Updated on May 16, 2024
Koh Samui’s Bophut Beach has a distinct Bohemian flair that attracts tourists from around the world. With a generally laid-back and tranquil atmosphere, Bophut has surprisingly maintained and preserved its Thai-Chinese traditions and cultures – as evident with the architecture that remains around the village or beach area.
The core of Bophut is the Fisherman’s Village, with its unique old Chinese shop-houses and an eclectic mix of restaurants and shops. So why should you not miss this northern coastal beach area? Here are 4 reasons why:
1. Attractions and Activities
Bophut Beach has every kind of activity for the whole family. The Samui Crocodile Farm is a perfect afternoon excursion for both parents and kids while the Samui Go Kart is ideal for teenagers and young adults to spend a good time racing on the tracks.
For adults, the Samui Shooting Range is perfect for both novice and expert marksmen, while the Bophut Hills Golf Club, one of the top golf courses in Koh Samui, Thailand, offers a day of fun for those looking for some light physical activity under the sun.
For a unique experience unlike any other, the Samui Football Golf Club blends both football and golf to create a truly interesting activity.
2. Nightlife
Bophut Beach has a number of bars and pubs that make for the perfect venues to drink and mingle with friends, family, locals, and other tourists. There are no discotheques or girlie bars here – just places to drink and unwind in a tranquil environment.
Karma Sutra has a hippy chic vibe to it that attracts women and young adults while the Billabong Surf Club is great for its live sports broadcasts and occasional live music. The Emerald Irish Pub is beloved by expats while the Gecko Village is the go-to party place for its Sunday Session party and Full Moon parties.
3. Shopping
There are no big-name malls on Bophut Beach – but just a series of stalls, shops, and the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street, which is a popular open-air market held every Friday.
For unique art and bespoke clothing, the Bophut Plaza is the place to go while the Saona Collection offers the best beachwear and accessory finds for lady shoppers.
Related article: Where to Go Shopping in Koh Samui, Thailand
4. Dining and Restaurants
Don’t let the laid-back and slow life fool you – Bophut Beach is actually home to a number of classy and award-winning restaurants.
H Bistro is the trendiest and classiest of all. Facing the beach and offering French Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant is the place to go for the hip and the trendy.
For the best Thai food on the beach, Zazen, one of the top restaurants in the island, is the place to go while Le Cabanon offers a quirky, distinct, and extremely laid-back approach to dining. It even has tables right on the beach with the water just a couple of steps away.
Bophut Beach in Koh Samui is special because it has the perfect blend of modern amenities and a tranquil environment. There are no big malls or big hotel chains here, and most of the shops and establishments are owned and managed by locals or expats.
If you want to holiday in Koh Samui without the hustle and bustle of major tourist areas like Chaweng, then Bophut Beach is definitely the place for you.
There are also plenty of hotels and luxury holiday rentals available in the area that you can choose to stay beachfront or on the main street of Bophut. If you’re looking for a luxury accommodation that can accommodate a large group such as family or group of friends, there are several private villas not far from the area.
Related article: Beaches of Koh Samui, 5 Best Areas to Find a Private Villa to Rent in Koh Samui