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Best things to do in Koh Samui
12: Lamai: A Night Out to Remember

Following the tremendous success of my Chaweng night out blog, I couldn’t resist sharing another memorable evening, this time in Lamai. While this guide may not cover every corner of Lamai’s nightlife, it offers an insider’s perspective on the establishments I’ve frequented since my arrival on the tropical paradise of Koh Samui nearly four years ago.

Lamai, a picturesque beach resort town on the island of Koh Samui, Thailand, is renowned for its serene ambiance, breathtaking scenery, and lively nightlife. Situated closest to TopCats, Haad Lamai stands as a more peaceful alternative to the bustling Chaweng Strip, yet it still offers an array of activities in a cozier setting. My Lamai escapades typically take place on a Friday evening, but I must note that the nightlife in Lamai sparkles every day of the week, with the exception of Buddhist holy days, which occur a few times each year.

As you approach Lamai from the south western end of the island where TopCats is located, you’ll veer onto the beach road, descending a steep hill before making a sharp left turn. On your right, you’ll discover the Black Olive Bar and Grill, affectionately known as Izzy’s Bar, owned by the welcoming Izzy himself. Izzy’s establishment boasts four television screens for live sports broadcasts and serves delectably priced Thai dishes. My personal favorites include the Beef Massaman Curry and the crispy pork with kale. As a Turkish Cypriot, Izzy also offers a tantalizing selection of grilled foods, from shish kebabs to succulent lamb chops, with the mouthwatering chicken or lamb wraps as top picks.

A mere 100 meters down the road on your right, you’ll encounter one of Lamai’s most attractive bars: the Mynt Bar. Here, you’ll find an impressive pool table and multiple TVs broadcasting live sports events, making it an ideal spot for rugby enthusiasts.

One of my regular haunts is Tropical Tony’s, situated further down the road in a left-side alley. Lamai’s thriving expat community converges at Tony’s, offering the opportunity to mingle with interesting personalities. The menu features a diverse selection of comfort foods and ample portions. My go-to choices include homemade steak and kidney pies, cottage pie, and the sumptuous rack of ribs.

Just beyond Tony’s, you’ll discover the Kukoo Bar, a new nightclub that opened its doors in early 2023. The Kukoo Bar comes to life in the early hours with a DJ spinning tunes for your pleasure. Be sure to check out ladies’ night every Wednesday, and take in the live Premiership football matches displayed on the big screen TV.

Continuing past Kukoo Bar, you’ll reach Piri Piri, affiliated with the Bondi Bar. I frequent both establishments, as I have a soft spot for Piri Piri chicken. Although Piri Piri offers a slightly more selection of chicken styles, Bondi Bar elevates the dining experience with its presentation of side dishes and a broader menu featuring grill-inspired options. If you prefer a more bar-like atmosphere, Bondi is the place to be, often featuring live music performances.

For those feeling indulgent, Lamai boasts an oyster bar situated opposite Piri Piri, providing a top-tier dining experience. However, make sure to bring a well-padded wallet, as it leans toward the higher end of the spectrum.

The road reaches a crossroads at this point, and we’re going to veer left. On the left-hand side, you’ll encounter the Speed Bar. This bar holds a special place in my heart, thanks to its resident live band that takes the stage around 10 pm and keeps the music alive until 1 am. If you’re still in the mood for more tunes, a live DJ takes over to keep the night grooving. The band’s repertoire leans towards traditional covers, with one of the band members particularly standing out as a charismatic showman, graced with a powerful voice, much like one of the lead vocalists.

Further along on the right, you’ll find the AA Bar, which proves to be a favorite during the high season. Sitting out in front allows you to indulge in some quality people-watching – an experience that often surpasses watching television. Just a bit down the road, you’ll frequently spot me at Woody’s Bar, especially on Saturday nights during football matches. The bar attracts a diverse array of characters, all coming together to cheer for their respective teams. If you happen to be there for the early game, the happy hour serves as your gateway to some of the most affordable local beers in Lamai.

Now, let’s turn back to the crossroads and head left, following the path along main town road. Here, you’ll find two Irish-style bars, the Shamrock, and Kelly’s Tavern. Both establishments offer live sports broadcasts and feature pool tables for some friendly competition. The Shamrock Bar comes to life with live music starting at 9:30 pm. You can enjoy this musical treat every night of the week, with the exception of Saturdays. The band, known as “Real Identity,” hails from the Philippines and specializes in rock music, delivering an extensive catalog of rock covers, ensuring they can cater to any rock music request you might have. On the other hand, Kelly’s Tavern is a fantastic spot for people-watching during the high season and offers pints of draught beer at an enticing 99 Baht during their happy hour.

As you approach MacDonald’s (yes there is one in Lamai and where the main taxi rank is located), you’ll find a treasure trove of eateries. One standout is Palms Island Bar & Grill, which exudes a Mediterranean vibe and offers a diverse range of dining options, including Thai, vegetarian, steaks, and traditional barbecues. On the opposite side of the road from the Am Samui Palace Hotel, you’ll discover a small street teeming with street food vendors, and more are available opposite the Bondi Bar.

My personal favorite dining spot in Lamai is located just past the infamous hexagonal “boxing bars.” The Seventy Fahrenheit, a true gem, features a chilled-out bar on the first floor and some of the finest cuisine in Lamai. The menu seamlessly blends Western and Thai culinary traditions, offering delectable appetizers and the must-try Massaman Curry. Whether you prefer chicken or pork ribs on the bone, this dish is nothing short of amazing. The wine selection at Seventy Fahrenheit is commendable too!

One unique event that unfolds every Saturday in Lamai is Thai Boxing. The action is scheduled to start at 10 pm, though the actual commencement often hinges on when the seats fill up, typically closer to 10:30 pm. These bouts involve amateur fighters, including teenagers, ladies, and men, which has earned it the local moniker of “Lady Boxing.” The boxing ring takes center stage amidst the hexagonal bars, which sponsor the fights and individual fighters. Each bar manages its own set of seats, and spectators can watch the matches by purchasing a single drink and are encouraged to sponsor a fighter from the bar where they are seated. For the best view, I recommend Lover Bar or Sky Bar, which provide ideal vantage points. Notably, the public toilets in this area require a nominal fee of 5 baht, but fret not, as the bar you patronize will typically cover this cost for you if you’re a paying customer.

In conclusion, while Lamai may not exude the same level of liveliness as Chaweng, it provides a wealth of restaurants, bars, and nightspots tailored to your preferences, minus the overwhelming crowds and commotion. It’s the perfect locale for an evening out following a full day of fishing or other adventures.

No matter what you’re seeking in a night out, Lamai has something for everyone. Here are a few additional insights into this enchanting beach resort:

  • Lamai’s Location: Situated on the south coast of Koh Samui, Lamai is approximately 15 kilometers away from the primary tourist hub of Chaweng.

  • Beach Beauty: Lamai is celebrated for its extensive sandy beach, crystalline blue waters, and lush green hills, offering an idyllic coastal setting.

  • Diverse Appeal: Lamai caters to families, couples, and backpackers alike, making it a versatile destination for a wide range of travelers.

  • Activities Galore: Whether it’s swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, or shopping, Lamai offers a diverse array of activities to keep visitors engaged.

  • Cultural Attractions: The town boasts several temples and other cultural attractions, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage.

Lamai is indeed a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to its tranquil beach or its vibrant nightlife, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.