Located along the west coast, Lipa Noi Beach is known for its striking sunsets and powdery, golden shores. Unlike the beaches in East Samui, Lipa Noi is quiet and low-key. Largely undeveloped, the area boasts waterfalls and coconut plantations, and offers little in terms of travel and nightlife attractions.

Yet, its remoteness and serenity is its appeal, and vacationers are that reside here enjoy an idyllic, restful stay. Days are spent lounging in beachfront villas, taking leisurely strolls along the coast, unwinding at a spa venue or tucking into sumptuous seafood meals.

For insider insights into the best places in Lipa Noi to stay, eat, unwind and visit, check out our travel guide below. Happy holidaying!

Things to do in Lipa Noi

1. Soak up the breezy Samui vibes at the beach

Lipa Noi Beach looks like a destination right out of the pages of a travel magazine – powdery sand, clear blue skies and glimmering waters. Thankfully, it remains largely undeveloped and retains a serene, laid-back ambience. With no rocks or coral, and shallow waters that extend out about 100 metres from the shores, the beach is a great option for taking the kids out. Do exercise caution though, as beaches in this region are affected by tides.

And while there are ample dining options in the vicinity, the nightlife is subdued – beach-goers may enjoy a nightcap at seafront hangouts like Nikki Beach Club, but these aren’t venues for dancing the night away.

2. Tuck into a decadent brunch spread

But Nikki Beach Club isn’t only for sipping sundowners or knocking back ice-cold beers. Every Sunday, the venue comes alive with a brunch buffet – and this is an experience you won’t want to miss.

There are generous portions of beautifully plated food, food stations serving up just about every breakfast item (from waffles to omelets and crêpes), deviled eggs, Wagyu beef sliders, beer can chicken – the list goes on. The brunch starts out as a laid-back event, but gradually transforms into a fun-filled pool party with vibrant beats and cocktails to go around  – just the right place to unwind and let your hair down.

3. Kick off your mornings with an invigorating yoga class

There are two places for group yoga classes in Lipa Noi – Marga Yoga and Orion Retreat Centre. Both are venues located by the seaside, with a variety of drop-in yoga classes. Each has unique amenities and offerings that sets itself apart – Marga Yoga also offers meditation classes, along with an incredible on-site cafe that serves up wholesome vegetarian and vegan fare, while Orion Retreat Centre features an on-site spa, as well as holistic therapies like Reiki, Theta healing and chakra balancing treatments.

4. Discover the local street food and shopping scene

Taking place every Saturday evening, Nathon Night Market is a bustling walking street with myriad street food vendors and souvenir stalls. Offering a refreshing change from other upscale, touristic spots in the vicinity, the night market is the sort of place where you go to feast on local food, enjoy a Singha while seated at a streetside dining setup and soak up the local culture,

5. Unwind with a luxurious spa ritual

Spa and massage parlours are aplenty in Samui, but for an experience that stands out, you’ll want to head to the Baan Thai Spa at InterContinental Samui. Nestled amidst lush jungle surroundings atop a cliff, the venue offers unparalleled sea views and ultimate privacy. The spa menu lists a range of massages, facials, herbal baths and body scrub treatments.

Related: Zen Getaway: Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Samui

6. Visit renowned cultural attractions

Samui’s landmark attraction is undoubtedly the Big Buddha, a temple complex located in Bangrak, North Samui. It’s certainly the hour-long ride from Lipa Noi, but there’s also plenty of cultural sightseeing to be enjoyed in the vicinity if you aren’t up for an island-wide day trip.

The first stop on your itinerary will be the Samui Cultural Center. The center is nestled away in a lush, serene setting, and features artworks, architecture and artifacts influenced by a variety of Southeast Asian cultures. Next, make a quick stopover at Wat Samut Tharam. Aside from the intricate architectural details, this little-known temple is also worth visiting for its serene atmosphere and scenic seafront setting.

About 30 minutes’ drive southwards lie Khao Chedi and Laem Sor Pagoda. The former is a golden pagoda set in a hilltop location, with a reclining Buddha statue that stretches out over 10 metres. The setting here is incredibly serene, and the white and gold statues sparkling under the sunlight create a breathtaking sight.

