Lamai Beach is Koh Samui’s second-largest beach after Chaweng, offering a more laid-back vibe while still having plenty of attractions. With soft sand, clear waters, and a mix of local culture and nightlife, it’s a great alternative for those seeking a less crowded experience.
High Season (Dec–Feb) – Sunny, great for swimming, but busier.
Shoulder Season (Mar–Aug) – Warm weather, fewer tourists.
Rainy Season (Sep–Nov) – Quieter, but some businesses may close.
From Samui Airport: ~30 mins by taxi (~500–700 THB).
From Chaweng: ~15–20 mins by taxi (~300–500 THB) or songthaew (~50–100 THB).
Luxury: The Tongsai Bay (private beach, eco-luxury), Rocky’s Boutique Resort (romantic & tranquil).
Mid-Range: Lamai Wanta (beachfront, great value), Pavilion Samui Villas (private pool villas).
Budget: Lamai Inn 99 (affordable & clean), Spa Resort (rustic bungalows).
✔ Softer Sand & Clear Water – Especially in the northern end (near Silver Beach).
✔ Fewer Crowds – More peaceful than Chaweng, but still lively.
✔ Sunbeds & Restaurants – Free if you order food/drinks (try The Jungle Club for sunset views).
⚠ Rocks & Currents – Some parts have rocky areas; check conditions before swimming.
Beachfront Eats: The Cliff Bar & Grill (romantic ocean views), Zazen Restaurant (fine dining).
Local Food: Lamai Night Market (open daily, great for cheap Thai food).
Nightlife: Bar Solo (live music), Coco Tam’s (beachfront cocktails & fire shows).
Visit Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks – Famous “Grandpa & Grandma” rock formations (a bit cheeky!).
Silver Beach (Crystal Bay) – A quieter, stunning cove nearby.
Water Sports – Kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Muay Thai & Yoga – Lamai Muay Thai Camp or Orion Healing Center for yoga.
Spa & Massage – Many beachfront massage spots (~200–400 THB/hour).
Wat Khunaram (Mummified Monk) – A unique Buddhist temple.
Namuang Waterfall – A short hike to a refreshing swimming spot.
Koh Tan & Koh Mudsum – Snorkeling & picnic islands.
Watch for currents – Some parts can have strong waves.
Bargain fairly – Especially for tours and taxis.
Respect local culture – Cover up when visiting temples.
Lamai = More relaxed, local vibe, still fun nightlife.
Chaweng = More touristy, bigger parties, busier beach.
Getting to Lamai Beach from different locations in Koh Samui (or from outside the island) is easy. Here’s how to reach Lamai depending on your starting point:
Taxi (Private Transfer) – Fastest (~20–25 mins, 300–500 THB).
Airport Shuttle – Some hotels offer free pickup (check in advance).
Songthaew (Shared Taxi) – Cheaper (~80–150 THB/person), but may take longer with stops.
Taxi/Tuk-Tuk – (~10–15 mins, 200–400 THB).
Songthaew – (~50–100 THB/person, runs along the ring road).
Motorbike Rental – (~200–300 THB/day), but drive carefully!
Taxi – (~30–40 mins, 500–700 THB).
Songthaew – (~100–150 THB/person).
Taxi – (~20–40 mins, 300–600 THB depending on distance).
Songthaew – (~80–150 THB/person).
Ferry to Koh Samui (Nathon Pier or Bangrak Pier) → Then take a taxi/songthaew to Lamai.
Speedboat Transfers (some private services go directly to Lamai).
For convenience: Private taxi (especially with luggage).
For budget travelers: Songthaew (but confirm the price before boarding).
For flexibility: Rent a motorbike (if comfortable driving).
Lamai Beach, located just south of Chaweng in Koh Samui, is the island’s second-largest beach, offering a more relaxed vibe while still having plenty to do. Here’s a guide to making the most of your time there:
Swimming & Sunbathing – The southern end of Lamai has calmer waters, while the northern part can have stronger waves.
Snorkeling – Coral reefs near Coral Cove (a short drive south) offer decent marine life.
Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Rent a kayak or SUP to explore the coastline.
Jet Skiing & Parasailing – Available at the main beach area (negotiate prices).
Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandma & Grandpa Rocks) – Famous (and slightly cheeky) rock formations shaped like male and female anatomy.
Lamai Viewpoint – A short hike with stunning views over the bay.
Silver Beach (Crystal Bay) – A quieter, postcard-perfect beach just north of Lamai.
