Koh Samet | Rayong

◉ Recommended attractions in each bay

1. Lively, full of activity and vibrant at night (North-Upper Eastern Zone)

• Sai Kaew Beach: The longest, widest, and most popular beach on the island. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is fine and white. During the day, it's bustling with water sports (jet skis, banana boats), while in the evening, the beach transforms into a vibrant scene with restaurants, cafes, and comfortable beanbag chairs. A particular highlight is the spectacular fire show.

• Ao Pai: Located right next to Sai Kaew Beach (within walking distance), it offers a similar but slightly smaller atmosphere. Popular with young people and foreign tourists, it attracts visitors in the evenings with its beach bars and relaxed restaurants.

• Ao Hin Khok: A small bay between Sai Kaew Beach and Ao Pai with beautiful rock formations. Statues of a mermaid and Phra Aphai Mani can be found here. The atmosphere is a mix of lively and relaxing.

2. Relaxing, balanced atmosphere (Not too quiet, not too crowded) (Central-Eastern Zone)

• Ao Wong Duean: A beautiful, crescent-shaped bay. It is the second largest bay after Sai Kaew Beach. It offers all amenities such as restaurants, accommodations, mini-markets, and beach bars, but it is not as crowded as Sai Kaew Beach and is therefore ideal for families.

• Ao Tubtim (Ao Phutsa): A small, tree-shaded bay with a warm atmosphere, ideal for sunbathing, reading, and relaxing by the sea. The water is calm and clear, perfect for swimming.

• Ao Cho: A small bay next to Ao Wong Duean with a long wooden jetty extending into the sea – a beautiful spot for taking photos and checking in. There's a relaxed atmosphere here, and you can unwind and listen to music in the Rasta Bar.

3. For the indie scene that loves peace and privacy (Southeast Zone)

The Ao Lung Dam is distinguished by its classic wooden jetty extending into the sea (often mentioned in reviews). The atmosphere is friendly and typical of backpackers. It's a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise and is good for fishing, especially squid fishing.

• Ao Saeng Thian: A bay of exceptional natural beauty. Calm and peaceful, with stunning rock formations, white sand, and crystal-clear water. Ideal for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

• Ao Nuan: A small, mysterious bay. The sand is partly mixed with rocks, but there is incredible peace and quiet as there are almost no buildings – perfect for anyone seeking peace and seclusion.

• Ao Wai: A beach with incredibly fine, clear, white sand. It is an exceptionally quiet and clean bay, shaded by a row of beach cypress trees, and ideal for swimming and undisturbed relaxation.

• Ao Kiu (Ao Kiu Nok / Ao Kiu Nai): This bay in the southern part of the island is very exclusive and home to luxury resorts. Its unique feature is that you can walk from the east to the west side and observe both the sunrise and sunset up close.

• Ao Pakarang: This viewpoint, the southernmost point of Koh Samet, offers a pristine, natural atmosphere with shallow coral reefs and rocks and is perfect for snorkeling and watching the sunset.

4. For those seeking luxury and romance at sunset. (West side)

• Ao Phrao: This bay is the only one on the west side of Koh Samet (almost all other bays are located on the east side). Known for its luxury and privacy, it is considered the most beautiful spot on Koh Samet to enjoy the sunset. The bay boasts a long stretch of white sand, clear water, and relatively calm waves. Exclusive resorts are located here, making it ideal for couples or honeymooners.

• If easy access, readily available food and parties are important to you: We recommend Sai Kaew Beach, Ao Pai and Ao Wong Duean.

• If you value relaxation, peace and quiet, a beautiful sea and relaxing photo opportunities: We recommend Ao Phrao, Ao Wai and Ao Cho.

• Traveling between the bays is easy; you can hire a motorbike to travel on the concrete roads around the island, or use the green shared taxis.

Koh Samet boasts a multitude of fine, white sandy beaches. Among the most famous beaches of Samet are Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Noi Na, Ao Luk Yon, Ao Phai, Ao Putsa, Ao Tubtim, Ao Lung Dum, Ao Cho, Ao Tawan, Ao Wong Duean, Ao Thian, Ao Wai, Ao Kiu, Ao Pakarang, Ao Karang and Ao Phrao.

Besides its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear sea, Koh Samet offers so many other activities that it is perfect as a holiday destination for groups, families or couples.

Highlights

Sai Kaew Beach: The island's liveliest beach with numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes – ideal for those who enjoy a good time. A particular highlight is the evening fire show on the beach.

Ao Prao: A quiet and secluded bay with beautiful water and one of the most breathtaking sunsets on the island.

Ao Pai and Ao Wong Duean: Relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding, not too crowded, with plenty of accommodation and restaurants.

Take a boat trip for snorkeling and visit nearby islands such as Koh Kudi or Koh Thalu and take photos with the sea butterfly statue.

Relax in beach clubs like Winkks Beach Club at Sai Kaew Beach.