Koh Samui / Mae Nam Beach, Thailand
Koh Samui, Thailand
About Koh Samui / Mae Nam Beach, Thailand
Mae Nam's ultra-shallow bay forces a long wade, but flat water and NE winds make it Thailand's most forgiving beginner spot—if you nail the tide.
8.8 kts
8.8 kts
33
12:00–15:00
Monthly wind profile
Bars = average wind speed in knots. Solid = best months.
Best months
Wind directions
Amenities
Hazards
Launch notes
Mae Nam's flat water and sandy beach make launching straightforward, though the shallow bay requires wading 100+ meters to reach deeper water. Best launching occurs during NE and ENE wind directions when offshore breezes are most consistent.
Gear & clothing
Gear · Bring 14-17m kites for the light average winds (8.8 kts), with a smaller 12m backup for stronger days. A directional or hybrid board works best for flat water progression, ideal for beginner skill development.
Clothing · A light 3/2mm wetsuit or rash guard is sufficient year-round due to warm tropical water temperatures (28-30°C). Quick-dry shorts and UV protection are recommended for sun exposure.
Crowd & etiquette
Respect local fishing activities and stay clear of nets and boat lanes; share the beach respectfully with swimmers and other beach users during low wind days. Always check with local operators about current conditions and any seasonal restrictions.
Additional notes
Avoid the May-June southwest monsoon period when conditions become unreliable; September and November offer the best combination of wind consistency and manageable crowds. Check tide times before sessions as the shallow bay dramatically changes accessible riding area.