The beach is large, with wide and hefty sands. It’s the place to go if you want a it of space top throw a Frisbee or kick a bal around with the family. The water is decent enough – not the most beautiful or clear on the island but ok for competent swimmers and fun for a dash into the surf. It’s relatively unshaded, so bring your own umbrella and sun cream.

The restaurants in Lamai are varied and interesting. Rockys is well regarded – at the far end of Lamai is a quiet cove, and most of the hotels have their own restaurant of choice, too. Renaissance and Pavillion are the biggest and priciest resorts in the area, but these have the vest facilities, too. There are also some places away from the Lamai beach, Aloha, for example and these are ok if you plan on making the most of the interesting sights around the area, rather than just sticking to the Lamai beach

Tamarind Springs is off the main road. This as Samui’s first major spa and is still a leader in the field. There’s an odd array of Buddhist temples. Hin Ta and Hin Yai are near – some interestingly eroded rock formations that tourists love to have their photos taken with, and a couple of waterfall s are in easy reach, with elephant trekking courses.

There’s a bohemian feel to the place and Lamai is home to the island’s best book shops – one on the beach road and two on the main. These mainly stock left over editions from tourists. Shopping in general is decent, if not comprehensive, and pretty low budget. Overall it’s a place that welcome browsing and taking it easy, so have fun. The nightlife in Lamai is concentrated in a central area which is good if you want to club hop. It’s aimed at single males, and you’ll notice a high proportion of go-go type bars and clubs.