Do you want to experience the best of Koh Samui's beaches, nightlife, and activities? If so, you should definitely visit Chaweng Beach, the most developed and touristic part of the island. Chaweng Beach has everything you need for a perfect beach vacation, from stunning white sand and crystal clear water, to luxurious hotels and resorts, to lively bars and clubs, to fun water sports and shopping, and much more. In this guide, we will show you everything you need to know about Chaweng Beach, including how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and what to avoid.
How to Get to Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach is located on the east coast of Koh Samui, about 6 km from the airport and 25 km from the ferry terminal. There are several ways to reach Chaweng Beach from the airport, the ferry terminal, or other parts of the island, such as by taxi, bus, songthaew, or motorbike.
- Taxi: The easiest and fastest way to get to Chaweng Beach is by taxi, which you can find at the airport, the ferry terminal, or any major road. The taxi fare from the airport to Chaweng Beach is about 400 baht, and from the ferry terminal to Chaweng Beach is about 600 baht. You can also book a taxi online or by phone, but make sure to agree on the price before you get in, as some drivers may try to overcharge you or refuse to use the meter.
- Bus: The cheapest way to get to Chaweng Beach is by bus, which you can find at the airport, the ferry terminal, or any major town. The bus fare from the airport to Chaweng Beach is about 100 baht, and from the ferry terminal to Chaweng Beach is about 150 baht. The bus is usually a large van or a minibus, and it will drop you off at the main road near Chaweng Beach. However, the bus may not be very comfortable, reliable, or frequent, and you may have to wait for a long time or share the space with many other passengers and their luggage.
- Songthaew: A songthaew is a local public transport that is similar to a pickup truck with two rows of seats in the back. You can find a songthaew at the airport, the ferry terminal, or any major road. The songthaew fare from the airport to Chaweng Beach is about 50 baht, and from the ferry terminal to Chaweng Beach is about 100 baht. The songthaew is a convenient and flexible way to get to Chaweng Beach, as you can hop on and off at any point along the route. However, the songthaew may not be very comfortable, safe, or fast, and you may have to share the ride with many other locals and tourists.
- Motorbike: A motorbike is a popular and adventurous way to get to Chaweng Beach, as you can rent one at the airport, the ferry terminal, or any major town. The motorbike rental fee is about 200 baht per day, and you will also need to pay for the petrol and the helmet. The motorbike is a fun and flexible way to get to Chaweng Beach, as you can explore the island at your own pace and stop at any place you like. However, the motorbike may not be very safe, legal, or easy, and you may have to deal with the traffic, the roads, the police, and the accidents.
Where to Stay in Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach has a wide range of hotels and resorts to suit any budget and preference, from budget guesthouses and hostels, to mid-range hotels and bungalows, to luxury resorts and villas. Here are some of the best hotels and resorts on Chaweng Beach, with links to their websites and booking platforms:
The Library: The Library is one of the most unique and stylish resorts on Chaweng Beach, featuring minimalist design, modern amenities, and a stunning red pool. The Library offers spacious and elegant suites and villas, some with private pools and jacuzzis, and all with sea views and access to the beach. The Library also has a library, a restaurant, a bar, a spa, and a gym. The Library is ideal for couples and honeymooners who are looking for a romantic and luxurious stay on Chaweng Beach. The price range of The Library is from 10,000 to 30,000 baht per night.
Ark Bar Beach Resort: Ark Bar Beach Resort is one of the most popular and lively resorts on Chaweng Beach, featuring a vibrant nightlife, a beachfront location, and a party atmosphere. Ark Bar Beach Resort offers comfortable and affordable rooms and bungalows, some with sea views and balconies, and all with air conditioning and free wifi. Ark Bar Beach Resort also has three swimming pools, four bars, two restaurants, and a spa. Ark Bar Beach Resort is ideal for solo travelers and groups who are looking for a fun and social stay on Chaweng Beach. The price range of Ark Bar Beach Resort is from 1,000 to 3,000 baht per night.
