Joe Louis works on his tan
There’s a lot to do in Thailand from exploring its exotic natural wildlife to immersing oneself in its rich, ancient culture and traditions. But let’s be realistic: the top reason why people jump at the chance to go to the land once known as Siam is for its beaches.
Koh Samui has plenty of beach. It is not as paradisaical as Koh Phi Phi or as party-heavy as Koh Phangnan, but has some of both worlds. Considered the “family friendly” island on the eastern side of Thailand, that’s not to say it’s any less fun. It has several yellow sand beachfronts from to choose from to take a swim, hire a jetboat, or soak in the sun at.
I spent most of my time at Chaweng Beach – a long stretch of ocean facing sand with a parade of hotels lined up against it on the other side. Chaweng is known for the night life on the island, but Koh Samui in general isn’t much of a party area – rather it houses lots of outdoor bars and restaurants to chill at and talk with people.
For clearer water and a quieter environment, Lamai is also a popular beach. There aren’t as many backpacker crowds there and it is a bit more secluded. There are also more activities to do in the vicinity. Be careful though, a friend of mine was resting out on the beach later in the evening and got bit up by sand ants.
See what other blogs are saying about the beaches at Koh Samui:
“The nature in Samui is very beautiful, the air is clean and there are many long sandy beaches are not crowded at all. It’s a place which has something for everyone. For the party seekers, there’s a lively night life, bars, restaurants, clubs, etc. For those who prefer a more peaceful stay, they can take a break from the bustle of the city and retire anywhere in the bungalow amidst palm trees on the beach.”
–Alyona Travels
“This time, we stayed not on noisy Chaweng Beach or its controversial competitor Lamai, but on a small beach between them. Chaweng Noi Beach is uncrowded even in the season, and all because of a wide strip of sand three kilometers in length, where half a dozen hotels are located, one better than the next”
–Victor Travel Blog
