Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui: the ultimate beach paradise
You say Koh Samui then you also say Chaweng Beach. Chaweng Beach is one of the most scenic and vibrant beaches on the island.
It even fully matches the stereotype descriptions in the 'glossy' travel brochures: 'powder-soft white sand, azure blue sea and swaying palm trees'.
Sun worshipers
The beach of Chaweng stretches from north to south, over an area of more than six kilometers. During the day, sunbathers take their places on the comfortable sun loungers and you can hear about the daily beach activities that you can find on many Thai see beaches. Jet skis and banana boats float playfully to the rhythm of the waves, while peddlers peddle their wares on the beach: ice creams, cool drinks, corn-on-the-cob and spring rolls. The beach near the center of Chaweng is the busiest, but it is still possible to find a quiet spot. Especially when you walk towards the north of Chaweng or towards the south of Chaweng Noi.
Romantic dining under the starry sky
Wherever you stay on Chaweng, I advise you to visit one of the many small restaurants that can be found right on the beach in the evening. For me personally, visits to Koh Samui are not complete without eating on the beach under the enchanting starry sky. You can then enjoy delicious butter-tender fish, caught by the locals. 'Aroi mak loy!' (really delicious!). After dinner, saunter in the surf to the next ultimate beach experience, one of the many al-fresco bars complete with lavish hammocks and sumptuous cushions. Phase two of enjoying has begun. Listen to the sound of the sea with a cocktail or beer. The temperature has now dropped to 27 degrees. A cooling sea breeze is a welcome addition at the start of a sultry evening.
North Chaweng
The area in the north of Chaweng has the advantage that it is quiet, if you want a bit more hustle and bustle then you will be in the lively center of Chaweng in no time. There you can participate in the vibrant and exuberant nightlife. Do you prefer to go shopping? That is of course also possible. Hundreds of boutiques invite you to buy a new top or that nice bikini.
The beach north of Chaweng offers a nice view of the island of Koh Matlang, a popular 'spot' for snorkelling. The choice of accommodation in this part of Chaweng is somewhat more limited. It may be a bit too remote for some. On the other hand, it is a successful destination for those who want to avoid crowded tourist spots. Again nice picturesque fish restaurants, located directly on the beach. You can sit down with your loved one at the small bamboo tables. With your bare feet in the sand, in the light of hundreds of candles and torches, your taste buds will be satisfied to the max.
Recommended hotel: Muang Kulaypan
Central Chaweng
At the beach in the center of Chaweng you can swim all year round. Sometimes the sea is very turbulent, so you have to be careful. The sand feels nice and soft under your bare feet and invites you to sunbathe. The commercial area behind the beach is less attractive. However, it does offer what some tourists look for in a holiday resort. The many souvenir shops, restaurants and bars will not appeal to everyone. Especially the appearance of the McDonalds and pizzerias are far from the real thing Thai experience, which some visitors hope to find on the island. But if you are traveling to Koh Samui with your family, the center of Chaweng can still be a good choice. If your kids don't like Thai food, there are plenty of alternatives here. Thanks to the many beach activities, they will never be bored.
Most luxurious (and more expensive) hotels in the center of Chaweng you will find at the beginning of the beach. No ugly high-rises, by the way. The buildings should not be taller than the palm tops. As a result, almost all hotels are hidden from view. Some have beautiful landscaped gardens at the rear of the hotel.
Recommended hotel: Poppies Samui Resort
Chaweng Noi
Chaweng Noi
South of the center of Chaweng is the quiet, small beach of Chaweng Noi (Noi = small). At the northern end of the beach there are some rocks and the sand is not very good, but it is easy to find a spot with some privacy where you can sit, read a book or sunbathe. For a nice sandy beach you have to go a little further south at the Imperial Hotel. If you walk even further, towards the end of the beach, you will find several small, cheap restaurants and you can see the road that runs between Chaweng and Lamai.
Recommended hotel: Imperial Samui