Motorbikes are another popular means of getting around but accidents on the hilly coastal passes are numerous. There is also a lovely hilly interior on the island that is worth exploring. Nearby islands are also worth visiting and can be easily reached by a short boat ride. Chaweng Beach: located in the northeast of Samui, Chaweng beach is 7kms long and is the most developed beach on the island. If you stay on other beaches, make sure to visit Chaweng as the sand here is very delicate and white, and the water is crystal clear. This beach can get very crowded during the high season as it is the best-known beach in Samui. Lamai: perfect for a family day out, Lamai beach offers a variety of water sports everyone in the family can enjoy including sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, kite boarding and parasailing. Lamai is located in the southeast of Samui, about 10 kms south of Chaweng and is easily reached by a short car ride. You can also get here by a pick-up truck taxi from any beaches on Samui. Choeng Mon: is one of the smallest beaches on Samui lying in a picturesque secluded bay on the north-eastern tip of the island. There are a few luxurious hotels overlooking a shimmering bay. Choeng Mon is only five minutes away from Chaweng by car. Ao Tong Takian: a small beach in the north of Lamai beach, Ao Tong Takian is popular for its white sandy beach and is also known as ‘Silver beach’ because of the quality of the sand. Crystal clear water is very inviting but be careful when you walk in the water as there are many corals around. Secret Buddha Garden: the garden, also known as Uncle Nimm’s Magic Garden, in the charming hills of Samui, is located in a jungle ravine. Many stunning statues of the Buddha and mythical animals, lovely cottages and manmade waterfalls can be found around the garden. If you go up there with a four-wheel drive, make sure to explore the hills and shady jungles, and enjoy the views of the island’s south side while you are up there. Ang Tong National Marine Park: consists of some 40 small islands boasting limestone cliffs, white sandy beaches, secret lagoons, lush jungle and wild gibbons. The park lies about 31kms from Samui and is easily reached by a speedboat (45 minutes) or a ferry (2 hours). Here, you can kayak over mangrove lined waters or discover the deserted beaches. Tranquility and peace are the highlights of the park. It’s definitely a good place to relax and free your mind.
Naga Pearl Farm: Koh Matsum, located 30 minute boat ride from Samui, is home to the Naga Pearl Farm where you can learn how pearls are cultured and buy exquisite pearl products. The island’s beach is perfect for a stroll and Thai food is aplenty on the island. The island is worth visiting as it has many secluded beaches such as Sadet bay and Bottle beach, along with some lovely resort beaches that are truly idyllic. The beaches offer beautiful crystal clear water with many exquisite coral reefs, great places for diving and snorkelling. The interior is also a lush jungle in pristine state. Tao Island: here you can find unspoiled nature and very friendly locals. Also an ideal place for diving and snorkelling, the island has rich underwater resources, thus it is one of the most famous diving destinations in the region. Located 45 kms to the north of Pha Ngan, this charming little island will give you a different feel from busier islands like Samui and Pha Ngan. | 
