Bang Makham Beach - scenic view of Koh Samui's west coast

At a Glance

CoastWest Coast (Sunset)
Length1 km
Sand Quality★★☆☆☆
Crowd LevelVery Quiet
SunriseNot Suitable
SunsetExcellent
Family FriendlyModerate
  • Beautiful setting but access challenging
  • Facilities minimal
  • Better for adventurous families

Beach Amenities

Restaurants
Bars
Water Sports
Sunbed Rentals
Parking
Restrooms
Showers
Lifeguards

Getting There

From Airport40 minutes

Basic, limited signage

Get Directions

Bang Makham Beach

1 km of mixed sand, variable quality

February Sun
Rise6:38 am
Set6:27 pm
Day11h 49m

Bang Makham Beach is a hidden gem on the west coast, a small 1-kilometer beach offering spectacular unobstructed panoramic Gulf views. The remote location and challenging access mean it remains genuinely peaceful, attracting only sunset enthusiasts and exploratory travelers.

The sand varies from fine patches to coarser, muddy stretches depending on conditions. At low tide, the beach can become muddy with exposed rocks and shells. The usable beach area narrows significantly at high tide, when the water reaches close to the road barriers. Check tide times before visiting for the best experience. Beach cleanliness varies — rubbish and debris can accumulate, particularly after storms. The beach is not regularly maintained by municipal services.

The seabed is rocky and shelly in places — water shoes are recommended. Snorkelling and water sports are limited due to shallow, muddy conditions near the shore. At low tide, the exposed rock pools are interesting for spotting crabs, shrimps, and other small marine life — a fun activity for children with supervision.

There are no dedicated beach facilities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, or public toilets. Basic amenities are available through nearby roadside restaurants and cafes. Own transport is recommended as the beach is not well served by public transport. Roadside parking is available along the Ring Road.

The beach rewards those willing to make the effort with some of the most spectacular and uncrowded sunset viewing on the island.

What Makes It Special

  • Spectacular unobstructed sunset views
  • Genuine solitude and peace
  • Scenic drive with island views
  • Ideal for contemplation
  • Low tide rock pools with crabs, shrimps, and marine life

Activities

SwimmingModerate
SnorkelingLimited
PaddleboardingLimited

Seasonal Guide

High Season

December - March

Calm water despite windy season

Sunset viewingSolitude

Hot Season

April - September

Tidal expansion creates wider beach

PhotographyExploration

Rainy Season

October - November

Occasional rough water from monsoon. Debris and rubbish more likely to accumulate after storms.

When weather permits

Best For

  • Sunset viewing without crowds
  • Adventurous explorers
  • Photographers
  • Romantic couples
  • Solitude seekers

Consider Another Beach If

  • Need easy access
  • Want extensive amenities
  • Traveling with young children
  • Prefer developed infrastructure

Safety Information

Lifeguards: Not present

Be Aware Of:
  • Remote location with limited mobile signal
  • Challenging access road
  • Rocky and shelly seabed — water shoes recommended
  • Muddy conditions at low tide with exposed rocks
  • Beach area narrows significantly at high tide