South of Lamai Beach, on the eastern coast of the Thai island of Koh Samui, you’ll find a unique natural landmark: Hin Ta & Hin Yai, also known as the Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks. These fascinating rock formations have been attracting visitors from around the world for many years, not only because of their striking shapes but also for the stunning views and the intriguing legend behind them.
Read this article in DutchThe legend of Hin Ta & Hin Yai
Hin Ta means grandfather and Hin Yai means grandmother. According to an old Thai legend, an elderly couple named Ta Kreng and Yai Riem once lived on the island. Their son wished to marry and the couple set out by boat to a nearby village to ask for the bride’s hand. A sudden storm overturned their boat and the couple tragically drowned in the rough sea. Out of love and shame for not fulfilling their promise, the gods turned them into stone, leaving behind an eternal symbol of their sincere intentions.
When you see the rocks, it’s easy to understand why they attract so much attention. Hin Ta resembles a distinctly male shape, while Hin Yai bears a strong resemblance to a female silhouette. While many visitors come for the humorous similarity, this spot is also cherished as a symbol of fertility and prosperity.
How to get to Hin Ta & Hin Yai
Hin Ta & Hin Yai are located at the southern end of Lamai Beach, one of the most popular and busiest beaches on Koh Samui. The rocks are easy to reach by scooter, taxi or songthaew (local shared taxi). We rented a car and drove there ourselves, which gave us the flexibility to explore at our own pace. There are several small parking areas scattered between and behind the buildings. We manage to find a free spot by turning left into a small alley, just before the entrance to the street lined with souvenir shops.
Things to do at Hin Ta & Hin Yai
The street leading to the rocks is filled with small stalls selling souvenirs, fresh fruit, coconuts and local snacks, giving it a distinctly touristy vibe. But once you reach the rocks, the atmosphere changes and it feels much calmer. It’s a stunning spot: the water is clear and beautifully turquoise.
If the sea is as calm as it was during our visit, it’s perfect for a refreshing swim. Hin Ta & Hin Yai are located to the right, just behind a small beach. Hin Ta is hard to miss thanks to its striking shape. In the middle, there’s a large flat rock formation surrounded by smaller rocks that naturally create shallow pools. During high tide, these pools are perfect for cooling off, with fresh seawater constantly flowing in.
Best time to visit Hin Ta & Hin Yai
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, Hin Ta & Hin Yai are wonderfully quiet. At these times, the heat is less intense and the light is soft, making it perfect for photography. During the day, the rocks are often included as a stop on island tours, which can make the area suddenly feel crowded. However, I noticed that most tour groups only stay for a short while. Once they leave, the place quickly becomes peaceful again, just as it was during the hours we spent there.
Combine your visit with other nearby highlights
Since Hin Ta & Hin Yai are located close to Lamai, it’s a great idea to combine your visit with a few relaxing hours on the beach. While Lamai is known to be quieter than Chaweng, we still find it surprisingly busy. For us, the beautiful and peaceful natural pools near Hin Ta & Hin Yai remain the clear winner. If you’re in the mood to see more impressive rock formations, head to Overlap Stone 1 and Overlap Stone 2. Afterward, you can end your day with stunning views and a drink at The Roof Samui.
