7 Hidden Beaches in Koh Samui Only Locals Know

7 Hidden Beaches in Koh Samui Only Locals Know

Koh Samui’s reputation precedes it—by now, you might expect every inch of its coastline to be stitched with resorts and sun loungers, every coconut tree shadow claimed by an Instagrammer in search of the perfect #islandlife snap. And yet, among the island’s emerald palms and gentle surf, there remain pockets of untouched sand, where time slows, and the only soundtrack is the rustle of fronds and the distant laughter of fishermen.

Let’s sidestep the well-trodden paths of Chaweng and Lamai. Instead, come along as we explore seven hidden beaches that remain the cherished secrets of Koh Samui’s locals—places where, if you listen closely, you might just hear the island’s heart beating.

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1. Taling Ngam Beach: Sunset’s Quiet Stage

Taling Ngam Beach is where the day’s last light lingers, painting the sky in watercolor hues while fishing boats drift homeward. Unlike its boisterous eastern cousins, Taling Ngam is a place of hush—where you’re more likely to share the sand with a sand crab than another tourist. The beach stretches languorously, its golden sands bookended by rocky outcrops and sleepy coconut groves.

Pro Tip: Bring a picnic and stay for sunset. The view across to the Five Islands is quietly spectacular—a reminder that beauty, like wisdom, is often best savored in solitude.

You can search for it on Google Maps by typing: Taling Ngam Beach.

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2. Thong Krut Beach: Where Fishermen Rule

A short drive south brings you to Thong Krut Beach, a working fishing village with a rugged, salt-of-the-earth charm. Here, the rhythm of life is measured by tide and catch, not hotel check-ins. The beach itself is narrow and often overlooked, but that’s precisely its charm: come for the tranquility, stay for the sight of longtail boats bobbing in the bay, and perhaps linger for grilled seafood at one of the tiny, family-run restaurants.

Pro Tip: Stop at Thong Krut Pier in the morning to watch the boats unload their catch. It’s a glimpse into a way of life that’s changed little in generations.

You can search for it on Google Maps by typing: Thong Krut Beach.

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3. Bang Po Beach: The Locals’ Long Walk

Bang Po Beach is, in many ways, the antidote to Samui’s glossy image. Here, the sand stretches unbroken for nearly four kilometers, fringed by simple seafood shacks and the occasional hammock slung between palm trees. The vibe is refreshingly unpretentious; you’ll find Thai families picnicking, kids playing football at low tide, and the odd expat reading a dog-eared novel under the shade.

Pro Tip: Try the famed seafood at Bang Po Seafood (search for “Bang Po Seafood Restaurant” on Google Maps). The view is best enjoyed with a cold Singha and a plate of spicy som tam.

You can search for it on Google Maps by typing: Bang Po Beach.

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4. Laem Yai Beach: The Island’s Northern Whisper

Laem Yai Beach sits at the island’s northern tip, a gentle crescent of sand usually empty but for the occasional fisherman untangling his nets. The water here is shallow and calm—ideal for contemplative wading rather than swimming laps. There’s a certain poetry to the place, especially at dawn, when the horizon blushes and the world feels newly minted.

Pro Tip: If you’re an early riser, Laem Yai is one of Samui’s best sunrise spots. Bring your camera, but don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to simply watch in silence.

You can search for it on Google Maps by typing: Laem Yai Beach.

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5. Thongson Bay: The Cove You Might Miss

Tucked away near the northeast corner of the island, Thongson Bay is easy to overlook—its entrance concealed by winding lanes and overhanging foliage. Yet those who persist are rewarded with a sheltered cove, soft sand, and some of the clearest water on Samui. The beach is bordered by a handful of low-key resorts, but the atmosphere remains blissfully subdued.

Pro Tip: The gentle gradient and calm water make this a favorite among local families, especially on weekends. Arrive early for the quietest moments.

You can search for it on Google Maps by typing: Thongson Bay.

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6. Hua Thanon Beach: Where Cultures Meet the Sea

Hua Thanon is a tapestry of cultures—a Muslim fishing village where you’ll find brightly painted boats, the scent of spices in the air, and, just beyond the village, a broad sandy beach rarely visited by outsiders. It’s a place of contrasts: the ornate Hua Thanon Chinese Temple stands nearby, a reminder of the island’s layered history.

Pro Tip: Out of respect for the local community, dress modestly when walking through the village. The fresh grilled fish at the market is a revelation.

You can search for it on Google Maps by typing: Hua Thanon Beach.

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7. Coral Cove Beach: The Hidden Gem Between Worlds

Wedged between Chaweng and Lamai but blissfully overlooked, Coral Cove Beach is a sliver of sand framed by dramatic boulders. The snorkeling here is superb—slip into the water and you’ll find a garden of coral frequented by curious parrotfish. The cove’s sense of seclusion is almost illusory, given its proximity to the island’s busiest resorts, but such is the magic of Coral Cove.

Pro Tip: There’s a small, shaded parking area just off the main road. The descent is a little steep, but your reward is a private paradise.

You can search for it on Google Maps by typing: Coral Cove Beach.

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Final Thoughts: Uncovering the Soul of Samui

Travel, at its best, is the art of noticing. On Koh Samui, the greatest rewards come to those who linger, who wander off the map, and who listen—to the susurrus of the sea, to the laughter of children at play, to the quiet pride of a fisherman mending his nets. The island’s hidden beaches are not simply places; they are invitations to slow down, to rediscover the simple joys of sun, salt, and silence.

So next time you find yourself in Koh Samui, steer away from the crowds. Seek out these secret strands. Who knows? You might just find, as I have, that the island reveals its truest self not in the spotlight, but in the hush of places only locals know.

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If you’re plotting your adventure, simply search for the names above on Google Maps. And remember: the best discoveries are rarely marked on any map at all.