Chaweng
Chaweng Beach · Ao Chaweng
9°31.4'N 100°4.9'E
Depth
2–8m
Bottom
sand
Alarm Radius
75m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
75m
Set 75m radius off Chaweng beach. Good sandy holding in the main bay. The eastern-facing bay is sheltered from W/SW winds (SW monsoon season). In NE monsoon the bay becomes exposed and potentially dangerous.
About This Anchorage
Chaweng is Koh Samui's most famous beach and its busiest tourist resort strip. The anchorage faces east and is sheltered from the western SW monsoon. The 7km beach has crystal-clear water and white sand with good sandy holding throughout. Very busy with hotel speedboats and water sports activity during the day. The anchorage is particularly scenic at night when the beach bars are illuminated. Excellent provisioning and entertainment.
Protected From
W · SW · NW
Exposed To
E · NE
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- Free
- Permit required
- No
Hazards
- !Very high speedboat and jet ski traffic during daylight hours — maintain careful watch
- !Exposed to E/NE during NE monsoon season — dangerous November–February
- !Reef extends from northern headland — approach from south in good visibility
- !Beach crowded with swimmers — anchor well clear
Skipper's Tips
- →Anchor at either end of the bay away from the busiest hotel beach zones
- →Best visited in SW monsoon season (May–October) when the bay is sheltered
- →Evening is spectacular — the beach resort lights and fire shows are visible from the boat
- →All provisioning needs met in Chaweng town — closest major shopping on Samui
Facilities
Extensive range of restaurants, bars, and clubs along the 7km beachfront
Nearest provisions: Chaweng town (0.2nm)
Best Months & Season
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
Best April–October (SW monsoon shelters the eastern-facing bay). NE monsoon (November–February) makes this anchorage dangerous — seek shelter on the western side of the island.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 75m
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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