- Updated: 24th August 2023
Koh Samui beaches aren’t just sandy stretches of paradise but they’re pretty magnetic that draw in beach lovers from all over the world.
This captivating tropical island down south of Thailand has a way of enchanting travelers, be it those on a well-curated holiday package or the intrepid digital nomads exploring on their own.
With an area of 228.7 square kilometers, Koh Samui is the second biggest after one of Asia’s top vacation destinations, which is Phuket island.
Besides visiting Koh Samui’s charming lagoons and characteristic rocky outcrops, there’re also less crowded places to call your own. So where are the secluded beaches and hidden gems to explore?
In this article, we aim to guide you through Koh Samui beaches, including secluded villas and resorts, hidden restaurants, bars and other great stuff for your next island getaway.
Quiet beaches in Koh Samui
1. Choeng mon beach
Choengmon, a remarkably peaceful stretch of fine powdery sandy beach nestled in the serene northeast corner of Koh Samui. It’s an ideal escape for couples seeking serenity and families in search of a well-deserved vacation.
Embraced by the protective arms of two islands (Koh Fan Yai and Koh Fan Noi), the waters here gently caresses the shore, creating a safe haven for children to splash around.
For those seeking a peaceful beach locale, it offers the perfect spot to unwind and bask in the shallow and warm waters. Picture yourself reading a book or sunbathing while the sea gently cradles you.
- Length: Choeng Mon Beach is approximately 2 kilometers long.
- Sand Type: The northern half of the beach showcases soft, white sand, providing ample space for relaxation and sunbathing. And the southern area is characterized by a series of small, rocky coves that add to its irresistible charm and romantic appeal.
- Tides Type: Sheltered from large waves by its natural bay, the beach features a gentle slope. During low tides, the water recedes significantly, revealing expansive stretches of sandy shoreline.
- Water Colors: The waters at Choeng Mon Beach display a mix of deep blue and green turquoise.
- Seabed: The ocean floor is sandy with some rocky areas, adding to the beach’s natural charm. It’s suitable for swimming, but be cautious of underwater rocks and currents.
- Crowd Level: Choeng Mon Beach is moderately with a mix of visitors. It tends to attract families, couples and some water sports enthusiasts.
2. Taling Ngam Beach
Located in the southern part of Koh Samui, Taling Ngam Beach is a hidden gem. This laid-back beach is known for stunning private villas and resorts on a hillslope offering breathtaking sea view as well as the nearby islands.
A tranquil fishing village, its pretty small compared to other beaches in Koh, around just under a kilometer in length.
What you’ll discover is an uncrowded beach with spectacular sunset and a super peaceful and laid-back ambience. Along the way, there is a village market and beautiful viewpoints.
There are several amenities including beach chairs and umbrellas, as well as quiet restaurants and cafes for you to grab a bite or a refreshing coconut drink.
- Length: Taling Ngam Beach is relatively long, stretching for several kilometers.
- Sand Type: This locale features soft, fine golden sands, perfect for beachgoers to relax, sunbathe and stroll along the shoreline.
- Tides Type: The water levels at Taling Ngam Beach fluctuate throughout the day due to the natural ebb and flow of the tides. It’s pretty shallow and not a great locale for swimming.
- Water Colors: The waters has shades of deep blue and turquoise, reflecting the pristine and untouched nature of the beach.
- Seabed: The ocean floor is muddy adding to the beach’s natural charm. Although it’s not suitable for swimming, the sunset can be super breathtaking.
- Crowd Level: Compared to the more popular beaches like Chaweng and Lamai, Taling Ngam Beach tends to have a low crowd level. This beach offers a peaceful and uncrowded environment.
3. Silver Beach
Located on the southeastern coast of Koh Samui, Silver Beach, also known as Haad Thong Ta-Khian, is a secluded and idyllic haven that captivates visitors with its pristine beauty and tranquil ambiance.
Tucked away between the bustling Chaweng and Lamai beaches, Silver Beach offers a delightful respite from the tourist crowds while still being easily accessible.
As you make your way to this hidden gem, you’ll be greeted by a postcard-perfect scene – a crescent-shaped bay adorned with powdery soft, silver-hued sand, for which the beach derives its name.
The gentle curve of the shoreline is framed by shady coconut trees, punctuated with boulders but wide enough to accommodate visitors who likes strolling along its fine sandy shoreline.
The sand is powdery, light and doesn’t burn your feet, which is perfect for tanning while you walk up and down the seaside. The waters is clean and it’s one of Koh Samui top beaches for swimming.
- Length: Silver Beach is a smaller beach, about 250 meters long, nestled between Chaweng and Lamai.
- Sand Type: The shoreline has soft and light-colored sands, great for sunbathing and beachcombing.
- Tides Type: Moderate tides with the water level fluctuating throughout the day.
- Water Colors: Beautiful shades of turquoise providing an inviting atmosphere.
- Seabed: The ocean floor is mostly sandy with some rocky patches. Snorkelers can encounter marine life near the rocky outcrops at the ends of the beach.
