment might be less pristine due to litter and other animals. Arriving early can help avoid some crowds.

Is this suitable for small children?
Yes, many reviews mention that families with children enjoyed the activities, especially the gentle pigs and shallow waters. Just keep an eye on young kids during water activities.

In short, the Pig Island Experience in Koh Samui offers a delightful mix of playful animals, scenic water activities, and hassle-free organization. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a relaxed, fun-filled day, with plenty of chances to capture memorable moments and unwind on Thailand’s beautiful coast.