Beaches At Ko Samui

There can be no doubt that the island of Ko Samui (also Koh Samui) is home to some of the most exquisite beaches in Thailand. But over the last few decades, as growing numbers of tourists have flocked to enjoy its white sand and tropical water, the face of Ko Samui has changed dramatically. Sprawling, luxury beach resorts have crept along the shore, while traditional Thai dwellings are jostling for space amongst strip-malls and fast-food chains. But if you want the Thai beach experience, without sacrificing too many home comforts, then Ko Samui could be the place for you. It’s recently expanded airport makes it easily accessible by plane (check Air Asia for budget fares) while regular ferries run to and from Surat Thani on the mainland.

Chaweng Beach is the longest and most popular beach on the island. Huge, lavish resorts with excellent facilities dominate the northern and southern ends of the beach, while the central section is a bustling mix of bars, clubs and restaurants. The international tourist scene means that the beach is always busy, and during the peak season (December-July), it can become a little overcrowded. Travelling off-peak means fewer people and cheaper accommodation, but you run the risk of wet weather.

Lamai Beach, Ko Samui

While Chaweng Beach caters for high-end travelers with its luxurious hotels, Lamai Beach is home to a more cheap-and-cheerful backpacker scene. There are still plenty of opportunities to be pampered, with some excellent spa resorts, set against the stunning backdrop of Ko Samui’s ivory beaches. But the ramshackle beach-bars and youth hostels give Lamai a more bohemian feel.

Ko Samui is a great place for scuba diving beginners – most hotels and resorts will offer good standard packages. The best coral reefs will be away from the crowded beaches, and an off-shore boat dive is your best bet for seeing some beautiful marine life. Ko Samui is also one of the few places in Thailand with a dedicated surfing community – the waves are never huge, but they’re always a little bigger from October to December. It’s easy to hire a surfboard or boogie board along Chaweng Beach. It’s also cheap and easy to hire a jet-ski, which is a great way to explore the more remote and secluded beaches of Ko Samui.