Luxury Koh Samui villas

The largest of Koh Samui’s beaches, Chaweng is a sweeping expanse of golden sand that is made up of four distinct beaches. At over 7km long, there is always plenty of room for everyone on Chaweng beach. The scent of BBQs fills the air and you can always find lots of street vendors and beach sellers offering tasty Thai snacks, such as satay sticks with more-ish peanut sauce. The beach is easy to get to and a main road runs parallel from south to north. For a quieter experience, the far ends of the beach are more tranquil than the bustling middle section.

Away from the busier areas of Koh Samui, Choeng Mon is a tranquil oasis made up of a series of bays and inlets. White sandy beaches are lined by coconut trees and the water here is clear and safe for paddling. This is a more upmarket part of the island and there are very few developments apart from opulent and secluded private villas. The beaches are practically deserted and are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Try kayaking to the islet of Ko Fan Noi, or wait until low tide and walk across the causeway.

Lipa Noi is one of those places where time can seem to stand still. Watching the fishermen cast their nets from the traditional boats as the sun sets behind the hills makes you forget that you’re only an hour from Koh Samui's airport and the hustle and bustle of the main city. This serene beach is lined with sugar-soft white sand and the water here is calm and safe for younger swimmers to splash about. Beach vendors sell fresh fruit, drinks and hot snacks. This is a place to come to relax, escape the pressures of modern life, and revive your soul.

If you want to break free from the usual tourist beaches, Mae Nam is the place to be. This 7km beach is huge, pristine, and practically empty, making it the perfect spot to spread out a beach towel, settle down for the day with a good book, and simply relax. The water is warm, shallow and clean, and the beach is the ideal spot for a sunset stroll with a loved one as the sun sets and the breeze rustles the coconut palms. Apart from a handful of temples nearby, the beach is the main feature. Mae Nam is how you always imagined a beach holiday should be.