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Chaweng Beach The Ultimate Guide

Chaweng Beach: The Ultimate Guide

| Last Updated: February 2024

The softer and whiter sands in Chaweng Beach should give you a hint. It’s a paradise destination in Samui to give the best of Phuket beaches a run for the money — and we’re not talking about bars and clubs right on the beach yet. 

Itching for a paradise beach escapade in Thailand with a long stretch of white sandy beach for you to party all night and play all day? Read on as we present to you bit by bit what makes Chaweng Beach the picture-perfect destination you deserve. 

Things to Know

Time Zone:

Indochina Time (UTC/GMT+7)

Currency: Thai Baht
(Check the current exchange rate)

Language: Thai (Central Thai)

Calling Code: (+66) 77

Location: Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand

Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport or Koh Samui Airport (3.8 km)

Distance from Nearest Major Island: 16.59 km (Surat Thani Province)

Operating Hours: 24/7

Admission Fee: Free

Chaweng Beach in a Nutshell

You’re going to fall in love with the powdery sand in Chaweng Beach that could be finer than anywhere in Thailand, Phuket’s beaches including. Plus, you have calmer and more manageable seas here, best for underwater exploration. 

But what could set Chaweng Beach apart are the bars, beach clubs and luxury resorts that’s located right where you need them — on the sand. Add the hotels that’s also within reach, and it’s a paradise vacation dream come true. 

Best Time to Visit Chaweng Beach

Anytime between January and April is the best time to visit Chaweng Beach in Koh Samui to avoid tropical cyclones during the rainy season. During these months, you can expect less rain while also avoiding the scorching heat of the peak summer months.

But if you want to experience the most refreshing cool breeze in Koh Samui, you should visit the island in February. During this time, you can enjoy a cooler climate in Chaweng Beach, which will gradually turn hotter once March and April arrive.

Overall, it’s best to avoid the monsoon season that produces stormy waters around Chaweng Beach and Koh Samui. You don’t want to go on an island vacation when you cannot enjoy beach and water activities to your heart’s content.

How to Get to Chaweng Beach

Plane: Boarding a plane is the best way to reach Chaweng Beach from any point inside or outside Thailand. Just book a flight to Samui International Airport in Koh Samui, which is approximately 3.8 kilometers north of the beach.

If you booked an airport transfer with your hotel, you should have a shuttle bus waiting for you upon arrival. Otherwise, your only option is to hire a shared taxi straight to Chaweng Beach or your hotel if you want to get settled in first.

Pro Tip: 

Drivers in Koh Samui typically don’t use taximeters for each ride, so be prepared to negotiate the fare price before boarding to get a reasonable deal. For reference, the average asking price for short trips is approximately 300 baht.

Ferry: Since Koh Samui is off the coast of the main Surat Thani Province, your other option to reach Chaweng Beach is through a Seatran or Lomprayah ferry ride from Donsak Pier. The ferries on this pier will drop you at Koh Samui’s Na Thon Pier.

From the entrance of Na Thon Pier, you can board a passing taxi on the street or a nearby taxi stand to Chaweng Beach. The distance is approximately 23.4 kilometers so expect the journey to take between 27 to 31 minutes depending on the traffic condition.

Pro Tip: 

You can also board a Raja Ferry from the nearby Raja Ferry Port in Donsak. The ferry will drop you off at Lipa Noi Pier instead, which is 27.8 kilometers from Chaweng Beach.

Speedboat: Lomprayah also has private speedboats that can take you to Na Thon Pier from Donsak Pier. Chartering a speedboat is more expensive but it’s faster and more comfortable than a regular ferry ride, with the extra option to have meals on board.

Bus & Ferry Tours: Bus & Ferry tours are available in Thailand, allowing you to reach Koh Samui from the bus terminals in Phuket, Surat Thani, and Krabi. For example, you can go to a Phuket bus terminal and book a tour with Lomprayah or Phantip Travel.

