Welcome to the Lamai Beach Koh Samui Guide — Lamai Beach is one of Koh Samui’s most alluring destinations, known for its picturesque shores and vibrant energy. This stunning beach combines natural beauty with a lively atmosphere, offering something for every traveler. From relaxing on the golden sands to exploring bustling markets, Lamai Beach truly stands out.

Lamai Beach stretches along the southeastern coast of Koh Samui, boasting soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Its relaxed vibe makes it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the shore. Unlike the bustling Chaweng Beach, Lamai offers a more laid-back environment while still providing plenty of activities. The beach is surrounded by lush palm trees and dotted with picturesque rock formations, creating a perfect tropical paradise.
Vibe:
Lamai Beach is relaxed yet lively, great for families and couples, with plenty of beach activities and local experiences.
Accommodation:
Mid-range resorts, family-friendly hotels, and wellness retreats are common, offering something for all types of travellers.
Highlights:
- Softer nightlife than Chaweng
- Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks
- Ideal for swimming and beach activities
- Great for family beach vacations
- Stunning ocean sunsets
Hotels for Every Budget
Accommodation at Lamai Beach ranges from budget-friendly bungalows to luxury resorts. For travellers seeking a beachfront experience, properties like The Hive provides direct access to the sands. Honeymooners might prefer a more intimate setting, such as villas with private pools at Banyan Tree Samui. Families and groups can find affordable options with spacious rooms, ensuring comfort without breaking the bank. Many hotels also feature on-site restaurants and spa services, adding convenience to your stay.
Lamai Beach Luxury Hotels

Renaissance
Luxurious villas with stunning sea views.
Exceptional dining with local flavours.
RenaissanceLamai Beach luxury hotels promise an unforgettable stay with stunning ocean views, top-tier amenities, and exceptional service. Guests enjoy direct beach access, infinity pools, and world-class dining, all set against a backdrop of swaying palms and turquoise waters. Many resorts offer private villas, perfect for those seeking a secluded retreat. Lamai Beach’s relaxed vibe complements its high-end accommodations, creating the ideal setting for couples, families, or solo travellers craving a tropical escape. Wellness lovers can indulge in spa treatments or yoga sessions overlooking the sea.
Lamai Beach Boutique Hotels
Lamai Beach boutique hotels offer a unique blend of charm, style, and personalised service. These intimate properties provide a cozy yet luxurious atmosphere, making guests feel right at home. With tasteful designs and attention to detail, each boutique hotel delivers an authentic island experience. Many feature lush gardens, stylish pools, and easy access to Lamai’s pristine shoreline. Guests can enjoy artisan dining, curated excursions, and cozy accommodations that reflect the local culture. Perfect for couples, solo travellers, or small groups, boutique hotels cater to those seeking a more tailored and tranquil stay.
Lamai Beach Budget Stays
Lamai Beach budget stays offer excellent value without compromising on comfort or convenience. Guests praise these affordable options for their clean rooms, friendly staff, and prime locations near the beach. Many budget accommodations include cozy bungalows, small hotels, or guesthouses with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and relaxed vibes. Travellers can enjoy easy access to Lamai Beach’s golden sands, lively night markets, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a backpacker or a savvy traveller, these stays provide the perfect base to explore Koh Samui without stretching your budget. Great comfort, unbeatable prices!
Lamai Beach Family-Friendly Hotels

