fbpx
Overlap Stone in Koh Samui Travel Guide: How to Visit & What To Expect

Overlap Stone in Koh Samui Travel Guide: How to Visit & What To Expect

Everything you need to know for that perfect photo
Alexander & VictoriaHi! We're Alex & Victoria - a digital nomad couple from Copenhagen escaping 9-5 to chase adventures in our beautiful world. Learn more about us here.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links (including links to Amazon) providing us with a small commission if you make a qualifying purchase – at no extra cost to you. We greatly appreciate your support! As always, we share our honest opinion and everything is written by us.
A balancing rock

The Overlap Stone in Koh Samui is a balancing rock, situated on another big rock providing grand views of Koh Samui’s east coast.

It might even be the best Koh Samui viewpoint.

When we visited in early 2019 we were all alone at the Overlap Stone.

We hung around, took some photos and really enjoyed the tranquillity of the place.

Even without the rock, it would still be a really cool and picturesque area.

Not too many people know about Overlap Stone (yet!), so visiting still feels like a small adventure off the beaten path in Koh Samui.

Here’s our guide to visiting Overlap Stone, including what to expect, practicalities, how to find the stone and more.

Important update (2023): It has come to our attention that the experience at Overlap Stone has changed quite significantly since our visit.

First of all, it has become much more popular. It seems like people are now lining up for the famed photo. Secondly, it seems like parking is now 50 baht and there is also an entrance fee of 50 baht (~ 1.4 USD / 1.3 EUR).

Where to stay in Koh Samui:

Search for the best value accommodation in Koh Samui here.

Victoria walking on the bridge towards the Overlap Stone
The Overlap Stone in all of its glory

What to expect from Overlap Stone

Arriving

You can actually see the Overlap Stone from the coast, way up there in the jungle.

After turning off Koh Samui’s the main ring road, we drove a few minutes up some steep (but thankfully gravelled) roads.

We were met with hand-painted signs saying that we should park our scooters, and so we did.

Then we followed the signs and walked a scenic route all the way out to the 8-metre tall Overlap Stone itself – and the amazing view.

From the Overlap Stone, you can see Lamai Beach as well as some of the surrounding jungle and landscape.

When we arrived, there were no people there.

Palm trees near Overlap Stone
The walk to the Overlap Stone is very scenic.
Surrounding area of the Overlap Stone
The final path leading to the Overlap Stone
The final path leading to the Overlap Stone.

Visiting Overlap Stone

It felt a bit like we intruded on someone’s backyard, as a family definitely lives right next to the Overlap Stone.

As long as you keep calm and relatively silent there should be no problem. They do encourage the visitors themselves.

We made a small donation in the donation box and then hung out for a bit snapping photos and took in the view.

The Overlap Stone is such a cool place to chill.

The bridge leading out to the stone itself seemed solid.

Just be careful of your footing by the end and out on the platform. This isn’t Disney World; you’re on your own.

The reversed Overlap Stone view
The reversed Overlap Stone view towards the house.
Koh Samui best viewpoint from Overlap Stone
One of the Koh Samui’s best viewpoints, in our opinion.

More stones

When going back down, consider exploring more of the area.

There are huge stones right next to the place we parked and fantastic views from there as well.

Huge stone near Overlap Stone in Koh Samui
When visiting Overlap Stone, why not also pay some of the other huge stones in the area a visit?
View from huge stone on Samui
The views from here were really nice, too.
Victoria enjoying the view from the huge stone Victoria goofing out on the stone

Overlap Stone practicalities

There are no facilities at the Overlap Stone itself.

We parked at a small restaurant nearby where you can buy drinks – including fresh young coconuts for 40 baht (~ 1.2 USD / 1 EUR) – as well as use a toilet.

Parking

After a few minutes of riding on the steep road, you’ll get to a spot which says to “park your scooter here”.

And so we did.

We paid 20 baht (~ 0.6 USD / 0.5 EUR) for parking by the restaurant.

The ground was sort-of level, and thankfully we found our scooter still standing upright when returning!

Price

As visiting Overlap Stone is donation based it’s technically free, but the donation box recommends 20 baht per person (~ 0.6 USD / 0.5 EUR) – which is still very fair for such a fantastic view!

