Koh Samui, Thailand's second-largest island, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. While some visitors come for the luxury resorts and lively parties, others seek out the tranquil retreats and serene coastlines that this beautiful island has to offer. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family traveler, or someone looking to unwind, Koh Samui's beaches have something for everyone. This guide will take you through the island’s most popular beaches, highlighting what makes each one unique, and providing tips on where to eat, drink, and stay during your visit.
To fully experience the island, consider renting a motorcycle or car, which gives you the freedom to explore the beaches at your own pace. If you prefer not to drive, taxis and songthaews (shared taxis) are readily available and can take you to most of the island’s beach destinations. With over 30 beaches to choose from, Koh Samui offers a diverse range of coastal experiences, from bustling tourist hubs to secluded, hidden gems. But Koh Samui is not just about beautiful beaches; the island also offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. From adventurous outdoor excursions to serene wellness retreats, there's something for everyone to enjoy on this tropical paradise.
From exploring vibrant coral reefs and majestic elephants to thrilling ATV rides and serene yoga retreats, Koh Samui offers diverse attractions for every type of traveler. Whether you're snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, diving at world-class sites, or visiting the charming Pig Island, there's always something new to experience on this tropical paradise.
Read more in Activities and tours on Koh Samui
Koh Samui offers some fantastic snorkeling opportunities, with clear waters and vibrant marine life just waiting to be explored. Popular snorkeling spots include the coral reefs around Koh Taen and Koh Matsum, which are part of the Mu Koh Ang Thong National Marine Park. These areas are home to colorful fish, coral gardens, and other marine species. Many tour operators offer day trips that include snorkeling gear, lunch, and transportation, making it easy to experience the underwater beauty of Koh Samui.
Read more in the Koh Samui Snorkeling guide
For diving enthusiasts, Koh Samui is a gateway to some of the best dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand. The nearby island of Koh Tao is renowned for its dive schools and pristine dive spots, including Chumphon Pinnacle, Sail Rock, and Shark Island. These sites offer opportunities to see everything from colorful coral reefs to whale sharks, depending on the season. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are numerous dive shops on Koh Samui that offer PADI certification courses and guided dive trips.
Read more in the Koh Samui Diving Guide
Exploring Koh Samui’s rugged terrain by ATV is an exciting way to see the island’s natural beauty. ATV tours typically take you off the beaten path, through jungles, across streams, and up to scenic viewpoints with stunning vistas of the island and surrounding sea. These tours are suitable for all skill levels, with guides providing instructions and safety gear. It’s a thrilling way to experience the island’s interior and enjoy some adventure.
Read more in the Koh Samui ATV guide
For adrenaline seekers, jet skiing on Koh Samui is a must. With plenty of rental options along the island's popular beaches, you can experience the thrill of racing across the turquoise waters while enjoying stunning coastal views. It's a fantastic way to combine adventure with the beauty of the island's coastline.
Read more in the Koh Samui Jet Skiing Guide
Koh Samui is home to ethical elephant sanctuaries where you can learn about these majestic creatures in a responsible and humane environment. The sanctuaries focus on the well-being of the elephants, offering visitors the chance to observe and interact with them without riding. Activities typically include feeding the elephants, learning about their care, and even helping to bathe them. Visiting an elephant sanctuary is a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with these gentle giants in a meaningful way.
Read More in the Guide to Elephant Sanctuaries on Koh Samui
Just a short boat ride from Koh Samui is Koh Madsum, commonly known as Pig Island due to the friendly pigs that roam its beaches. This small, idyllic island offers visitors the unique experience of swimming and sunbathing alongside these curious creatures. In addition to meeting the pigs, the island is a great spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and simply relaxing on the sandy shores. Many tours to Pig Island include stops at nearby snorkeling spots and provide a picnic lunch, making it a perfect day trip.
Read more in the Koh Samui Pig Island Guide
Koh Samui is a well-known destination for wellness and yoga retreats, offering a variety of yoga studios and retreat centers. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner looking to try something new, you’ll find classes to suit your level. Many resorts and standalone yoga centers offer daily classes, workshops, and retreats that focus on different styles of yoga, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Ashtanga. Practicing yoga in a serene tropical setting is a wonderful way to enhance your well-being during your stay on the island.
Read more in the The Yoga Guide to Koh Samui
Samui International Airport (USM) is the main gateway to Koh Samui, offering both domestic and international flights. The airport is known for its unique, open-air design that blends seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty. It is located on the northeastern part of the island, just a short drive from popular areas like Chaweng and Bophut. The airport provides convenient access to the island with regular flights from Bangkok, Phuket, and other major cities in Thailand, as well as international flights from destinations such as Singapore and Hong Kong. Ground transportation options from the airport include taxis, shuttle services, and car rentals.
