Once the destination of Koh Samui chosen for my trip to August in Thailand, I wondered which coast to choose in Koh Samui? Where are the most beautiful beaches, the best places to stay in Koh Samui?
If you too are preparing a trip with sightseeing and relaxation on dream beaches, here is the information that I have gathered on Koh Samui, one of the most beautiful paradise islands of thailand.
Thus, you will know which coast to choose in Koh Samui, the ideal place on one of the most beautiful beaches of the island depending on whether you are looking for a lively atmosphere or a quieter and more peaceful stay.
Where to go in Koh Samui?
If you want to leave for a week or two in Koh Samui, be careful not to choose just any coast. Indeed, even if the entire coastline of the island is magnificent, there are areas that are more lively, noisy, very crowded and others that are calmer, more tranquil and relaxing. This is why it is essential to know which coast to choose in Koh Samui.
Moreover, when we choose Koh Samui as a travel destination, it is mainly to enjoy its beautiful beaches. It is therefore important, when looking for where to go in Koh Samui, to select the most beautiful beaches where to choose your hotel.
Finally, to choose where to go to Koh Samui, it is also important to know what you want to visit, what activities you will favor for your stay (see my advice at the end of the article).
Map of Koh Samui
To know where to go in Koh Samui, which coast to choose, it is essential to first locate the different coastal areas of the island.
For this, I suggest you use this map of the island of Koh Samui. Indeed, you will find the location of the main beaches or seaside resorts which we will talk about below.
What is the most beautiful coast of Koh Samui?
Koh Samui is a beautiful island located in the Gulf of Thailand just 1 hour by plane from Bangkok. It is a paradise for beach lovers and a perfect destination for partygoers but also for those looking to relax amidst the beauty of nature.
But to the question of which is the most beautiful coast of Koh Samui, the answer is not obvious. Indeed, each coast has its unique charm and beauty, so to choose one, you have to know your tastes and your type of stay. This is what we will see below.
Which coast of Koh Samui to choose?
To help you choose the best coast of the island of Ko Samui, the one that will suit you best, here are their main characteristics:
Liveliest east coast of Koh Samui
La East Coast is an area renowned for its stunning sunrise views, tranquil waters and some of the island's most popular beaches, such as Lamai and Chaweng. This coast is very lively, with many restaurants, bars and shops to discover. The bustling beaches on the west coast look a bit like those on Phuket and are perfect for partygoers and dating enthusiasts.
The east coast is also home to one of the most beautiful places in Koh Samui: Silver Beach or Crystal Bay. Indeed, these small beaches nestled in rocky coves are in a charming little bay just north of Lamai Beach and a short drive from the very touristy area of Chaweng.
But, if you're looking for a peaceful and serene getaway, the north east coast also has a beautiful, more peaceful beach away from the hustle and bustle of Chaweng: Choengmon Beach.
West coast of Koh Samui for its quieter beaches
La Western coast of Koh Samui is less touristy than the east coast but also has some beautiful white sand beaches with crystal clear waters (Lipa Noi Beach, Tong Yang Beach, Laem Yai). The west coast beaches are less crowded and therefore quieter, making them the perfect place for a relaxing break in the sun.
The sunsets on this coast are particularly stunning, with the sun sinking into the horizon and casting a warm orange glow across the entire coast.
Note that in the northwestern tip of Koh Samui there are beautiful luxury hotels such as the Four Seasons Resort – SHA Extra Plus in the splendid bay of Laem Yai.
South coast of Koh Samui for its beautiful beaches and nature
La south coast of Koh Samui and the southwest area Ko Samui is less busy and therefore quieter than the east coast or the northeast coast. It is nevertheless full of tourist attractions linked to nature. There are a large number of isolated beaches, in the wild and for some almost deserted. The natural sites are preserved and there are in particular the 2 most famous waterfalls of the island.
North coast of Koh Samui ideal for families
Finally, the North Coast of Koh Samui is known for its peaceful and secluded beaches, lush greenery and stunning views. If you're looking for a quiet getaway, the North Coast is the perfect destination. Some of the most popular beaches on the north coast include:
- Mae Nam where there is the main terminal for boat trips and inter-island ferries,
- Bophut with its charming Fisherman Village, ideal place for families.
Northeast of Koh Samui for luxury and beauty
The northeastern tip has very beautiful beaches like Choeng Mon, Thongson Beach, Plai Laem or Bangrak.
Far from the bustle and mass tourism, this is the luxury area of Koh Samui. Indeed, this is where you will find splendid luxury hotel complexes (Melati Beach Resort, Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui or the Ritz-Carlton). They face splendid beaches with turquoise waters, especially on Choeng Mon or in Tongsai Bay.
