Bangrak Beach (Big Buddha Beach)
A tranquil beach on Koh Samui, known for the majestic Big Buddha and proximity to Fisherman's Village. Offers great food and a relaxed vibe.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Bangrak Beach (Big Buddha Beach)
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil beach on Koh Samui, known for the majestic Big Buddha and proximity to Fisherman's Village. Offers great food and a relaxed vibe.
"Worth seeing while on Samui, but you only need to see it once."
🌅 Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets from beachfront restaurants like Nahm. Pure magic!
🍔 Burger Bliss
Don't miss the 'best burger in Koh Samui' at a local spot here.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
Adjacent to Bangrak Beach
Marvel at the colossal golden Buddha statue, a spiritual icon offering panoramic island views.

Fisherman's Village
Short drive from Bangrak Beach
Wander through charming streets, boutique shops, and enjoy vibrant nightlife and dining.
Local Seafood Market
Near Bangrak Beach
Savor incredibly fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. A true taste of Samui.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Proximity to Key Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets from beachfront restaurants like Nahm. Pure magic!
🍔 Burger Bliss
Don't miss the 'best burger in Koh Samui' at a local spot here.
🦟 Mosquito Alert
Some accommodations might have mosquitoes, so pack repellent.
✈️ Close to Airport
Conveniently located near the airport, making arrivals and departures a breeze.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets from beachfront restaurants like Nahm. Pure magic!
🍔 Burger Bliss
Don't miss the 'best burger in Koh Samui' at a local spot here.
🦟 Mosquito Alert
Some accommodations might have mosquitoes, so pack repellent.
✈️ Close to Airport
Conveniently located near the airport, making arrivals and departures a breeze.
🚶♀️ Explore Fisherman's Village
A short trip to Fisherman's Village offers shopping and lively evenings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bangrak Beach is appreciated for its proximity to key attractions like the Big Buddha and Fisherman's Village, and its convenient location near the airport. While some find the beach water murky and less ideal for swimming, others enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the availability of excellent local food, including highly-rated burgers and fresh seafood.
"Water a bit murky - other beaches on the island are much nicer. Very quiet though."
Lois Shields
"The best burger in Koh Samui
Really suggest to eat 😋😋😁"
Hnin Nandar Aung
"We stayed at Bangrak Samui Resort for 4 nights. Understand that it's a 2-3 star resort so don't expect full facility. The beach is just 30meters away! Despite that we had to deal with mosquito in the room. Everything else is clean and the rooms are spacious for a chalet."
Albert Lim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bangrak Beach is very close to Koh Samui Airport (USM), often just a 5-10 minute taxi or private transfer ride away. Many accommodations are also located along the main road connecting the airport to Fisherman's Village.
Taxis and songthaews (shared taxis) are readily available. Renting a scooter is also a popular option for exploring the island at your own pace, but always drive cautiously.
Songthaews frequently pass along the main road, connecting Bangrak Beach to other popular areas like Chaweng and Fisherman's Village, making it relatively easy to get around.
While it's a bit of a walk, it's feasible for those who enjoy a stroll. Many opt for a short taxi or songthaew ride to reach Fisherman's Village quickly.
The prominent Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) is a key landmark visible from many parts of Bangrak Beach and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bangrak Beach itself is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. Access is free for everyone.
There is no entry fee to visit the Big Buddha Temple. However, donations are welcome to help with its upkeep. Remember to dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.
The Big Buddha Temple is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
For most casual beachfront restaurants, booking isn't necessary. However, for popular spots, especially during peak season or for sunset dining, making a reservation is recommended.
Yes, Bangrak Beach is public. While resorts might have private sections, there are usually public access points to enjoy the sand and sea.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Reviews suggest the water can be a bit murky compared to other Samui beaches, and it's broken up by piers. It's generally quieter and less ideal for swimming for some.
While known for its tranquility, you can enjoy relaxing on the sand, swimming (though water clarity varies), and dining at beachfront restaurants. The nearby Big Buddha and Fisherman's Village offer more activities.
It can be, especially if you're looking for a quieter environment. However, the water isn't always the clearest for swimming, and the piers can be a consideration.
Expect a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere compared to busier beaches like Chaweng. It's a good spot for unwinding and enjoying the local vibe.
Yes, there's an authentic local market open daily until around 8 PM, offering fresh seafood and local produce. A small night market with Thai food is also available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bangrak Beach boasts numerous restaurants along the beach road, offering a mix of Thai and Western cuisines, including French, Middle Eastern, Italian, and Mexican.
Absolutely! There's a renowned seafood market where fishermen bring their daily catch. You can enjoy incredibly fresh seafood dishes.
One review specifically mentions finding 'the best burger in Koh Samui' here. Beachfront spots like Nahm Restaurant are praised for food, drinks, and sunset views.
The local market and night market are great places to sample authentic Thai street food at affordable prices.
While seafood is prominent, many Thai restaurants offer vegetarian options. It's always best to ask the staff about specific dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic Big Buddha statue against the sky is a must-capture. Sunsets over the water, especially from beachfront restaurants, offer stunning golden hour shots.
Yes, Bangrak Beach is known for the unique sight of planes flying low overhead as they approach the nearby airport, creating dramatic photo opportunities.
The Big Buddha Temple itself offers elevated views. Many beachfront restaurants also provide excellent vantage points for capturing the coastline and sunsets.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds. Sunset is spectacular for dramatic colors. Midday can be harsh due to the strong sun.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and respect privacy before flying a drone, especially near residential areas or the temple.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Big Buddha Temple
Many visitors find the sheer scale of the Buddha impressive and the spiritual ambiance calming. It's a popular spot for both religious pilgrims and tourists seeking cultural immersion. The proximity to Bangrak Beach makes it an easy addition to any itinerary, often visited upon arrival or before departure due to its location near the airport.
Beyond the main statue, the temple grounds offer opportunities for quiet contemplation and observing local Buddhist practices. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the temple architecture add to the visual appeal, making it a rewarding experience for photographers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Exploring Fisherman's Village
The village truly comes alive on Friday nights when it hosts a vibrant walking street market. This market is a sensory delight, filled with local handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs, and an abundance of delicious street food. It's the perfect place to find unique gifts, sample local delicacies, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Even on non-market nights, the village offers a pleasant ambiance for an evening stroll, dinner, or drinks by the sea.
Fisherman's Village is also home to some of Koh Samui's most stylish resorts and beach clubs, such as Zazen Resort, offering a blend of luxury and island tranquility. Its strategic location makes it an easy excursion from Bangrak Beach, providing a contrast in atmosphere and a different facet of Koh Samui's diverse offerings.
Culinary Delights of Bangrak
Beyond fresh seafood, the beach road is lined with restaurants serving everything from traditional Thai dishes to international cuisine, including French, Italian, Mexican, and Middle Eastern flavors. One particular highlight mentioned by visitors is a local eatery serving what's described as 'the best burger in Koh Samui,' showcasing that Bangrak isn't just about Thai food. For those seeking a more casual bite, a small night market offers affordable and delicious Thai street food options.
For a memorable dining experience, consider restaurants like Nahm Restaurant, which is praised for its excellent food, drinks, and especially its stunning sunset views over the water. While the beach itself might not be the prime swimming spot for everyone, the quality and variety of food available make Bangrak a destination worth visiting for its gastronomic offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit