Today, we’re heading to Nathon, the island’s historic old capital and a vibrant hub of activity. Whether you’re considering investment, development, or a new place to call home, Nathon offers a mix of tradition and practicality that’s hard to ignore.
To dive deeper, watch the full video here:
👉 Nathon Area Guide
What Makes Nathon Unique?
- Transportation Hub:
- Home to Koh Samui’s main ferry terminal, making it the island’s gateway to the mainland.
- Cruise ships anchor nearby, bringing waves of visitors to explore the island.
- Cultural Significance:
- As the old capital, Nathon boasts traditional Thai architecture and a rich history.
- It’s also the administrative heart of the island, housing government offices and many older local families.
- Local Lifestyle:
- With a population of 12,987, it’s the second-most crowded area on the island.
- A strong sense of community with authentic Thai charm.
Topography of Nathon
Location: West coast of Koh Samui, famous for its stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.
Topographical Highlights:
- Flat Land: Mostly concentrated around the town center, ideal for trade and small developments.
- Hillside Areas: Situated at the back, largely protected by the forest department and not easily developed.
- Sea Shore: The beach isn’t Koh Samui’s best, but its low tide creates spectacular opportunities for sunset photography and drone shots.
The town’s layout reveals its historical evolution: the flat lands became a bustling trading hub while the hills served as a backdrop for nature and conservation.
Zoning Regulations
Understanding zoning laws is crucial before investing or building in Nathon:
- Yellow Zone:
- 40% open space required for green areas and landscaping.
- Dark Green Zone:
- 60% open space required.
- Light Green Zone:
- Buildings within 10–50 meters of the beach cannot exceed 6 meters in height or 75 square meters in size.
- Orange Zone:
- 20% open space required.
- Blue Zone:
- Designated for fishing and coastal activities.
Hill Slope Restrictions:
- Slopes above 50%: No construction allowed.
- Slopes between 35–50%: Structures must be under 80 square meters.
Refer to:
- Samui City Land Use Planning Map
- Topography Analysis
- Ministerial Regulation No. 22
Architect’s Analysis of Nathon
Using a 2 km radius from the Samui Municipal Office, let’s break down the area:
- Purple Zone (0.5 km radius):
- The busiest hub, perfect for trading and commercial use. Expect traffic jams during peak hours!
- Red Zone (1 km radius):
- Ideal for hospitality or residential projects close to the seaside and the trading area.
- Light Blue Zone (2 km radius):
- Suited for quieter residential developments with access to Bangpor (north) or Lipa Noi (south).
Lifestyle and Opportunities
While Nathon isn’t a nightlife destination, it offers:
- Dining: Coastal bars and restaurants with dramatic sunset views.
- Shopping: A mix of traditional shops, boutiques, and a mid-sized Lotus supermarket.
- Local Charm: Wooden houses, narrow streets, and a sense of Old Town nostalgia.
Challenges:
- Limited development opportunities due to protective measures on historic properties.
- Commercial property rentals are tricky, with short-term contracts dominating the market.
Final Thoughts
If you’re drawn to history, sunsets, and authentic Thai living, Nathon is worth considering. However, for larger development opportunities, you may need to look toward neighboring areas like Bangpor, Maenam, Lipa Noi, or Taling Ngam.
What’s your take on Nathon? Share your experiences below! And don’t forget to hit that follow button for more insights into Koh Samui’s best areas. Check out our projects on our website too!
