Koh Samui Travel Guide • 2026 Edition

Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks) Samui: 2026 Guide

Verified Local Guide 2026 6 Min. Read Free Hotel Pickup for Angthong Tour

Direct Answer: Hin Ta and Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks) are world-famous natural granite formations perched on the rocky southern coastline of Lamai Beach. Celebrated for their unmistakable anatomical resemblance to male and female reproductive anatomy, the site is rooted in a romantic local folklore tale. Open daily during daylight hours, entry to the rocks is free, with parking available for a nominal fee.

Location / Area South Lamai Coastline

Admission Fee Free Entry (Parking: ฿20 / ฿50)

Opening Hours 06:00 – 18:30 Daily

Dress Code Casual / Sturdy Footwear Recommended

Recommended Time 30 – 45 Minutes

Atmosphere / Vibe Geological Curiosity, Folklore & Coastal Views

The Folklore Legend of Ta Kreng & Yai Riem

Beyond their humorous geological appearance, Hin Ta and Hin Yai hold an endearing place in Samui folklore. According to ancient local legend, an elderly couple named Grandpa Kreng (Ta Kreng) and Grandma Riem (Yai Riem) lived in the neighboring mainland province of Nakhon Si Thammarat. When their son reached marriageable age, they set sail in a wooden sailboat to ask for the hand of a young maiden in Prachuap Khiri Khan.

Tragically, a violent tropical storm capsized their vessel off the coast of southern Samui. Unable to swim to safety and heartbroken that they could not fulfill their promise to their son, the devoted couple prayed to the sea to transform their bodies into eternal stone monuments, proving to the bride’s parents that their intentions were genuine and everlasting.

Photography, Geology & Rocky Coastal Scenery

The rocks are situated on a massive polished granite shelf that slopes into the cobalt waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Hin Ta juts prominently upward over the ocean, while Hin Yai is nestled in the rocky water crevice just below.

Safety Warning: The smooth granite boulders can become exceptionally slippery when wet from crashing surf or sea spray. Wear sturdy sneakers or non-slip sandals, and do not venture too close to the breaking waves during high swells.

Famous Kalamare Coconut Caramel Market

The walkway leading from the ring road to the rocks is lined with friendly local market vendors specializing in Kalamare (กาละแม), Koh Samui’s most famous traditional delicacy. This chewy, decadent caramel confection is made by stirring fresh coconut milk, palm sugar, and sticky rice flour over open woks for hours. Freshly made batches wrapped in palm leaves are offered for complimentary tasting.

Visitor Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Hin Ta Hin Yai

Where are Hin Ta and Hin Yai located? +

The rocks are located on the rocky promontory at the southern tip of Lamai Beach, clearly signposted off the main ring road (Route 4169).

Is there an entrance fee to see the rocks? +

Entry to the rocks is completely free. If arriving by motorbike or rental car, small parking fees are charged by local landowners (usually ฿20 for scooters and ฿50 for cars).

What is Kalamare and where can I buy it? +

Kalamare is Samui’s traditional sweet coconut caramel candy, freshly made with coconut cream and sticky rice flour. The walkway leading to Hin Ta Hin Yai has the best freshly made Kalamare on the island.

Can you swim at Hin Ta Hin Yai? +

Swimming directly off the granite rocks is not recommended due to slippery rock surfaces and strong wave surges. However, the sandy beach of South Lamai is just a 3-minute stroll away and great for swimming.

Geographic Location

Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks

GPS: 9.4526, 100.0397

Distance to Samui Airport: 17 km (~30 Min.)
Blue Stars Kayaking Angthong National Marine Park expedition departs daily with complimentary hotel transfer from this area.

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