Thailand · Asia
Koh Samui is the Goldilocks of Thai islands — developed enough to have proper restaurants and reliable infrastructure, wild enough to still feel like a tropical escape. Chaweng Beach is the busiest stretch with the best nightlife. Lamai is the surfer-friendly alternative. Bophut's Fisherman's Village is all boutique hotels and candlelit dinners. And if you rent a scooter and head to the island's southern or western coasts, you'll find beaches that feel almost empty. The island is also the jumping-off point for the Gulf islands — Koh Phangan (full moon parties) and Koh Tao (world-class diving) are both quick boat rides away.
Beyond Phuket and Koh Samui: Thailand's best under-the-radar islands including Koh Lipe, Koh Kood, Koh Yao Noi, and Koh Phayam. Covers ferry routes, accommodation from $11 bungalows to $850 luxury resorts, snorkeling spots, and seasonal access windows.
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Koh Samui's beaches range from the developed east coast (Chaweng nightlife, Lamai's slightly calmer energy) to the quiet north (Bophut's Fisherman's Village, Maenam's Thai village feel) and the sunset west coast. This guide covers every major beach with honest atmosphere assessments and day trip options.
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A beach-by-beach guide to Koh Samui, covering Chaweng's main strip, the quiet west coast, and everything in between, with prices, transport, and seasonal advice.
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From Goa's famous Arambol Beach to Thailand's remote Andaman coves and Bali's liberal surf strips — the definitive guide to nude and clothing-optional beaches across Asia, with honest advice on legality, local etiquette, and the best times to visit.
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From Koh Lipe's crystal water near the Malaysian border to Hua Hin's local Thai beach culture, a guide to Thailand's best beaches beyond overcrowded Phuket, with transport logistics, dive costs, and real pricing.
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A guide to the best budget beach resorts in Thailand under $100 a night, covering Koh Lanta, Koh Phangan's quiet side, Krabi's mainland coast, Koh Chang, and Khao Lak, with specific resort recommendations, pricing, and booking strategies for high and low season.
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