Plai Laem · Beaches
Thongson Bay
Thong Son Beach
A small, peaceful bay near the island's northeast tip with soft grey-gold sand, calm clear water and good swimming at mid/high tide. Mostly used by guests of nearby resorts and in-the-know visitors - rarely crowded. Temple-side access path.
- Free
- Plai Laem
- about 2 hours
- Checked 25 Sept
Insider tips
- Arrive around sunrise (about 6:30) and you may have the beach to yourself.
- Look for the small temple entrance - the beach road is right next to it.
- Bring water shoes for the rocky edges and occasional sea urchins.
- Shade is limited to a couple of trees - bring a hat or umbrella.
- Swim at mid/high tide; at low tide it is a wading beach.
The story
Thongson Bay is a quiet cove on the northeast tip of Koh Samui near Cape Plai Laem, stretching about 500-750 metres along the northern edge of the island. It has soft, fine grey-gold sand and calm, clear water protected from the worst of the swell; several travellers who know the island well rate it among their favourite swimming beaches. At mid and high tide adults can swim within 30 metres of shore; at low tide the water retreats and exposes rocky patches, so it becomes a paddling beach for small children, including a natural shallow 'paddling pool' near the big shade tree.
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There are a few rocks and occasional sea urchins around the edges - water shoes help. Shade comes from a couple of large trees; there is little else in the way of facilities. Access is via a small road next to a temple entrance - look for the scooters parked at the turn.
Even in high season it is far quieter than the main beaches. The airport is about 5 km away; Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem are about 10 minutes by car.
Good to know
- Open 24 hours
- Free
- about 2 hours
- Mid to high tide for swimming; early morning for having it almost to yourself
- Weather can affect the experience
- Family friendly: Yes
- Good for couples: Yes
Plan a visit
Free route: you go by your own scooter, car or on foot and we work out the order. Private tour: a local driver picks you up and takes you.
Checked 25 Sept 2026 · 7 sources
Sources and last check
- Last checked
- 25 Sept 2026
- What was checked
- Details checked 25 Sept 2026
- Next check due
- September 2027
Official sources
No official source published yet for this page.
Plus 7 other references and local research.