While the main draw at Laem Sor Pagoda is its glittering, ornate exterior, it’s also worthwhile to stop by at its visitor center to learn more about the attraction. After your visit, unwind with a stroll around a small lake and forest located just a skip away from the pagoda.

7. Get outdoors with friends and family

Work up a sweat as you team up and play a game with friends and family at Laem Sor Disc Golf. After the game, take a break at the on-site Acoustic Cafe, where you can fuel up on Thai food, or enjoy coffees, cocktails and beer.

Canopy Adventures Secret Falls offers a different kind of outdoor experience altogether. Here, you’ll ride ziplines that glide at nearly 80km/h across waterfalls and a lush tropical landscape. It’s certainly  adrenaline-inducing and not for the faint-hearted, but it’s an activity that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do pack along your swimsuits, so you can round out your visit with a dip in the glimmering pool at the base of the waterfall.

Where to eat in Lipa Noi

1. The Island View Restaurant

Feet-in-the-sand venues are aplenty on Samui, but The Island View stands out with its extensive menu (there’s a good selection of Thai and European dishes), attentive service and spectacular sunset views. Try out Thai classics like the massaman curry, duck red curry and chicken satays.

The Island View Restaurant, 348 Moo 3 Baan Taling Ngam, Taling Ngam, Ko Samui, p. +66 93 575 8209. Open Mon-Sun 11am – 9pm.

2. The Virgin Coast Restaurant

The vibes at The Virgin Coast is atmospheric, thanks to the uninterrupted sea views, breathtaking sunsets and music playing softly in the background. Its quiet, intimate setting makes the venue ideal for date nights. Choose from a good selection of wines, and take your pick from dishes like soft shell crab, Thai fish cakes and seafood in coconut shell.

The Virgin Coast Restaurant, 166/9 Moo 1 Taling Ngam, Ko Samui, p. +66 77 270 689. Open Mon-Sun 11am – 10pm.

3. Soul Food Cafe

Located within the compound of Marga Yoga, Soul Food Cafe boasts a prime seaside location, serene ambience and a menu filled with wholesome, healthy options – like fresh almond milk, vegan burgers, and salads. The desserts here are just as salubrious – think raw chocolate truffles and homemade sweets. Just perfect for health-conscious and vegetarian travellers.

Soul Food Cafe, 276/1 Moo 3, Taling Ngam, Ko Samui, p. +66 80 889 9960. Open Mon-Sat 11am – 4pm. 

4. Thongkrut Fisherman’s Village

The sleepy fishing village of Thongkrut is home to a variety of oft-visited restaurants – each offering ocean views, and some of the tastiest plates of seafood dishes on the island. Top on our list is The Melting Pot, a venue that serves up excellent Belgian, Thai and international fare and great cocktails. Go for the decadent Cheese & Bacon Burger, Crispy Confit of Pork Belly or chicken breast with sweet potato puree. Round out your night with the cheekily named ‘The Screaming Orgasm’ – a cocktail concocted using vodka, triple sec and cream liquor.

Nuch’s Green Ta’lay Restaurant is a reliable option for Thai staples, and the laid-back setting and friendly service makes dining here an enjoyable experience. Hemingway’s on the Beach has long been a favourite among beach-goers for its rustic setting, and variety of Western and Thai fare.

Boy’s Organic Coffee is cosy, welcoming and unpretentious – the sort of venue that serves up excellent coffee without fuss or frills. Service is personable and friendly, and there’s also a selection of cakes, desserts and kombucha available.

The Melting Pot, p. +66 96 864 1564. Open Wed-Mon 11am – 10pm. Closed on Tue.

Nuch’s Green Ta’lay Restaurant, p. +66 87 887 9956. Open Tue-Sun 3pm – 10pm. Closed on Mon.

Hemingway’s on the Beach, p. +66 61 178 5550. Open Mon-Thu & Sat 10am – 8pm, Sun 10am – 6pm. Closed on Fri.

Boy’s Organic Coffee, p. +66 87 893 9669. Open Mon-Sun 8am – 6pm.

