Choengmon-Plailaem

Wat Plai Laem

Culture

• Buddhist Heritage- the Plailaem area is one of Samui’s most spiritual corners, home to Wat Plai Laem and Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple). These temples are active places of worship where locals come daily to pray, make offerings, and celebrate Thai festivals. Visitors can observe or join in the traditional merit-marking, such as lighting incense, donating to monks, or feeding fish in the temple lake.

• Blend of Thai & Chinese Influence - the striking 18-armed Guanyin statue at Wat Plai  Laem reflects Chinese Buddhist traditions, while the Big Buddha represents classic Thai Buddhism. This cultural mix makes the area unique, showing how Samui has absorbed influences from different communities.

• Local Community Lifestyle- compared to busy Chaweng, Choeng Mon and Plai Laem have a slower, village - style rhythm. Local markets, fishermen, and family-owned shops reflect the island’s traditional life. It’s common to see monks collecting alms in the morning or locals preparing offerings for buddhist holy day.

• Festival & Ceremonies- important Thai Buddhist holidays like Songkran ( Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong are celebrated at the temples here, often with colorful ceremonies, lanterns, and music.  Tourists are welcome to respectfully participate, giving them a chance to experience authentic island traditions.

• Hospitality & Respect - the culture in this area is very welcoming but also more peaceful and conservative than nightlife-heavy districts. Guests are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting temples and show respect for local customs.

Beach

Choengmon Beach

• Choengmon Beach is a beautiful, family - friendly beach with calm, shallow waters and soft  white and sand. It’s quieter than Chaweng, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing. Resorts and restaurants line the beach, but the atmosphere stays peaceful and laid-back.

Liftestyle

Choengmon Beach Night View

• Choeng Mon offers a relaxed lifestyle, popular with couples and families who want tranquility but still easy access to Samui’s attractions.

• The Plai Laem area blends local culture and luxury villas, giving visitors a mix of authentic Thai life and upscale comfort.

• Nightlife is minimal here, but you’ll find cozy beach bars and romantic dining spots.

Thing must to do

Guests enjoy a festive beachside buffet, selecting from a variety of colorful dishes as the sun sets over the scenic shoreline.

• Relax at Choeng Mon Beach

• Visit Wat Plai Laem

• See the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)

• Enjoy Sunset Views

• Take a Day Trip

Nice spot

Choengmon Beach View

• Choengmon is famous for its calm, white sand beach with shallow waters, perfect for swimming and families. Just a few minutes away, Plailaem Temple ( Wat Plai Laem ) stands out with its colourful statues of the Goddess of Mercy  and the 18-armed Guanyin - a must - visit cultural landmark. Sunset viewpoints, cozy beachside restaurants, and boutique resorts make this area one of Koh Samui’s hidden gems.

Cost of Living (If you have an information)

• Compared to busy Chaweng, Choengmon-Plailaem offers a more relaxed  lifestyle with moderate living costs. Local Thai restaurants serve affordable meals starting from 70-100 THB, while beachside dining and international cuisine are slightly higher. Long - term rentals, from apartments to villas, are available at a wide range - around 15,000-30,000 THB per month for mid range places, with luxury villas costing more.

Interesting Information

Fire Show (Choengmon Beach)

• The area is only a 10-min drive from Samui International Airport, making it convenient yet peaceful.

• Choengmon is popular with families and couples seeking tranquility but still close to nightlife and shopping  in Chaweng.

• Plailaem Temple is not only a cultural site but also a community hub, where locals often gather for festivals and Buddhist ceremonies.

• Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and island-hopping tours to nearby Koh Phangan or Angthong Marine Park are easily accessible from here.