On Bang Rak Beach (Bang Rak), or rather on the neighboring islet of Ko Fan, stands Samui’s main attraction since 1972: the Big Buddha statue, sometimes leading to the beach being mistakenly called “Big Buddha Beach.”
Beach Overview
The beach stretches 1.9 miles (3 km) from Laem Mai Kaen to Big Buddha and is up to 50 feet (15 meters) wide in various sections. The sand varies from fine golden on the wild west of Bang Rak to gray-white on the east.
The west part is called wild because the entire stretch runs along the ring road, just two meters from the pavement. The strip of sand between the sea and the asphalt is fenced with barbed wire and is only visited by guests of small guesthouses across the road.
Due to its low population, the west side of Bang Rak is littered with rocks, sand, and debris, including car tires. The cleanliness is maintained only by municipal services and volunteer tourists. The water and shore aren’t the cleanest in the center of Bang Rak either, where the piers and the fishing market are located.
There’s enough space between the road and the water here to accommodate small resorts and restaurants. It becomes relatively clean beyond the piers, where several resorts maintain order and smooth the sand.
For those interested in other places, I have a brief overview of all Samui beaches to help you choose the perfect spot.
Swimming
The west and east parts of Bang Rak are shallow with muddy bottoms and rocky surprises underwater, so swimming here is for the adventurous. The middle of the beach has deeper water with a good sandy entry, but this is marred by the presence of many boats and other vessels.
Tides affect the beach more on the east and west ends, while the center suffers less from low tides, which locals take advantage of. The water is murky, especially during strong waves and in April and May. Overall, the beach doesn’t experience frequent waves, but it’s better to choose another spot for swimming with children.
Sunbeds and Shade
There are plenty of sunbeds with sea views in front of each hotel. They can be rented for 50 baht, and you won’t have to search long to find one.
A positive aspect of Bang Rak is the abundance of natural shade on the shore. Palm trees along the entire beach provide comfortable spots to relax without the need to carry a beach umbrella.
Beach Photos
Amenities
Bang Rak has everything except hypermarkets. There are markets, piers, banks, restaurants, gyms, auto repair shops, equipment rentals, mini-markets, laundries, massage parlors, just like in Nathon. Nearby attractions include:
- Big Buddha
- Wat Plai Laem
- Wat Nuan Naram
- Fish Market
- Hongsa Alley
Accommodation
The central and eastern parts of Bang Rak have dense development along the coastline, with many seaside restaurants, houses, and hotels. The west remains less developed but suitable for those less demanding of living conditions and looking to save money.
Guesthouses line the road, and construction is ongoing further inland. The number of hotels and resorts increases closer to the center and east.
Across the road, on the other side from the sea, lies the rest of Bang Rak, one of the most populated areas on Samui. All types of rental housing are available, from rooms to villas.
How to Find the Beach
Drive along the Ring Road to the Fisherman Village traffic light. Bang Rak starts after a sharp turn on road 4171 and is marked by a large blue sign saying Ban Bangrak. From there, you can turn into any place you like and reach the beach through its grounds.
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