Lamai Beach

Located 10 Km south of Chaweng on the east coast, Lamai is a little quieter, more relaxed and a little cheaper than Chaweng. The wide sandy beach has hundreds of coconut trees bending over the blue-green waters giving Lamai a tropical and natural atmosphere. Unprotected by a lagoon or reef, the sea is a little rougher, but if you prefer less people, but some action, Lamai should be your choice.

The main entertainment, eating and shopping area, close to the beach, with its bars and shops crammed along the road and down dusty side lanes, comes alive at night. Lots of local outdoor eating places with Thai and western food, bars with live bands and videos, and some dance venues which start around midnight. The main party place Bauhaus, sets a different theme on certain days and also screens live sporting events.

What to see in Lamai

Lamai's main attractions are the open-air market and the old monastery on the edge of town, which includes a local museum and picturesque village scenes. If you want to get back to nature, a good place to start is to explore the paths behind the beach road and into the hills. Here you'll find peaceful fruit and coconut plantations, as well as trails leading into the island's interior.

Down the coast are the famous Grandfather and Grandmother rocks,  favourites among both Thai and foreign tourists. Further south on beach side of the main road, is Wat Silangu, one of two golden pagodas on the island, its shimmering exterior stands out against the deep blue tropical sky.

On the way from Lamai to Chaweng, are some nice viewpoints overlooking coastline of Chaweng Mon and Laem Nam. Parking is ample and there are a few small restaurants from which to enjoy the beautiful ocean vistas.

Several hotels south of Lamai are hidden in coconut plantations or jungle overlooking secluded coves. These offer great places for perfect romantic hideaways, or for reading that book you wanted to finish. The resorts also have plenty of things for the kids to do (have a look at www.goldensand-resort.com) making them great for family holidays.