Hat Mae Nam is the main beach along the north coast and remains one of Samui’s most attractive stretches of sand. It’s a long, wide crescent with calm water, fine for swimming and generally free of jet skis, making it a good choice for families with young children. Small restaurants and cafes sit just behind the beach, many offering shaded seating and simple Thai dishes, while the main road provides a broader range of dining and shopping options. For sweeping views over the bay and out to Ko Pha-Ngan, head up to the Mae Nam Viewpoint on the road toward Hat Nathon; the steep track is walkable, though most visitors arrive by scooter.