Chaweng Regent Beach Resort: Chaweng Regent Beach Resort is one of the most established and reputable resorts on Chaweng Beach, featuring a traditional Thai style, a tropical garden, and a family-friendly environment. Chaweng Regent Beach Resort offers cozy and spacious rooms and villas, some with private pools and gardens, and all with air conditioning and free wifi. Chaweng Regent Beach Resort also has two swimming pools, two restaurants, two bars, a spa, and a fitness center. Chaweng Regent Beach Resort is ideal for families and couples who are looking for a relaxing and comfortable stay on Chaweng Beach. The price range of Chaweng Regent Beach Resort is from 3,000 to 10,000 baht per night. Y
The availability and the demand of the accommodation on Chaweng Beach may vary depending on the season, the day of the week, and the events and festivals. Therefore, it is advisable to book your hotel or resort in advance, especially during the high season (December to February) and the peak season (July and August). You can also cancel your reservation without any charge if you change your mind or find a better deal, as long as you do it within the cancellation policy of your hotel or resort.
What to Do in Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach has a lot of activities and attractions to offer, both on and off the beach. You can enjoy the sun, the sand, and the sea, or you can explore the island, the culture, and the nature. Here are some of the best activities and attractions near Chaweng Beach:
- Water sports: Chaweng Beach is a great place to enjoy various water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. You can find many vendors and operators on the beach who offer these water sports, and you can negotiate the price and the duration with them. The cost of the water sports may range from 500 to 2,000 baht per person, depending on the type and the length of the activity. The water sports are usually safe and fun, but you should always check the weather, the equipment, and the insurance before you try them.
- Shopping: Chaweng Beach is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, accessories, and electronics, as it has many shops, markets, and malls. You can find many souvenir shops and stalls on the beach and the main road, where you can buy local handicrafts, t-shirts, hats, sunglasses, and other items. You can also find many clothing and accessory shops and boutiques on the main road, where you can buy trendy and fashionable items, such as dresses, shirts, pants, shoes, bags, and jewelry. You can also find many electronic shops and outlets on the main road, where you can buy gadgets and devices, such as cameras, phones, laptops, and tablets. You can also visit the Central Festival Samui, which is the largest and the most modern shopping mall on the island, located near the northern end of Chaweng Beach. The Central Festival Samui has many international and local brands, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, and entertainment venues. You can also visit the Chaweng Walking Street, which is a night market that opens every evening from 5 pm to 11 pm, located near the southern end of Chaweng Beach. The Chaweng Walking Street has many stalls and vendors who sell food, drinks, souvenirs, clothes, accessories, and other items. You can also enjoy the live music, the street performers, and the atmosphere of the Chaweng Walking Street.
- Spas: Chaweng Beach is a great place to relax and rejuvenate, as it has many spas and massage parlors. You can find many massage vendors and services on the beach, who offer traditional Thai massage, foot massage, oil massage, and other treatments. You can also find many spa centers and salons on the main road, who offer more professional and luxurious services, such as facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and hair styling. The cost of the spas and massages may range from 200 to 2,000 baht per hour, depending on the type and the quality of the service. The spas and massages are usually soothing and beneficial, but you should always check the hygiene, the reputation, and the certification of the spa or the masseuse before you try them.
- Nearby attractions: Chaweng Beach is a great base to explore the island, the culture, and the nature, as it has many nearby attractions and sights. You can visit the Big Buddha, which is a 12-meter-high golden statue of Buddha, located on a small island near the northern end of Chaweng Beach. You can also visit the Wat Plai Laem, which is a colorful and ornate temple complex, located near the Big Buddha. You can also visit the Chaweng Lake, which is a large and scenic lake, located near the southern end of Chaweng Beach. You can also visit the Samui Crocodile Farm, which is a wildlife park that houses crocodiles, snakes, monkeys, and other animals, located near the airport. You can also visit the Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo, which is a marine and animal park that showcases fish, sharks, turtles, tigers, and other creatures, located near the southern tip of the island. You can also visit the Na Muang Waterfalls, which are two beautiful and cascading waterfalls, located in the interior of the island. You can also visit the Ang Thong National Marine Park, which is a group of 42 islands that feature stunning rock formations, lagoons, caves, and beaches, located off the west coast of the island. You can also visit the Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan, which are two small and idyllic islands that offer some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Thailand, located off the north coast of the island. You can book a tour or a ticket to these nearby attractions online or through your hotel or resort, or you can rent a car or a motorbike and explore them on your own. The cost of the tours and the tickets may vary depending on the type and the duration of the attraction, and the transportation and the guide included. The nearby attractions are usually interesting and enjoyable, but you should always check the weather, the schedule, and the reviews before you visit them.