With all these exciting activities and attractions to explore, Koh Samui is truly a destination that offers more than just beaches. But when it comes to its beaches, the island certainly doesn’t disappoint. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the island’s best beaches, categorized by their locations on the island.
Read more in the Koh Samui International Airport (USM) Guide
Koh Samui is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in Thailand, each offering its own unique charm and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for lively stretches of sand with bustling beach bars or secluded coves where tranquility reigns, Koh Samui’s coastline has something for everyone. Let's explore the island's diverse beaches, where you can find the perfect spot to relax, explore, and soak in the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.
Chaweng Beach (largest and most popular beach on Koh Samui) is the largest and most popular beach on Koh Samui, stretching over seven kilometers along the island's eastern coast. It's known for its soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere. Chaweng is the island's main tourist hub, offering a wide range of activities, dining options, and nightlife. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea, enjoy water sports, or dance the night away, Chaweng has something for everyone.
Chaweng Beach is a food lover's paradise, with countless restaurants lining the shore. Prego (Italian cuisine) is a favorite for Italian cuisine, offering delicious pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a stylish setting. For authentic Thai food, Phensiri Thai Restaurant (traditional dishes) is highly recommended, serving traditional dishes with fresh local ingredients. If you're in the mood for seafood, The Tent Beachfront Restaurant and Bar (freshly caught fish) offers a variety of freshly caught fish and seafood, with stunning views of the ocean.
Chaweng is also famous for its vibrant nightlife. Ark Bar is one of the most popular spots, known for its beach parties, live DJ performances, and fire shows. For a more relaxed vibe, The Library’s Drink Gallery offers a sophisticated setting with a wide selection of cocktails and fine wines. Green Mango Club is the go-to place for those looking to dance the night away, with multiple rooms playing different genres of music.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Chaweng offers a range of attractions. The Central Festival Samui shopping mall is a great place to shop, dine, and catch a movie. For something more adventurous, the Samui Bungy Jump offers a thrilling experience with stunning views of the island. The nearby Chaweng Lake is also a popular spot for a leisurely walk or a paddleboat ride.
Chaweng is a shopper’s delight, with numerous boutiques, souvenir shops, and markets. The Central Festival Samui mall offers a mix of international brands and local shops, as well as a variety of dining options. For something more unique, visit the Chaweng Night Market, where you can find everything from handmade crafts to street food.
Chaweng Beach offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. For a luxurious stay, The Library is a stunning design hotel right on the beach, known for its minimalist architecture and iconic red pool. Chaweng Regent Beach Resort offers comfortable beachfront rooms and a relaxing spa. For those on a budget, OZO Chaweng Samui provides modern, affordable rooms with easy access to the beach.
Read more in the Best Villa and House Rentals in Chaweng Koh Samui
Lamai Beach is the second-largest beach on Koh Samui and is known for its beautiful stretch of sand, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. Located just south of Chaweng, Lamai offers a more tranquil alternative to its busier neighbor while still providing plenty of amenities and activities. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a variety of water sports. Lamai is also famous for its rock formations, particularly the Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks, which are a popular tourist attraction.
Lamai Beach has a diverse dining scene, with options ranging from local Thai eateries to international restaurants. Beach Republic Ocean Club is a stylish beachfront venue offering Mediterranean cuisine, tapas, and a Sunday brunch that is popular with both locals and tourists. For Thai food, Baobab is a beachfront restaurant that serves delicious dishes with a focus on fresh seafood. The Cliff Bar & Grill is another favorite, offering stunning views of the ocean and a menu featuring a mix of Thai and Western cuisine.
Lamai’s nightlife is more laid-back than Chaweng’s but still offers plenty of options for a fun night out. Rock Bar is a unique venue built into the rocks with a rustic, open-air setting and live reggae music. Shamrock Irish Pub offers a lively atmosphere with live bands, cold beers, and a friendly crowd. For a more relaxed evening, Swing Bar provides beachside seating with fire shows and chilled-out vibes.
Lamai is home to several interesting attractions. The Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, also known as the Grandfather and Grandmother rocks, are a must-see. These unusual rock formations have become one of the island’s most famous landmarks. The Lamai Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the beach and surrounding area, with a zip line for the more adventurous. For a cultural experience, visit the Wat Lamai Temple, which hosts a lively local market every Sunday.
