Nathon Beach

Nathon is best experienced as a town destination rather than a beach destination. The waterfront promenade, night market, authentic Thai street food, and sunset views are the real draws. It's the most 'real Thailand' spot on Koh Samui — less resort, more local life. Come for the atmosphere, the food, and the sunsets, not for swimming.

The actual sandy section stretches roughly 400 metres to 500 metres, transitioning into the town's waterfront promenade. The sand is yellowish-brown and becomes muddy and silty at low tide. At low tide, the sea recedes dramatically, exposing vast mudflats that make swimming impossible for much of the day. Check tide times if you want to see the waterfront with water — high tide is the only time it resembles a traditional beach.

Water conditions are poor for swimming. The shallow bay has silty, low-visibility water, and the area near the pier is affected by boat traffic and occasional litter. The proximity to the ferry port means diesel and debris can affect water quality. Swimming is not recommended anywhere near the pier area.

Nathon is the island's administrative hub with the cheapest shopping, hospital access, government offices, and ferry connections to the mainland. The town has a genuine local character with traditional shophouses, street vendors, and a pace of life quite different from the resort areas. For authentic local dining, try Jit Restaurant or Krua Savoey for Thai seafood, or Will Wait for a more casual atmosphere — all offer genuine local prices rather than tourist markup.

Nathon sits on the west coast between Bang Makham to the north and Lipa Noi to the south. Neither neighbouring beach is walkable, but both are a short drive for visitors wanting to combine a town visit with better swimming conditions.

During the monsoon season (November–February), west coast waves can make the already poor swimming conditions worse. The waterfront can also be affected by storm debris. The west-facing orientation does provide good sunset views across the Gulf of Thailand from the promenade.