- Crowd Level: Silver Beach is considered one of the quieter and less crowded beaches in Koh Samui. It offers a more secluded atmosphere, ideal for those seeking solitude and relaxation.
4. Bophut Beach
Bophut Beach is situated on the northern coast of the island, just a few kilometers west of the major tourist hub of Chaweng.
This quiet stretch of beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for travelers seeking a more laid-back experience.
Many beachfront restaurants and bars offer outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing cocktail while admiring the picturesque views.
- Length: Bophut Beach is approximately 2 kilometers long, located on the northern coast.
- Sand Type: The beach has soft and light-colored sands, great for sunbathing and beachcombing.
- Tides Type: Similar to Maenam Beach, Bophut Beach experiences relatively mild tides.
- Water Colors: The waters at Bophut Beach has shades of turquoise.
- Seabed: The ocean bottom is sandy, making it a comfortable spot for swimming and wading.
- Crowd Level: Bophut Beach has a moderate level of visitors, particularly around the area near the Fisherman’s Village. It’s a balance between laid-back ambiance and some activity at the village strip.
5. Lamai Beach
Lamai beach is located on the east side of Samui stretching 4km with sandy shoreline and deep waters. This beach town is the preferred beach vacation for older couples.
The water is at the deepest in Lamai beach center where all the main activities are. If you love open water swimming, this is the perfect beach location for you.
Lamai is approximately 6 km of long winding, uphill and downhill ride from Chaweng beach. It’s a chill-out holiday spot to laze around and it’s super low-key as well.
The beach is punctuated with rocky outcrops so some of the bungalows and resorts are cut off from each other.
There are a number of girly bars located along the town strip (small road), affordable restaurants, food market and shops selling clothes and souvenirs.
A handful of cafes and restaurants on the strip opens pretty early. One of those that I go for early breakfast is Will Wait Bakery & Restaurant, where you can get affordable freshly baked pastries and breakfast set.
- Length: Lamai Beach is the second-longest beach on the island, extending approximately 4 kilometers.
- Sand Type: Like Chaweng, Lamai Beach features soft and powdery white sands, inviting visitors to lounge and bask in the sun.
- Tides Type: The sea is usually calm but the under current can sometimes be strong. Months between June – August, the tides are super low.
- Water Colors: The waters is usually deep with a delightful shade of turquoise blue and it’s remarkably clear. Perfect for strong swimmers.
- Seabed: The ocean floor has coarser sand and slopes gently, providing safe swimming. Snorkeling is best near the rocky outcrops on certain stretch of the beach.
- Crowd Level: It offers a good balance of visitors between lively beachfront areas on the the main beach and quieter and hidden spots separated by huge boulders.
Also Read:
Exploring Koh Samui Beaches
A you can see on the map, there are a number of beaches in Koh Samui that cater to different types of beachgoers. Some are great for swimming and some have brilliant sunsets.
You can explore all the beaches on your own without getting lost. There is only a main ring road running along the coastline.
It take about 45 minutes by jeep or motorbike to complete the loop. All the inner streets, lanes and tracks leading to the beaches and resorts are displayed clearly with signboards.
The main ring road is pretty well-paved leading to all beaches in Samui and rental cost for vehicles are cheaper than Phuket or Pataya.
What To Do In Koh Samui
Fisherman’s Village in Samui awaits you with open arms. Stroll along the streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries and restaurants serving delectable western and local food.
As the evening unfolds, the Fisherman’s village night market come alive with performances and live music, creating a pretty chill out atmosphere that embraced both locals and visitors.
Take a diving course at one of those Padi license Dive School. Gyms are available along the strip. The most affordable gyms in Samui island are the ones without air-conditioning.
Visit Lamai beach walking street on Sundays for a large range of local food stalls, live music and children activities.
Bophut is the best beach area to be if you want to experience the fame monthly Koh Phangan Full Moon Party. Speedboats operates almost hourly making return trips easy and fast.
At the western end of the Fisherman’s Village, you can rent jet ski which is less expensive than in Phuket.
Try Go-carting for some fun. Just ask any locals for direction. For relaxation, you can get a massage and manicure by the beach or get a cool Tattoo at reasonable prices.
Secret hikes in Koh Samui
Pagoda Khao Hua Jook: (Koh Samui Summit) This hike leads to a hidden pagoda on the highest peak of Koh Samui, offering breathtaking views of the entire island and its surroundings. The trail can be challenging in some parts but is rewarding for those seeking a panoramic view of the island.
Maenam Hills: (Secret Buddha Viewpoint and Jungle Trails) Maenam area has some lesser-known trails that lead to viewpoints, dense jungle and serene spots away from the tourist crowds.
Overlap Stone 2 Viewpoint: This viewpoint is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset vistas and is accessible via a short hike. The trail is not widely advertised, making it a quieter place to enjoy Koh Samui’s beauty.
Hidden waterfalls in Koh Samui
While not entirely secret, some of the island’s waterfalls, like Na Mueang Waterfall and Wang Saotong Waterfall offer relatively quiet and scenic trails.
These hikes lead you through a dense jungle to stunning cascades (waterfall), providing an opportunity to cool off in the natural pools.
