Silver Beach (Crystal Bay): a small, perfect cove

A tiny white-sand bay framed by granite boulders, with clear water and easy snorkelling straight from the beach.

Area

East coast

Start from

Chaweng or Lamai

Distance

about 4 km north of Lamai

Time needed

Half a day

Best season

January – September

Difficulty

Easy

Transport

Scooter or taxi

Tickets & rules

None

Why go

Silver Beach, also known as Crystal Bay, is a small cove tucked between Chaweng and Lamai. Big rounded boulders shelter it on both sides, so the water stays calm and clear on most days of the dry season.

It's one of the easiest places on Samui to snorkel from the shore. Swim out along the rocks at either end and you'll see parrotfish, sergeant majors and, if you're patient, a shy cuttlefish or two.

The beach is small, so midday can feel busy, but early mornings are quiet and beautiful, with soft light on the granite.

The story

The boulders here are the same granite that forms Samui's hills, shaped over thousands of years by wind, waves and rain into smooth, almost sculpted forms.

Before the coast road existed, small coves like this were reached only by boat or along footpaths, and fishermen used them as shelters during sudden storms.

Many residents still consider Silver Beach their secret weekday swimming spot, even if it's hardly a secret any more.

Getting there

Turn off the ring road between Chaweng and Lamai; the access goes through a small resort area. Parking is limited, so arriving early helps.

A suggested plan

1. MorningArrive by 8:30, snorkel along the rocks while the water is still.
2. MiddayLunch in the shade at one of the beach restaurants.
3. AfternoonWalk or ride up to Lad Koh viewpoint, a few minutes north.

Where to stay

There's a resort right on the bay; otherwise Lamai or Chaweng are close.

Good to know

• Bring your own mask and snorkel; rentals are limited.
• Reef-safe sunscreen protects the little coral that's left.
• Weekdays are calmer than weekends.