And then there’s the parking if you get there by scooter, which we definitely recommend you do.

<em><noscript><img src=
You might be interested in:A Complete Travel Guide to Koh Samui: 29 Best Beaches & Things To Do Everything you need to know including where to stay, popular activities and where to eat
The views behind the restaurant where we parked our scooter
The views behind the restaurant where we parked our scooter were incredible.

How to get to Overlap Stone

Finding your way to Overlap Stone isn’t as easy as finding many of Koh Samui’s other attractions, but if you do your research it’s easy enough.

Having an offline map downloaded to your phone also helps.

A map won’t take you all the way out to the stone, though, but it will get you far enough that you can find the rest of the way following signs.

Alex heading towards Overlap Stone on foot
Alex heading towards Overlap Stone on foot.

Map

Overlap Stone is located up in the hills relatively close to Lamai Beach on Koh Samui’s east coast.

Driving directions to Overlap Stone

Turn off Koh Samui’s main ring road by the red temple (Wat Sila Ngu), towards the mountain.

The road is gravelled so most scooters should be able to handle the trip up to the stone, no problem.

Just be aware that the road does get pretty steep.

If that makes you uncomfortable, park your scooter further down and hike up. It isn’t too far.

From where we parked we walked 5-10 minutes to reach the Overlap Stone.

We simply followed the painted signs.

Driving back down is even easier than getting up there; just take it really slow and you’ll be fine.

Koh Samui view over jungle and ocean
The red temple you can see down by the ocean is where you’ll want to exit the main ring road.

Walking from Lamai Beach

While it is possible to walk all the way to the Overlap Stone, we would recommend hiring a scooter instead.

Getting around the island is so much easier on two wheels.

And if you hike in the burning Samui sun, you will get hot – not great for those Overlap Stone selfies!

If you do decide to walk, just take it slow up the hill and remember to drink plenty of water.

Steep hillside in Koh Samui
Koh Samui has some pretty steep hillsides.

When to visit Overlap Stone

The Overlap Stone would such a great place to see the sunrise.

When we visited the Overlap Stone, the sun was high in the sky.

The view should be good at all times of the day.

As the sun sets behind the mountains on the other side, visiting Overlap Stone at sunset isn’t ideal, but you can probably get some nice colours in the sky.

Visiting when it isn’t as hot might also be a factor for you, as hiking in the Koh Samui sun does bring out some sweat!

Overlap Stone bridge and stone with flowers in front
We visited Overlap Stone in the middle of the day and had great weather.

Where to stay near Overlap Stone

Lamai Beach

Lamai Beach is the second most popular beach in Koh Samui following Chaweng.

It’s less crowded than Chaweng Beach but you can still find lots of hotels, restaurants and bars lined next to each other on the beach.

In other words; it’s a great option if you don’t need that many party and shopping options, but still prefer to have a wide variety of restaurants, massage parlours and big supermarkets to choose from.

The beach is lovely and long enough to never feel completely packed.

It can be a bit difficult to access the beach if you don’t stay at a beachside hotel though.

Staying near Lamai makes day trips to the waterfalls of the south a breeze and also offers you a quick getaway to the less developed parts of Koh Samui. Including to Overlap Stone.

Search for the best value accommodation near Lamai Beach here (adlink).

Lamai Beach in Koh Samui
Lamai Beach in Koh Samui is a great place to stay and is very near Overlap Stone.

Le Meridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa

Le Meridien is situated in the northern end of the Lamai area, nestled between the mountains.

This means you’ll be about a 20-minute walk away from most of the tourist options, but if you’re staying at La Meridien, they probably won’t be needed.

The private beachfront location has stunning ocean views and the resort offers great facilities, including a beautiful seaside pool, full-service spa and a gym.

If your budget allows it, the resort is amazing for a honeymoon or romantic vacation.

For visiting Koh Samui’s other beaches and towns, Le Meridien offers complimentary shuttle services.

Check prices and availability at Le Meridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa (adlink).

La Meridien
Enjoy total peace at La Meridien near Lamai Beach. ©La Meridien (adlink)

Samui Jasmine Resort

Check out Samui Jasmine Resort if you’re looking for a good value 4-star hotel in Lamai.