What to Eat and Drink in Chaweng Beach:
Chaweng Beach has a lot of dining and drinking options to suit any taste and budget, from local and international restaurants, to beachfront and rooftop bars, to cozy and trendy cafes, to delicious and cheap street food. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink on Chaweng Beach:
Khaw Glong Thai Restaurant: Khaw Glong Thai Restaurant is one of the best and most authentic Thai restaurants on Chaweng Beach, serving a variety of dishes, such as curries, soups, salads, stir-fries, and seafood. The restaurant is located on the main road, near the northern end of Chaweng Beach, and has a cozy and friendly atmosphere. The food is fresh and flavorful, and the portions are generous and affordable. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options, and can adjust the spiciness level according to your preference. You can try the tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup), the massaman curry (coconut curry with potatoes and peanuts), the pad thai (fried noodles with eggs and bean sprouts), and the mango sticky rice (sweet rice with mango and coconut milk). The price range of Khaw Glong Thai Restaurant is from 100 to 300 baht per dish.
The Palms Bar and Grill: The Palms Bar and Grill is one of the most popular and lively bars and clubs on Chaweng Beach, featuring live music, DJs, dancing, and drinking. The bar is located on the beachfront, near the central part of Chaweng Beach, and has a spacious and modern design. The drinks are cold and refreshing, and the cocktails are creative and delicious. The bar also serves some snacks and finger food, such as burgers, pizzas, nachos, and wings. The bar also has a happy hour, a ladies night, and a fire show. The Palms Bar and Grill is ideal for solo travelers and groups who are looking for a fun and social night out on Chaweng Beach. The price range of The Palms Bar and Grill is from 100 to 300 baht per drink.
The Coffee Club: The Coffee Club is one of the best and most cozy cafes on Chaweng Beach, offering a variety of coffee, tea, smoothies, and juices. The cafe is located on the main road, near the southern end of Chaweng Beach, and has a bright and comfortable interior. The coffee is rich and aromatic, and the tea is fragrant and soothing. The cafe also serves some breakfast and brunch items, such as pancakes, waffles, eggs, and sandwiches. The cafe also has free wifi and air conditioning, and is a great place to relax and recharge on Chaweng Beach. The price range of The Coffee Club is from 100 to 200 baht per drink or food item.
Chaweng Street Food: Chaweng Street Food is one of the best and most cheap ways to eat and drink on Chaweng Beach, as it has many stalls and vendors who sell local and international food, drinks, and desserts. You can find Chaweng Street Food on the beach, the main road, and the walking street, and you can enjoy the variety and the quality of the food, such as noodles, rice, seafood, barbecue, salads, soups, and more. You can also find some exotic and adventurous food, such as insects, scorpions, and frogs. You can also find some refreshing and tasty drinks, such as coconut water, fruit shakes, beer, and more. You can also find some sweet and indulgent desserts, such as ice cream, crepes, cakes, and more. You can also enjoy the atmosphere and the culture of Chaweng Street Food, as you can mingle with the locals and the tourists, and watch the street performers and the fire shows. The price range of Chaweng Street Food is from 20 to 100 baht per item.
- What to Expect in Chaweng Beach:
Chaweng Beach is a beautiful and lively beach, but it also has some challenges and drawbacks that you should be aware of before you go. Here are some things to expect in Chaweng Beach, and how to deal with them:
- Sand quality: Chaweng Beach has fine and white sand, which is soft and pleasant to walk on. However, the sand can also be very hot and sticky, especially during the day and in the high season. Therefore, you should always wear sandals or flip-flops when you walk on the beach, and avoid stepping on any sharp or dirty objects, such as shells, rocks, or trash. You should also rinse your feet and your shoes before you enter your hotel or resort, as the sand can get everywhere and make a mess.
