Bang Rak Beach, also known as Big Buddha Beach, is one of Koh Samui’s quieter beaches. It’s located to the east of Bophut Beach and is best known for its piers, from which people can take private speedboats and ferries to Koh Phangan and other nearby islands.
Bells and view at Big Buddha © lindzgraham
Smaller than nearby Bophut Beach, Bang Rak Beach has a quieter atmosphere and fewer large resorts and hotels. Most of the accommodation here is of the boutique variety, ranging from tiny mid-range hotels to inexpensive backpacker guesthouses and bungalow resorts.
Wat Phra Yai, the beach’s best known icon that’s better known as the Big Buddha, is located on a small island connected to the beach by a pedestrian causeway. Aside from the temple, Bang Rak has little in the way of attractions and is all about relaxing on and around the beach.
Dining options range from cheap and simple Thai food to a variety of Western restaurants. As Bang Rak Beach is close to Bophut, it’s a short walk to the famous Fisherman’s Village and its great selection of cafes, bars, shops and restaurants.
Bang Rak Beach itself is a quiet, peaceful beach that gets fewer visitors than nearby Chaweng and Bophut. The water is clean and relatively clear, the beach well cared for, and the hawkers minimal compared to Chaweng and the island’s other main beaches.
During high season, you can spot a few jetskis closely off the beach, but the level of noise stays fairly low. Bang Rak Beach has a few bars, some of which are a little seedy, but it isn’t a major nightlife hotspot like Chaweng and Lamai.
Thanks to its convenient location close to Koh Samui Airport, its short distance from Bophut and its clean water, Big Buddha Beach is one of Samui’s best beaches for visitors seeking a quieter experience than what the major beaches can offer.
Best Hotels on Big Buddha (Bang Rak) Beach
- Prana Resort Nandana
Prana Resort Nandana is a four star boutique resort located right on Bang Rak Beach. Thanks to its direct beach access, great selection of modern rooms and suites and convenient location just 15 minutes away from Bophut, it’s one of the best upmarket hotels in the area. - Secret Garden Beach Resort
Secret Garden Beach Resort is a three star bungalow resort aimed at families and travellers on a medium budget. Rooms are modern and tastefully decorated, with a swimming pool and easy access to the beach for guests. - The Nest Boutique Hotel Samui
With just five rooms, The Nest Boutique Hotel is a small hotel with a lot to offer. Located less than three minutes from the beach, The Nest has beautifully decorated rooms that are priced fairly, as well as friendly staff to help you find your way around the island.
Things To Do On Koh Samui
From diving to ziplining, spa treatments, golf and more, Koh Samui has a huge range of unique and exciting activities for visitors. Learn about the best things to do on Koh Samui, whether you feel like a relaxing day or an intrepid adventure.
Buy Ferry Tickets To Koh Samui
You can buy bus and ferry tickets to Koh Samui online. Use the search box below to find out departure times, prices and to book online. Enter a different starting point if you’re not coming from Bangkok
