Welcome to a tropical paradise! Here you will see and read about all the beaches in Koh Samui. With crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back island vibe you are going to fall in love with this southern island in Thailand.
Koh Samui is also known for their long, skinny palm trees that you will see scattered along everywhere on the island. It is easy to get to Koh Samui from nearby beach town Krabi, the ferry ride is about 1 hour and a half and is usually on time, or early.
Whether you’re looking for a lively party scene, a peaceful escape, or an adventure-packed vacation, Koh Samui has something for everyone. Get out and explore the secluded beach coves and long strips of white, soft sand. Because this beautiful island has an abundance of different types of beaches to explore.
In this blog, we’ll be taking you on a journey to discover the best beaches in Koh Samui. Get ready to be transported to a world of turquoise waters, palm-fringed shores, and a vibrant beach culture that will leave you wanting more. So pack your sunscreen, grab your swimsuit, and let’s dive into the top beaches that Koh Samui has to offer.
The Best Beaches in Koh Samui That You Have To Visit
- Chaweng Beach is the Most Popular
- Which beach is Better Chaweng or Lamai?
- Crystal Beach is the Best Beach in Koh Samui for Snorkeling
- Lamai Beach is Good for Swimming
- Silver Beach Koh Samui
- Maeanam Beach is the Best Beach in Koh Samui for Families
- Bophut Beach Best Beach in Koh Samui For Partiers
- Choeng Mon is the Most Beautiful Beach in Koh Samui
- Best Beach Clubs in Koh Samui
- Best Luxury Beach Resorts in Koh Samui
Thinking about going to Krabi? Check here for help planning your trip!
Chaweng Beach is the Nicest Beach in Koh Samui
Chaweng Beach is the very best beach to stay at in Koh Samui. It is also the most popular one on the island. This is because of the breathtaking views and crystal clear water. You will easily find a spot along the 7-kilometer-long (4.3 miles) sandy shore.
Along Chwang beach, you will find anything and everything you are looking for. Including cheap massages with a view, restaurants, shops, and even drink vendors lined up and walking along the beach.
You can pick to bring your own setup or grab a sun lounger on the sand. You will have to pay a price for the chairs or find a restaurant to set up shop. It is completely up to you. If you are more of the adventurous type try renting a jet ski from a local on the beach and rip around on the gorgeous water. There is so much to love about Chaweng no wonder it is considered to be one of the beach beaches in Koh Samui.
Restaurants in Chaweng Beach Koh Samui
Baitong Restaurant is right on the sand and serves up delicious Thai and international dishes. You can spend your day here enjoying a fresh meal, or come for the sunset and watch a fire show. No matter what time you check out Baitong you are going to love the time spend there.
Duomo is another one of the restaurants on Chaweng Beach. Here they specialize in Italian food. The pizza is to die for and you just about any pasta dish you can think of. They are a bit upscale and the prices are more expensive than your normal street food prices, but the view and the taste are worth it.
Crystal Beach is the Best Beach in Koh Samui for Snorkeling
Crystal Beach is a hidden gem located on the northeast coast, just a short distance from the popular tourist areas of Chaweng and Lamai. It is one of the less crowded beaches in Koh Samui and is still easily accessible and makes for a great day trip.
At Crystal Beach, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, and there are several dive shops nearby where you can book a scuba diving excursion. You can also take a relaxing stroll along the beach or simply relax in the shade of the famous long, skinny palm trees.
Lamai Beach Best Beach in Koh Samui for Swimming
Lamai Beach is best known for its long sandy shore with big beautiful rocks along the shoreline. It is one of the best beaches in Koh Samui on the northeast coast. More specifically it is about 10 kilometers south of Chaweng. Once you arrive you will see about halfway down the Lamai Wanta Resort with places to rent kayaks and jet skis. Or if you are feeling like a work out try your hand at windsurfing or parasailing.
There are also plenty of beachside restaurants offering Thai food and refreshing drinks. You can find locals walking up and down the beach selling souvenirs, drinks, corn, and just about anything else you can think of. If you get a little burnt try an aloe vera massage right on the beach. When the sun goes down, you can enjoy dinner and an occasional fire show.
Silver Beach Koh Samui
This beautiful beach also goes by the name of Crystal Bay. It is smaller and quieter than the other beaches on the island but can get a little crowded. But do not count it out because it is still worth a visit. You can wade in the crystal clear water or take a walk and look at big rocks scattered around the shoreline.
