It's a shame that Koh Samui in Thailand isn't as popular a place as it is. It's as beautiful an island as Phuket yet just as exciting as Bangkok! So why isn't it as highly-regarded as the latter two? It's probably because people aren't all that familiar with the many neighborhoods and areas here as they are with Phuket and Bangkok. But don't let that get in your way to going here! Without a doubt, you'll have an amazing stay in this paradise of an island as you would have anywhere else. Probably even better!
Chaweng
Out of all the places in Koh Samui, Chaweng is probably the most welcoming to tourists. Some would even go so far as to regard it as the most suitable for vacationing families as well. Why? Because there's
a lot to do here. Of course, there are the standard hotels and resorts, giving you access to some of the best beaches you've probably never seen or heard of! Stretches upon stretches of white sand await people who want to go for a tan and kids excited to build sandcastles. There are also so many shopping districts here, you'll probably run out of money before your trip is through!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Lamai
In huge contrast, on the other hand, is Lamai beach. If Chaweng was one of the liveliest on the island, this place is practically a ghost town. This isn't to say there isn't anything here. Of course, this part of the island still has your luxury resorts, hotels, souvenir shops/vendors, and the like. But it's also one of the most peaceful areas in Koh Samui. This is the reason why so many newlyweds go here for their honeymoon. They can have the most private vacation in their lives here and only they would know what went down!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Maenam
Another serene area in Koh Samui is Maenam beach.
Maenam, in English, means 'Mother of Water,' and there couldn't have been a more appropriate name than this. Why? Because it one of the more remote places on the island! It's the best retreat for those who aren't into the party lifestyle that the island is slowly becoming known for. Here, people can really be at peace. So much so that it can almost heal people in a way. Though the many hospitals in the country are what makes Thailand the
medical tourist destination that it is, going here can just as easily help recover fully back to health.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bophut
Still, spending time in a remote place can be a bit too much for some. So for those who still want a lively stay in Koh Samui but aren't into the whole partying vibe, the beautiful district of Bophut is your kind of place. There's still nightlife here, but it's a lot more chill and mellow than in other areas. In fact, the historic aesthetic and feel of the place is what will really draw you in here. Those who want to get to know Thai culture more would appreciate seeing the shops, temples, restaurants, and more in this place.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Thong Takian
Thong Takian is an extremely relaxing beach in Koh Samui, but at first glance, you wouldn't think it! Also known as 'Silver Beach,' it's actually one of the least sandy shorelines on the entire island. This isn't to say that there's no sand in this area! Far from it! People can still lay down to tan and kids will still be able to build sandcastles here in Thong Takian. It's just there are a lot more pebbles here than you might have preferred. Because of this, it's become one of the least visited areas on this list. Which, on the brighter side, makes it more peaceful and serene than others.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Choeng Mon
Another quiet area is Choeng Mon. Weirdly enough, it's as bustling a district as the rest of them, but the privacy of the area makes it a more peaceful place as well. Sure, there are a ton of restaurants, cafes, shops, and the like to really keep the place alive and kicking, but overall, it's a lot quieter here. The beach, of course, is spectacular. The whitest sands you'll ever see, the clearest waters this side of the island, and serenity unlike any other! There's no denying you'll feel 100% refreshed after your stay here!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bangrak Beach
If you thought
Bangkok's temples were already extraordinary, wait until you get to Bangrak Beach! Also known as 'Big Buddha Beach,' this is where one of the biggest statues of the deity stands (or rather sits!) proudly atop a massive temple. You'll have to climb thousands of steps to see it up close and personal. Ironically enough, however, this part of Koh Samui is also the liveliest area in terms of partying! From clubs and bars to open raves and the like, people let loose and have a good time here. Arguably the best time to go here for such is during the Songkran Festival, or Full Moon Festival, one of the more famous
Thai holidays.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Don't think for a second that just because the island of Koh Samui in Thailand isn't the most popular in the world that it's worth overlooking. When you get here and explore the many beautiful places on the island, you'll want more people to know about them!