Where are the best beaches in Koh Samui?
Choosing the best beach on Koh Samui is difficult as the island is surrounded by gorgeous beaches, each with their own quirks and unique charm.
Chaweng Beach on the east coast of Koh Samui
According to many travel blogs and forums, the most beautiful beach on Koh Samui is Chaweng Beach, located on the east coast of the island. It is indeed, the beach of Chaweng which is very long, is the most popular and the busiest of Koh Samui.
This beach is renowned for its white sand, crystal clear waters and wide range of beachfront accommodation, restaurants and bars. It is also a great place for shopping, as there are plenty of markets and of shops.
Chaweng Beach is also known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment. If you are looking for a lively atmosphere, Chaweng Beach is the ideal place.
Lamai Beach on the east coast of Koh Samui
Lamai Beach is smaller than Chaweng Beach but just as beautiful with very clear water perfect for swimming. Quite lively, there is a wide variety of restaurants, bars, shops and hotels. And between Chaweng and Lamay, you will find pretty little beaches surrounded by rocks like this one:
Silver Beach on the east coast of Koh Samui
Located between the beaches of Chaweng and Lamai, bounded by rocks, Silver Beach, also called Crystal bay or Coral Cove, is my favorite beach.
It strangely resembles the beaches of the Seychelles. Its coves are heavenly with turquoise and calm waters perfectly suited for swimming.
Lipa Noi on the west coast of Koh Samui
If you are looking for a quieter and more secluded beach, Lipa Noi Beach on the west coast of Koh Samui is an ideal place for a romantic getaway. Indeed, with its crystal clear waters, its incredibly fine white sand and its sensational sunsets, it is an ideal place to coo for two.
But, it is also a perfect beach for children because its waters are shallow and without coral or rocks.
Choeng Mon Beach in the northeast of the island
Choeng Mon Beach is a beautiful beach surrounded by lush vegetation. It is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet in a dream setting.
Where to choose your hotel in Koh Samui?
If you only have to spend a few days of vacation on the island, I recommend that you choose your hotel on the east coast of Koh Samui.
Among the most beautiful hotels on this coast there is the Banyan Tree Samui – SHA Extra Plus which is located in one of the most beautiful places of Koh Samui:
Where to go in Koh Samui to enjoy the most beautiful beaches?
For a 2 week stay in Koh Samui, the best will be to select several hotels on the most beautiful beaches of the island.
Thus, you can enjoy entertainment, night markets, shops but also moments of rest and relaxation more quiet. And you will discover all the beauties of the landscapes and coasts of Koh Samui.
This is what I did for my trip 2 weeks in Koh Samui in August of which you will find below my choice of hotels and the map of my itinerary. And for more details on these hotels, read my article: Where to stay in Koh Samui for the beaches?
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- 3 nights in Samui Natien Resort on the splendid and lively beach of Chaweng Beach
- 2 nights in Crystal Bay Beach Resort Silver Beach
- 2 nights in Royal Beach Boutique Resort Lamay beach
- 1 night at My Living Place in Nathon to be close to the Ferry to take the next day towards Koh Tao
- 3 nights in Koh Tao Relax Freedom Beach Resort in Koh Tao
- 3 nights in Pico Samui of Bophut Beach
Thank you for this very clear and interesting sharing. I keep it preciously if I have the chance one day to travel to Thailand….
Thank you for the comment. By leaving out of season (cheaper plane tickets) and choosing modest accommodation, you can go to Thailand for cheap. I hope you can organize a trip to this beautiful country!
Your comment:
« Silver Beach on the east coast of Koh Samui
Located between the beaches of Chaweng and Lamai, bounded by rocks, Silver Beach, also called Crystal bay or Coral Cove, is my favorite beach. »
Of course, because it is THE beach for French tourists. Intolerable !
I went there once with my Thai girlfriend to show her (because indeed, it's pretty). She was the only Thai on the beach. And everyone watched her pass by like a curious animal. She was very uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, we are invaded by French. They are very often condescending and mocking with Thais
The only ones I appreciate are the French retirees whom I often help because they generally don't speak a word of English.
Hello Jacques,
I understand your disappointment with the attitude of some French tourists. And I must admit that I too am sometimes ashamed of being French when I observe the behavior of certain French people abroad.
However, it must also be recognized that tourism is important for the economy of Thailand, which of course does not excuse anything.
And the fact that the most beautiful beach in Koh Samui is invaded by French people does not detract from its beauty.
Have a great day.