There is only one restaurant on the beach serving up Thai food and cold drinks. Grab a seat at one of the many tables in the sand, or lay out and catch some sun. Once you are done with your beach day take a quick ride over the Overlap viewpoint for sunset. Silver Beach is one of the best beaches in Koh Samui that you are going to love relaxing at.
Maeanam Beach is the Best Beach in Koh Samui for Families
Up next is one of the prettiest beaches in Koh Samui. The sand is soft and golden, and that slightly slopes making it easy to walk on. You will find it on the north coast and you can even see the beautiful island of Koh Pha nang from the shore.
The vibe is laid back and chill and with 5 km (4 miles) of sand available you will absolutely be able to find yourself a scheduled spot for the day. Most of the shops and restaurants close around 10 or 11 and they all have a local feel to them. If you wanted to check out one of the prettiest beaches in Koh Samui like the locals do Maeanam is perfect for you.
Bophut Beach Best Beach in Koh Samui For Partiers
You will find Bophut beach between Big Buddha and Maenam beaches. More commonly known as Fisherman Village and it is one of the oldest towns on the Northern tip of the island. There is no short supply of fun, food, shopping, and drinks in Fisherman’s village. Plan to spend at least one day here. Start in the morning by relaxing at the beach and then head into the village for lunch.
After the sun goes down the night market starts up where you can buy all of your souvenirs from Koh Samui. This is the best party beach in Koh Samui and you are guaranteed to have a good time.
Choeng Mon is the Most Beautiful Beach in Koh Samui
Up next is one of the most picturesque beaches in Koh Samui. You will find miles of white sand and swim or walk out in the shallow water forever. Choeng Mon is on the northeast side of the island and is very easy to find. Even during peak season, you will not find many people walking around.
You will find just one beach club and a few local restaurants on the shore. You can stay all day and then enjoy a very chill night with a few drinks in your hand. Grab a seat at one of the comfy bean bag chairs or relax at a beachside table. You will have to either order food or pay for the chairs, but laying in the same is free and always open to the public.
Lipa Noi Beach
To reach Lipa Noi beach you have to go to the pier and go through a gate on the right side. Not complicated at all just look out for the gate! There is nothing on the beach, but the beach. No bars, restaurants, or clubs. Just palm trees, sand, and plenty of shade. Be sure to bring your own snacks and drinks so you do not have to leave early.
It is right next to the pier and you can watch the ferries come and go. Since there are no restaurants to clean up the beach can get a little dirty from the pollution in the water. If you are looking for a relaxing spot with nobody around to soak in the sun in private, this is definitely the best beach in Koh Samui for you! Be sure to stay long enough to see the amazing sunset, you will not regret it.
Taling Ngam Beach a Secluded Beach
Up next is Taling Ngam Beach! This is also one of the quiet beaches where you will feel like you are on an island all to yourself. It is a wild beach with nothing on it but palm trees, beach rocks, sand, water, and plenty of peace and quiet.
During low tide, the water does get pretty bare and you will have to walk pretty far out to swim. It is on the southwest coast of Koh Samui and is worth the trip for a nice day alone.
Other Things to Do in Koh Samui
- Ethical Elephant Home Guided Tour with Transfers– Elephants are majestic creatures that have played an important role in Thailand’s history and culture. Unlike other elephant attractions that may exploit or mistreat the animals, this tour prioritizes the well-being and conservation of the elephants.
- Coral and Pig Island Long Tail Boat Tour– Take a visit to the coral and pig islands in Thailand it is a must-do experience for anyone seeking to explore Koh Samui’s natural beauty and unique culture.
- Angthong National Marine Park Day Trip by Speedboat– Explore the magnificent Emerald Lake and marvel at its beauty, or grab a kayak and paddle around the peaceful lagoon. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up the scenic Mae Koh and take in the panoramic views from the top.
- Koh Phangan Island Full-Day Cruise with Sunset– This scenic cruise on a traditional sailboat is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Koh Phangan Island while also enjoying the peace and tranquility of sailing on the open sea. Relax, unwind, and soak up the tropical vibes on this unforgettable adventure.
- Van and Speedboat Full Moon Party Transfer– Sit back and relax in a comfortable and air-conditioned van as you make your way to the pier. From there, board a speedboat that will take you directly to the party. With safety as a top priority, the transfer service ensures a hassle-free and reliable journey.