Lamai offers a variety of shopping options, from local markets to boutique shops. The Lamai Night Plaza is a popular spot where you can find clothing, accessories, and souvenirs at bargain prices. The Lamai Fresh Market is the place to go for fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. For more upscale shopping, visit the Samui Hot Club for a selection of stylish clothing and accessories.
Lamai Beach offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. For a luxury experience, the Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa offers stunning villas with private pools and ocean views. Pavilion Samui Villas & Resort is another great option, with beachfront rooms and a spa. For budget travelers, Rich Resort Beachside Hotel provides affordable, comfortable rooms just steps from the beach.
Read more in the Lamai Beach, Koh Samui - Villa and House Rental Guide
Bophut Beach, located on the northern coast of Koh Samui, is known for its charming Fisherman’s Village, a historic area that has retained much of its old-world charm. The beach itself is a long, sandy stretch with calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and water sports. Bophut is less commercialized than Chaweng or Lamai, offering a more laid-back atmosphere. The beach is also a great spot for families, with many kid-friendly resorts and activities available. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the local culture, or enjoy some shopping and dining, Bophut and Fisherman’s Village offer a perfect blend of experiences.
The highlight of Bophut Beach is undoubtedly Fisherman’s Village, a quaint village with narrow streets and traditional wooden shop-houses that offer a glimpse into Koh Samui’s past. Once a thriving fishing community, Fisherman’s Village has now transformed into a trendy area with boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. Despite its modern touches, the village has retained its historical charm, with many buildings preserved in their original style.
Bophut Beach is home to some of Koh Samui’s best dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for local Thai cuisine or international dishes, there’s something for everyone here. Happy Elephant is a popular spot offering a mix of Thai and Western food, with a focus on fresh seafood. For fine dining, Full Moon Restaurant at Anantara Bophut Resort serves up gourmet Mediterranean cuisine in a romantic beachfront setting. If you’re looking for something casual, Coco Tam’s offers wood-fired pizzas, cocktails, and a relaxed beach vibe.
When it comes to nightlife, Bophut offers a more laid-back scene compared to Chaweng. Coco Tam’s Beach Bar is a popular spot right on the beach, known for its bean bags on the sand, fire shows, and tropical cocktails. If you prefer a more upscale experience, Bar Baguette offers stunning sea views and a selection of fine wines and craft beers. Fisherman’s Village Friday Night Market also provides an opportunity to enjoy local street food with a cold beer while listening to live music.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Bophut is known for its unique attractions. The Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) is a short drive away and is one of Koh Samui’s most iconic landmarks. The Samui Crocodile Farm offers an interesting look at local wildlife, with daily shows featuring crocodiles and snakes. For a cultural experience, visit the Samuji Boutique in Fisherman’s Village, which showcases locally made clothing, jewelry, and art.
Fisherman’s Village is also a great place for shopping. Every Friday, the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street Market takes over the main street, offering everything from handmade crafts and souvenirs to street food and local delicacies. The village is also home to a variety of boutique shops selling clothing, jewelry, and home decor. If you’re looking for unique gifts or souvenirs, this is the place to find them.
Bophut Beach offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets. For a luxury stay, the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort offers stunning beachfront rooms, a spa, and fine dining. If you’re traveling with family, Baan Bophut Beach Hotel provides comfortable rooms and easy access to the beach. For those on a budget, Eden Bungalows offers affordable, cozy bungalows just a short walk from the beach.
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Maenam Beach is one of Koh Samui’s hidden gems, offering a peaceful and serene environment away from the bustling tourist areas. Located on the northern coast, Maenam Beach is a long stretch of golden sand bordered by palm trees and calm waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, especially during high tide, and offers stunning views of Koh Phangan in the distance. Maenam is popular among long-term travelers and families, thanks to its quiet atmosphere and affordable accommodations.
Maenam Beach offers a range of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to fine dining restaurants. Spices Cafe is a popular spot serving a variety of Thai and international dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. For a more upscale dining experience, The Boudoir offers a French-inspired menu in a cozy, intimate setting. John’s Garden is another favorite, known for its delicious Thai food and beautiful garden setting.
The nightlife in Maenam is more subdued compared to Chaweng or Lamai, making it perfect for those who prefer a quieter evening. Kobori Japanese Restaurant & Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere with a great selection of sake and Japanese dishes. CoCo Tam's Maenam is a beach bar that provides a laid-back setting with comfortable seating and views of the sunset. Maenam Walking Street, held every Thursday, is a great place to enjoy street food and a cold beer while mingling with locals and tourists alike.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Maenam is home to several attractions. The Chinese Temple in the heart of Maenam is worth a visit, offering a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage. The Samui Disc Golf course is a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon, especially for families. For those interested in yoga, The Yogarden offers daily classes in a tranquil garden setting.
