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Koh Samet: This is your ultimate resource for attractions on the stunning island paradise in southeast Thailand. Access details on hotels and transportation here.
40 minute boat journey from Rayong
Koh Samet
Koh Samet is a stunning island in the Gulf of Thailand known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. This tropical paradise is a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for snorkelling and diving. There's also decent nightlife and charming beachside accommodations. Koh Samet is an ideal getaway for solo travellers and families.
Keep scrolling to see my personal favourite beach and resort :D
Where will you arrive
It's a 40-minute boat ride from the mainland in Ban Phe, which is next to the city of Rayong.
Multiple piers in Ban Phe connect to Koh Samet, all within easy walking distance of each other.
Most ferries arrive at Koh Samet dock at the busyish Na Dan pier on Ko Samet.
There are buses at Na Dan Pier that you can take to get to your hotel or resort on the island.
Na Dan Pier is next to a lively high street filled with bars, restaurants, and hotels. On the opposite side of this vibrant area lies the beautiful and famous Sai Keaw Beach, the island's main beach.
Sai Keaw Beach
The most accessible beach.
This beach has many beachfront restaurants and resorts, making it an ideal spot to unwind. However, even though Sai Keaw Beach is undoubtedly beautiful, it can get quite crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. So I recommend if you're staying on the island for a while, exploring other beaches on the island before this beach gets too busy.
Koh Samet is home to many other magnificent beaches that are worth checking out.
Wong Duean Beach
A pleasant spot, with some excellent resorts to choose from.
Clear waters and clean sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
There are a few beach bars and restaurants but it is not overrun with them :D
The music played during the day is mainly dance music, which has probably scared you but it's not so loud as to ruin the tranquil atmosphere.
Ao Pakarang Bay
A peaceful and stunning beach located at the end of Koh Samet,
opposite the mainland. The sea is tranquil so this is a fun spot for snorkelling. Just where you're staying, not as a tour so make sure you don't go too far out.
Unlike some other beaches on the island, there is no loud music played here during the day. Finally! A place where you can relax and unwind.
There is also a viewing platform to watch the beautiful sunrise and sunset.
If you're looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday, then think about Ao Pakarang.
Many people have also raved about the resort there, "Nimmanoradee Resort,"
which is highly rated on Booking.com.
Sunrise and Sunset Viewpoint at Ao Pakarang
They say you can have the best of both worlds here. This viewpoint is situated on a hilltop that overlooks the bay, providing panoramic sunrise and sunset views.
In the morning, you can experience the serene beauty of the sunrise at Kud Cape. In the evening, the sunset is just nearby at Pakarang Cape.
Fire shows on almost every beach
Mesmerizing fire shows on the stunning beaches of Koh Samet. As the sun sets, skilled performers light up the night with their display of fire dancing.
The rhythm of the music meets the glow of the flames.
It's a magical way to end your day in paradise!
Ao Wai
There is shade under the many trees that line the beach to escape the intense Thai sun.
Samet Ville is the name of the resort located on the beachfront,
where you can enjoy a comfortable stay.
Grab yourself a spot under a tree :D
Scuba Diving
Meet Udi, the sole PADI-certified diving instructor on Ko Samet. He provides a range of services, from recreational dives to comprehensive PADI certification courses. He eagerly awaits the opportunity to introduce you to the stunning waters surrounding Ko Samet.
Tabtim Beach
A bustling spot on Koh Samet, perfect for those who want to be in the midst of the action. While the sand may not be as clear as on other beaches there are many amenities available, including a BBQ. The nearby Tabtim Resort on the beachfront
has received high ratings online, boasting a 4-star review
Snorkelling
There are five islands surrounding Koh Samet to explore on this tour.
Begin your journey at the breathtaking Separated Sea, choosing between Koh Kham or Koh Krauy, depending on the tide, where nature's splendour greets you.
Snorkel in the clear waters around Koh Plateen, then dive into the enchanting marine life at Koh Khang Khao. Relax on the unspoiled beaches of Koh Kudee, where you can swing beneath the trees.
Ao Prao Beach
My personal favourite
Ao Prao Beach is a stunning destination on Koh Samet, with crystal-clear water and soft,
pristine sand. The beach has a peaceful atmosphere, as loud music isn't played during the day.
The resorts in the area are nothing short of amazing, including Le Vimarn Cottages and Spa,
Kerala Coco Resort, and Ao Prao Resort. These resorts offer exceptional accommodations and
amenities, the best of the best, that will make your stay at Koh Samet truly unforgettable.
You can enjoy a few drinks at one of the beachside bars, soak up the stunning ocean views, and relish the cool sea breeze. Numerous restaurants are offering delectable Thai and international dishes, a perfect spot for dinner and drinks.
