Bophut Beach - Bo Put
Bophut Beach sits between Maenam and Big Buddha Beach on Samui’s northern coast. There is a slightly quieter and more laid back feel than the larger Chaweng and Lamai Beaches, and it is very popular with people who don’t want to be in the thick of Samui’s hedonistic nightlife areas. Bophut is also known as Fisherman’s Village.
Fisherman’s village is considered the most traditional and well-preserved place on the island, and is a welcome sight for people who are not so keen on the heavier development on other parts of the island. The village takes up the middle section of Bophut Beach and is lined with traditional Chinese, wooden shop houses. The modern buildings here blend in nicely, and certainly don’t spoil the traditional feel to the place.
Bophut Beach itself spans about two miles, and it is one of the most idyllic spots on the island, sporting beautiful white sandy beaches, dotted with coconut palms. Bophut Beach tends to be quieter than the beaches on the islands east coast and there are also some great views out to Koh Pha Ngan. Historically, as the nickname suggests, this was a fishing village, and there are still a small number of local fishing boats continuing this traditional lifestyle.
The western end of the beach has seen more development, with a number of five star resorts under construction. Generally, the accommodation at Bophut is good, and there are some original places to stay here, offering something a little bit different from the normal beach accommodation. Gecko Village is one of the trendiest places here, and was one of the first to attract internationally renowned DJs to Samui. Gecko has a reputation for great parties, but also has some lovely bungalows. Zazen Resort, at the more secluded western end of the beach, is a great place for some serious relaxation, with a Spa and some beautiful accommodation.
There are plenty of opportunities for those who want a slightly more active time, with jet skis, kayaking, yachting, and snorkelling all readily available along the beach. Bophut is a great place for people who want to enjoy some of the islands entertainment, but also some peace and quiet. The sands are as nice as Chaweng although the water less clear.
The small village itself has a very narrow main street, best explored on foot, or possible two wheels, and there is a good range of eateries to be found here. Angela’s Bakery is one of the most popular, with a good selection of salads, sandwiches and pastries. Starfish & Coffee is another popular and original place, that sells arts and crafts, gives excellent foot massages, as well as offering tasty Thai and International food.
There are also some higher end restaurants at Bophut Beach, with some of the shophouses on the seafront having been converted into fashionable restaurants. There are some beautiful spots to have dinner, overlooking the beach and Koh Pha Ngan in the distance. There are also a number of bars and clubs for those who do want to experience some of Samui’s nightlife, but with a slightly more relaxed mood than Chaweng.
- See a list of hotel and resort rooms on Bophut Beach and book
- Find this beach on the Samui map