Samui’s popular Na Muang Waterfall 1 is more popular and easily accessible, while Na Muang Waterfall 2 offers a quieter experience. It is located deeper into the jungle and requires a short hike, making it less frequented by tourists.
Hin Lad Waterfall is tucked away in the jungle near Nathon. It offers a beautiful trek through the forest and its serene surroundings makes it an ideal spot to enjoy nature.
Tarnim Magic Garden (Secret Buddha Garden) is not actually a traditional waterfall, this hidden gem features small streams, water features and lush greenery.
It is a tranquil place with beautiful sculptures and statues scattered around, offering a unique and magical experience.
Secluded beach restaurants in Koh Samui
Koh Samui restaurants can be a real gem for food enthusiasts and the island is known for having some delightful hidden dining spots. One such place is Nine Point Samui.
This idyllic restaurant is located on the quiet and peaceful side of Koh Samui. It’s situated near Baan Taling Ngam. The restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean, making it an excellent spot to enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the spectacular sunset.
At Nine Point, you can savor a delightful meal of traditional Thai cuisine and international dishes. The menu include classic Thai delicacies such as Pad Thai and Green Curry.
The quaint restaurant also serve delicious grilled seafood options such as prawns, fish, and squid. To cater to international tastes, expect stir-fried dishes with various vegetables and meat or tofu, often accompanied with rice.
Address: Tambon Taling Ngam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand
Opening Hours: 10.30am – 7pm. Monday Closed
Hidden Bars In Koh Samui
Perched on a hilltop, The Jungle Club boasts awe-inspiring panoramic views that stretch over the island’s azure coastline, as far as your eyes can see. This picturesque venue is a hidden gem that beckons visitors seeking a relaxing experience.
The Jungle Club’s open-air architecture allows the refreshing ocean breeze to sweep through, offering a respite from the tropical heat. The venue’s design effortlessly blends into the surrounding environment as well.
Sip on signature cocktails including classics like Mojitos, Piña Coladas, Mai Tais and innovative concoctions inspired by the tropical surroundings.
The Jungle Club also offer popular international beer brands to cater to your preferences. Wine lovers can find a selection of wines, while those who prefer spirits and liquors can explore a range of options to create their favorite cocktails or enjoy them on the rocks.
Location: 44/11 Soi Panyadee, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Open: Saturday–Wednesday from 8 am to 10 pm (closed on Thursdays and Fridays)
Hidden Resorts In Koh Samui
Formerly named Rocky Bungalow a few decades ago, Rocky’s Boutique Resort Koh Samui under Veranda Collection has transformed into a TripAdvisor award winning boutique resort.
Flanked by a weather station and a Buddhist temple, it has one of the most secluded Koh Samui beaches. Even getting here is pretty treacherous as you have to maneuver quite a steep slope from the main road.
Although its private beach is not good for swimming (rocky), the resort’s set-up is super idyllic and peaceful. The beachfront rooms are perfect for couples and it has an amazing beach bar on top of a huge boulder which linked to the landscape pool.
You can’t find a more peaceful and secluded beach resort in Samui than this one. Rocky’s Boutique Resort Koh Samui is a hidden gem with gorgeous scenery, excellent accommodations, wonderful service and excellent cuisine.
- Address: 438/1 Moo 1, T. Maret, Amphur Koh Samui, Suratthani 84310, Thailand
- Contact: +66 77 332 888
- Facebook/verandacollection.samui
Silver Beach Resort like other big beach resorts in Lamai or Chaweng have 2 sections, beachfront and across the strip (road).
On the roadside, there are affordable fan rooms and outside the hotel, there’s a small family store offering essentials and groceries.
Facing the beach, the hotel’s beach bar has inexpensive drink package. Three small beers for 200 baht, plus discounted cocktails during happy hour.
Awesome local staffs, fantastic food and drinks made for great experience. No shady coconut trees or beach umbrella on the resort’s beach, so you need to find a good spot near the pool.
- Address: 124/4 Moo 4 Tongtakien Bay, Maret 84320 Thailand
- Price Range: Economy USD$46 at Booking.com
Hidden Hotels In Koh Samui
The Sandalwood Luxury Hotel is located on a steep slope with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand. It’s the perfect beach escapade for romantic couples.
Koh Samui beaches and restaurants are approximately 15 minutes drive away, so its best that you rent a vehicle or bike to get around the island. The private sun terrace at the pool villa are fantastic, cozy and clean.
If you don’t mind waiting to go visit one of the beaches in Samui, there is shuttle service for free which can be booked at the villa’s front desk. Sandalwood is ideal for visitors seeking exclusivity and the ocean views make the stay memorable.
- Address: 211/7 Moo 4, Lamai Beach, Maret 84310 Thailand
- Contact: +66 77 448 982
- Website
Your Travel Planner:
- | Bus + Ferry
- | Mini Van Pickup From Hotel
- Check out popular affordable tours at Viator
- Craving for sumptuous local food? Go with eatwith
- Rent yourself a comfortable car for trips to top attractions
