Anchorage· Koh Samui· Thailand
Ao Bang Kao Anchorage
9° 24.7′ N · 99° 59.1′ E · approximate
The open bay off Bang Kao fishing village on Samui's south coast, between the Laem Sor pagoda point and Laem Set; the island itself blocks NE winds, which makes it a quiet alternative when the north and east coasts are rough.
Practical
Approximate position about 0.7 km off the south end of the Bang Kao road (OSM way 84622228, coastline near 9.422, 99.984), derived, not surveyed: no cruising guide consulted gives a depth, holding or position for Bang Kao. Wikivoyage says the south coast's small beaches (Hua Thanon, Na Khai, Laem Sor, Bang Kao, Thong Krut) are low-key and cater more to locals. Expect shallow, gently shelving water with fishing stakes and longtail moorings; sound in carefully and anchor well off in daylight. In the NE monsoon (Nov-Feb) the south coast lies in the lee of Samui; it is open to the S and SW, so leave in the SW monsoon. Koh Taen and Koh Mat Sum, 5-6 km to the southwest, are the guide-recommended overnight stop on this coast (5 m, mud and sand).
Best for
A quiet south-coast lunch or settled-weather stop in NE winds
Season
NE monsoon (Nov-Feb) in settled weather; exposed S and SW