With a Bus & Ferry tour, you don’t have to trouble yourself with traveling to Donsak Pier to book a separate ferry ride to Koh Samui. Instead, you can depart from the nearest bus terminal and they will take you on a partnered ferry going to Na Thon Pier. 

What to See and Do on Chaweng Beach

Enjoy the various watersports in Chaweng Beach

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As it’s the longest beach in Koh Samui, you’ll see countless beachside rental shops for various watersports like parasailing, surfing, jet skiing, flyboarding, and more. 

Just note that these rental shops are more prevalent in Chaweng Beach’s northern portion.

Also, keep in mind that some water activities like parasailing won’t be allowed when there are strong winds. During this time, however, surfing will be more common because of the bigger waves, so plan your visit according to the activity you want to do.

Swim and snorkel in the beach’s crystalline waters

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If you head to the southern portion of Chaweng Beach, you won’t see as many tourists, so it’s the perfect spot to swim and snorkel. The good thing is that you can also rent snorkeling gear at the various rental shops along the beach.

In this part of the beach, the water is usually calmer so it’s safe for swimming and snorkeling activities. What’s more, since most of the watersports are on the northern side, you can bring children to swim or snorkel with you without worries.

Grab an affordable beachside massage

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Another popular thing you can do is get a massage from the streetside stalls along the beach. While walking on Chaweng Beach, you’ll see these massage signs near some beach beds or a small open hut, with a cheerful masseuse greeting you.

The massage service provided in these beachside stalls is affordable, so don’t expect the same quality as those in full-service spa centers. If you prefer a luxury experience, you’re better off going to a proper massage shop or a spa in the nearby hotels.

Shop at Central Samui

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Address: 209, 209/1-2 หมู่ที่, 2 ตำบล บ่อผุด, Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 77 962 777

Website: https://www.centralpattana.co.th/en/our-business/shopping-center/378/central-samui

In Chaweng Beach, street vendors will approach you to sell various souvenirs and goods, but nothing beats shopping at Central Samui. This three-story shopping mall has everything you’ll ever need for your stay in Koh Samui and more.

Not only will you find various retail stores in Central Samui, but you’ll also find cafes, restaurants, bars, and other specialty shops. With a 90,000-square-meter floor area and over 200 shops on-site, you’ll surely find something entertaining and interesting.

Play Footgolf at Samui Football Golf

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Address: 63/240, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 9 AM – 6:30 PM (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 89 771 7498

Website: https://www.samuifootballgolf.com/

If you’re looking for a unique experience near Chaweng Beach, one place you must visit is Samui Football Golf. Don’t let this establishment’s name fool you because it doesn’t offer football and golf activities.

Instead, it’s where you can play Footgolf, which is an original creation that combines elements of football and golf. In this game, the goal is to kick the football and shoot it into the big-sized holes in the ground.

Watch Muay Thai fights at Phetch Buncha Boxing Stadium

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Address: Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 9 PM (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday)

Contact Number: +66 84 772 6739

Website: https://samuiplay.com/muaythai

If you’re a fan of combat sports, you wouldn’t want to miss watching live Muay Thai (Muay Thai in Thailand) fights during your visit to Chaweng Beach. Plus, Phetch Buncha Boxing Stadium is hard to miss because it’s only 300 meters from the beach, along Sala Koy Road. 

Here, you can experience the Muay Thai scene in Koh Samui, and witness the passion that locals have for their national sport. 

With up to 1,500 people watching in the area, you’ll hear the eruption of elated fans as their favorite fighters duke it out in the fighting ring. Fans will also bring instruments like drums and cymbals, so expect the venue to be as loud as most sporting events. 

Visit Cabaret Paris Follies

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Address: 166, 92 Chaweng Beach Rd, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 7 PM – 12 MN (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 61 303 1000

Website: https://parisfolliescabaret.com/

As the biggest theater in Koh Samui, the Cabaret Paris Follies is the best place for watching Thailand’s iconic cabaret shows. Here, you can watch entertaining dance numbers and songs with ladyboys in decorous attires.

