Koh Samui Lamai

The island of Koh Samui is off the east coast of mainland Thailand in the Gulf of Siam. It is 240 square kilometres in size and the local population is about 50 000. Koh Samui is well known for its beaches and beauty and has become a world class holiday destination in recent years. The third largest town on Koh Samui is Lamai, which is located on the south coast. Lamai is one of Samui's best beaches, a wide sandy bay flanked by coconut palms with warm, blue waters and a relaxed friendly atmosphere. Lamai offers the tourist everything they need for a great beach holiday. Everything from affordable shopping to delicious dining and self indulgent spa treatments.

Lamai became popular a number of years ago with backpackers who loved its slightly bohemian feel and cheap accommodation. In those days, a hut directly on the beach was available for about a dollar a day and the entertainment was mainly based around bonfires on the beach with local people playing guitars. In recent years Lamai has grown into a much more up market resort area. The old style backpacker bungalows have upgraded to meet the demands of the modern tourists and compete with many new style resorts that have opened.

Lamai now rivals its big sister Chaweng as a location for visitors, whilst retaining its more laid back approach to tourism. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury a couple of 5 star branded resorts have recently opened in at the northern end of the beach, offering the top class levels of service and facilities expected and experienced in other destinations around the world. Keeping in line with this level of development the restaurants, bars, spas and shops in Lamai have also changed, offering better choice and service. Lamai is an excellent choice on Koh Samui for a holiday, ideally placed for visiting the attractions, with a beautiful beach and all the comfort and facilities that any holiday maker could wish for.