Outrigger Resort
Well-equipped kids club, multiple pools.
friendly staff, family-friendly amenities.
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Pavilion Samui
Spacious family rooms, attentive service.
Large swimming pool, Beach access.
BOOK NOWLamai Beach family-friendly hotels offer everything needed for a fun and relaxing getaway with kids. Many feature spacious rooms, family suites, and kid-friendly pools with slides or shallow areas. Parents love the on-site kids’ clubs, where children can enjoy supervised activities, arts and crafts, and games. Restaurants often provide kid-focused menus, while babysitting services allow adults some quiet time. Easy beach access means hours of sandcastle building and splashing in calm, shallow waters. Nearby attractions like Coco Splash Waterpark and Lamai Night Market keep the whole family entertained. These hotels ensure a stress-free stay packed with fun for all ages.
Hotellook is a hotel price comparison engine, to help you find and compare rates from over 10 booking platforms, including Agoda, Hotels.com, and Expedia. This ensures you get the best available rates.
Shopping in Lamai Beach Koh Samui
Shopping at Lamai Beach is a treat for visitors seeking souvenirs and local products. The Lamai Night Plaza is a must-visit, offering everything from handmade crafts to trendy beachwear. Vendors here showcase a mix of traditional Thai goods, including carved wooden items and silk scarves. Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best price. For those looking for modern shopping options, nearby boutique stores and convenience shops have plenty to offer.
Exciting Things to Do
Lamai Beach offers countless activities to keep visitors entertained. For nature enthusiasts, the Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, also known as Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, are iconic landmarks nearby. These unique rock formations draw curious visitors and make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Adventure seekers can try water sports, including paddleboarding and jet skiing. Snorkeling is also popular, with vibrant marine life just offshore. Don’t miss the Lamai Viewpoint, which provides breathtaking panoramas of the coastline and surrounding jungle.
Cultural experiences abound with visits to Wat Lamai, a charming local temple. The Lamai Sunday Night Market is another highlight, offering street food, live music, and traditional performances. This lively event is perfect for soaking up the local culture.
Dining and Nightlife
Food lovers will be delighted by the variety of dining options in Lamai Beach Koh Samui. Thai cuisine takes center stage, with beachfront eateries serving fresh seafood dishes like grilled prawns and spicy tom yum soup. Sabienglae Restaurant is a popular choice, known for its authentic flavors and seaside ambiance.
For international fare, there are Italian trattorias, Japanese sushi bars, and European-style bakeries scattered throughout the area. Vegetarian and vegan travelers will also find plenty of options, including smoothie bowls and plant-based Thai dishes. Many restaurants feature live music in the evenings, creating a vibrant yet relaxed dining experience.
10 Food Hotspots of Pubs and Clubs Not to Miss
- The Cliff Bar & Grill: Stunning views; Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
- Baobab Restaurant: Relaxed vibe; beachfront cocktails.
- Dr Frogs Bar & Grill: Hilltop dining; live music.
- Outback Bar & Grill: Live sports; hearty Western dishes.
- Shamrock Irish Pub: Lively atmosphere; classic pub fare.
- Bikini Bar: Reggae vibes; Jamaican-themed dishes.
- Kob Thai Restaurant: Serene garden; authentic Thai cuisine.
- Live India Samui: Authentic Indian food; diverse menu options.
- Pizza Del Sol: Cozy ambiance; delicious Italian pizzas.
- Imchai: Local favorite; flavorful, affordable Thai food.
Getting Around Lamai Beach Koh Samui
Getting around Lamai Beach is easy, thanks to a variety of transport options. Motorbike rentals are popular and affordable, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. Songthaews, shared pickup trucks turned into taxis, provide a budget-friendly way to travel short distances. For more convenience, private taxis and car rentals are readily available. Walking is also a great option, especially within the central areas of Lamai Beach.
Explore Nearby Attractions
Lamai Beach serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions. The Overlap Stone, a fascinating natural rock formation, offers stunning views of the coastline. Na Muang Waterfalls, located a short drive away, are ideal for a refreshing dip amidst lush greenery. Those interested in history and culture can visit the Guan Yu Shrine, a tribute to the Chinese god of war, situated nearby. Additionally, the Secret Buddha Garden, hidden in the island’s hills, provides a peaceful escape with intriguing sculptures and serene surroundings.
Practical Tips for Visitors
For a hassle-free trip, consider visiting Lamai Beach during the dry season, from December to April. Always carry sunscreen, as the tropical sun can be intense. ATMs are plentiful, but carrying some cash is recommended for small purchases or at markets. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re indulging in outdoor activities. For emergencies, Lamai has several pharmacies and clinics to assist travelers. Lastly, always respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
Getting To Lamai Beach
Getting to Lamai Beach is easy and convenient, with several transport options available. For those flying into Koh Samui, the island’s airport (USM) is about a 20-25 minute drive to Lamai Beach, making it accessible for air travelers.
For those arriving by ferry from the mainland, ferries dock at Nathon Pier, Koh Samui’s main port. From there, it’s a scenic 40-50 minute drive to Lamai Beach by taxi, minivan, or private transfer.
Ferries from Koh Phangan and Koh Tao usually dock at Bangrak Pier (Big Buddha Pier) or Maenam Pier on Koh Samui. From there, it takes around 25 to 35 minutes by taxi or shuttle to reach Lamai Beach.
To plan your trip, check out our How to Get to Koh Samui: Flights, Ferries & Transfers Guide for all the details. For quick and easy online bookings of buses, ferries, and flights, check out 12Go Asia.
Final Thoughts
Lamai Beach is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. With its stunning scenery, diverse activities, and excellent amenities, it promises an unforgettable getaway. Whether you’re shopping at local markets, indulging in luxury accommodations, or savouring delicious cuisine, Lamai Beach offers something for everyone.