Cabaret Paris Follies is famous for its performances of various global-renowned dances like Samba, Flamenco, The Hora, Korean traditional dance, and more. 

Another highlight of this cabaret show is their impersonations of global pop stars like Whitney Houston. Check out their show schedules beforehand to see if there’s something you wouldn’t want to miss out on!

Book an ATV Quad Bike Tour

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Address: Maenam Soi1, Tambon Mae Nam, Maenam, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 24/7 (Booking Only)

Contact Number: +66 98 676 0411

Website: https://lexiadventures.com/

There are various ATV tour agencies in Koh Samu, but Lexi Samui ATV Quad Bike is one of the highly rated tours. Not only are their buggies in excellent condition, but you can also enjoy riding them to your heart’s content, unlike the setup in other tours.

Also, Lexi Samui’s bike tour includes a private hotel transfer via a minivan so you don’t have to worry about traveling from and to your hotel. The tour also included safety gear, drinks, a waterproof travel bag, snacks, and a first-aid kit.

With this bike tour, you’ll explore the beautiful nature in Koh Samui, with waterfalls, hidden cafes, scenic viewpoints, and abundant wildlife to see along the way. If you’re not confident with your driving skills, you also have the option to be a passenger.

Visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Samui

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Address: 141/53 Moo 3, Mae Nam, Surat Thani 84330

Operating Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 99 295 4551

Website: https://elephantjunglesanctuary.com/samui/

Boasting its sustainable and ethical program, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui is where you can see rescued elephants living peacefully near Chaweng Beach. Unlike other sanctuaries, the caretakers don’t force the elephants to interact with visitors.

You can only pet, feed, or take photos with the elephants if the animal allows you to, so you know they’re not treated harshly. During your visit, English-speaking staff will guide you on the tour and teach you about their elephant welfare programs.

They’ll also hand you the traditional clothing of the Karen hill tribe, which you’ll wear during the tour. Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui has morning and afternoon visits, which include a pick-up service from and to your hotel.

Tour Samui’s Big Buddha Temple

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Address: Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai), Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Surat Thani 84230

Operating Hours: 7 AM – 7 PM (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 86 511 2199

The Big Buddha Temple or Wat Phra Yai, is a famous tourist attraction in Koh Samui where you can see a giant golden Buddha statue. Here, you can take stunning photos of the massive statue and the ornate structures and temples in the area.

You can also buy souvenirs and snacks from the shops and stalls near the temple. Aside from its historical significance, keep in mind that Wat Phra Yai is a sacred place, so wearing appropriate clothing is required to enter the temple grounds.

Don’t worry, adhering to the strict dress code is the only requirement since the temple doesn’t charge an admission fee. Wat Phra Yai is only 6 kilometers north of Chaweng Beach.

Where to Stay in Chaweng Beach

Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort

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Address: 9/99, Chaweng Noi Beach, Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 3 PM – 12 MN (Check-in & Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 77 915 555

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/usmvl-vana-belle-a-luxury-collection-resort-koh-samui/overview/

Costs: ฿฿฿

True to its name, Vana Belle is a top-of-the-line luxury resort offering a superb exotic living experience, just 300 meters from Chaweng Beach’s southern tip. Hidden amidst a tropical forest, this private resort is the perfect hideaway near the pristine beach.

Depending on your preferred viewpoint, you can choose between their ocean or jungle suites, all with private infinity pools, minibars, and other fancy amenities. The rooms in this resort also have workspaces, which are perfect for your business trips.

Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

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Address: 92/1, Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 2 PM – 12 MN (Check-in & Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 77 960 333

Website: https://www.anantara.com/en/lawana-koh-samui

Costs: ฿฿

Smack in the middle of Chaweng Beach, Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort is your ideal retreat if you want quick access to the beach’s restaurants and nightlife. With its Sino-Thai architecture and idyllic location, this resort captures the charm of Koh Samui.