Maenam offers a more relaxed shopping experience compared to the busier areas of the island. The Maenam Walking Street market is held every Thursday evening, where you can find handmade crafts, clothing, and souvenirs, as well as enjoy local street food. For a more unique shopping experience, visit the Koh Samui Farmer’s Market, held every Saturday, where you can buy fresh produce, homemade goods, and organic products.
Maenam Beach offers a range of accommodations, from budget bungalows to luxury resorts. For a luxurious stay, the W Koh Samui offers stunning villas with private pools and ocean views. Santiburi Koh Samui is another top choice, with spacious suites, a golf course, and a beautiful beachfront location. For budget travelers, Cocooning Hotel offers affordable rooms in a charming, garden setting just a short walk from the beach.
Lipa Noi Beach, located on the western coast of Koh Samui, is one of the island’s most peaceful and secluded beaches. Known for its shallow, calm waters and soft, white sand, Lipa Noi is ideal for families with young children and those looking to escape the more touristy areas of the island. The beach is relatively undeveloped, with only a few resorts and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and relaxation.
Lipa Noi offers a more limited but high-quality selection of dining options. The Five Islands Restaurant is a popular spot, known for its stunning views of the five islands and delicious Thai cuisine, particularly the seafood dishes. For a more casual meal, Big John’s Restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere and a menu featuring both Thai and Western dishes. Think & Retro Cafe is another great option, offering a quirky setting with a menu of comfort food and refreshing drinks.
The nightlife in Lipa Noi is quiet, with a few beach bars offering a relaxed atmosphere. Think & Retro Cafe doubles as a beach bar in the evening, providing a laid-back setting to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset. Nikki Beach Samui is a more upscale option, known for its luxurious beach club vibe, complete with poolside cabanas, live DJ sets, and a wide selection of cocktails and wines.
Lipa Noi is known for its stunning sunsets, which can be enjoyed from the beach or from one of the beachfront restaurants. The nearby Raja Ferry Port provides easy access to the mainland and nearby islands, making Lipa Noi a convenient base for exploring the region. For those interested in wellness, the Orion Retreat Centre offers detox programs, yoga, and meditation in a peaceful, natural setting.
Shopping options in Lipa Noi are limited, but the nearby Nathon Town offers a more traditional shopping experience with local markets, souvenir shops, and small boutiques. Nathon is also the island’s main ferry port, making it a convenient spot for travelers arriving or departing from the island.
Lipa Noi Beach offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly bungalows to luxury resorts. For a luxury stay, the Nikki Beach Resort & Spa offers stylish beachfront villas, a pool, and a renowned beach club. Lipa Lodge Beach Resort is a mid-range option with comfortable rooms and a beachfront restaurant. For those on a budget, Rajapruek Samui Resort provides affordable rooms with easy access to the beach.
Taling Ngam Beach is one of Koh Samui’s most secluded and unspoiled beaches, located on the southwestern coast of the island. This tranquil beach is known for its natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and a backdrop of lush tropical greenery. Taling Ngam offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas, making it perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.
Taling Ngam offers a small but excellent selection of dining options. The Island View Restaurant is a beachfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the nearby islands. Air Bar at InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort offers a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the sunset and a menu featuring international cuisine. Fai Restaurant is another great option, offering a variety of Thai dishes in a relaxed, garden setting.
The nightlife in Taling Ngam is very low-key, with a few bars offering a relaxed atmosphere. Air Bar is a popular spot for enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunset, with live music and a sophisticated vibe. For something more casual, The Five Islands Restaurant offers a beach bar setting with refreshing drinks and stunning views of the five islands.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Taling Ngam offers several attractions. The Ang Thong National Marine Park is just a short boat ride away and is a popular destination for snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the park’s many islands and lagoons. The Wat Kiri Wongkaram temple is another must-visit, known for its impressive murals and the mummified monk on display. For those interested in wellness, the Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary offers a variety of holistic treatments, yoga, and meditation in a serene, natural setting.
Shopping in Taling Ngam is limited, but the nearby Nathon Town offers a more traditional shopping experience with local markets, souvenir shops, and small boutiques. For unique, handmade items, visit the Craft Village Samui, located just a short drive away.
