Best Beaches in Koh Samui
16 places found in Koh Samui
Koh Samui's beaches wrap around the entire island, each with a distinct character. Chaweng Beach is the longest and most popular — 7 km of white sand with beach bars, water sports, and beachfront dining. Lamai is more laid-back with better snorkelling at its rocky southern end.
The northern beaches offer tranquility. Maenam has shallow, calm water perfect for families and paddleboarding. Bophut's Fisherman's Village combines a narrow beach with the island's most charming pedestrian strip. For something secluded, explore the southern coast around Thong Krut.
Ban Tai Beach
A calm, scenic beach on Koh Samui's eastern coast, ideal for swimming, relaxing, and beachside dining.
Choeng Mon Beach
A peaceful northern Koh Samui beach known for calm, lake-flat waters and a unique wave pattern where swells meet from both sides.
Bang Po Beach
Sandy stretch popular for snorkeling, yoga & sunsets, with bars, seafood eateries & simple lodgings.
W Beach
A tranquil palm-fringed beach on Koh Samui split between a private hotel section and a public stretch with water sports.
Coral Cove Beach
A sheltered small beach on Koh Samui's eastern coast, popular for snorkelling, kayaking, and a quieter seaside escape.
Maenam Beach
Laid-back beach, several kilometers long, backed with palm trees, rental bungalows & restaurants.
Chaweng Noi Beach
A quieter alternative to busy Chaweng Beach, offering clear water, soft sand, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Bo Phut Beach
Modest beach featuring Fisherman's Village, which offers shops, restaurants, diving & more.
Lipa Noi Beach
A peaceful west-coast beach on Koh Samui, known for calm waters and spectacular sunset views.
Lamai Beach
White-sand beach lined with bars & restaurants, with rentable lounge chairs & palm trees.
Chaweng Beach
Long, spacious beach with an upbeat vibe featuring nearby resorts, restaurants & shopping.
Thongson Beach
A sheltered, quiet beach on Koh Samui with calm waters, palm shade, and a noticeably relaxed atmosphere.
Bangrak Beach
A quiet, low-key beach on Koh Samui's eastern shore — better suited to walks than swimming.
Laem Yai
Sandy stretch popular for sunset strolls, backed by upscale hotels tucked away among coconut palms.
Shark Bay
A secluded bay off Koh Samui known for snorkeling, sea turtles, and the chance to spot baby sharks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Koh Samui beach is best for swimming?
Chaweng and Lamai have the best swimming — long, sandy, with gradual depth. Maenam is excellent for families (very shallow). Bophut is narrow with a rocky bottom in places.
Are Koh Samui beaches crowded?
Chaweng gets busy, especially December-February. Lamai is less crowded. Maenam and Bophut are rarely packed. For empty sand, head to Lipa Noi on the west coast or Thong Krut in the south.
Is Koh Samui good for beach holidays with kids?
Excellent. Maenam's shallow water is ideal for young children. Chaweng has the most facilities and beachfront restaurants. Several resorts offer kids' clubs and family-oriented beach activities.