For many people, Phuket is THE holiday resort island of Thailand. However, in recent years the country’s third-biggest island has gained some real momentum to challenge Phuket. Having said that, Koh Samui still is a great deal less exploited than Phuket, even if has its own international airport as well as 18-hole golf course.
Koh Samui truly is a beautiful island; although the ‘paradise’ label is a little worn out in this respect, as well as arbitrary, it very much fits what Koh Samui has to offer: near-perfect beaches with crystal-clear water, millions of coconut palms and tropical forests with natural waterfalls. That is, the complete range is available on the one same island — from untouched, empty beaches to high-end, contemporary luxury facilities (because paradise should have these as well, shouldn’t it?). As it happens, before the tourists stated to arrive on the island, Koh Samui was virtually one huge coconut palm tree plantation.
Chaweng — Biggest and Superior but not Nicest
You have probably already heard of Chaweng — the biggest, most pretentious and notorious of Koh Samui’s beaches — though definitely no longer its nicest or cleanest. Should you be after around-the-clock action, adventurous beach activities, first-class restaurants with cuisine from all parts of the world, and superior hotel and spa resorts, there is no need to hesitate before opting for Chaweng — you surely won’t be disappointed. Also high-end-bracket property developments are springing up like mushrooms.
Lamai — Number Two except for Northern Europeans
Koh Samui’s number-two beach is Lamai. Here, everything is sort of a bit less than at Chaweng. Argubly, that is why more Scandinavians and Germans find their way to Lamai. On the other hand, most holiday resort amenities are indeed available — besides at slightly cheaper prices.
Big Buddha Beach — Greater Buddha than Beach
Big Buddha Beach, or more accurately put Bangrak, can proud itself to be one of the most desirable attractions on the island, the 12-meter golden Big Buddha at Wat Phra Yai. Big Buddha Beach is sited on the northernmost tip of the island. Although there are some rather relaxed bungalow villages to choose from, the beach and water quality is not really up to that of Chaweng or Lamai.
Natien — This is THE One
All things considered, perhaps the loveliest beach on Koh Samui is to be found at the southeast end of the island, with other words Natien Beach. With only a few resort complexes, the beach is a lot more private, intimate and untouched. If we were forced to recommend any of Koh Samui’s beaches, this would without much hesitation be the one!