Taling Ngam Beach offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly bungalows. For a luxury stay, the InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort offers stunning villas with private pools and ocean views, as well as a world-class spa. Avani+ Samui Resort is another top choice, offering beachfront rooms and a relaxing pool area. For budget travelers, Am Samui Resort provides affordable rooms with easy access to the beach.
Choeng Mon Beach is a charming, crescent-shaped beach located on the northeastern tip of Koh Samui, near the Big Buddha and the airport. This beach is known for its soft white sand, clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for families and couples. Despite being close to some of the island’s major attractions, Choeng Mon remains relatively quiet and less crowded than the busier beaches of Chaweng and Lamai.
Choeng Mon Beach offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to fine dining restaurants. SALA Samui Restaurant is a top choice for those seeking a gourmet dining experience, offering a menu of Thai and international cuisine in a stylish beachfront setting. The Mother Restaurant is a popular spot for authentic Thai food, known for its friendly service and delicious dishes. For a more casual meal, Mr. Eung Restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring both Thai and Western dishes.
The nightlife in Choeng Mon is laid-back, with a few beach bars offering a relaxed atmosphere. SALA Samui Beach Bar is a great spot for enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunset, with comfortable seating and a sophisticated vibe. For something more casual, The Orchid Bar offers cold beers, cocktails, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere right on the beach.
Choeng Mon Beach is conveniently located near several of Koh Samui’s major attractions. The Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) is just a short drive away and is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. The nearby Wat Plai Laem temple is another must-visit, known for its impressive statues and beautiful surroundings. For those interested in water sports, Choeng Mon offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in the calm, clear waters.
Shopping in Choeng Mon is limited to a few boutique shops and souvenir stores. For more extensive shopping, head to the nearby Fisherman’s Village in Bophut or the Central Festival Samui mall in Chaweng. Both offer a wide range of shopping options, from local crafts to international brands.
Choeng Mon Beach offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets. For a luxurious stay, SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort offers stylish villas with private pools and direct beach access. Royal Muang Samui Villas is another top choice, with spacious suites, a beautiful pool, and a beachfront location. For budget travelers, White House Beach Resort & Spa provides affordable rooms with easy access to the beach.
Bang Rak Beach, also known as Big Buddha Beach, is a long, sandy beach located just south of Choeng Mon. This beach is named after the famous Big Buddha statue that overlooks the bay and is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Bang Rak offers a relaxed atmosphere, with calm waters and a beautiful backdrop of the Big Buddha and nearby islands. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the sunset.
Bang Rak Beach offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to more upscale restaurants. The Secret Garden is a popular spot known for its beachfront location, live music, and a menu featuring both Thai and international dishes. For authentic Thai food, Big Buddha Cafe offers delicious, traditional dishes with stunning views of the Big Buddha statue. Ocean 11 is another top choice, offering a fine dining experience with a menu of Mediterranean cuisine and an extensive wine list.
Bang Rak offers a more laid-back nightlife scene compared to Chaweng or Lamai. The Secret Garden is a great spot for live music and cocktails right on the beach. Bangrak Beach Club offers a more upscale experience with a stylish setting, a wide selection of drinks, and views of the sunset. For a more casual evening, Samui Pier Resort Bar provides a relaxed atmosphere with cold beers and friendly service.
The main attraction of Bang Rak Beach is the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai), a 12-meter-tall statue that is one of the most iconic landmarks on Koh Samui. The nearby Wat Plai Laem temple is also worth a visit, known for its impressive statues and beautiful surroundings. For those interested in water sports, Bang Rak offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in the calm, clear waters. The beach is also a popular spot for watching the sunset, with stunning views of the Big Buddha and nearby islands.
Bang Rak Beach offers a few boutique shops and souvenir stores along the main road. For more extensive shopping, head to the nearby Fisherman’s Village in Bophut or the Central Festival Samui mall in Chaweng. Both offer a wide range of shopping options, from local crafts to international brands.
Bang Rak Beach offers a range of accommodations, from budget bungalows to luxury resorts. For a luxurious stay, Six Senses Samui offers stunning villas with private pools and ocean views. Samui Boat Lagoon is another top choice, with spacious villas, a beautiful pool, and a beachfront location. For budget travelers, The Scent Hotel provides affordable rooms with easy access to the beach.
Koh Samui’s beaches offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a lively beach scene, a family-friendly spot, or a secluded hideaway. From the bustling Chaweng Beach to the tranquil Taling Ngam, each beach has its own unique charm and beauty. As you explore the island, take the time to discover the hidden gems and lesser-known beaches that make Koh Samui such a special destination. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few weeks, the island’s diverse beaches are sure to leave a lasting impression.
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