Big Buddha Bay
Bang Rak Bay · Wat Phra Yai anchorage
9°33.9'N 100°3.7'E
Depth
2–8m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
70m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
70m
Set 70m radius in the bay. Good sandy holding throughout. The Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) sits on a small island connected to the north coast. Anchor clear of the speedboat lane to the airport ferry pier.
About This Anchorage
Big Buddha Bay takes its name from the prominent 12m golden Big Buddha statue (Wat Phra Yai) on a small islet connected to the northeast coast of Koh Samui. The anchorage is off Bang Rak beach with good sandy holding and views of the statue. The bay is sheltered from SE–E–S winds. Koh Samui Airport is immediately adjacent and aircraft provide constant entertainment. Ferry pier nearby with connections to Koh Phangan and the mainland.
Protected From
S · SE · E
Exposed To
N · NW
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free
- Permit required
- No
Hazards
- !Speedboats and ferries using the pier — anchor clear of the channel
- !Exposed to N/NW winds — uncomfortable in NE monsoon
- !Koh Samui Airport approach path directly overhead — aircraft noise
Skipper's Tips
- →Visit the Big Buddha temple at dawn for a peaceful experience before tourists arrive
- →Ferry connections to Koh Phangan from the pier nearby
- →The beach has good restaurants and bars with beach chairs
- →Good anchorage when Bophut becomes uncomfortable in E winds
Facilities
Beach restaurants along Bang Rak beach; tourist area with good dining options
Nearest provisions: Bang Rak town (0.3nm)
Best Months & Season
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October
Best April–October (SW monsoon season). NE monsoon (November–February) brings uncomfortable conditions from the north.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 70m
In the Gulf of Thailand, unexpected NE squalls can develop overnight and ferry wash can drag an unmonitored anchor. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously — so you can enjoy the Full Moon Party, dive sites, and tropical evenings knowing your boat is protected.
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