Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Bang Po (also spelled Bang Por) is a long, tranquil beach on the northwest coast of Koh Samui, between Maenam to the east and the port town of Nathon to the west. It stretches for three to four kilometers from Ban Tai to the small, rocky headland of Laem Noi and offers views north across the sea to Koh Phangan. Palm trees reach right down to the sand, and the beach is lined with private villas, small resorts, and Thai seafood restaurants. There are no jet skis, no sun lounger rentals, and no strip bars – this is precisely what makes Bang Po so special and an ideal alternative to Chaweng or Lamai.

Can you swim here? Yes, but you should be aware of the tides. At high tide, the water is calm and warm, ideal for floating and wading, and waves are rare except in stormy weather. At low tide, the sea recedes over a hard, rocky sandbar with coral reefs, and you can walk 50 meters or more before the water reaches your waist. The sand is coarse in places, and there are stones underfoot, so I recommend water shoes. Bang Po is better suited for wading and walking than for swimming laps.

Located on the west side of the island, facing the open sea, Bang Po is one of Samui's most beautiful beaches for enjoying the sunset. The restaurants right on the beach are inviting, and the viewing pavilion on the ring road to the west offers a magnificent view of Bang Po, Thong Plu Bay, and Koh Phangan. Most of the beach loungers belong to the restaurants and resorts; you usually get them when you order lunch or a drink.