Koh Samui Beaches Guide

Chaweng Beach is the major beach on Koh Samui and one that has developed tremendously since the early 1990s. The smaller Chaweng Noi Beach is south of Chaweng Beach, and here it is quieter on the beach itself than on the larger Chaweng Beach.

However, there are significantly fewer beach vendors here at Chaweng Noi, and jet skis can hardly be seen, which is why you can still relax on the beach while sunbathing. An advantage for many who vacation there is that they are spared from the party noise in Chaweng. You can also find some first-class hotels here. That is why Chaweng Noi is becoming increasingly popular.

Thongson Bay is a bit of a well-kept secret among tourists; if you go there early enough, you can find yourself nearly to yourself. You can hire a beach lounger, get a quick bite to eat, or find a kayak to paddle across the quiet waters because the area is yet undeveloped and is therefore free of the rush and bustle.

Thongson Bay, which is only half a kilometer long and is situated close to Koh Samui’s northernmost point, provides breathtaking views of Koh Phangan from across the bay’s azure seas. While the majority of the beach here is composed of fine white sand, there are some sections where coral debris can be rough on the feet, especially as you approach the ocean.

In contrast, the shallow waters near the coast are ideal for families with young children and others who are a little hesitant to swim in stronger currents.

One of Koh Samui’s most reasonably priced beaches is still Maenam. On the beach, there are many bungalows that provide plenty of lovely views without breaking the bank. Luxury resorts are still available, it’s simply that there are many options available at both ends of the spectrum.

Since Maenam beach is approximately seven kilometers long, most visitors limit their exploration to a single section. You’ll find much more privacy if you go in either direction towards the end of it. However, wherever you end yourself, you won’t find much activity in the Maenam region. Instead, you’ll find a temple, a weekly night market, and numerous possibilities to swim in or kayak around the nearby azure seas.

The golden sands of Maenam beach are home to a large number of eateries, bakeries, and cafés that are surrounded by a row of palm trees. You’ll have a ton of options here, whether you want to eat on the beach with the ocean in your view or pack a picnic to enjoy in the shade.

Maenam is regarded as Koh Samui’s Chinatown as well. You can tell this since the area is marked by a number of miniature pagodas and gateways. This provides the island a new cultural perspective. Away from the bustle of beaches farther east, the small village backing up to the beach is distinctly laid-back and has plenty of places to hang out.

The second-largest beach in Samui is Lamai Beach. Lamai, which is more laid-back than Chaweng, nevertheless has a ton of things to do, only at a slower pace. Lamai is a fantastic vacation spot for those on a budget because dining, shopping, and lodging are all less expensive there.

Lamai is just as stunning even when there are fewer people around. The backdrop is picture-perfect, with soft sand, clean lakes, and hills that have a blue hue in the distance.

When you need a break from the sun, the region around Lamai beach has a ton of alternative activities to choose from. Interesting nearby temples like Wat Lamai and Wat Khunaram offer fair-like activities and festivities, religious celebrations, access to local prehistoric treasures like a 2000-year-old ceremonial drum, and even the opportunity to visit a monk’s mummified body.

Lamai Beach is a well-liked launch place for boats traveling to the adjacent dive site of Ko Tao. The Lamai viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean, is also accessible by climbing through the rain forest.