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Bophut is the beach/bay just to the east of Maenam. Its lifestyle is
relaxed and more traditional than the larger communities, referring to itself as
Fisherman's Village. Bhophut's laid back vibe is popular with the more chic sort
of travelers, and has a number of pricey but very good French-owned cafes and restaurants.
Also there are also some smart English and Irish Pubs, an exceptional (and expensive)
Italian restaurant run by a chap named Guido, some great Thai seafood grill restaurants,
and Indian Restaurant. Bhophut has kept the girly bars out, and its very family friendly.
Try to do the annual 'Fisherman's Festival'. The Lodge & The Apartments in Bhophut
are a very class act, with brilliant accommodations designed and built by an Irish
developer who is something of a local legend.
Bangrak, just two kilometers east of Bhophut, and part of Bhophut
'province' is also known by the name Big Buddha Beach, after the 19-metre gold
tinted statue of the ancient spiritual master which overlooks the entire bay (Big Buddha).
Bangrak is quite close to the airport, and is one of the calmest beaches, though the huge
sweep of it's jade colored waters are often a bit murky. BangRak is the jump off point to
sister island Koh Phan Ghan, and the ferry goes every day. Bang rak is a crazy mix of
beachfront mansions and, nowadays, noisy girl bars. This was once a very low key place.
No more! Check out the weekend beach parties at Secret Garden, or the cozy spa at Ban
Sabai, two local highlights. Open Gates, the island's international school, is also
located in Ban Rak.
Choeng Mon is one of the smallest of Samui's tourist beaches, but lies
in a secluded bay on the northeastern tip of the island, making it perfect for those who
want peace and quiet. It doesn't have much of a town but there are a number of small
restaurants and a couple of shops, in addition to some very luxurious (and expensive)
hotels that surround the bay...and it is only five minutes north from the bright lights
of Chaweng.
To the beaches and towns:
Nathon, Mae Nam,
Bophut, Bangrak, Choeng Mon, Chaweng,
Lamai, Hua Thanon, Lipa Noi, Tong Krut
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