If you’re looking for a beachside getaway in Thailand, Koh Samui is the place to go; here are some of its best spots where you can soak up the sun and frolic in the sand and surf.

 Chaweng Beach

One of the most popular beaches on the island, Chaweng Beach is a tourist hotspot that features a lovely shore of pristine white sand that stretches for around 5 km. Apart from working on your tan, you can look to try a wide range of water sports like kayaking, jet-skiing, snorkelling and diving. After sunset, the area around the beach becomes a happening nightlife hotspot home to plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs.

 Bophut Beach

A 3 km-long stretch of shore awaits at Bophut Beach providing an enchanting coastal escape in Koh Samui. Resort options can be found with direct beach access such as Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort perfect for couples and families. Apart from unwinding on the sand, you can head off on snorkelling, diving or deep-sea fishing excursions as well as visit nearby Fisherman’s Village with its restaurants, beach bars and lively night market on Fridays.

 Lamai Beach

The palm-fringed Lamai Beach is another popular coastal locale with an imposing mountain in the background that adds to its allure. The beach is an ideal spot for sunbathing, while one can also look to go swimming and try various water sports. Along with white powdery sand, you will find fascinating granite boulders on the shore some of which create natural pools for a relaxing dip, while there’s fun nightlife near the beach too.

 Thongtakian Beach

For more seclusion, you can head to Thongtakian Beach (also known as Silver Beach) which is a bit “hidden” and thus there are fewer crowds here. Nestled beside verdant cliffs, the scenic shores are bordered by crystal clear ocean waters making it ideal not only for swimming but snorkelling as well. There’s a coral reef at the bay’s entrance too for those wanting to go diving and encounter marine life.