The west coast of Koh Samui is the least developed area on the island, with large swathes of deserted jungle fringed beaches with the clear blue sea lapping quietly on the sleepy shores. There is very little action here so it is the perfect spot for that get away from it all holiday!
Lipa Noi and Lipa Yai beaches, plus tiny Tong Yang beach, all boast fabulous sunset views across to the Angthong Marine Park and safe, shallow waters ideal for kids swimming – all located just minutes from Nathon’s shopping and the car ferries to the mainland – this area has been a popular location for families and older travelers looking for some peace and tranquility.
Times are changing though and the arrival of Nikki Beach Club and Resort heralds an altogether different style, and is already attracting the jet set crowd for upscale parties and weddings, as well as ‘sexy sunbathers’ – at least, according to their marketing blurb! Expect to see a cluster of rental villas spring up during 2011 – the owners have already had the plans approved for sixteen two bedroom villas plus one amazing 8,500 square metre super-VIP villa.
Dining choices include the well established Big John’s Seafood, which offers cheap bungalow accommodation and some decent and reasonably priced dishes served with superb sunset views, and the Samui Dhama Healing Centre if you prefer a strict fasting regime instead!
Away from the beach you’ll find plenty of coconut plantations and the occasional water buffalo, and some very pretty waterfalls just across the ring road with elephant trekking and All Terrain Vehicles for hire nearby. Paradise Park Farm is a mecca for children and a must do for families – also located in the hills overlooking Lipa Noi – use of the pool is included in the ticket price and the restaurant serves fairly average Thai food.
Some superbly positioned and well appointed Koh Samui rental villas are located here, including the fabulous beachfront options of Baan Suriya, Baan Rattana Thep, Baan Akuvara and the amazing Waimaree – which translates as peaceful waters from New Zealand’s Maori language, not Thai!