Maenam Beach - Koh Samui
Perhaps it's the excellent views of Ko Phan Ngan 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 main town itself is a relatively charmless hotch potch of modern shophouses, cheap restaurants and convenience stores, though it is slowly improving in quality and the food choices on offer are increasingly cosmopolitan. The main food draw is Angela's Bakery, which many of Samui's expats make regular pilgrimages to for Western comfort food. Coconut Land & Houses. Samui's oldest established real estate developer takes up much of the beachfront with five wooden classical Thai style housing projects, which are available for rent all year round. All come with fully fitted kitchens, which is also handy as there are no independent restaurants of any note in the area. There are also a couple of small bungalow operations interspersed between the developments and two contrasting accommodation options at either end of the beach.
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.
|
Maenam is more of a residential area than a shopping hub but in amongst the cafes and restaurants there are some great shops, mainly selling teak and asian style furniture. The furniture stores are generally well established which is great if you need advice on shipping your purchase home. Many shops offer an international shipping service at reasonable prices.
|
Maenam beach is one of Samui's prettiest and quietest beaches. There are plenty of restaurants to suit every budget, from 5 star dining to more casual local venues. While the scene is on a small scale there is still a good choice of food from around the world. Of course alongside the international cuisine there are all types of Thai food on offer, from noodle soup stalls to Royal Thai dishes. Whether its a posh evening out with or simply grabbing a quick bite to eat, Maenam has it all.
|
Romantic Maenam, where a quiet evening with your loved one is bound to be more than sipping cocktails with your partner as the sun sets. Despite what many will tell you, this quaint coastal village has far more on offer, nightlife wise, than meets the eye. We have mentioned a few popular venues below, which will be added to as further nightlife establishments open up or are discovered.
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
