Top 7 beautiful beaches in Koh Samui

Koh Samui stands out as one of Thailand’s most enchanting islands, where soft white sands meet crystal-clear waters and lush palm trees line the coast. The island offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, laid-back island life, and vibrant beach culture. Exploring the best beaches in Koh Samui is not just a highlight, but the heart of any unforgettable island getaway. No matter your travel style, the variety of beaches in Koh Samui offers something that speaks to the soul of every visitor.

Let Hanoi Voyages take you on a journey to discover the best beaches in Koh Samui and enjoy a personalized travel experience designed just for you.

Discover top 7 best beaches in Koh Samui

Koh Samui, a jewel in the Gulf of Thailand, is famous for its stunning coastline dotted with breathtaking beaches. Each beach offers a unique vibe, whether you seek vibrant nightlife, peaceful seclusion, or family-friendly spots. Here’s your guide to the best beaches in Koh Samui that you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your next trip.

Chaweng Beach

Chaweng Beach is the largest and most popular of all beaches in Koh Samui, stretching over 7 kilometers along the island’s east coast. It’s the center of entertainment and nightlife, lined with beach bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and high-end resorts. The soft, white sand and turquoise water make it perfect for swimming and sunbathing during the day. Water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding are widely available. If you're looking for an exciting, social beach experience, Chaweng is the place to be. It’s ideal for groups of friends or solo travelers who want to mingle.

Lamai Beach

Just south of Chaweng, Lamai beach offers a more laid-back alternative. Though still lively, it’s quieter and less crowded. The beach is backed by coconut palms and gentle hills, creating a peaceful setting for swimming or sunbathing. Lamai is perfect for couples, wellness seekers, or anyone who enjoys a serene beach vibe with plenty of amenities nearby, like yoga studios, massage parlors, and cozy beachfront cafés.

Bophut Beach

If you're planning a Koh Samui travel itinerary that blends local culture with scenic beauty, Bophut beach should be on your list. Located on the island’s north coast, Bophut is one of the most charming beaches in Koh Samui, famous for its rustic Fisherman’s Village. This area is lined with boutique shops, stylish beachfront restaurants, and lively night markets, making it the perfect spot for those who love to pair beach days with a bit of exploration. The beach features calm waters and golden sand, ideal for kayaking or enjoying a peaceful walk along the shoreline.

Maenam Beach

Maenam beach is a top pick for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. This 5-kilometer stretch of soft sand offers uninterrupted views of Koh Phangan and is one of the most relaxing spots for your Koh Samui travel experience. With gentle waves and fewer crowds, it’s the ideal location for swimming, sunbathing, or reading under the shade of palm trees. Accommodations along Maenam range from budget bungalows to luxury retreats, catering to every type of traveler. Its laid-back atmosphere makes it especially attractive to long-term visitors and honeymooners looking to unwind by the sea.

Silver Beach

Tucked between Chaweng and Lamai, Silver beach is a small, hidden cove that offers a more private and intimate beach experience. Surrounded by granite boulders and clear waters, it’s excellent for snorkeling, swimming, and photography. The beach is just 250 meters long but boasts some of the finest scenery on the island. There are a few resorts and restaurants nearby, but it retains a quiet, untouched feel. It’s a fantastic spot for couples or anyone seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Lipa Noi Beach

On the island’s west coast, Lipa Noi beach is known for its calm, shallow waters and incredible sunsets. It’s one of the best beaches in Koh Samui for families with children, thanks to its rock-free sand and safe swimming areas. Despite its peaceful atmosphere, Lipa Noi has several upscale villas and resorts, making it a favorite for travelers who want a luxurious yet quiet beachfront escape. It’s also home to some of Koh Samui’s best beach weddings and romantic dinners under the stars.

Choeng Mon Beach

Choeng Mon Beach is a peaceful bay that appeals to travelers seeking elegance and calm. As one of the lesser-known yet beautiful beaches in Koh Samui, it offers a quiet alternative to the more touristy areas while still being conveniently close to the airport and major landmarks. This beach is ideal for families and couples thanks to its clean sand, shallow waters, and upscale resorts. It’s a great starting point for day trips to nearby islets or cultural spots like the Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple). If you’re planning a relaxed and refined Koh Samui travel experience, Choeng Mon provides just the right mix of beauty and tranquility.

After enjoying the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui, Hanoi Voyages invites you to dive deeper into the island’s wonders. Our tailor-made tours will reveal the stunning landscapes, cultural highlights and secret spots that will make your trip to Koh Samui and its surrounding areas truly memorable.

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Essential tips for exploring the best beaches in Koh Samui

To help you enjoy the best beaches in Koh Samui, here are some useful travel tips and insights to make your beach getaway truly unforgettable.

Best time to visit the beaches in Koh Samui

The perfect time to experience the best beaches in Koh Samui is during the dry season, from December to April. During these months, you’ll find sunny skies, calm seas, and warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). This weather is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside activities. For fewer tourists and still great weather, consider visiting in February or March.

Top activities in Koh Samui

The beaches in Koh Samui offer a wide range of activities:

• Relax on white sandy shores like Chaweng and Lamai, perfect for sunbathing and beach sports.