- Water depth: Chaweng Beach has shallow and clear water, which is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. However, the water depth can also vary depending on the tide and the season, and sometimes it can be too shallow or too deep for your liking. Therefore, you should always check the water depth before you enter the water, and look for the red flags that indicate the swimming conditions. You should also avoid swimming too far from the shore, as the water can get deeper and rougher, and you may encounter some strong currents or waves.
- Offshore reef: Chaweng Beach has a coral reef that runs along the beach, which is home to many colorful and exotic fish and marine life. However, the reef can also be a hazard and a nuisance, as it can cut your feet, damage your equipment, or block your view. Therefore, you should always wear water shoes or fins when you swim or snorkel near the reef, and avoid touching or stepping on the coral, as it can hurt you and harm the environment. You should also bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it from a reputable vendor, as the reef can be hard to see from the surface, and you may need a mask and a snorkel to enjoy it fully.
- Sun loungers and umbrellas: Chaweng Beach has many sun loungers and umbrellas that you can use to relax and enjoy the beach, which are usually provided by the hotels and resorts, or by the vendors and operators. However, the sun loungers and umbrellas can also be scarce and expensive, especially during the peak hours and the peak season, and you may have to pay a fee or buy a drink to use them. Therefore, you should always reserve your sun lounger and umbrella in advance, or arrive early to secure your spot, and negotiate the price and the duration with the provider. You should also bring your own towel and sunblock, as the sun loungers and umbrellas may not be very clean or comfortable, and the sun can be very strong and harmful.
- Shade: Chaweng Beach has some natural and artificial shade that you can use to escape the heat and the sun, such as palm trees, coconut trees, and buildings. However, the shade can also be limited and crowded, especially during the midday and the high season, and you may have to compete with other people for a shady spot. Therefore, you should always look for a shady spot before you settle down, or bring your own shade, such as a hat, a parasol, or a tent. You should also drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, as the shade can be deceiving and you may still get dehydrated or sunburned.
- Vendors and services: Chaweng Beach has many vendors and services that offer food, drinks, souvenirs, tattoos, hair braiding, massages, and other things that you may want or need on the beach. However, the vendors and services can also be annoying and intrusive, as they may approach you and try to sell you something that you may not want or need, or charge you more than the normal price. Therefore, you should always be polite and firm with the vendors and services, and say no thank you if you are not interested, or bargain and haggle if you are interested. You should also check the quality and the hygiene of the products and the services, and avoid anything that looks suspicious or unsafe.
- What to Know Before You Go to Chaweng Beach:
Chaweng Beach is a wonderful and exciting beach, but it also has some things that you should know before you go, such as the best time to visit, the weather, the currency, the visa, the health, the safety, and the etiquette. Here are some things to know before you go to Chaweng Beach, and how to prepare and plan your trip:
- Best time to visit: Chaweng Beach can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit is from December to February, which is the dry season and the high season. During this time, the weather is sunny and pleasant, the water is calm and clear, and the beach is lively and festive. However, this time is also the most crowded and expensive, and you may have to deal with the crowds, the traffic, and the higher prices. The worst time to visit is from September to November, which is the rainy season and the low season. During this time, the weather is wet and stormy, the water is murky and choppy, and the beach is quiet and dull. However, this time is also the least crowded and cheapest, and you may have to deal with the rain, the wind, and the lower quality.
- Weather: Chaweng Beach has a tropical climate, which means that it is hot and humid all year round, with an average temperature of 28°C and an average humidity of 80%. However, the weather can also vary depending on the season and the month, and sometimes it can be unpredictable and changeable. Therefore, you should always check the weather forecast before you go to Chaweng Beach, and pack accordingly. You should also bring some sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and insect repellent, as the sun can be very strong and harmful, and the insects can be very annoying and dangerous.
