Koh Samui Beaches - Where tourist brochures come to life

Sunset – an unforgettable tapestry of colours that arrest all senses of the onlooker – is what LipaNoi beach is renowned for. Several factors contribute in making LipaNoi the ideal family beach: it is extremely close to Samui's main car ferry pier, thus can be reached from the mainland without much hassle; there are virtually no rocks or corals to be found in the waters, thus children can safely wade in, and the water is rather shallow until about 100m from the sea.

Indeed, apart from enjoying the view, there are not that many activities to do in LipaNoi. This nature of the beach is reflected in its visitors, who are mostly the older tourists, seeking solace with a scenic view. There is no nightlife, no partying and if you are seeking a hyped up beach atmosphere, this definitely is the opposite of that. The visitors often stroll through the coconut plantations, a step along the waves on sun kissed sand and merely enjoy nature at its finest, at LipaNoi.

The second largest resort area in KohSamui, after Chaweng beach, this is quieter and more peaceful than bustling Chaweng. Although not a contender for nightlife, the area offers plenty to do, with a number if Samui resorts, shopping malls, spas and dining experiences to choose from.

While the atmosphere is in Lamai beach is not as vibrant as that of Chaweng due to it being slightly older, the area is being rejuvenated. Lamai is considered to have cheaper accommodation options than Chaweng, although the area is now moving from "cheap and cheerful" to higher end entertainment.

Chaweng is the nightlife hub of KohSamui, making Chaweng beach one of the most happening beaches in the area. Stumbling into a Samui beach resort is inevitable here, as this area offers more accommodation options than any other place on the island. The happening nightlife also means that there are restaurants and bars that cater to everyone, able to sate all palates. This puts Chaweng beach right on top in terms of choices of nightlife.

Chaweng throbs with young blood, with youngsters oscillating between pubs and dance bars, all of which are centred on Green Mango strip. 3km long in length, Chaweng's main strip has smaller activity centres along the stretch. The northern end of the beach is more tranquil and is home to luxury accommodation such as Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort.

For those seeking peace, quiet and solace, Maenam beach is the place to be. The sense of isolation is further supported by the scattered resorts of the area. Although the beach is considered one of Samui's predominantly backpacker beaches, it does offer luxury accommodation, making this a beach that brings either ends of the financial spectrum together in their search for peaceful relaxation. Rambling pathways, sparse human life and stretches of sand that are virtually undisturbed affords a level of privacy that is hard to come by in any other scenic beach in KohSamui.

Bophut beach is miles and miles of golden sand that stretches down between Big Buddha statue and Maenam beach. Bophut is considered one of the oldest places on the island, preserving its age-old vibes for the modern day tourist to explore.

Fisherman's Village, the place where tourists flock to explore and investigate the life of original island settlers, is associated with Bophut beach, making it a must-visit place whether you seek golden sands or timeless culture. Fisherman's village preserves a Mediterranean feeling in its graceful elegance. Ancient wooden shop-houses that are supported by modern structures which manage to adhere to the original architecture provides the entire area with a seamless atmosphere. It is no wonder then, that a visit to Bophut beach makes one travel back in time when the first settlers disembarked on this glorious island.