Lamai Beach
Lamai Beach is Koh Samui's second-largest beach and a popular alternative to the busier Chaweng, offering a noticeably more relaxed atmosphere while still providing plenty of amenities. The long, clean shoreline is lined with bars, restaurants, and palm trees, with rentable lounge chairs available for those looking to settle in for the day. The water is generally calm and clear, making it well suited to swimming and sunbathing, though visitors should note it is not particularly recommended for snorkeling due to limited marine life. The beach has a distinctive character compared to other busy Thai beach destinations. The surrounding streets are narrow and the area feels more intimate in scale, with a mix of casual local eateries and beachfront establishments. Visitors describe the vibe as unhurried and approachable, with a texture to the sand that includes some stones and broken shells in places, and waves that tend to be slightly more active than at Chaweng. Practically speaking, the beach is a public natural feature with no entrance fee and no set opening hours. Parking is available near public entry points, though spaces can be limited for cars given the narrow local roads — arriving by motorbike is generally easier. The area can get busy during peak tourist season, roughly December through March, so travellers seeking a quieter experience may prefer visiting during the shoulder months of April to June or September to October.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Lamai Beach, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
It's a very nice beach, not too crowded with nice restaurants. Not ideal for snorkeling as there are no fish. But for swimming and sun bathing, perfect.
A lot of situations going on here like such other busy beaches in Thailand, Pattaya or Phuket… Lamai is smaller area and the streets are narrow, to drive a car needs to see if it is a single lane traffic. But the beach is super gorgeous with super fine sandy white beach. It is in the south part of island so the light here is MAGNIFICENT. LOVE IT. 💕🥰👌❤️😍
Chill and totally laid back. Google Maps takes you to a public entry point to the beach. Parking is free if you can find it, much easier for bikes. Didn’t stray too far from the entrance area, as there was ample space to put towels down and when arriving at the beach, to the right, there is a resort that has a shower located on the beach. So you can wash off with fresh water each time you go in the sea or one last time before you head off. Likely the time of the year, but the waves were quite big and slamming everyone in the water.. which could be fun as well. Water visibility isn’t crystal clear, doubt you can snorkel in that area, but the sand is powder soft and the it’s a mostly sandy bottom in the water. No rocks, coral etc that you can stub your toes on or cut your feet. In that area there was also a few simple beach front eateries and massage options, also there were beach vendors walking up and down selling everything from manicures to ice cream, but not pushy at all. 100% a more relaxed option than Crystal Beach. Plus, it’s not far from the hustle and bustle of the Lamai walking street. Ideal option of your accommodation doesn’t have the beach access.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). Ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs — a cheaper option.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas
Where to stay near Lamai Beach
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Tips for Visiting Beaches & Islands
Check Monsoon Seasons
The Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi) has rough seas from May to October. The Gulf coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan) is roughest from October to December. Plan your island-hopping around these windows.
Snorkel Gear Is Cheap to Buy
Rental gear is often scratched and ill-fitting. Buy a decent mask and snorkel at a Tesco Lotus or Big C for 300–500 THB — cheaper than two days of rentals and much more hygienic.
Book Ferries on 12Go.Asia
The 12Go platform lets you compare ferry operators, times, and prices between islands. Book a day or two ahead in high season. Avoid the cheapest operators if reviews mention safety concerns.
Also Popular in Koh Samui
Wat Phra Yai
A iconic gilded Buddha statue from 1972 sits atop a hilltop temple complex with panoramic sea views.
Central Samui
Koh Samui's largest mall, with indoor and open-air wings, international brands, a food court, and a staffed children's play area.
Hin Ta Hin Yai
Free-entry coastal rock formations on Lamai Beach, famous for their striking natural shapes and scenic ocean views.
THE COCOON - SAMUI VIEWPOINT
Hilltop restaurant and bar in Koh Samui with panoramic jungle and ocean views, iconic hanging nets, and all-day dining.
Similar Beaches & Islands Across Thailand
Patong Beach
Phuket's most famous 3km beach on the Andaman Sea, buzzing with water sports, dining, and nightlife.
Mu Ko Similan National Park
A remote national park archipelago off Phuket's coast, famed for turquoise waters, white sand, and world-class diving.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
January – August
Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: July – August & December
Getting there
Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). Ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs — a cheaper option.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
- •Motorbike or scooter rental
- •Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
- •Grab available in main areas
Where to stay near Lamai Beach
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.