Top 12 Things to Do Around Lamai Beach, Koh Samui

Bangkok Airways Round Up

• Lamai Beach is located in the southeastern part of Samui Island. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it suitable for a vacation with family, friends, or even a solo trip. This beach is blessed with golden sand and crystal-clear waters, a perfect location for all kinds of activities. 
• Explore a wide range of amazing attractions, ranging from natural landscapes, such as the beach, the massive boulders, and the waterfall, to cultural landmarks, such as the old village and the temple. Lamai Beach is a perfect natural retreat to experience the unique charm of friendly Thai locals.

Discover the Serene Beauty of Lamai Beach

Located in the southeastern part of the island, Lamai Beach is Koh Samui’s second most popular beach after Chaweng Beach.  Stretching over 4 kilometers, it is known for the tranquil atmosphere, with fewer crowds and a less chaotic vibe, making it suitable for a vacation with family, friends, or even a solo trip. This beach is blessed with golden sand and crystal-clear waters fringed with coconut trees and huge seaside rocks. 

Bangkok Airways has gathered all essential information to help you get a hold of the ultimate guide to Lamai Beach, from must-try activities and top accommodations to basic Q&As. Let’s dive deep into the perfect natural retreat, where you can unwind on sun-kissed sands and experience the unique charms of friendly Thai locals.

Lamai Beach Guide: 3 Zones, 3 Vibes

Lamai Beach can be divided into 3 zones with 3 different vibes. Discover the uniqueness of each zone to gear up for the best vacation experience.

1. Northern Lamai: 

A lot of budget-friendly to mid-range hotels and resorts can be found in this area. This zone is fairly quiet and rather isolated, making it an ideal destination for families or  groups of friends looking for some peaceful time.

2. Central Lamai:  

This area features a mix of mid-range to luxury hotels and resorts with plenty of restaurant and bar choices, making it the busiest area compared to the other zones. It is also a popular spot for swimming and trying different water activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. 

3. Southern Lamai: 

There are numerous huge seaside boulders here, making it a great backdrop for photography. Due to its rocky geology, it is more suitable for sightseeing rather than swimming. This is also where the famous Hin Ta Hin Yai is located.

Top 12 Things to Do Around Lamai Beach

Image: Aerial View of the Seashore near Lamai Beach, Koh Samui

1. Chilling at the Beach

The simplest thing you can do at Lamai Beach is sit back on the sand and leisurely unwind under the shade while listening to the crashing sound of waves against the shore. Try a traditional Thai massage on the beach, performed by well-trained professionals, to relax your muscles after a long trip. 

On this long beach with golden sand and turquoise water, you might also want to try some food and snacks from beach vendors. Grilled corn, egg rolls, fresh fruits, and soft drinks are highly recommended.

2. Swimming and Snorkeling

If you want to beat the heat on a scorching hot day on this tropical island, swimming and snorkeling might be the activities you are looking for. While the central part of Lamai Beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling is more popular around the northern and southern parts of the beach due to its rocky setting. 

When snorkeling, you might encounter several species of lovely tropical fish, such as colorful clownfish and parrotfish. There are also other water sports available, including kayaking, parasailing, and jet skiing.

3. Visiting Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks

Known as one of the most popular sites in Koh Samui, Hin Ta Hin Yai Rocks, literally translated as Grandpa and Grandma Rocks, play a significant role in attracting tourists to Lamai Beach, thanks to their fascinating formations. 

It is a great spot to take photos and videos, especially during sunset when the rocks are painted in bright orange. Snapping photos of these amusing boulders together with the sunset will surely leave you with an unforgettable memory and a fun time.

4. Taking Photos at Lamai Viewpoint

Do not miss Lamai Viewpoint, a breathtaking landmark that offers a stunning view of Lamai Beach from the top of the hill with an endless horizon in the distance. The viewpoint also has a restaurant and a drink bar where you can take your time chilling and relaxing on a chair or a cozy bean bag. 

For those seeking something thrilling to pump up their adrenaline, the Zip Line Adventure is also available at the viewpoint. You will get to fly through the dense jungle and hop from tree to tree.

