Maenam Beach - Koh Samui

Perhaps it's the excellent views of Koh Phangan that have kept Maenam as Samui's last predominantly backpacker beach.  Or maybe it's the fact that many of its resorts are located at the end of long rambling pathways, affording a degree of privacy unavailable elsewhere. Either way, Maenam is still the place to be while away for a few weeks (or months) on a low budget, staying in one of the many cheap fan bungalow operations that are dotted along the beach.

At the other end of the scale, Santiburi Resort provides dependable five star luxury to those who can afford it and excellent Royal Thai cuisine at its Sala Thai restaurant. The eastern end is home to the ultra-luxurious 5 star Pansea Napasai, one of Samui's premier destinations for a decadent getaway. Health Oasis Resort, which offers all manner of new age treatments and fasting programmes, can be found at the western end of the beach and represents an altogether more puritanical holiday experience.