Is Lamai Beach good for families?

Yes, the calm, shallow water and slower pace make it a popular choice for families with young children.

How far is Lamai Beach from Chaweng?

About 12 kilometers, roughly a 15–20 minute drive.

What are Hin Ta and Hin Yai?

Naturally formed rock formations at the southern end of Lamai Beach, one of Koh Samui's most photographed natural landmarks.

Is there an entrance fee?

No, Lamai Beach is free and open to the public.

What's the best time of day to visit?

Morning or late afternoon, to avoid the strongest midday heat.

Can I walk to Lamai Viewpoint from the beach?

Yes, it's a roughly 10-minute climb through the jungle from town, with panoramic views as the reward.

Lamai Beach Koh Samui Best Time, How to Reach, Highlights

Lamai Beach is Koh Samui's second-largest and second most popular beach, stretching about 4 kilometers along the east coast roughly 15 minutes south of Chaweng. Wide sand, calm water, and a noticeably more laid-back pace than Chaweng make it a favorite for travelers wanting a quieter island vibe without giving up amenities.

The southern end near the famous Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations (Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks) is the calmest and most scenic part of the beach, while the central and northern stretches have a livelier run of restaurants, beach bars, and water sports vendors.

Lamai is also a convenient base for exploring the island's interior, with Na Muang Waterfall, the mummified monk at Wat Khunaram, and Lamai Viewpoint all a short drive away.

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Best Time to Visit Lamai Beach

December – April

The dry season brings the calmest seas and clearest skies, with temperatures around 27–30°C (81–86°F). This is Koh Samui's peak season.

May – September

Warm with occasional short bursts of rain — a quieter, better-value alternative to the December–April rush.

Best Season

February and March typically offer the sunniest, driest conditions for beach days and photography at Hin Ta and Hin Yai.

How to Get to Lamai Beach

From Samui International Airport

Lamai Beach is roughly a 20–25 minute drive from the airport, past Chaweng along the ring road.

From Elsewhere on Koh Samui

Songthaew (Shared Taxi) Runs along the main ring road and is the cheapest way to reach Lamai from Chaweng or Nathon.

Taxi or Grab The most convenient option, particularly at night or with luggage.

Scooter Rental Around ฿200/day — a popular way to explore Lamai and combine it with nearby waterfalls and viewpoints.

From Bangkok

Fly into Samui International Airport, or connect via Suvarnabhumi/Don Mueang. Overland travelers can bus and ferry via Surat Thani.

Lamai Beach Highlights

Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks – Famous natural rock formations at the beach's southern end.
Wide, Uncrowded Sand – Even in high season, Lamai rarely feels as packed as Chaweng.
Lamai Viewpoint & Zipline – A short climb through the jungle for panoramic sea views, with an optional zipline.
Wat Khunaram – Home to Koh Samui's famous mummified monk, a short drive inland.
Laid-Back Nightlife – Beach bars and Muay Thai fight nights, more relaxed than Chaweng's clubs.
Lamai Walking Street – A smaller, more local night market experience.

Lamai Beach suits travelers who want Koh Samui's classic beach scenery with a slower pace and easy access to the island's best natural attractions.

Need to know

Frequently Asked Questions

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About Lamai Beach

Explore Lamai Beach, Koh Samui's laid-back second beach. Check the best time to visit, how to reach it, highlights, and nearby things to do.

All Koh Samui guides

They suit different trips: Lamai is quieter and more relaxed, while Chaweng has more nightlife, shopping, and dining options. Many visitors base themselves at one and visit the other.