Samui’s Most Underrated Beaches — Ranked!
By Eurico
Hey fellow beach wanderers! 🌴✈️
If you’re dreaming of Koh Samui, you probably imagine palm-fringed sands, turquoise water, and those iconic coconut shakes (or maybe just me?). But let’s be real—most guides will send you straight to Chaweng or Lamai. They’re gorgeous, sure, but what if I told you Samui’s real magic is hiding in its quieter corners?
Grab your sunnies, because today I’m ranking Koh Samui’s most underrated beaches. These are the spots where you can actually hear the waves, lose track of time, and maybe even spot a hermit crab or two plotting world domination. Ready? Let’s dive in!
1. Thongson Bay (Thongson Beach) — The Hidden Cove
Vibe: Secret paradise with a touch of Robinson Crusoe
Thongson Bay is the kind of place you stumble upon, look around, and wonder if you’ve accidentally walked onto a movie set. Tucked up on the island’s northern tip, this petite crescent of pale sand is so chill you’ll forget you’re just a 15-minute drive from the airport. There are usually more palm trees than people, and the water? Calm as a meditation app.
Why I Love It:
It’s perfect for lazy swimming, the sunsets here are next-level golden, and you’ll find a handful of cozy beach bars serving up fresh coconut water (and the occasional friendly dog). Seriously, I once shared my pad thai with a local pup named Lucky. Five stars.
How to Find It:
Search for “Thongson Bay Beach” on Google Maps.
Eurico’s Tip:
Bring your own snorkel—there are some surprisingly colorful fish near the rocks at the eastern end!
2. Bang Po Beach — The Laid-Back Local Favorite
Vibe: Sleepy fishing village meets breezy beach bum
Bang Po Beach runs along Samui’s northwestern coast and is basically the opposite of flashy. Here, you’ll spot wooden fishing boats bobbing in the bay, and the beach is lined with simple, family-run seafood restaurants. It’s the kind of place where you can eat grilled snapper with your toes in the sand.
Why I Love It:
The water is shallow and safe, making it a great pick for families or anyone who wants to float endlessly. Plus, the local “Bang Po Seafood” restaurant serves a tom yum soup that will haunt your dreams in the best way.
How to Find It:
Search for “Bang Po Beach” on Google Maps.
Eurico’s Tip:
Time your visit for late afternoon. The sunsets turn the water pink, and the vibe is pure magic.
3. Laem Yai Beach — Sunset Seclusion
Vibe: Romantic, remote, and ridiculously photogenic
If you want to escape the crowds and have a little stretch of sand all to yourself, Laem Yai Beach is your go-to. It’s located on Samui’s far northwest tip, and you’ll often have it nearly to yourself—except for the occasional fisherman or very stylish Instagrammer.
Why I Love It:
The views of Ang Thong Marine Park are jaw-dropping, and the water shimmers at sunset like it’s trying to win a beauty contest. It’s also a great spot for a picnic (just remember to take your rubbish—no one likes a litterbug!).
How to Find It:
Search for “Laem Yai Beach” on Google Maps.
Eurico’s Tip:
There’s a swing tied to a leaning palm here that’s basically begging for a photo. Go on, indulge your inner influencer.
4. Taling Ngam Beach — The Jungle Beach
Vibe: Wild, lush, and totally unfiltered
Stretched along the southwest coast, Taling Ngam Beach is where the jungle practically tumbles onto the sand. The beach is fringed by coconut palms and rubber trees, and the water stays glassy-calm. It’s less developed than other parts of Samui, so bring your own snacks and plenty of water.
Why I Love It:
I once spent an entire afternoon here doing absolutely nothing except watching clouds drift and reading. If you’re looking to unplug, this is your spot.
How to Find It:
Search for “Taling Ngam Beach” on Google Maps.
Eurico’s Tip:
There’s a tiny local shop nearby called “Taling Ngam Village Shop” where you can grab ice-cold sodas and say hi to the friendliest auntie on the island.
5. Choeng Mon Beach — The Gentle Giant
Vibe: Calm, family-friendly, and still a little under-the-radar
Okay, Choeng Mon isn’t exactly a secret, but it is underrated compared to its flashier neighbors. The sand is powdery-soft, the water is shallow, and there are just enough chilled-out beach bars to keep you fueled. Think of it as the “Goldilocks” beach—not too busy, not too quiet.
Why I Love It:
You can rent a kayak here and paddle out to tiny Koh Fan Noi island just offshore. Plus, the “SALA Samui Restaurant” does a mango sticky rice that almost made me cry tears of joy.
How to Find It:
Search for “Choeng Mon Beach” on Google Maps.
Eurico’s Tip:
If you’re up early, grab a coffee and watch the local fishermen haul in their nets. It’s a slice of real Samui life.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Own Secret Cove
Koh Samui is full of surprises, and these beaches are proof that you don’t need to follow the crowds to find paradise. Whether you’re craving solitude, a foodie adventure, or just a new spot to park your towel, these underrated beaches have got you covered.
So, next time you’re on Samui, skip the well-trodden path and make your own beachy discoveries. And if you find an even better hidden gem, send me a postcard—or at least a coconut!
Happy exploring!
– Eurico
P.S. Got a favorite Samui secret? Drop it in the comments below! Or just tell me about the best coconut shake you’ve ever had. Priorities, right?
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