Joanna James
There is no doubt, the many beautiful beaches that Koh Samui lays claim to are the reason why the island makes an appearance on countless bucket lists. With over 40 beaches, quaint coves and picturesque bays, along with a delightful tropical climate, Koh Samui, is an enjoyable holiday destination. Planning on visiting soon? Here are five must-visit beaches to add to your itinerary.
With its delightfully powdery white sandy shores, kissed by azure blue waters, Chaweng Beach is something straight out of a postcard. A wide and expansive bay, much of the island's development has been centred around Chaweng Beach. Apart from an offshore reef, Chaweng also offers visitors a diverse range of accommodation options by many reputed Phuket resorts including famous options such as Avani Hotels & Resorts, along with many bars, clubs and restaurants to choose from.
The second-largest resort town on the island next to Chaweng, Lamai Beach is a visually stunning treat -with its fine and powdery soft sands, swaying palms and a long stretch of shallow waters to enjoy fun water sports and plenty of swimming. A plus point of Lamai Beach is that it is far less crowded and quieter compared to its counterpart, Chaweng beach. Nevertheless, it doesn't fail to offer visitors plenty of shopping, dining and accommodation options to choose from. Lamai Beach often tends to attract older travellers and family groups.
A 3 km long strip, Bophut Beach sweeps downs between the less popular Maenam and Bangrak beaches. All though it may draw fewer crowds compared to other popular beaches in Koh Samui, some lively activities come to life here, every Friday evening including some fantastic street markets. Here too one can find accommodation and dining options that cater to all budget levels.
Offering excellent views of Koh Phangan, Maenam is a serene and peaceful beach that offers visitors a degree of quiet and privacy hereto unavailable elsewhere in Koh Samui. Having once been the haunt of backpackers, Maenam today is host to a fantastic range of beachfront accommodation options. Consider making your way there for a long sunset stroll followed by some refreshing drinks at one of the many bars that can be found along this shoreline.
Taling Ngam Beach offers visitors, pristine shores shrouded by lush tropical jungle, with the stunning vistas of the Ang Thong National Marine Park as a bonus. If you are keen on escaping the very commercial atmosphere of the more vibrant beaches such as Chaweng, this will be your go-to spot. The nearest town of significance is Nathon, from which an additional 20-minute drive will be required to reach Taling Ngam.
Located just north of Lamai Beach, Silver Beach encapsulates tropical bliss effortlessly. Also known as the beach of the Ta-chain trees in the local language, one can find long-established restaurants here to check out. Things to do here include snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing to your heart's content.
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