• Snorkel in clear waters near Maenam or Silver Beach to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

• Enjoy beachfront dining and bars at Bophut Fisherman’s Village for a mix of great food and sunset views.

• Take a boat tour to nearby islands or hidden coves for secluded beach experiences.

• Try water sports such as paddleboarding, jet skiing, or kayaking along quieter beaches like Choeng Mon.

• Visiting Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha), the island’s iconic spiritual landmark.

• Strolling through night markets in Bophut or Lamai to savor fresh seafood and local street food.

Ideal duration for beach time in Koh Samui

For a relaxed and fulfilling beach holiday, spending 2 to 3 days exploring the best beaches in Koh Samui is ideal. This timeframe gives you enough opportunity to unwind on the soft sands, try various water activities, and visit several different beaches without feeling rushed. If your schedule allows, extending your stay can let you enjoy nearby islands and more hidden beach spots.

Pack essentials for a beach holiday in Koh Samui

When heading to Koh Samui’s beaches, pack essentials like:

• Lightweight, breathable swimwear and beachwear

• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection

• Flip-flops or sandals for walking on the sand

• Snorkeling gear if you prefer using your own

• A waterproof bag to keep your belongings safe during water activities

Proper preparation helps you stay comfortable and enjoy every moment on Koh Samui’s best beaches.

Recommend top 5 hotels in Koh Samui for your perfect getaway

After soaking up the sun on the best beaches in Koh Samui, finding the right place to rest becomes just as important. These top-rated hotels in Koh Samui offer the perfect retreat to complement your island adventure. Each is ideally located near stunning coastlines, making your Koh Samui travel experience even more unforgettable.

Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

📍 Address: 92/1 Moo 2, Tambon Bophut, Amphur, 84320 Chaweng, Thailand

⭐ Star rating: 5-star 

Located on the northern edge of the famous Chaweng Beach, Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort offers a serene retreat with easy access to the island’s most vibrant strip of sand. This resort features 122 rooms and villas, many with private pools and shaded terraces nestled among tropical greenery. The beachfront infinity pool and tree-top dining at Tree Tops restaurant create unforgettable moments. Whether you're looking to unwind or explore, this is one of the most stylish hotels in Koh Samui near nightlife, water sports, and white sands.

Banyan Tree Samui

📍 Address: 99/9 Moo 4, Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, 84310 Lamai, Thailand

⭐ Star rating: 5-star 

Tucked into a private bay just north of Lamai Beach, Banyan Tree Samui is a sanctuary of peace and luxury. With hillside villas offering sweeping views of the Gulf of Thailand and private infinity pools, this resort is ideal for honeymooners or anyone seeking solitude. The spa here is among the best on the island, while the resort’s beach remains uncrowded and perfect for quiet afternoons. For those looking to relax far from the busy beaches, this is a must-stay destination for refined Koh Samui travel.

Melati Beach Resort & Spa

📍 Address: 9/99 Moo 5, Bophut, Thongson Bay, Koh Samui, 84320 Choeng Mon Beach, Thailand

⭐ Star rating: 5-star 

Just 15 minutes from bustling Chaweng, Melati Beach Resort & Spa lies on the peaceful and lesser-known Thongson Bay. This quiet cove offers clear water and soft sand, perfect for a laid-back beachfront experience. The resort’s spacious villas—some with private plunge pools—are surrounded by tropical gardens. With two swimming pools (including an adults-only option), a luxurious spa, and oceanfront dining, Melati offers both romance and family-friendly amenities. It’s a standout among hotels in Koh Samui for those wanting tranquility without isolation.

Nora Buri Samui Resort & Spa

📍 Address: 111 Moo 5, Chaweng Beach, Tambon Bophut, Amphoe Koh Samui, Surat Thani, 84320 Chaweng, Thailand

⭐ Star rating: 5-star 

Nora Buri Samui Resort & Spa offers the best of both worlds—proximity to Koh Samui’s most active beach and the calm of a hillside setting. The resort includes beautifully designed rooms and private pool villas, many with sea views. Guests can enjoy a beachfront pool, spa treatments, and quick buggy transfers around the property. With direct access to a quieter stretch of Chaweng and attentive service, Nora Buri is a top pick for families and couples seeking convenience and comfort during their Koh Samui travel.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

📍 Address: 84 Moo 5 Bophut Tongsai Road, Ko Samui (Suratthani), 84320 Choeng Mon Beach, Thailand

⭐ Star rating: 5-star 

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui provides a luxurious beachfront retreat with a pristine 200-meter private beach. The resort features two outdoor pools, a relaxing spa, three dining options, and free Wi-Fi. Elegant, air-conditioned rooms include ocean-view terraces, some with outdoor bathtubs. Guests can enjoy herbal baths at 8LEMENTS Spa, a gym, tennis courts, and various water sports for an active stay. Garrya Tongsai Bay stands out among hotels in Koh Samui, perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, green getaway with luxury.

These stunning beaches in Koh Samui offer unforgettable moments of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-see destination for any traveler. With so many beautiful places to explore, planning your trip carefully can make all the difference.

Ready to make your dream vacation a reality? Let Hanoi Voyages help you design a tailor-made itinerary filled with stunning beaches, local culture and unforgettable memories.