Big Buddha Bang Rak Travel Guide
We have written our Bang Por Big Buddha Bang Rak travel guide with the intention of showcasing the full beauty that this area has to offer visitors.
Explore Big Buddha Bang Rak in Koh Samui
Located on the island’s north coast lies the popular Big Buddha Beach. Although the correct name is actually Bangrak, the area is better known for the statue of the Lord Buddha which sits on a small hill on the tiny island of Koh Farn at the eastern end of the beach. Big Buddha beach is not one of the largest of beaches but still offers stunning tropical scenery with the same island charm as other areas of Koh Samui.
Until recently, Bangrak was not as popular with beach going tourists and apart from a handful of backpackers, Big Buddha beach was largely untouched by commercial development. However, recent years have seen a steady growth in popularity and new developments are constantly sprouting up along it's coastline including hotels, restaurants, shops and villas. Fine white sand and shallow water make for safe swimming and Big
Buddha beach is a popular spot for families with younger children. A trip to Bangrak would not be complete without visiting the magnificent Big Buddha statue, officially called the Wat Phra Yai Temple, however it is important to understand local customs, as this towering marvel is not just Koh Samui's most popular tourist attraction but an important part of religious belief and everyday life of the local Koh Samui population. Surrounding the temple are several small shops and craft stalls selling souvenirs, a few cafes, houses and a school making it an ideal spot if you want a refreshment break while watching the locals go about their daily life.
Apart from the statue, Big Buddha beach is best known as a popular jumping off point to the all night Full Moon Parties. Held on the nearby island of Koh Phangan, there are regular ferry and speedboat transport operating between the two islands. It is also well worth a visit at any other time as it is a beautiful place to spend a day. On Sundays, the beach plays host to the Secret Garden Festival with lively music sessions which attracts tourists and local residents alike from across the island. If you fancy a change of scenery, Plai Laem and Choeng Mon beaches are nearby but do not expect more activity than Bangrak.
Big Buddha beach is one of the most famous tourist attractions and while it does attract visitors throughout the day, it has escaped the influx of tourists of the more popular Koh Samui tourist destinations.
We hope that our Big Buddha Beach Bang Rak Travel Guide has answered any questions you may have had about this popular area in Koh Samui, however if you want to discuss anything else then we encourage you to talk to one of the team here at SamuiIslandVillas.com.