5. Paying Respect at Wat Lamai

If you desire to delve into the religious and traditional side of Lamai, visit Wat Lamai, the traditional event hub for the local community. It is a temple complex that, on some occasions, holds the so-called temple fair. Wat Lamai not only houses traditional ceremonies, but also serves as a sacred place for Samui people who come to pay respect and give offerings to Buddha statues and Thai monks daily.

There is also the old Cultural Hall, known as the Folklore Museum, situated inside, where a huge collection of ancient relics found in Samui, representing the island’s long history, is displayed. Do not forget to stop by the Sri Lamai Buddha’s Relic Stupa, where the Buddha’s relics are kept in a small stupa. Wat Lamai, apart from being a cultural center, also plays a major role in teaching visitors about its religion, culture, and history.

6. Shopping at Lamai Night Market

Only 200-300 meters away from Lamai Beach, Lamai Night Market is a bustling food venue that comes alive every day from 5 PM to 12 AM and is also the largest food market on Koh Samui. Find a huge selection of street food from traditional Thai cuisine to western-style dishes, such as pad thai, mango sticky rice, barbecue, tropical fruits, and fresh seafood. 

Apart from delectable food, you can also find a variety of local handicrafts and lovely souvenirs at the market, as well as street performances that enhance the nightlife atmosphere.

7. Trying Thai Boxing at Lamai Muay Thai Camp

Attending a traditional Thai boxing class, known as Muay Thai, is one of the great ways to connect with Thai culture, especially for martial arts enthusiasts. Here in Lamai, there are several Muay Thai training camps to choose from, with Lamai Muay Thai Camp being the oldest and most famous camp in the area. Or witness a real Muay Thai fight at Lamai Boxing Stadium, which takes place every Saturday night.

8. Hiking to Lamai Overlap Stone

If you are searching for something to test your limits, do not miss Lamai Overlap Stones, a real natural wonder that serves as one of the best photo spots in Koh Samui. Reaching the top, situated 150 meters above sea level, requires a drive through a steep road followed by a short uphill hike. 

Once you arrive, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking scenery of massive boulders standing atop the hill, with the boundless sea in the background. While there are two Lamai Overlap Stones in Koh Samui, both offer spectacular views with different vibes that will leave you breathless.

9. Wandering at Hua Thanon

Known as a fishing village, Hua Thanon is a large traditional Thai-Muslim community where visitors who want to escape the bustling town come to enjoy peaceful moments and connect with friendly locals. 

This small village is home to several old wooden houses, a few seafood restaurants, and a secluded beach with shallow waters, serving as an ideal location to sit back and unwind. For the moment, take a deep breath, slow down, and let the sound of waves and the cool breeze heal your body and mind.

10. Visiting Samui Aquarium & Tiger Zoo

Samui Aquarium & Tiger Zoo is an attraction gaining attention from people of all ages, especially small children, as it keeps them entertained and helps them learn about various species of tropical aquatic and exotic animals, such as nurse sharks, sea lions, and tigers. 

Visiting the zoo offers a great opportunity to connect with wild animals, helping you become more empathetic toward these magical creatures. Do not miss the chance to get a thrilling experience by taking pictures with an adult tiger and playing with a cub.

11. Swimming at Na Muang Waterfall

Swimming in a large pool to cool off, leaping from a giant boulder, or just leisurely relaxing on dry land while feeling the refreshing drizzle and listening to the powerful sound of Na Muang Waterfall are all great ways to connect with nature.

It is undeniable that Na Muang Waterfall is listed as one of the most stunning destinations in Koh Samui. With its fascinating high drop and serene, lush surroundings, the waterfall appears to be the right place to have fun with family and friends.

There are Na Muang Waterfalls 1 and 2, with heights of 30-40 and 80 meters, respectively. From Na Muang Waterfall 1, which is the easiest to access, it takes a 30-minute hike to reach Na Muang Waterfall 2, where you will be greeted with truly picturesque scenery of the water running down the high cliff, surrounded by a dense jungle and chirping birds.

12. Admiring Guan Yu Koh Samui Shrine

At the Guan Yu Shrine, spend some time appreciating the incredible art and admiring the wonderful architecture of the 16-meter-tall Guan Yu statue, with its bright red face being the most iconic feature. Since Koh Samui is also home to a Chinese community, the Chinese-style shrine was constructed to honor Guan Yu, China’s God of War and Wealth. 

After taking pictures with the statue, continue walking around the shrine to enjoy Chinese food at one of the Chinese restaurants. The shrine is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, with no entrance fee.

Top Places to Stay on Lamai Beach for Every Budget

1. Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui

Nestled in the heart of Lamai Beach, Centara Life Lamai Resort Samui offers a wide range of room choices, each designed to match the loft style that gives off earth-tone vibes. The resort features an abundance of modern amenities, including an outdoor pool, a dining restaurant, and spacious balconies to wind down in a peaceful atmosphere.

Official Website: https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centara-life/csa

2. Aloha Resort

Aloha Resort is known as the first-ever hotel constructed on Lamai Beach, with over 40 years of experience. Despite its long history, the place is well-maintained and incredibly clean. The highlight of this hotel is the outdoor swimming pool situated close to the beach, making it a great romantic spot to watch the sunset with your loved ones. Besides the pool, it also offers a jacuzzi, an indoor dining hall, a bar, and a spa with traditional Thai massage.

Official Website: https://www.alohasamui.com/

3. Lamai Coconut Beach Resort

Lamai Coconut Beach Resort offers Thai-style private bungalows with their balconies overlooking the sea, garden, or pool view, and large windows that let you feel the gentle breeze of the tropical island and the warm sunlight on your skin. Each room features a satellite TV, a fridge, and contemporary bathroom facilities, such as a bathtub and a rain shower. The restaurant provides both Thai and international delightful dishes. You can rent a car or a motorbike in case you want to explore the area on your own.

Official Website: https://www.lamaicoconutbeachresort.com/ 

4. The Hive Hotel

With its beachfront swimming pool and private beach area, The Hive Hotel appears to be one of the most interesting choices to stay in Koh Samui. The hotel features a great deal of accommodation types, from a cozy room to a grand villa. Dining at the hotel’s outdoor restaurant is also a great idea to spend your evening under the afterglow sky. Or simply take a break on a sunbed facing the vast sea of Thailand’s east coast.

Official Website: https://www.hivehotelsamui.com/

5. Thai House Beach

Thai House Beach is another great beachfront hotel with plenty of luxurious rooms. You can opt for a garden-view or beach-view room, each with a private balcony. Swimming in the outdoor pool and enjoying massage services are also available for anyone looking for a relaxing time. Then, you can end your long day by feasting on tasty fresh seafood at the Thai Spices Restaurant while listening to soothing music performances on the beach.

Official Website: https://thaihouse-beachresort.com/ 

Best Time to Visit Lamai Beach

December to February: (The Peak Season) 

Lamai’s high season is the dry season when the sky stays sunny most of the time, the weather is not too hot for outdoor activities, and the water is calm, making it an ideal season to swim and do water sports.

April to May: (The Hottest Season)

This is the hottest season, with the temperature exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Most travelers who visit during this season beat the heat by swimming in the water. Since it is also when the famous Songkran festival takes place, expect some crowds and a bunch of all-night beach parties.

June to November:  (The Rainy Season)

This is the wet season, with frequent rain and occasional thunderstorms. Therefore, it is not as crowded as the other seasons. However, the waterfalls are fuller and more stunning, and the jungle becomes even more lush.

Lamai Beach Q&A: Your Top Questions Answered

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Have a Blast on Lamai Beach with Bangkok Airways Flight

Lamai Beach in Koh Samui is a destination full of wonder. It offers not only a beautiful beach and natural getaway, but also a connection to Lamai’s tradition and culture. Before you hop on the island, choose Bangkok Airways to enjoy the best flight services and experiences to Samui. Let Bangkok Airways be part of your smoothest journey, where all your needs are met.

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