Best Luxury Beach Resorts in Koh Samui
Best Hotels in Koh Samui Chaweng Beach
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui is without a doubt one of the best 5-star hotels in Koh Samui Chaweng beach. They have a huge outdoor swimming pool with a slide, a restaurant with a view, and a gym if you like staying active on your vaca. Enjoy an al la carte American buffet every morning before you start your busy day of adventure.
Check rates here: Booking.com
Samui Paradise Chaweng Beach Resort & Spa
For a more budget-friendly option, the Samui Paradise Chawneg Beach Resort & Spa is a wonderful place to stay. They have an outdoor swimming pool right on the beach with two spas and a seaside restaurant and Papa’s bar is the perfect place for a pick-me-up drink.
Book your room today: Booking.com
Also, check out these amazing beach hotels in Krabi Town!
U Samui Luxury Beach Resort
U Samui is one of the best beach resorts in Koh Samui on the beautiful Bangrak Beach. Enjoy eating a big buffet breakfast every day before heading out to sleep it off on the beach. The attention to detail here is what makes it so special. You can lounge at the wonderful seaside pool or walk a few steps down to the waves. Either way, you are going to absolutely love staying at U Samui.
Book your perfect vacation today! Booking.com
Melia Koh Samui
There is so much to love about Melia Koh Samui it is hard to know where to start! Staying here you will not only be surrounded by the beautiful views of Choeng Mon Beach but you will also have an amazing pool and spa to relax in. Enjoy complimentary snacks and teas afternoon and in the evening they have alcoholic drinks and canapés. Yum!
Here you book a room in the beautiful hotel or grab one of the beach bungalows down near the shore. On-site there is also the Breeze Beach Restaurant and Bar which has amazing views of the beach. You are going to love staying at Melia Koh Samui it is the best beach resort in Koh Samui!
Check Your Dates Here: Booking.com
Best Beach Clubs in Koh Samui
Seen Beach Club
What better way to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea than at a beach club? At Seen Beach club you can do just that! It offers the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury. They serve amazing frozen cocktails, ice-cold beers, martinis, pina colada pretty much anything you can drink of. And just like most places in Thailand, the staff is extra friendly and happy to see you!
You will want to go back day after day once you feel how comfy their double beds are. They are right on the popular Chaweng Beach and close to so many different things to do in Koh Samui!
Tropics Beach Club
Up next is one of the best beach clubs in Koh Samui the Tropics Beach club if you are dreaming of laying in a chair with a chilled drink in your hand, and feeling the refreshing sea breeze on your skin. Here the specialty is relaxation and a good vibe. They usually have a live DJ spinning fun music while you can dance by the pool. They serve both western and local seafood making it a perfect place for all types of people!
Other Towns in Thailand Worth Visiting
- Krabi town is located in the south of Thailand with picturesque landscapes and stunning beaches it is so easy to travel from Krabi to Koh Samui! Here are some of the top Tours in Krabi Town to consider during your visit.
- Chiang Mai – This mountainous Northern Thai town has everything you could ever need, except a beach! You can take a quick flight at being in Chiang Mai in about two hours from Krabi!
Which part of Koh Samui beach is best?
It is so hard to answer what is the best beach in Koh Samui. It depends largely on what kind of day you are looking to have. Chaweng Beach is definitely the most popular, there are so many hotels and places to eat. But if you are looking for a laid-back beach with no one around you want to check out Choeng Mon!
What is the Cleanest Beach in Samui?
The beach in Koh Samui that is known to be the cleanest is Choeng Mon Beach! It is located along the northeast coast and is regularly cleaned. It is also one of the Top Beaches in Koh Samui for swimming because of the calm, clear waters.
Which beach is Better Chaweng or Lamai?
Both Chaweng and Lamai Beaches in Koh Samui have their unique characteristics, and the “better” beach largely depends on your preferences and interests. Chaweng is more developed with places to sunbathe, grab a bite, play in the water, and rent pretty much anything you want.
And on the other hand, has a more laid-back vibe and is known for its picturesque surroundings. The water is shallow and is ideal for families with children and is it also one of the best beaches in Koh Samui for snorkeling. Lamai also has several beachfront bars and restaurants to enjoy, but the overall atmosphere is more relaxed and peaceful than in Chaweng.
What is the Main Beach Area of Koh Samui?
The main beach area of Koh Samui is Chaweng. Down below you will find places to stay in Chaweng and what to do there. If you are looking for popular places to hang out you will find most of them along the shores of Chaweng which is highly regarded as the best beach in Koh Samui.
