Koh Samui Guide - Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui or Samui Island is Thailand’s third largest Island and lies 85 kilometres off the East coast of mainland, in the Gulf of Thailand, 600 kilometres south of Bangkok. The traditional source of income for the Island was Fishing and Coconut cultivation, but since discovery as a haven for backpackers in the 1980’s, Samui has evolved into an up market Tourist destination. Despite rapid progress, Samui has retained its natural beauty and its very relaxed, easy going character.

Roughly rectangular in shape, Samui is typified by a coastline fringed with sandy beaches, each with its own distinct character. Many visitors love the popular long sandy stretches of Chaweng and Lamai on the East side, with its action packed entertainment. Some, the quieter rustic South coast, with its small partially developed beaches. The West coast is famous for its sunset’s over the Nature Reserve. Many prefer the North shore, where beaches and villages have preserved their former character and local charm.

This Island is such a great place to visit. We offer a brief introduction to each of the areas and beaches below in clockwise order and a more detailed individual brief of each beach location, to help you in selecting what is best for you.

Koh Samui East Coast

Chaweng Beach is the Islands most popular, with fine white sand stretching for six kilometres, clear blue waters and coral reefs. An ideal area for Snorkelling and Diving, but is the most built up area on the Island and the ideal base for all kinds of entertainment and full-on Nightlife.

Areas: Chaweng Beach

Koh Samui South East Coast

Lamai Beach next to Chaweng and Hua Thanon further south, stretch another five kilometres of white sand, with fast developing beach facilities, entertainment and nightlife. A great area for active beach enthusiasts and party-goers.

Areas: Lamai Beach | Hua Thanon

Koh Samui South Coast

The South Coast is the more rugged, least developed area with two bays that offer small, quiet beaches lined with coconut palms. The drawback is that the beaches are shallow and dry out at low tide.

Areas: Bang Kao | Krong Krut

Koh Samui West Coast

On the Western side of Samui, there are several secluded bays, although the beaches turn into mud flats at low tide. The main attractions of the area are the contrasting scenery compared to the East coast and amazing Sunset views.

Areas: Taling Ngam | Nathon

Koh Samui North Coast

Several beaches cover the area, with Bang Po on the north west tip, to Bophut. The area is particularly suited during the SW monsoon period from May to November for family holidays.

Mae Nam beach is a growing centre for the islands budget accommodation. Bophut beach offers peace and quiet, as well as the least changed Fishing Villages on Samui.

Areas: Bang Po | Mae Nam | Bophut

Koh Samui North East Coast

Big Buddha and Choengmon beaches cover each side of the North Eastern peninsular, with Big Buddha beach, more suitable for families.

Areas: Big Buddha | Cheng Mon

Koh Samui Islands and National Parks

Samui Island has numerous Islands within eyesight of the Northern coastline. These are absolutely stunning rock formations and we explain these here, to assist you in planning your visits.

Areas: Pha Ngan Island | Ang Thong Island Marine National Park | Koh Tao Island