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Things to Do · Water Activities & Adventures

Paddle­boarding in Koh Samui: Where to Go

Short answer

The best places to paddleboard on Koh Samui are the sheltered north-coast beaches: Maenam, Bophut, Bang Rak and Choeng Mon. Go early in the morning, when the water is usually flattest, and avoid windy afternoons. Board rentals are usually available at beach huts and some resorts, and no experience is needed on calm water.

Where to paddleboard

Stand-up paddleboarding needs calm, flat water, so where you go matters more than for most activities.

  • Maenam: a long, quiet north-coast bay that is often very calm.
  • Bophut: sheltered water in front of Fisherman’s Village.
  • Bang Rak: a north-east bay that is popular for sunrise and sunset paddles.
  • Choeng Mon: a curved bay with a small island offshore that confident paddlers can reach on calm days.

The east coast around Chaweng can work on calm days but is more exposed. Lamai and the south and west coasts are often choppier for casual paddling.

Best time of day and season

Early mornings are usually the calmest, before the sea breeze builds. Late afternoons can also be calm on some days. The north coast is sheltered for much of the year, but it can get choppy around October to December. If you see whitecaps, wait for another day.

Your first time on a SUP

  1. Start in knee-deep water and kneel in the middle of the board.
  2. Paddle on your knees until the board feels stable.
  3. Stand up one foot at a time, feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent.
  4. Look at the horizon, not at your feet.
  5. If you fall, fall away from the board and climb back on from the side.

Safety tips

  • Always wear the leash, so the board stays with you if you fall.
  • Paddle into the wind first, so the return trip is easier.
  • Stay close to the shore and away from boats and jet skis.
  • Bring water, sunscreen and a hat. The sun on the water is strong.
  • Agree the rental price and time before you set off.

FAQ

Is paddleboarding easy for beginners?

Yes, on flat water. Most people can stand up within a few minutes. Start on your knees, then stand up once you feel stable.

Where is the calmest water for SUP on Koh Samui?

The north coast, including Maenam, Bophut, Bang Rak and Choeng Mon, is sheltered for much of the year. Lamai and the south and west coasts are often choppier for casual paddling.

What is the best time of day to paddleboard?

Early morning, around sunrise, usually has the least wind and the flattest water. Wind and chop often build in the afternoon.

Do I need to know how to swim?

You should be comfortable in water, as falling in is part of learning. Wear the leash and a buoyancy aid if you are not a confident swimmer.

More water activities

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  • Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park, north-west of Koh Samui: Photo: WeI-chieh Chiu, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr
  • Snorkelling stop in Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park: Photo: Steve Jurvetson, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr
  • Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park, north-west of Koh Samui: Photo: Sébastien Bertrand, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr
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