Lipa Noi

Catering for a slightly older crowd and those travelling with families, Lipa Noi offers unadulterated relaxation, free from the non-stop partying Koh Samui and its neighbour islands are famous (or infamous) for. This part of Samui is also popular among those arriving by car ferry from the mainland the Raja ferry stops just south of here, making it the perfect first stop on an island tour.

The beach at Lipa Noi is idyllic with its pure white sand and clear, cool waters. The seabed here is flat and free of coral, so it's also a particularly safe spot for the kids to swim, as well as being ideal for watersports such as sailboarding and kayaking. Those who prefer to remain on dry land can indulge in some intensive relaxation, or expend some of that sun-induced energy on a game of volleyball.

Apart from the beach itself, there's really not much else around Lipa Noi – hence its reputation as the perfect place to escape – but, if the kids are starting to get itchy feet, you could take them on a trip through the coconut plantations, or head up into the hills to visit Paradise Park Farm. Not only is this home to hundreds of local and foreign birds, it also has a pool which comes complete with arguably the best panoramic views on all of Koh Samui.

There are a wide variety of eateries in the resorts scattered around Lipa Noi. Head over to local institution Big John Seafood to see what all the fuss is about, and have your meal al fresco while watching the sun sink beneath the waters of the Ang Thong National Park.

Lipa Noi is located on the western coast of Koh Samui, just to the north of the Raja ferry terminal.