Stone Stories of Koh Samui: Visiting the Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks
A short, sensory stop on Lamai’s shore—where folklore and erosion meet
You first see them from the turnoff: two squat silhouettes perched on the edge of Lamai’s shoreline, weathered and unmistakable. The Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks—Hin Yai and Hin Ta—are equal parts geology and local myth, a pair of coastal sentinels that have become one of Koh Samui’s most photographed oddities. On a bright day the surf threads white lace against blackened stone; on a humid evening the sky softens into syrupy pastel and the rocks throw long, human shadows.
Trail Wisdom
Visit early or at golden hour
Arrive just after sunrise for soft light and smaller crowds, or plan for late afternoon if you don’t mind people and want dramatic color.
Bring small change
There’s often a modest fee for the lower viewing platforms and vendors operate cash-only stalls nearby.
Watch your footing
Rocks are uneven and can be slippery when wet—wear sandals with grip or light trail shoes to get close safely.
Respect the shrine
Treat offerings and shrine spaces with care—no climbing on sacred features or removing objects.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small viewpoint west of the rocks with quieter coastal views
- •A family-run seafood shack a short walk inland that serves fresh catch at local prices
Wildlife
Monitor lizards sunning on coastal rocks, Seabirds such as terns and herons hunting the shallows
Conservation Note
The site is heavily visited; support local vendors, avoid leaving trash, and choose reef-safe sunscreen to reduce impacts on nearby marine life.
Locals tell a legend of an elderly couple turned to stone—Hin Ta (grandfather) and Hin Yai (grandmother)—a story that has tied the formations to local culture and tourism for decades.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer tourists, Warm sea temperatures, Short walks
Challenges: Occasional showers late in the season, Higher humidity
Spring (March–May) brings warm weather and fewer crowds than peak winter; expect short bursts of rain as the season advances.
summer
Best for: Budget travel, Long daylight hours, Vibrant local markets
Challenges: Likely heavy rain and rough seas, Some attractions may be quieter or closed
Summer is hotter and wetter; the rocks are still accessible but beach and boat conditions can be rough during monsoon bursts.
fall
Best for: Green landscapes, Lower accommodation prices, Short coastal hikes
Challenges: Unpredictable storms, Strong currents at times
Fall offers lush island scenery but can bring intermittent storms—check weather if you plan bayside stops.
winter
Best for: Clear skies, Calmer seas, Best photography light
Challenges: Peak tourist season (crowds), Higher prices
Winter (Dec–Mar) is the prime season for visiting—sunny, calm water and excellent visibility, but expect more visitors.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy sandals or light trail shoesEssential
Gives traction on uneven, potentially wet rock surfaces if you want to approach the shoreline.
Water bottle (1 L)Essential
Staying hydrated is important in tropical heat—there are vendors but carrying water saves time and money.
Wide-angle camera or smartphoneEssential
Captures the full scene and the surrounding coastline—useful for composition that includes foreground rock and surf.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hatEssential
Protects from sun exposure; reef-safe formulas help reduce harm if you swim nearby.
Common Questions
How long should I plan for the visit?
Most visitors spend 30–60 minutes at the rocks—longer if you shop the stalls, explore the lower platforms, or combine the stop with nearby beaches.
Is there an admission fee?
There is often a small fee or donation for access to the lower viewing platforms; vendors and small operators usually accept cash.
Are the rocks accessible for people with mobility issues?
Main viewing areas are reachable with minimal steps, but the lower platforms and shoreline access include steps and uneven surfaces—wheelchair access is limited.
Can I swim at the rocks?
The immediate area around the rocks can have strong currents and rocky seabed; safer swimming is typically found at nearby sandy beaches rather than directly at the formations.
Are there food and restroom facilities?
Yes—vendors, cold drinks and basic restrooms are available near the parking area; facilities are small and vary in cleanliness.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes—it's a short, easy stop that kids often find amusing, but supervise little ones near the rocks and shoreline due to uneven footing.
What to Pack
Water bottle (stay hydrated); sturdy sandals (grip on wet rock); reef-safe sunscreen (protect skin and reefs); cash (small fees and local vendors).
Did You Know
Hin Ta and Hin Yai’s names come from their resemblance to male and female anatomy; the formations are a natural result of coastal erosion and have been woven into a local legend about an elderly couple turned to stone.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to avoid crowds; carry small change for platform fees; combine the stop with nearby Lamai Beach or Na Muang Waterfall; wear shoes with good traction for rocky shorelines.
Local Flavor
Lamai blends beachside restaurants, Thai-Chinese vendors, and family-run seafood stalls—try grilled squid from a beachfront shack and sip a shaken Thai iced tea while watching fishermen at dusk.
Logistics Snapshot
Location: Lamai Beach, Koh Samui • Duration: 30–60 min • Access: short paved walk from parking • Fees: small platform fee or donation likely • Best time: sunrise or late afternoon • Facilities: vendors, basic restrooms
Sustainability Note
Respect shrine areas, avoid climbing on fragile rock features, use reef-safe sunscreen, and patronize local vendors to support community stewardship.