One of the most difficult decisions when visiting Koh Samui has to be, which beach to stay near. With so many beautiful beaches to choose from it’s almost possible but with this guide we hope we can help you make the right decision for your stay.
Best For Families – Choeng Mon Beach
Choeng Mon has a relaxed, laid back vibe centred around a stunning soft, white sandy beach. The 2 kilometre stretch of sand gently shelves into the sea, never getting too deep, making it the perfect place for kids to have fun safely.
Along the beach front there are a selection bars and restaurants offering uninterrupted views out across the turquoise waters. Enjoy a massage while listening to the sound of the sea as Choeng Mon offers the best selection of massage salas right on the beach.
If you want a chilled ambience with gorgeous sea front restaurants and bars then Choeng Mon is the one for you. Just imagine sipping a cocktail while your kids play happily on the powdery white sand. Bliss!
Best For Partying -Chaweng Beach
Chaweng is the biggest and most lively beach on the island of Koh Samui. Its golden sands stretch for 6 kilometres and it offers an array of activities and amenities with a vibrant atmosphere.
There is a plethora of bars, restaurants and accommodation to suit everybody’s budget and taste, but if you are looking for tranquility then steer clear of Chaweng.
Best For Snorkelling – Silver Beach
Nestled in Crystal Bay, south of Chaweng on the east coast of Koh Samui, Silver Beach is small yet perfectly formed. It is only 250 meters long with large granite boulders at each end and crystal clear water, which makes it the perfect place for snorkelling.
It has a peaceful and chilled atmosphere with only a few hotels and restaurants offering all the amenities you need for a relaxing day at the beach. When we visited there was plenty of room to spread your beach towel under the swaying palms but you also had the option of renting loungers and parasols for the day.
Best For A Bit Of Everything – Bophut
Bophut beach, on the north coast, is the perfect spot for people who want a beautiful, chilled beach to relax on with a touch of vibrant local culture thrown in too. There really is something for everyone in Bophut, from the bustling night market at Fisherman’s Village to luxury 5 star resorts.
The beach itself is 3 kilometres of golden sand, looking out towards the island of Ko Pha Ngan over the glistening turquoise waters. It is one of the best spots to watch the sunset light up the sky with vivid oranges, reds and pretty purples.
In the evening Fisherman’s village comes alive along the ‘walking street’ with shops selling everything you could imagine, restaurants serving a variety of cuisines and lively bars offering cocktails on the beach while watching the famous fire shows that happen daily.
Best For The Younger Crowd – Bang Rak Beach
Bang Rak beach is not far from Bophut but attracts the young trendy set and is less touristy than many of Koh Samui’s beaches. Like other beaches it is lined with a good selection of bars and restaurants along a stretch of white sand which is interspersed with old wooden piers.
It is extremely close to the airport and we loved watching the planes overhead as they came in to land. Maybe not everyone’s cup of tea but seeing them landing at such close range entertained us.
Best For Authenticity – Maenam Beach
Maenam Beach is the perfect spot if all you want is a relaxed beach to stroll along, enjoy sunsets from and get a sneak peek into the Thai way of life. There are a few beachside cafes serving up Thai delicacies and it has a weekly night market for you to explore traditional Thai street food.
You won’t find high end restaurants and bars here, and the accommodation is more budget backpacker beach bungalows, which only adds to its charm. It lies on the north coast of Koh Samui and is favoured by windsurfers due to the stronger winds and currents, unfortunately meaning its not the best place for swimming.
Koh Samui truly is an idyllic tropical island with a rich and interesting culture. Wherever you decide to base your stay nowhere is too far away as the island is only small so you can easily visit all these beaches during your stay.
Laura loves travelling across the UK and abroad. She has two children and a husband who are often her travel companions. Beach holidays, cosy cottages, treehouse adventures and brunching are just a few of her favourite ways to spend her travel time.