Joanna James
Where palm-fringed sands and turquoise blue waters grab the spotlight, beaches are what single-handedly put Koh Samui on the map, yet it abounds with slices of untouched beach, yet to be discovered by the many island visitors. Here are some of the best unspoiled beaches you should explore!
Spanning a fine stretch of beach between Koh Samui’s most popular Chaweng and Lamai Beaches is the far less popular Silver Beach. It is not only one of the least known beaches on the Thai island, but at only 250 metres in length, it is also one of the smallest. While Silver Beach may not score so well in terms of “general beach attributes”, it is the very thing that adds to its appeal. The minuscule size combined with the undiscovered popularity makes Silver Beach the perfect slice of beach heaven.
Serenity is not the easiest to come by in Koh Samui, which certainly doesn’t come as a surprise for a land that has a reputation for being Thailand’s undisputed holiday and party destination. But, in northernmost Koh Samui, on the shores of the twin beaches, Samrong Beach and Thongson Bay, beachgoers are treated to boundless serenity. Unwind under swaying palms, sip on tropical cocktails and bask in the soothing sun, immersing yourself in the tranquil seaside ambience.
Thailand’s second largest island and the world-renowned holiday destination, modern-world Koh Samui, is anything but what it used to be prior to its popularity in the tourism realm. On the southern coast of the island, in Thong Krut Beach and the eponymous traditional fishing village, the authentic charm of the Thai island is still intact, untouched and unmarred. Savour a dose of authenticity and indulge in oodles of traditional experiences coupled with delightful beach basking.
For those looking for a moment of peace and quiet, Laem Yai in the northwestern tip of Koh Samui certainly won’t disappoint. The 200-metre shrouded cove, nestled between Bang Po and Nathon Town, is arguably the most secluded slice of beach in all of the Thai island. The beach’s scenic positioning is renowned for delightful sunset strolls and late-afternoon beach basking. For those looking to have a refreshing swim, however, Laem Yai isn’t the best choice due to the low-level water, even at high tide.
Just a hop, skip and a jump away from the liveliness of Maenam Village and the likes of the bustling Maenam Walking Street, Ban Tai Beach is an oasis of serenity on the island’s west-central coast. The beach’s close proximity to the renowned tourist quarter lets travellers enjoy the best of both worlds — the serene beachside and the atmospheric holiday vibrance. Longing beach bums who’d fancy staying just a stone’s throw away from the picture-postcard shores, retreat to one of the finest Koh Samui beachfront villas offered by the likes of SAii Koh Samui.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
