Chaweng is the nicer beach. Lamai is about 15 minutes drive from Southern Chaweng. I am over 40 now but my wife and I still love the Reggae Club in Chaweng. Great big open air Club with local Thai bands playing Bob Marley. Great night out..not the same scene as Aussie clubs even though it is available if you want. Also, I think there are some cheaper bungalows at the Banana Fan for under 4000 baht. The other place you could try is Chaba Samui resort,(not Chaba Cabana...bad location IMHO) it is a bit cheaper but more hotel style than bungalows and the cheaper rooms are across the road from the beach. THey quite often have pay 4 nights get 4 free deals at this time of the year, but try and make sure you get beachside of the road as this is a major appeal with Samui, having nothing between your room and the beautiful sand.

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