The Big Buddha Beach is only 5 minutes form the Samui International Airport and only 15 minutes from Chaweng Beach and Chaweng being the busiest spot on the island you are never far away from the action. Backpackers, in the past, have tended to make up most of the tourist population on this beach, however in more recent years it has become much more popular with families too, and those seeking out a very quiet stay on the Island.
It is very easy place to find from the airport, once you have collected your baggage, find the taxi or limousine service and ask the staff for a ride to Big Buddha beach the fair is very reasonable and only a few minutes away. It is worth thinking about staying here if you like a hectic nights but like quieter days.
As Chaweng hardly sleeps it is nice to know that you can find some peace and quiet only a few minutes away, transport between the beaches is very frequent and will only cost a few baht to get about, although the price does get a little more expensive at night time and very early morning.
Down near the beach on the causeway at the end of the beach there sits Wat Phra Yai and it is here where you will find the Big Buddha that gives the beach its name and houses one of the biggest Buddha’s in Thailand and Samui most spectacular religious tourist attraction.
Big Buddha is 12 meters tall and sits at the top of a large staircase, which itself is adorned in old paintings and images of dragons and beautiful colours, the statue dominates the entire area thus attracting tourists form all over the island and the view at the top is also fantastic so do not forget the camera.
The building of the big Buddha began back 1972 and it took over two years to complete, since its completion Big Buddha has attracted people from all over the world and is a must see and this is the reason why the beach has become so popular.
Over the years visitors have been very generous and have made many donations, allowing the abbot to be build facilities for its monks and also now it houses a small school. Teaching the local children and those who may not be able to afford a good education, so, if you go maybe you too can contribute to this worthwhile charity.
Big Buddha is a great place to visit during the many Thai festivals, such as Loy Krathong, the entire is swamped with locals as they enjoy all the festivities like a small market and food stalls, music other shows.
The beach itself has great smooth sand and calm seas all ideal for children to play, the swimming in the area is safe too. You probably won’t find many jet skis and windsurfing here, but you will find some small long tail boats for rent and the captains are very happy to talk to you and tell you the best places to go during the day. The beach is long and sweeping, quite spectacular really and there is a small pie,r an old wooden one, a little rickety, but just adds character and life to the beach.
There are also usually some fishing boats moored up there, giving the beach a traditional feel. The beach is surrounded by lush rain forest and small hills in the distance, protecting the beach from too much invasion. The beach is usually quiet and relaxed ideal for those looking for peace and tranquility.
Big Buddha beach is simply put is one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in Samui it has the most amazing big Buddha and some fantastic views from the top there are some great places to stay and its reasonably inexpensive, all in all Big Buddha beach might be just the spot you are looking for.