TRANSPORT
Koh Samet is located off the coast of Rayong Province in southeast Thailand. To reach the island, take a ferry or speedboat from Ban Phe, a small town about a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok. You can access Ban Phe by car or public transportation, with buses departing from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai).
Ban Phe has several piers, including the main pier, Nadan Pier, and Seree Pier, all with boats to Koh Samet. The ferry ride typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the departure point and weather.
Or you can take a train from Bangkok to Rayong and then a taxi or Songthaew to Ban Phe. Ferry and speedboat services operate from early morning until late afternoon or early evening, and schedules may vary by season. Tickets can be purchased through the Asian Public Transport widget below. If you’re coming from a different location, simply adjust the information accordingly.
Once you arrive on Koh Samet, there are local taxis, motorbikes, and songthaews (pickup trucks with benches in the back) available for hire to take you to your accommodation or around the island. If you're staying near Nadan Pier, you can also easily walk to the main street with many restaurants, bars, and hotels.
ACCOMMODATION
Personal Recommendation
Le Vimarn Cottages and Spa
On Ao Prao Beach
Is widely considered the best resort on Koh Samet's most
beautiful beach and it's a popular choice among both visitors and locals.
Due to its high demand, it's recommended to make your reservation as soon as possible.
The beach features a range of luxurious 5-star resorts, which will provide you with
a great escape.
Huge array of accommodation options, ranging from basic guesthouses to luxurious resorts. The island has smany different areas where visitors can stay, depending on their preferences and budget.
If you're looking for a lively atmosphere with lots of bars and restaurants, the area around Na Dan Pier and Sai Keaw Beach is a popular choice. This area has plenty of budget-friendly guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and upscale resorts to choose from, and it's also conveniently located near the main ferry pier and many of the island's attractions.
For a quieter and more secluded experience, Ao Prao Beach, Ao Wong Duan, and Ao Kiu Na Nok are great options. These areas are located on the western side of the island and offer beautiful beaches and stunning sunset views, along with a range of resorts and bungalows.
Like I said before if you're seeking a more luxurious stay, Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa is a top-rated resort located on Ao Prao Beach, offering private villas, infinity pools, and a spa. Other high-end options include Paradee Resort and Ao Prao Resort, both located on the northern end of the island.
Tour
Pattaya - Koh Larn
Rayong - Koh Samet
Chao Lao Beach
Chanthaburi
Koh Chang
Escape to the tropical paradise of Thailand's eastern seaboard on this incredible tour.
Start in Pattaya, a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Take a ferry to Koh Larn, an idyllic island with crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
From Pattaya, travel to Rayong and visit Koh Samet, a stunning island known for its lush jungle, pristine beaches, and stunning coral reefs. Take a scenic hike to admire the breathtaking views, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Next, visit Chao Lao Beach, a quiet and serene stretch of sand surrounded by lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters. Sample delicious seafood caught fresh from the sea.
Continue your tour to Chanthaburi, a charming town known for its beautiful waterfalls and vibrant local markets. Explore the town's vibrant street life and sample delicious Thai cuisine at one of the many local street stalls.
Finally, head to Koh Chang, the largest island in the Koh Chang Marine National Park. With its stunning beaches, lush jungle, and diverse wildlife, this island is the perfect place to relax and soak up the beauty of Thailand's tropical coast. Whether you're lounging on the beach, hiking through the jungle, or exploring the island's rich marine life, Koh Chang is sure to provide a memorable experience.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of Thailand's eastern seaboard, from bustling cities and idyllic islands to serene beaches and lush jungles. With its stunning scenery, vibrant local culture, and endless opportunities for adventure, this tour is a must-see for any traveller.
Here are the organized tours available on Koh Samet:
**Snorkeling**
Experience the stunning underwater world of Koh Samet on an exciting snorkelling adventure. Discover beautiful coral reefs teeming with marine life in the pristine, crystal-clear waters.
You can explore five surrounding islands:
- **Separated Sea**: Begin your journey at this breathtaking location and choose between Koh Kham or Koh Krauy, depending on the tide, where nature's beauty awaits you.
- **Koh Plateen**: Snorkel in the clear waters and enjoy the vibrant marine life.
- **Koh Khang Khao**: Dive into the enchanting underwater ecosystems here.
- **Koh Kudee**: Relax on the unspoiled beaches and enjoy swinging beneath the trees.
**Scuba Diving**
Meet Udi, the only PADI-certified diving instructor on Koh Samet. He offers a range of services, from recreational dives to comprehensive PADI certification courses. Udi is excited to introduce you to the stunning waters surrounding Koh Samet.
