- Updated: 23rd July 2023
Maenam Beach is a tranquil stretch of coastline located on the northern coast of Koh Samui. Sandwich between Bophut and Bang Po, Mae nam beach offers a relaxing retreat for visitors looking for a peaceful getaway.
With its more famous neighbors such as the laid-back Lamai Beach, is Maenam worth visiting? The thing is, Maenam Beach has this super low-key quaint village charm, offering visitors with a blissful beach vacation spot.
There aren’t any girlie bars, and surely no loud thumping music at night. With 7km of soft sand, and stunning views of neighboring islands, this seaside town is great for couples vacation or family with kids.
So if you are looking for a quiet and peaceful environment, make a pitstop at Maenam Beach before deciding to stay at this coastal village.
Maenam Beach Koh Samui
Maenam Beach is located on Koh Samui’s northern coast, directly facing Haad Rin beach, famed for the Full Moon party in Koh Phangan. This coastal village is easily accessible to the only main ring-road which loops around Koh Samui island.
The landscape is largely flat, fringed with coconut trees and the beach gently slopes out to the calm sea. The water is pretty shallow near the shore, making it safe for swimming. Be aware that there is no lifeguard on the beach.
Most of the restaurants, beach bars and shops can be found near the beachfront including rental outlets for canoeing, snorkeling and all sort of water sport activities.
Both Bang Po Beach to the west and Bophut Beach to the East can be reached by Bike/Jeep approximately 10 minutes, and to complete round the loop takes around 45 minutes.
Here’re some idyllic beaches which is a short distance to Maenam to visit either by walking or renting a bike.
- Maenam Beach – This is the main beach in the area and is known for its picturesque location with swaying coconut trees near the seashore, soft “not so white sand” and calm waters.
- Bophut Beach – This chill out beach village is located just 10 minutes drive, south of Maenam and is known for its charming fishing village and trendy restaurants and beachside bars.
- Bang Po Beach – This is a super peaceful and more secluded beach located to the north of Maenam (10 minutes drive). The stretch of beach is great for a quiet stroll along the almost empty coastline.
- Ban Tai Beach – This is a long and wide beach located just south of Bang Po. It is known for its gentle waves and beautiful sunsets. A stunning place to relax under a beach umbrella and simply enjoy the sun, sea and sand.
Best resorts in Maenam Beach
Maenam Beach Villa
Maenam Beach Villa is great if you are looking for a swanky beachfront relaxing vacation. The villa features spacious living areas, including a huge kitchen and dining room, and comfortable bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms.
The outdoor area is super impressive, with a large infinity pool, sun loungers, and a dining area with stunning sea views set in a pretty tranquil surrounding.
Maenam Resort
Maenam Bay Resort is more like a medium-size boutique resort, featuring comfortable rooms, a cute infinity pool, and direct access to the Mae nam beach and 10 minute drive to Bophut.
For a budget-friendly option, the Coco Palm Beach Resort offers cozy rooms with garden or pool views.
Maenam Hotel
The aptly named W Koh Samui, operated by the Marriot group is a luxurious place to stay, located directly on the beach and offers private pool villas.
The rooms come with private balconies or terraces that overlook the Gulf of Thailand or facing the lush tropical garden.
The hotel also features a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and couple of restaurants and bars serving delicious Thai and international food.
The best thing about this hotel is that it’s located at the perfect beach spot, smack between Maenam and Bhoput.
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Maenam beach things to do
1. Snorkeling
The best time to go snorkeling in Maenam Beach is during the dry season from December to April, when the water visibility is at its best. If you are looking for the ultimate snorkelling spot, then a day trip to Koh Tao is super ideal.
2. Massage By The Beach
There are several massage and spas located near the beach that offer Thai massage, foot massage, and oil massage, typically performed by seasoned locals who use traditional techniques to promote relaxation.
Many of these massage parlors are located in picturesque settings, such as beachfront gazebos along the stretch of beach or small shops located on the village strip.
3. Hiking
The hill formed the backdrop of Koh Samui, and is a popular spot for hiking and exploring nature. Visitors can take a short hike up to the top of the hill and enjoy the breathtaking views, as well as visit the nearby temple (Wat Khao Hua Jook).
Talking about viewpoint, I reckon the best viewpoint is at Taling Ngam. The uphill trail is pretty steep, but the view from the top is breathtaking.
