You can draw a diagonal line across a map of Koh Samui going from the northwest to the southeast; the top section is the busy part containing all the popular beaches such as Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut and Maenam, and the lower section contains all the quiet and less famous beaches such as Taling Ngam, Thong Tanote, Laem Set and Lipa Noi. This post is about one of these beaches in the south called Bang Kao.
Bang Kao is a large bay that sees few visitors. The beach of Bang Kao is 2 km long. It has white sand and is fringed with palm trees. There is very little development on the beach, just a few resorts and a few local restaurants. Nearby is a small fishing village with a few shops.
This is an area of Koh Samui that has a traditional feel: agriculture and fishing are still the main activities. As a result the people in Bang Kao are less concerned about simply making a few extra Baht from the tourists by over-charging.
Ban Kao Tropical Boutique Residence is a good accommodation option. It has cheap rooms that are just $30 a night as well as more expensive Jacuzzi and pool villas. These villas also have kitchens that allow guests to self-cater.
Asia Spirit Lodge and Spa has well appointed rooms with air-con, hot water and TV. The resort has a restaurant, spa, sauna, communal pool and fitness center. Again room rates start from $30.
Near Bang Kao beach is Wat Khunaram. This is a special temple not just in Koh Samui but also in Thailand because it houses a mummified monk. It is generally frowned upon to mummify monks in Thailand but the old monk was only discovered quite a long after dying as actually being dead. They noticed that his body had not decomposed despite the heat and proclaimed it a miracle. The mummy is in a glass case and he is wearing his monk robes and sunglasses.
If you want a beach holiday in Koh Samui but you want to escape the crowds, the girlie bars and you want to see the more traditional side of the island then Bang Kao is an excellent and good value choice.
