Highlights of Koh Samui

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand Koh Samui is Thailand’s third largest island (95 sq miles). Koh Samui can be enjoyed year round as it is protected from severe weather by the high hills on the Thai mainland which run down the Isthmus of Kra between Burma and south Eastern coast of Thailand. Styled as the spa capital of the SE Asia region, and slated by the Thai Government for upmarket development , tourist and expensive residential development is running at a breakneck pace .

Samui’s beaches are world famous and there are several from which to choose. Maenam is a 4-km-(2 –mile-) long beach on the north coast. It looks to Ko Pha Ngan where there is a full moon party every month that is quite gay. Bophut tranquil, 2-km (1-mile), also on the north coast, borders a tranquil, 2 km- (1 mile-) long beach that is popular with backpackers. Next to Bophut is Bangrak also known as “Big Buddha Beach.”

But the one around which most of the gay scene is centered is Chaweng. Chaweng is the longest, busiest, and most beautiful beach on the island, stretching 5 km (3 miles) down the east coast. Its warm waters and white sand lure the most attractive visitors to the island and its original beach bungalows are being quickly replaced with upscale resorts, good restaurants, trendy shops, and hot clubs.

THINGS TO SEE & DO

•  See Wat Khunaram with its mummified monk.

•  See the Big Buddha that was built in 1972 as a place for both islanders and tourists to worship.

• See the Samui Butterfly Garden opposite Central Samui Village.

• See the two Na Muang Waterfalls, ll km south of Na Thon; it’s an exciting hike through the island.

• See the Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks (Hin Ta and Hin Yai).

THE GAY SCENE

The nightlife on Chaweng Beach is frenetic and there are many fun places to stay, eat, and play…just pick from our listings on the following pages.

WHAT’S SPICY?

Visiting tourists and nice local guys tend to end up at Green Mango on Chaweng Beach Road.It’s a loud, open-air disco with a mixed crowd but popular with gay guys most nights (particularly near the dance floor).