Hillcrest Drive viewpoint is presumably only visited by locals in the vicinity, unless you engage a local guide. You can see the neighboring island of Koh Mat Sum, and beyond.
4. Waterfall
At the base of the Lamai Beach viewpoint, there is a pretty impressive waterfall called Siva Tara Waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a picturesque setting for a picnic.
Visitors can swim in the cool water or simply relax and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. At nearby Valentine Stone, you can also enjoy a foot spa, whereby fish will nibble at your feet for a small entrance fee.
Maenam Beach Nightlife
Maenam Beach is not a typical wild beach party village like Haadrin Beach , but instead, it offers plenty of options for you to enjoy a chill out scenario.
There are tons of bars and restaurants along the beachfront where you can grab a drink, and soak in the beautiful sea view.
Some of these establishments offer live music and fire shows on the beachfront. If you’re looking for something a bit more lively, there are pubs like Spicy Candy that stay open late and offer a pool table and a chance to mingle with locals and tourists alike.
If you like shopping for souvenirs and eating local delights, check out Maenam Walking Street every Thursday (opening hours 3pm)
Maenam beach restaurants
At the quiet corner of Mae nam beach, there is this restaurant located literary on the beachside offering a variety of local food and yummy European dishes as well as cocktails and other drinks.
Black Rose Café has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, intoxicated with Reggae music and friendly people. It’s a great spot for a laid-back dinner or late night drinks.
- Address:
- 216/1 Moo 2 (Soy 4)
Maenam,Thailand - Contact: +6677 921 663
- Facebook: blackrosecafe/
Tree Tops Sky Dining & Bar
If you want to impress your date, check out this unique restaurant and bar. Don’t expect your meals to be ziplined or served on a treehouse. This classy 5-star fine dinning offers dinning in a private gazebo built on concrete columns.
It serves a variety of Thai and International cuisine, as well as a great selection of wines and cocktails. It is a perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
- Address: 92/1 Moo 2, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320 THAILAND
- Contact: +6677 960 333
- Website: treetopsamui/
- Tripadvisor reviews
Barracuda Restaurant & Bar
This German owned restaurant offers a variety of Thai and international cuisine. It is located directly on the beach, with alfresco dining area, perfect spot for fine dining experience.
- Address: 90/24 ซอย หมู่ 2 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand
- Contact: +6677 956 289
- Website: thebaracuda/
Chill Out Beach Bars
- The Boudoir: This laid-back beach bar offered comfortable seating, great cocktails, and stunning sunset views.
- The Treehouse Silent Beach Bar: Nestled among the palm trees, this beach bar had a serene ambiance and was known for its tasty cocktails and live music events.
- Coco Tams: With bean bags and hammocks on the beach, Coco Tams was a favorite spot for travelers looking to relax with a drink in hand.
- The Shack: A friendly and casual beach bar with an extensive cocktail menu, often hosting fire shows and live entertainment.
- Dragonfly Samui: This bamboo-themed beach bar offered a tranquil setting with loungers and swings right by the ocean.
- Moonhut Bungalows Bar & Restaurant: Known for its beachfront setting and Thai and Western cuisine, this bar was a popular choice for chilling out.
- Lomprayah Pier Beach Bar: Located near the pier, this beach bar offered a chilled-out vibe and great drinks for travelers waiting for their ferry.
Getting Around Maenam Beach
Surat Thani to Maenam Beach
You will need to take a Catamaran ferry from Donsak pier on the mainland to Lomprayah Maenam pier. There are several ferry companies that operate on this route, including Seatran Ferry, Lomprayah High Speed Ferries, and Songserm Ferry.
The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours depending on you book for high speed Catamaran or the normal ferry as well as the sea conditions.
Maenam Pier to Koh Phangan
There are several ferry companies that operate between the two piers, and the journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes.
Once you arrive at Thong Sala Pier, there are tons of taxis or shared taxis (songthaew) waiting in line to take you to your final destination on the island.
Maenam Pier To Koh Tao
Lomprayah Maenam pier is probably the closest pier to Koh Tao. From Maenam Pier, there are several ferry companies that operate daily services to Koh Tao.
The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on the type of Catamaran or ferry that you choose. The boat schedules may vary depending on the season (choppy waters), so it’s best to check ahead of your island vacation plan.
Your Travel Planner:
- 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