Here, you’ll have access to the pristine Chaweng Beach on the front, and the lush green forest at the back. It’s the perfect hidden luxury paradise where you’re as close to nature as can be.

Hyatt Regency Koh Samui

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Address: 99, North Chaweng Bophut, 11, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 3 PM – 12 MN (Check-in & Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 77 448 777

Website: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/usmrk-hyatt-regency-koh-samui

Costs: ฿฿

Hyatt Regency Koh Samui is a luxury oceanfront resort along Chaweng Beach’s northern tip. Surrounded by crystalline waters, rocky coastlines, and a lush forest, this five-star beach resort promises the ultimate relaxation.

What’s more, Hyatt Regency Koh Samui lets you focus on various outdoor activities, like fitness classes, watersports, gardening, and Thai Boxing classes. They also offer family-oriented activities, such as coconut leaf origami and Thai basket-making for kids.

Mercure Samui

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Address: 17/135 หมู่ที่ 3 ถนน เลียบหาดเฉวง, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 3 PM – 12 MN (Check-in & Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 77 915 555

Website: https://all.accor.com/ssr/app/accor/rates/8502/index.en.shtml?compositions=1&stayplus=false&snu=false&accessibleRooms=false&hideWDR=false&hideHotelDetails=false

Costs: ฿

If you want a more affordable hotel without compromising on the amenities, a four-star hotel like Mercure Samui is your best option. Best of all, this hotel has a beachfront location, giving you quick access to Chaweng Beach’s southern portion.

It’s also close to Srithong Watersports, an aquatic center where you can rent jet skis, speedboats, banana boats, sofa boats, and more. The only thing you’ll miss out on while staying here is a full-service spa, but there’s plenty of that along Chaweng Beach.

Where to Eat in Chaweng Beach

Tandoori Palace

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Address: 17/49 หมู่ 3 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 12:30 PM – 11 PM (Monday & Wednesday to Saturday)

12 NN – 11 PM (Tuesday)

Contact Number: +66 99 327 1727

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Tandooripalacechaweng/

Costs: ฿

A highly-rated Indian restaurant in the heart of Chaweng Beach, Tandoori Palace is a must-visit spot if you’re craving for some succulent and flavorful food. Here, you can order classic garlic cheese naan, chicken tikka tandoori, chicken madras, and more.

Best of all, you don’t even need to go to this humble restaurant to try these superb Indian dishes. You can order from their Food Panda page and have your food delivered to your hotel’s doorstep or your sunbed in Chaweng Beach.

The Hungry Wolf

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Address: 17/46 Koh Samui Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 1 PM – 1 PM (Thursday – Tuesday)

Contact Number: +66 94 408 2243

Website: https://thehungrywolf.xyz/

Costs: ฿฿

Another restaurant next to Tandoori Palace, The Hungry Wolf serves excellent homemade burgers and Italian pasta. Their pasta dishes include spaghetti aglio olio, rigatoni carbonara, rigatoni amatriciana, fettuccine alla bolognese, and more.

However, the most astounding item on their menu is their vegan beef burger, which you’ll find surprisingly flavorful. But, even if it’s not to your liking, you can always order their signature Little Wolf burger or the more premium Wagyu beef burgers.

The Hungry Wolf also delivers food ordered from their website, but your order must cost a minimum of 500 baht.

The Islander Koh Samui

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Address: 166, 79 ถนน หาดเฉวง, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320

Operating Hours: 8 AM – 2 AM (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 87 280 3605

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Islander1995/

Costs: ฿฿

The Islander Koh Samui is a popular pub among tourists because of the excellent food they serve for reasonable prices. Plus, they also serve English breakfast and other Western food, so it’s a familiar flavor for foreigners visiting Chaweng Beach. 

On top of that, The Islander Koh Samui has a bar serving various beers and cocktails, and a pool table where you can play with friends and other guests. Overall, this pub is a great place if you’re looking for something familiar during your vacation.

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