Beachfront Restaurants – Try:
The Jungle Club (great views, Thai & Western food)
The Beach People (chill vibe, seafood)
Lamai Night Market (local street food, opens evenings)
Bars & Nightlife – More laid-back than Chaweng, but still fun:
Coco Tam’s (beachfront cocktails & fire shows)
Ark Bar Lamai (beach parties, though smaller than Chaweng’s)
Beach Massages (~200–300 THB/hour) – Many mats set up along the shore.
Yoga & Spas – Check out Orgasmic Yoga Samui or The Spa Resort.
Muay Thai Training – Lamai Muay Thai Camp offers classes.
Lamai Walking Street (Sunday Market) – Handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Wat Khunaram (Mummified Monk) – A unique temple with the preserved body of a revered monk.
Na Muang Waterfalls – Two scenic waterfalls (~20-min drive).
Secret Buddha Garden – Hidden jungle sanctuary in the mountains.
Koh Madsum & Koh Tan – Small islands for snorkeling trips.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for quiet beach time, sunset for views.
Bargain for Water Sports: Prices can be inflated—negotiate firmly but politely.
Watch for Currents: Some parts have strong waves; swim where locals do.
Rent a Scooter (~200–300 THB/day) to explore nearby attractions easily.
Lamai Beach, located south of Chaweng in Koh Samui, offers a more relaxed vibe while still having plenty to do. It’s known for its soft sand, clear waters, and unique rock formations like Hin Ta & Hin Yai (Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks). Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:
Peak Season (Dec–Feb): Sunny and crowded.
Shoulder Season (Mar–Aug): Warm weather, fewer tourists.
Rainy Season (Sep–Nov): Quieter but occasional storms.
From Chaweng: ~15–20 mins by taxi (~200–400 THB) or songthaew (~50–100 THB).
From Samui Airport: ~30 mins (~500–700 THB by taxi).
Luxury: The Tongsai Bay (private beach), Banyan Tree Samui.
Mid-Range: Rocky’s Boutique Resort, Lamai Wanta.
Budget: PJ Beach Bungalows, Spa Resort Samui.
Sun Protection: Strong sun—reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and shade recommended.
Swimming: Calm waters near the shore, but check for jellyfish in rainy season.
Beachfront Dining: Many bars offer free loungers if you order food/drinks.
Hin Ta & Hin Yai: Visit the famous rock formations (free entry, but vendors nearby).
Local Eats:
Lamai Night Market (daily, 5–11 PM) – Cheap Thai street food.
The Jungle Club (great views, sunset cocktails).
Krua Chao Baan (authentic Thai seafood).
Western Options: The Beach People, Zazen Restaurant (romantic fine dining).
Nightlife: More laid-back than Chaweng, but try Tropical Murphy’s (Irish pub) or Bar Solo (live music).
✔ Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing available.
✔ Massage & Spas: Beachside massages (~200–300 THB/hour) or luxury spas.
✔ Muay Thai: Watch fights at Lamai Boxing Stadium.
✔ Temples: Wat Khunaram (famous mummified monk).
✔ Hiking: Na Muang Waterfall (short trek from Lamai).
Koh Tan & Koh Mudsum: Snorkeling & secluded beaches.
Ang Thong Marine Park: Island-hopping tours.
Bophut Fisherman’s Village: Friday night market.
Bargain Politely: Especially with taxis and market vendors.
Respect Local Culture: Cover up when visiting temples.
Avoid Scams: Be cautious with jet ski rentals (take photos before use).
Eco-Friendly: Avoid single-use plastics; Lamai has less trash than Chaweng.
Secret Buddha Garden: A quiet, mystical hillside garden.
Silver Beach (Crystal Bay): A quieter, prettier beach nearby.
Lamai Viewpoint: Stunning ocean vistas.
Weather: Sunny, dry, and pleasant (avg. 28–32°C).
Pros: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Cons: Highest prices for hotels and flights; beaches can be busy.
Best for: Travelers who want perfect beach weather and don’t mind crowds.
Weather: Hotter (up to 35°C), occasional brief showers (especially April–May).
Pros: Fewer tourists, better deals on accommodations.
Cons: Can be humid; sea is calm but less refreshing.
Best for: Budget travelers and those who prefer a quieter stay.
Weather: Rainy, especially October (but not constant downpours).
Pros: Cheapest prices, very few tourists.
Cons: Some businesses close; choppy seas (not ideal for swimming).
Best for: Solo travelers, digital nomads, and those seeking deep discounts.
Avoid Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb) if you dislike crowds—many tourists visit then.
April (Songkran Festival) is fun but very hot and busy.
November can be hit-or-miss—some days are sunny, others very wet.
Dec–Feb: Beach lounging, snorkeling, island tours.
Mar–Aug: Exploring waterfalls (like Hin Lad), night markets.
Sep–Nov: Spa retreats, yoga classes, cultural visits (less rain inland).