Best Koh Samui Beaches
Koh Samui is a tropical heaven with beautiful beaches, greenery and nightlife. The island in the Gulf of Thailand gets millions of visitors every year. Beaches in Koh Samui range from busy ones with activities to quiet ones for relaxation. This guide will help you find the best Koh Samui beaches so you can make the most of your trip.
Best Beaches in Koh Samui
Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach is the most popular and busiest beach in Koh Samui. Located on the east coast, it’s 7 kilometers long with powdery white sand and clear waters. Chaweng Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing and water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
Nightlife at Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach is also famous for its nightlife. You’ll find many beach bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open late. The Ark Bar and Green Mango Club are two of the most popular ones, with live music and DJ’s. Events and festivals like the Full Moon Party often take place here, so it’s a hot spot for party people.
Lamai Beach
Lamai Beach is the second most popular beach in Koh Samui. It’s more laid back than Chaweng Beach. The beach is perfect for families with gentle waves and safe swimming. Lamai Beach is also famous for its rock formations, Hin Ta and Hin Yai, which are a must see.
Shopping and Dining at Lamai Beach
Lamai Beach has many dining and shopping options. The Lamai Night Market is a must visit, with local food, souvenirs and handmade crafts. Restaurants like The Cliff Bar & Grill and Baobab Restaurant serve Thai and international cuisine.
Bophut Beach
Bophut Beach is on the north coast of Koh Samui and is famous for its Fisherman’s Village. The beach is peaceful with fine white sand and calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Bophut Beach’s Peaceful Atmosphere
The peacefulness of Bophut Beach is ideal for those who want to chill out. Some luxury escapes, like Anantara Bophut and Hansar Samui, offer private beach areas for guests seeking exclusivity and tranquility, along with amenities such as infinity pools, spa, and beachfront dining.
Maenam Beach
Maenam Beach has a long stretch of fine white sand and clear waters. Located on the north coast, it’s a favorite among water sports enthusiasts. Kiteboarding, windsurfing and paddle boarding are popular here.
Maenam Beach’s Quiet Atmosphere
Despite being popular, Maenam Beach is quiet and peaceful. secluded spots along the beach are perfect for couples and solo travelers.
Silver Beach (Thongtakian Beach)
Silver Beach, also known as Thongtakian Beach, is a small bay between Chaweng and Lamai. The beach has soft sand and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Swimming and Snorkeling
Silver Beach is great for snorkeling with coral reefs and marine life just a short swim from the shore. The calm and shallow waters are perfect for families with young children.
Choeng Mon Beach
Choeng Mon Beach is on the northeastern tip of Koh Samui. It’s a family friendly beach with calm waters and laid back atmosphere. The beach is lined with palm trees and luxury resorts.
Water Sports at Choeng Mon Beach
Choeng Mon Beach is good for jet skiing, paddleboarding and kayaking. The waves are gentle so it’s a safe and fun spot for these activities.
More Beaches
Big Buddha Beach
Big Buddha Beach, also known as Bang Rak Beach, is near the Big Buddha. The beach is peaceful with calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. The nearby temple is a cultural landmark and a must see.
Thongson Bay
Thongson Bay is a secret spot on the north coast of Koh Samui. This small bay is a peaceful escape with soft sand and clear waters. Perfect for those who want to get away from the crowds.
Secret Beaches and Secluded Beaches
Coral Cove Beach
Coral Cove Beach is a secret spot between Chaweng and Lamai. It’s a secluded beach with powdery white sand and clear waters. Surrounded by rocky cliffs.
Coral Cove Beach’s Secluded Atmosphere
Coral Cove Beach is perfect for couples and honeymooners who want a very quiet beach. The beach is secluded so it’s a great spot for a romantic getaway.
Taling Ngam Beach
Taling Ngam Beach is on the west coast of Koh Samui. It’s a beautiful spot with golden sands and greenery. Less crowded than the other beaches on the island.
Stunning Sunsets
Taling Ngam Beach is famous for its sunsets. The beach has some of the best sunset views on the island so it’s a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.
Lipa Noi Beach
Lipa Noi Beach is a family beach on the west coast of Koh Samui. With its tranquil setting, shallow waters, and soft sand, it’s safe for swimming and perfect for families with young children.
