If you want to experience the Koh Samui that once was before it became a tourist hotspot, the peaceful Laem Sor beach area can show it to you. The quiet island-village atmosphere of this unexplored place makes it a sought after coastal retreat for those seeking tranquility and serenity amidst verdant tropical surroundings. This is the kind of place that lets you step back in time and experience the joy unadulterated nature brings to you.
Laem Sor mainly comprises of a small coastal village with a handful of bays that offer secluded tropical beaches dotted with coconut palm trees bending over water at unbelievable angles. It reverberates a kind of atmosphere that was once prevalent throughout Koh Samui.
Luxury villa recommendations: Villa Sairee and Villa Malabar
How to reach Laem Sor Beach
This idyllic coastal area is a 20-minute drive from the Lamai Beach and about a 35-minute drive from the Chaweng Beach. You can rent a car and take a day trip to this island. Samui Airport is approximately an hour’s drive away. There are numerous travel companies that offer transfers from Phuket to Koh Samui.
If you take a ferry from Phuket, the trip from Nathon Pier will take nearly 30 minutes. If you are traveling by road, you will enjoy the trip as much as the destination itself. Depending upon which route you choose, you will either go through rainforest-covered hills or the lovely coastline.
A romantic laid-back vibe
When you arrive at the beach, you will be amazed by the ambiance which is idyllic, sophisticated, and romantic. There are no nightclubs, markets or shopping areas. Although the southern beaches of Samui are not as suitable for swimming compared to more popular areas, this side of the island gives travelers a sense of sophistication and unmatched privacy. The quiet, undisturbed shores create a perfect setting for a couple getaway or a self-realization trip.
There are a few luxurious beachfront villas for those who like to enjoy the finest things in life. A couple of beach bars and fine dining establishments make Laem Sor a self-sufficient destination for those wanting to escape in the quiet tropical paradise.
Read our article about the best restaurants in Koh Samui.
Attractions and activities in Laem Sor
Although known for its calm and serene ambiance, there are a few outdoor activities for sports enthusiasts. You may enjoy kitesurfing or go hiking to explore the surrounding areas such as the island of Koh Taen, which is a short boat ride away. It offers ample opportunities for snorkeling and has a few beaches too. Those who are not much into sports can just relax on the idyllic beaches and take a stroll.
Read our article about the 5 islands near Koh Samui that are perfect for a day trip.
If you feel adventurous to try a new sport, you must visit the Disc Golf and Acoustic Café, a lush 18 hole disc golf course amidst Laem Sor’s the coastal treeline. An abundance of tropical fruit trees, exotic birdlife, and colorful butterflies coupled with a rustic atmosphere makes this place highly captivating.
The Samui Butterfly Garden and an insect museum are located nearby, but the biggest attraction in Laem Sor is the golden Pagoda located right on the beach. It’s not very common to find a temple on the beach and this religious site heightens the beauty of this place. You can see the locals worshipping and monks around the pagoda adding a sense of spirituality to the place.
Check out our list of the 3 must-visit temples in Koh Samui.
Featured image showing the private beachfront of Villa Sairee.
The Luxury Signature represents and manages reservations of the finest villa rentals in Southeast Asia, specializing in some of the most stunning destinations including the islands of Phuket and Samui in Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia.