5. Air Bar

Air Bar, a rooftop bar and cocktail lounge is sleek, stylish and upscale. Come for the mesmerising sunset and ocean views, and while the evening away listening to live jazz performances, sipping cocktails made by world-class mixologists or nibbling on a feast of tapas creations, sushi or sashimi.

Air Bar, 295 Moo 3, InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort, Taling Ngam, Ko Samui, p. +66 2 656 0440. Open Mon-Sun 5pm – 12am.

6. Nikki Beach Club

A favourite weekend haunt among vacationers, Nikki Beach Club draws in a crowd with its decadent brunch offerings, luxurious poolside loungers and cabanas and a top-notch line-up of DJ acts. The food – featuring Wagyu beef, succulent seafood items and tasty shared platters – is absolutely divine, the beverage selection is unbeatable and the atmosphere is fun and lively. What’s not to like about this ultra-chic seafront venue?

Nikki Beach Club, 96/3 Moo 2, Lipa Noi, Ko Samui, p. +66 077 914 500. Open Mon-Sun, 11am – 11pm.

7. Nun Bao

For a change of cuisine, head to Nun Bao, where meals are enjoyed in a semi-outdoor setting with bamboo tables and an open kitchen. The food here is given a fusion twist, with a selection of Chinese-style soft buns containing different fillings – from pulled pork to shrimp and mango.

Nun Bao, 56/4 M004, Taling Ngam, Ko Samui, p. +66 62 213 4184. Open Thu-Tue 11am – 8pm. Closed on Wed.

Where to stay in Lipa Noi

1. Baan Asan

Baan Asan is one of those places perfect for an idyllic seaside retreat. The property occupies a prime oceanfront location, surrounded by swaying palms and offering uninterrupted views out to the sea.

Occupying a spacious land area, the home features a sparkling pool, neatly manicured lawn and living spaces spread out across multiple pavilions. Soak up the breezy Samui vibes outdoors by the pool or upon a swinging hammock, unwind out at the sun-drenched terrace or relax in one of the clean-lined, minimalist living areas. Containing a total of five bedrooms, Baan Asan is ideally kitted for 10 guests.

Around Baan Asan

Baan Asan is just steps away from Taling Ngam Beach. It’s also just a quick drive away from the beach clubs, restaurants, yoga studios and spas.

Key features

Sea views | Multiple dining areas | Modern and minimalist interiors | Bunk beds for kids

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2. Tawantok Beach Villas

Tawantok Beach Villas is a great bet for large group vacations – the property offers 10 bedrooms, two infinity pools that look out to the sea, beautifully landscaped grounds, a private tennis court and multiple indoor and outdoor spaces for lounging and dining. The ambience indoors is warm and inviting, with modern furnishings and fixtures in a range of neutral, woodsy colours and glass sliding doors that bring the outdoors in.

Around Tawantok Beach Villas

The villa is well-located, offering direct access to Lipa Noi Beach. It’s also within proximity to the restaurants, beach clubs, night markets and luxury spa venues.

Key features

Direct beach access | Sea views | Two infinity pools | Seaside sala | Private tennis court

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3. Villa Inasia

Villa Inasia comprises of two standalone residences – the Beachfront residence and Oceanview residence.  Made for beach lovers, the villa offers direct beach access and unobstructed sea views. Each residence features contemporary decor, four bedrooms, a private pool, a fully equipped kitchen and multiple living and dining spaces.

Around Villa Inasia

From the villa, you’re just steps away from the powdery, golden shores of Lipa Noi Beach. Popular dining and lifestyle establishments, like Nikki Beach Club, Air Bar and The Island View Restaurant are about five to 15 minutes’ drive away. Also within proximity are local night markets, yoga centres and spa venues.

Key features

Seafront location | Direct beach access | Two swimming pools | Multiple dining areas | Poolside bar

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Check out other guides:

• Choeng Mon Travel Guide for Samui Vacationers
• Bophut Travel Guide: Things you don’t want to miss during your Samui trip!
• Travel Guide: Transport Options in Samui

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