Situated on the northern end of the beach’ action, you’ll have access to plenty of restaurant options while still being away from some of the noise.

Choose between garden view or sea view, and then hop between the pool and the beach.

Check prices and availability at Samui Jasmine Resort (adlink).

Samui Jasmine Resort
Sunset by the pool at Samui Jasmine Resort. ©Samui Jasmine Resort (adlink)

Samui Sense Beach Resort

For staying centrally in Lamai by the beach on a budget, Samui Sense Beach Resort is a great choice.

With free wifi, a private bathroom and air conditioning you have your bases covered.

Choose between lounging by the pool or on the beach – and then use the money you’ve saved on accommodation at Lamai’s many restaurants or by getting a relaxing massage.

Check prices and availability at Samui Sense Beach Resort (adlink).

Samui Sense Resort
A cheap, clean room is what you’ll get at Samui Sense Resort. ©Samui Sense Resort (adlink)

Silver Beach

Between the beaches of Chaweng and Lamai, you’ll find this little gem surrounded by large rocks.

Silver Beach, or Crystal Bay as it’s called as well, has pure white sand and clear water.

It probably had the prettiest, most saturated turquoise water of all the beaches we visited in Koh Samui. A real treat for beach lovers.

Here you can avoid most crowds while still being just a short drive away from the many options of Chaweng and Lamai (including the Overlap Stone).

Search for the best value accommodation near Silver Beach here (adlink).

<em><noscript><img src=
You might be interested in:Where To Stay in Koh Samui: All You Need to Know About the Areas Everything you need to know about the best places to stay in Koh Samui with specific hotel recommendations
Silver Beach in Koh Samui near Overlap Stone
Silver Beach in Koh Samui is lovely.

Crystal Bay Yacht Club

Nestled behind the rocks on Silver Beach’ south end, Crystal Bay Yacht Club holds amazing views over the bay.

There’s a pool, the rooms look very nice and according to our research, this is the best value accommodation on Silver Beach.

Check prices and availability at Crystal Bay Yacht Club (adlink).

Crystal Bay Yacht Club
What a pretty view from Crystal Bay Yacht Club on Silver Beach. ©Crystal Bay Yacht Club (adlink)

What to bring when visiting Overlap Stone

<em><noscript><img src=
You might be interested in:Hand Luggage Only: Our Packing List for Travelling in Southeast Asia for Several Months Yes, it’s possible! Clothes, gear for photography and endless adventures… All in two small bags
Minimise your impact

To minimise your impact when visiting Overlap Stone, try to follow these guidelines:

  • Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle (adlink).
  • Avoid single-use plastics, including straws.
  • Dispose of waste properly. Preferably take anything you bring to Overlap Stone back to your accommodation with you.
  • Be considerate of other visitors and the family living by the stone.
  • Respect any wildlife you might encounter.

Also, consider going beyond minimising your impact by joining the Adventure Bag Movement and pick up some trash during your exploring.

The future for Overlap Stone

We predict that visiting the Overlap Stone will only increase in popularity during the coming years (in small part due to guides like this and the images we and others have published on Instagram).

The big tour buses will probably have a hard time getting up the road, but 4x4 tours might start arriving soon.

We hope that this is good news for the family living by the stone.

As they must have had a say in building the bridge out to the stone (and reaping some donations), an increase in visitors is hopefully positive for the area.

The additional huge stones near Overlap Stone
The additional huge stones near Overlap Stone will surely also increase in popularity.
Thanks for reading

We hope this travel guide to Overlap Stone in Koh Samui has been useful.

What do you think about the balancing rock? Did someone put it there??

If you’ve been to Overlap Stone it would be awesome to hear about your experience in the comments below. If you haven’t been yet but would like to, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re glad to be of assistance.

What to expect from visiting Overlap Stone on Koh Samui including what to expect, practicalities, how to find the stone and more.
What to expect from visiting Overlap Stone on Koh Samui including what to expect, practicalities, how to find the stone and more.
What to expect from visiting Overlap Stone on Koh Samui including what to expect, practicalities, how to find the stone and more.

Our favourite travel resources:
Our camera gear:

Leave a Comment