- Currency: The currency of Thailand is the Thai baht (THB), which is divided into 100 satang. The exchange rate of the Thai baht to the US dollar (USD) is about 30 THB to 1 USD, but it can fluctuate depending on the market and the location. You can exchange your money at the airport, the ferry terminal, the banks, the ATMs, or the money changers, but make sure to compare the rates and the fees, and avoid any scams or rip-offs. You can also use your credit or debit card at some hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions, but make sure to check the acceptance and the charges, and notify your bank before you travel. You can also use some online or mobile payment platforms, such as PayPal, TransferWise, or Alipay, but make sure to check the availability and the security, and set up your account before you travel.
- Visa: The visa requirements for Thailand depend on your nationality, your purpose, and your duration of stay. Most visitors from most countries can enter Thailand without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 30 days, if they have a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds. However, some visitors from some countries may need a visa before they enter Thailand, or may extend their stay for up to 60 days, if they apply at the Thai embassy or consulate in their home country, or at the immigration office in Thailand. Therefore, you should always check the visa requirements for Thailand before you go to Chaweng Beach, and prepare the necessary documents and fees, and avoid any problems or penalties.
- Health: The health risks and the medical facilities in Thailand vary depending on the area and the situation. Chaweng Beach is generally safe and healthy, but it also has some potential health hazards and issues, such as food poisoning, heat stroke, dehydration, sunburn, insect bites, jellyfish stings, coral cuts, and water-borne diseases. Therefore, you should always take care of your health and hygiene when you go to Chaweng Beach, and follow some precautions and tips, such as drinking bottled water, eating cooked food, washing your hands, avoiding ice and tap water, staying hydrated and cool, applying sunscreen and insect repellent, wearing water shoes and fins, and seeking medical attention if you feel unwell or injured. You should also bring some basic medicines and first aid kit, such as painkillers, antihistamines, antiseptics, bandages, and rehydration salts, as the pharmacies and the clinics on Chaweng Beach may not have them or may charge you more. You should also have some travel insurance that covers your health and medical expenses, as the hospitals and the doctors on Chaweng Beach may not accept your regular insurance or may charge you more.
- Safety: The safety and the security in Thailand depend on the area and the situation. Chaweng Beach is generally safe and secure, but it also has some potential safety threats and challenges, such as petty crime, scams, rip-offs, accidents, traffic, and natural disasters. Therefore, you should always be careful and vigilant when you go to Chaweng Beach, and follow some rules and advice, such as locking your valuables, keeping your belongings, avoiding dark and isolated places, being polite and respectful, following the laws and the customs, wearing a helmet and a seat belt, driving carefully and defensively, and staying informed and alert. You should also have some emergency contacts and numbers, such as the police, the ambulance, the fire brigade, and your embassy or consulate, as the authorities and the officials on Chaweng Beach may not speak your language or may not help you.
- Etiquette: The etiquette and the culture in Thailand are based on the principles of Buddhism, respect, and harmony. Chaweng Beach is a tolerant and cosmopolitan place, but it also has some etiquette and culture that you should know and follow, such as greeting with a wai (a gesture of putting your palms together and bowing slightly), dressing modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting temples and sacred places, removing your shoes before entering houses and buildings, respecting the monarchy and the religion, avoiding public displays of affection and anger, tipping generously and graciously, and learning some basic Thai words and phrases, such as hello (sawasdee), thank you (khob khun), and sorry (khor thot). You should also be aware and sensitive of some taboo and offensive topics and actions, such as touching someone's head, pointing your feet, showing your soles, criticizing the king, the government, or the Buddhism, and insulting or mocking the Thai people, their language, or their culture.
- Conclusion:
Chaweng Beach is one of the best and most popular beaches on Koh Samui, and it has a lot to offer for any type of traveler. Whether you are looking for a relaxing and comfortable stay, a fun and social night out, a adventurous and exciting activity, or a cultural and natural exploration, you can find it on Chaweng Beach. Chaweng Beach is a beautiful and lively beach, but it also has some challenges and drawbacks that you should be aware of and prepared for. Therefore, you should always check the weather, the visa, the health, the safety, and the etiquette before you go to Chaweng Beach, and follow some tips and advice to enjoy your trip.
Don't miss the chance to experience Chaweng Beach for yourself. Book your trip today and get ready for the ultimate beach vacation in Koh Samui.
