Mae Nam Beach

Most of the vast Mae Nam Beach has a sleepy atmosphere that may even remind old-timers of what Samui was like decades ago and the location keeps busier parts of the island within relatively easy striking distance: families and backpackers have long appreciated this balance of serenity and convenience.

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Gazing across the water to Ko Pha Ngan to the north, Mae Nam is the longest of the north-coast beaches on Ko Samui, with quieter Bang Po and Baan Tai stretching to the west and busier Bophut set in the east.

Looking towards the Lomprayah pier. Photo taken in or around Mae Nam Beach, Ko Samui, Thailand by David Luekens.

Looking towards the Lomprayah pier. Photo: David Luekens

Sporting five kilometres of khaki sand that ranges from grainy to fine, the beach has a fairly sharp drop, both on and off shore, which makes it excellent for both lounging and swimming. Most of Mae Nam’s resorts boast spacious grounds with plenty of umbrella and coconut trees providing shade, and you’ll even find some undeveloped beachfront land. Finding a private slice of paradise is easy here.

The ring road cuts through Mae Nam about a half-kilometre south of the beach at its closest point, leaving a large buffer that keeps the entire beach undisturbed by traffic. Parts of the eastern and western reaches feel downright rural, with narrow lanes passing empty fields and private houses. Resorts like Paradise Beach and Moonhut take full advantage of the space and tranquility, though it can be a hike to a selection of restaurants and other conveniences.

Hippy chic at Treehouse Silent Beach. Photo taken in or around Mae Nam Beach, Ko Samui, Thailand by David Luekens.

Hippy chic at Treehouse Silent Beach. Photo: David Luekens

Set back from the centre of the beach, Mae Nam village is smaller and less kitschy than Fisherman’s Village over in Bophut but has a similar spread of laundry shops, convenience stores and travel offices. A Thursday evening “walking street” market sets up near a Chinese temple, with musicians performing under a seaside ... please log in to read the rest of this story.