Family Friendly
Lipa Noi Beach is good for family day out. The nearby Nikki Beach Resort has facilities for kids including a kids club and a swimming pool.
Koh Samui’s Coasts
North Coast Beaches
The north coast of Koh Samui has many beaches, each with its own character. Bophut Beach and Maenam Beach are the most popular, a mix of activities and quiet spots.
East Coast Beaches
The east coast of Koh Samui has Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach. Both beaches have many activities, dining and nightlife.
West Coast Beaches
The west coast of Koh Samui is for secluded and quiet spots. Beaches like Taling Ngam and Lipa Noi are away from the crowds.
Secluded and Quiet Spots
The west coast is for those who want tranquility. Hidden beaches and secluded spots are a peaceful setting, perfect for relaxation.
South Coast Beaches
The south coast of Koh Samui is less developed and more authentic. Beaches like Thong Krut and Taling Ngam show you the local life.
Activities and Facilities
Water Sports and Activities
Koh Samui has many water sports and activities. From jet skiing and paddleboarding to snorkeling and diving, there’s something for everyone.
Best Beaches for Water Sports
| Beach | Activities |
|---|---|
| Chaweng Beach | Jet skiing, paddleboarding |
| Maenam Beach | Kiteboarding, windsurfing |
| Silver Beach | Snorkeling, swimming |
| Choeng Mon | Jet skiing, kayaking |
| Lamai Beach | Jet skiing, windsurfing |
Dining and Nightlife
Koh Samui’s beaches have many dining and nightlife options. Beach bars, restaurants and night markets have a lively atmosphere and good food.
Night Markets and Shopping
- Chaweng Night Market: Local food, souvenirs
- Lamai Night Market: Handmade crafts, street food
- Fisherman’s Village Walking Street: Unique shops, dining
Beach Bars and Restaurants
- Ark Bar (Chaweng Beach): Lively atmosphere, live music
- The Jungle Club (Chaweng Noi): Beautiful views, relaxed
- The Cliff Bar & Grill (Lamai Beach): Gourmet, sea views
Accommodation and Resorts
Luxury Resorts
Koh Samui has many luxury villas and resorts with world class facilities and services. These resorts have the perfect blend of comfort and luxury.
Paradise Island Estate Well-known and recommended for its Thai-style and modern-style villas with full amenities.
Amenities and Services
- Infinity Pools: Stunning views, relaxation
- Spa Services: Massage, wellness treatments
- Beachfront Dining: Gourmet, romantic
Budget Options
For budget travelers, Koh Samui has many affordable accommodation. Hostels and guesthouses are comfortable and budget friendly.
Hostels and Guesthouses
- Lub d Koh Samui: Modern hostel, great location
- Samui Mermaid Resort: Budget, beachfront
- Wazzah Resort: Cozy guesthouse, tropical
Koh Samui Beach Tips
When to Visit
Best time to visit Koh Samui is during dry season, December to April. Weather is nice, clear sky and calm sea. Peak season is December to February, off-peak season has fewer crowds and lower prices.
Safety Tips
- Swimming Safety: Swim in designated areas, avoid strong currents.
- Water Sports Safety: Follow safety rules, wear life jackets.
- Beach Etiquette: Respect the environment, throw away trash.
Nearby
Angthong National Marine Park
Angthong National Marine Park is an archipelago of 42 islands northwest of Koh Samui. The park has many activities, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking.
Day Trips and Tours
Day trips to Angthong National Marine Park are popular among tourists. Tours include transportation, guided activities and lunch.
Big Buddha Beach and Temple
Big Buddha Beach, also known as Bang Rak Beach, has the Big Buddha Temple. The temple has a 12-meter tall golden Buddha statue, a cultural landmark.
Cultural Notes
When visiting Big Buddha Temple, dress modest and remove your shoes. The temple has great views.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is the island next door famous for Full Moon Party. The island has beautiful beaches, jungle and many activities.
Day Trips from Koh Samui
Day trips to Koh Phangan is easy to arrange. Ferries run regularly between the two islands and tours include transportation and guided activities.
Koh Samui Best Beaches
Koh Samui has many beaches, each with its own character. From Chaweng Beach to Taling Ngam Beach, there’s something for everyone. Looking for adventure, relaxation or family friendly? Koh Samui has it all. Go explore, enjoy the beaches and make some memories. Comment below!