Chaweng Beach
The largest and most popular of Samui’s beaches, Chaweng is usually divided into three sections: North Chaweng, Central Chaweng, and Chaweng Noi (Little Chaweng) around a headland to the south. Chaweng Beach is longest beach located on Samui Island’s east coast. The beach is beautiful here, and local developers are finally cleaning up some of the trashy area on the island. It attracts many young travelers and families alike, and remains good value for the money. The beach is approximately 7 km long, with powdery white sand. It is bordered by emerald-blue waters and a coral reef where waves break, leaving the bay quite peaceful. Not far from the beach, there are two small islands near the reef. After swimming, you can explore the nearest one by walking through shallow water or go for snorkeling and kayaking at the second island which is further out and larger. Chaweng at duskThe central part of the beach is a bit more crowded than the quieter north. Many vendors pass by offering beverages, fruit, ice cream and local Thai food for the more daring. A variety of local crafts and Thai souvenirs are also available. The beach itself is usually accessed through the hotels, as there are no beach roads to disturb the peacefulness of the area. It is very relaxing but noticeably more touristy during the high season. The water is clean, with usual temperatures between 25-28 degrees Celsius. Parallel to the beach, clustered in the middle of the strip, lies Samui’s greatest concentration of restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and of course, fast food and convenience stores.
Lamai beach
Lamai beach is the second largest tourist center. The beach is a little bit more rough and the water is deeper. It’s an excellent location for swimming and has a well-known nightlife. Lamai can be discovered by walking as the area is not as large as Chaweng. Hinta Hinyai is at the southern end of Lamai and famous for its strangely shaped rock formations.
Maenam Beach
This beach is located in the north of Samui with smooth sand and good swimming preferences. Maenam beach is perfect for families with small children as the water is shallow and there is no noise from nightlife or traffic.
Bophut Beach
Located in the north of Samui. Bophut consists of the Fisherman’s Village and the beaches west of it. The beach at the village is small and not so suitable for swimming as there are many tour and diving boats going from here to other islands. At the village you will find many restaurants and shops as well as cafes and bars.
North East Samui Beach
The beaches located in the North-East of Samui, are Choengmon Beach, Baan Plai Laem, Samrong Bay,| Tongsai Bay , Tong Son. These are the more quiet areas offering many private villas and houses as well as all levels of hotels and resorts. These places are perfect for relaxing but within 10 minutes you can reach the bustling area of Chaweng for entertainment and shopping.
Big Buddha Beach
Located in the Northeast of Samui with smooth sand, good swimming preferences and safe for children. This area is quiet but has everything to offer like restaurants, bars and shopping opportunities. The nightlife of Chaweng is just a 15min drive away. From here you have fantastic views over the Big Buddha and Koh Phangan.