Partying on the beach

One of the top five spots for nightlife in Thailand, Samui has such a diverse flow of visitors and eclectic local cultures that the scene is vibrant, energetic and fun, offering something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re planning to fill your vacation with nocturnal tanning and star-lit, beachfront chill sessions, Samui is the right choice for you.

The biggest nightlife scene and the busiest area in Samui is Chaweng Beach and notably Soi Green Mango. Located in the centre of Chaweng, the buzzing beach district that puts Samui on the clubbing map, the soi is named after the Green Mango Club that’s known for its rustic, iconic tree house design, huge open air space featuring multiple bars and spacious dance floors. Every night, the space throbs with an energetic vibe and electronic hits booming from a decent sound system. There are several big screens for sports, live shows and cheap drinks all night. Check out www.TheGreenMangoClub.com

Along the lane are several other bars and beer shacks that are ideal for chilling and people watching. Prices here are reasonable and there’s a vast selection of drinks, from premium whiskey, wines, vodka, to the most popular Sang Som buckets that come in several different flavours.

Chaweng also enjoys a bustling drag and cabaret scene. Moulin Rouge Cabaret, formerly Christy’s Cabaret, features three drag shows nightly at 8pm, 9.30pm and 11pm, with dozens of drag-alicious performances that get more raunchy and provocative at the later shows. There is no cover charge, but drinks here are pricier than the average bars in the area. Call (082) 815 4843.

If you crave ocean breezes with your cocktail, head to The Ark Bar - Chaweng’s most popular beach bar. Lounge on cushions on the sand or sit at proper tables and chill all night with non-stop easy-listening house tunes and cheap drinks. A decent spot to unwind and have conversations. Call (077) 961 333 for more details.

If your vacation is more low-key and less hectic, you might choose to stay in Bophut on the northern tip of the island. Here, Fisherman’s Village at the pier is the most happening area with an array of restaurants, sports pubs and bars with live music. The landmark is Karma Sutra, a hippie-style coffee shop and bar that offers relaxing, lazy vibes with a prime location right at the beginning of the lane where you get 180-degree view of the whole street. Have an afternoon coffee, and lounge around till dusk to watch the sleepy lane waken to the lights and sounds of the night. Call (077) 425 198; www.KarmaSutra.org

On the more exclusive beaches, hanging out is much more upscale and refined. Beach Republic on Lamai Beach offers accommodation as well as food and beverages for both its residents and non-residents. Lounge under clear blue skies on super large beds and in private cabanas. Share exquisite champagne, cocktails and wines. Enjoy a dip in the oceanfront, chemical-free infinity pool and take in the easy ambient grooves of guest DJs and live performers. Access to the Ocean Club for non-residents and those not staying at Beach Republic The Residences is Bt1,000 per person. However, the fee is waived for those spending Bt1,000 or more per person on food or drink. Call (077) 458 100; www.BeachRepublic.com

Another property with a similar concept is Nikki Beach in Lipa Noi. Nikki Beach is an exclusive boutique resort, expertly designed for ultimate relaxation with a sophisticated ambience, world-class entertainment and five-star service. Dine and drink at the Sunset Terrace Lounge and enjoy a full menu of signature cocktails, then party the night away with the trendiest tunes from live DJ sets. Call (077) 914 500; www.NikkiBeachThailand.com