Ban Tai Beach

A long beach on the south coast, five kilometres east of Thong Sala. Resorts line it, many with their own pools, along with beach bars, restaurants, massage and hammocks; in the middle is a small pier with fishing and trip boats. Samui is in view across the channel.

This is the island's party side: the Halfmoon Festival happens here, and the beach bars throw loud nights, with some resorts noisy until three or four in the morning. It is also the island's main kitesurfing spot, with schools working on the shallow, flat water.

• For a swim, use a pool: many of the resorts here have one
• Sharp rocks and dead coral underfoot in places: wear water shoes
• Kiting: the schools name roughly December to April and July to September as the best months