The short answer
Hin Ta Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks): what visitors should know first
A quick, free stop of 20 to 30 minutes that suits the southern loop. The rocks are smaller than the fame suggests, and the path can be slippery, so go for the setting and the story, not for a long visit.
Useful facts
Hin Ta Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks) facts at a glance
- Location
- Southern end of Lamai Beach, Koh Samui
- Experience type
- Natural rock formation
- Known for
- Grandfather and Grandmother rocks and their legend
- Cost
- Free; small parking fee reported
- Time or schedule
- Daylight; no set hours
Why it matters
Why Hin Ta Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks) is worth your time
The rocks matter less for their size than for their place in Samui's folklore. Visitors from many countries pass through, and guides tell the story of a mainland couple who travelled to the island for their son's wedding and were turned to stone, though versions vary. For readers used to temple legends and sacred rocks in India, it is an easy comparison.
It also shows what natural Samui looks like away from hotels: granite boulders, small waves and fishing boats. A short stop here balances a day of temples and beaches.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Hin Ta and Hin Yai
Two granite formations shaped by erosion.
- 02
Shoreline walk
A short path along the rocks with sea views.
- 03
Local legend
A tale of an elderly couple turned to stone.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
A signposted turn-off from the main coast road leads down a narrow access road to a small parking area. From there a short path follows the rocky shoreline to both formations. Early morning gives the softest light and the fewest tour groups.
The rocks are named for their supposed resemblance to male and female anatomy, which explains the giggling of passing groups, and local legend tells of an elderly couple turned to stone, with accounts differing on the details. Treat it as a light-hearted stop, not a major sight.
The Guan Yu shrine is a couple of kilometres up the coast and Na Muang waterfalls are a short drive inland, so this fits into a southern loop with Lamai and Wat Khunaram.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Wear grip-soled shoes
- Go early
- Pair with Lamai or Wat Khunaram
- Avoid slippery rocks after rain
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Southern end of Lamai Beach, near Hua Thanon
- Time needed
- 20-30 minutes
- Best time
- Around 8:30-9 am for softer light and fewer visitors
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- A short path runs along the rocky shoreline and there is no shade. The granite is uneven and slippery when wet, so grip-soled shoes and a steady arm help. There is little seating.
- Tickets and access
- Free to see. Parking is a small charge reported at about 20 THB for a bike and 40 THB for a car; check on arrival.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Hin Ta Hin Yai (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
A short path runs along the rocky shoreline and there is no shade. The granite is uneven and slippery when wet, so grip-soled shoes and a steady arm help. There is little seating.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is it free?
Viewing is free; a small parking fee is reported.
Is the path safe for seniors?
It is short but uneven and slippery in the wet, so take care.
What is the legend?
Accounts differ, but it centres on an elderly couple turned to stone.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
