Hin Ta Hin Yai, Koh Samui: The Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks

Hin Ta and Hin Yai, the "Grandfather and Grandmother rocks", are two granite formations at the south end of Lamai beach on Koh Samui. Their shapes made them famous, a local legend explains them, and the short visit takes 20–40 minutes. Go early in the morning or late afternoon, then spend the rest of the day on Lamai beach, in its cafés and at the evening market. Our Koh Samui Itineraries include a Lamai day that starts at the rocks.

What Hin Ta and Hin Yai are

Hin means rock, ta means grandfather on the mother's side, and yai means grandmother. One rock looks like male anatomy, the other like female anatomy. The best-known local legend tells of an elderly couple on their way to arrange a marriage for their grandson. Their boat sank in a storm, they drowned, and the two rocks appeared on the shore where they died.

Thai visitors treat the place with humour, but it is still connected to a story about a death and to fertility beliefs. Take your photos, smile, and skip the loud jokes next to people who come to pay respect.

How to visit

• Location. At the southern end of Lamai, just off the ring road. Follow the signs down a short lane lined with souvenir stalls.
• Getting there. From central Lamai, about 5–10 minutes by scooter or taxi, or a 25–40-minute beach and road walk. From Chaweng, roughly 20–30 minutes by car.
• Time. 20–40 minutes for the rocks and the shore. Add time if you browse the stalls.
• Entry. Usually free or a small donation. Parking for scooters and cars nearby may cost a little.
• Footing. The rocks are smooth and can be slippery when wet. Sandals with grip are better than flip-flops, and stay off the rocks when waves break over them.

The lane to the rocks is known for Samui's coconut sweets and kalamae, a sticky caramel-like sweet made from coconut milk, rice flour and palm sugar. It makes a cheap souvenir. Ask for a taste first.

A day in Lamai

Lamai is Samui's second-largest beach area: quieter than Chaweng, with a long sandy bay and a compact centre. A relaxed day might look like this:

• 08:00 Hin Ta Hin Yai. Before tour groups arrive and before the heat.
• 09:00 Breakfast in Lamai. Plenty of cafés along the main road and near the beach.
• 10:00–14:00 Lamai beach. The northern and middle parts of the beach are popular for swimming in calm weather. Watch for flags, as rip currents occur here when the wind is strong.
• 15:00 Wat Khunaram (optional). About 10–15 minutes south by car. The temple displays the mummified body of a respected monk. Dress modestly.
• Sunset. Lamai faces east, so the sunset is behind you. For sunset over the water, drive 25–35 minutes to the west coast near Nathon or Lipa Noi.
• Evening. Lamai has a weekly night market and many food stalls. Days and locations change; ask your hotel what runs this week.

Swimming and the sea in Lamai

From roughly January to September the bay is usually calm enough for easy swimming. From October to December the northeast monsoon can bring big waves and strong currents to the east coast. Beaches on Samui are not patrolled by lifeguards in the way many visitors expect from Europe or Australia. If you see red flags or heavy surf, stay out of the water.

Plan B for rain

If it rains, keep the rocks short and switch to indoor options in Lamai: a Thai massage, a cooking class or a long lunch. Light rain is not a problem for the rocks, but avoid them in a storm because of waves and slippery stone.

If you have more time in Lamai, walk the full length of the beach in the early morning. The north end is quieter and more open; the middle has most of the bars and restaurants; the south end leads to the rocks and the small coves beyond them. Beach massages and drinks are easy to find. In the evenings Lamai is calmer than Chaweng, with a few bars and live music, but it doesn't run all night.

Lamai also makes a good base for exploring the south of the island. From here, Hua Thanon, Wat Khunaram, Laem Sor Pagoda and Thong Krut are all within 10–30 minutes by car, and Na Muang waterfall is about 15–20 minutes inland.

Getting around Lamai

Central Lamai is walkable, and songthaews run along the ring road during the day. For trips to the rocks, the temple or the waterfall, a taxi or ride-hailing car is easiest; agree the price before you get in. Many visitors rent scooters here, but the same rule applies as everywhere on Samui: only with a valid motorcycle licence, a helmet and insurance that covers you. Evening traffic on the ring road is fast and poorly lit in places.

Frequently asked questions

Is Hin Ta Hin Yai worth visiting?

As a short stop, yes. It is quick, close to Lamai and part of the island's folklore. Don't make a special half-day trip just for it; combine it with Lamai beach or Wat Khunaram.

How much time do I need at the Grandfather and Grandmother rocks?

20–40 minutes is enough for the rocks and photos.

Is Lamai good for swimming?

Often, from about January to September. In the monsoon months the sea can be rough. Check flags and conditions each day.

Plan your Lamai day

The Koh Samui Itineraries include south-coast and Lamai routes with rain swaps, and Where to Stay in Koh Samui compares Lamai with Chaweng, Bophut and the quieter beaches. Both are available in English, Spanish or German.

Times and prices are planning estimates. Check current conditions before you go.