a travel guide to Ko Samet

One might think that a beach destination near Bangkok would have fallen victim to the mass tourism and commercialism typical of Thailand's most popular coastal resorts. Fortunately, that would be a mistake; the island of Ko Samet is a relaxed retreat, perfect for families taking the short trip from the capital.

Since the journey from Bangkok to Ko Samet takes only three hours by taxi or car, the island is a popular weekend destination for city dwellers. However, widespread commercialization has been prevented by the island's location within the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park.

The park helps to make the beaches feel much more natural, especially when moving from the populated areas to the beaches further south.

Arrival

Ban Phe Pier in Rayong Province is the mainland port with boat connections to Koh Samet and is located about 200 km (125 miles) outside of Bangkok. It is most easily reached by bus or private car/taxi.

Taxis or private transport services are the most expensive (around US$70 per ride), but offer the greatest comfort: you will be picked up from your hotel in Bangkok and dropped off directly at the pier after a 2.5-hour journey.

Public transport to Ban Phe Pier from Bangkok departs from either the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) or Victory Monument. Buses from Ekkamai cost 173 baht (US$6), and minivans from Victory Monument cost 250 baht (US$8). Both stop directly opposite Ban Phe Pier. An alternative route, departing from the Mo Chit Bus Terminal, only stops in Rayong; from there, a further journey to Ban Phe by songthaew (shared taxi) is required.

From Ban Phe, public ferries and speedboats will take you either to Nadan Pier or directly to the beach in front of your resort. One-way trips cost from 50 baht (approximately US$2), while direct beach departures are more expensive.

Upon arrival at Nadan Pier, you can either walk to your resort or take one of the green songthaews (100 baht / US$3 per ride). Direct beach access requires wading through shallow water, but porters will carry your luggage ashore.

Once on the island, you can get around on foot, by taking a songthaew (shared taxi), or by renting a motorbike at your resort. A motorbike allows you to explore Ko Samet at your own pace.

Best time to visit: Plan your visit during the dry season between October and April, when the sea is calmer (better visibility for diving) and the winds are cooler. Compared to mainland Thailand, Ko Samet has a drier microclimate with less rainfall, even during the monsoon season.

locomotion

The island's accommodations are mainly located along the beaches of the east coast, particularly near Samet Town and Hat Sai Kaew. Further south, you'll find more rustic huts at lower prices.

Hotels on Ao Prao on the west coast tend to be more upscale, with correspondingly higher room rates and greater comfort. On outlying islands like Ko Kudi, however, there are campsites. Book your stay on Ko Samet in advance if you are planning a weekend trip or a visit during the peak season from November to February and June to August.

Activities in Ko Samet

After spending time on the pristine beaches of Ko Samet, a trip out to sea is a must. Several smaller islands nearby offer secluded coves and vibrant underwater landscapes just waiting to be explored by adventurous snorkelers or divers.

Rent a boat that picks you up from Nadan Pier on Samet and explore the islands east of Ko Samet, including Ko Kudi with its secluded beach, hiking trails, and the impressive Nin Mungkhorn cliff overlooking the sea. Nearby is Ko Thalu, a haven for wildlife such as seagulls, turtles, and bats above the water, as well as coral reefs below. The small islands of Ko Kruai, Ko Kham, and Ko Pla Tin are also worth a visit.

Boat connections from Ko Samet range from spacious, slow-moving boats to speedboats for smaller groups. Most hotels offer the option of booking boat trips at reception, though availability is weather dependent. Lunch on one of the island's beaches is usually included.

Specialized dive centers in Ko Samet offer similar tours, but these focus on nearby dive sites. Thanks to the lower tourist density in Samet compared to other Thai beach resorts, divers here have more opportunities for personalized instruction from a dive instructor and greater flexibility in dive planning. The diving season around Ko Samet runs from September to April.

The most beautiful tropical beaches in Koh Samet

Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach)

Most of Ko Samet's white sand beaches are located on the island's east coast, most notably Hat Sai Kaew, right next to the town center. This beach, also known as Diamond Beach, is the island's most popular tourist destination, with its large resorts and diverse water sports offerings. The vibrant nightlife can be found at the southern end of Hat Sai Kaew.

Ao Hin Khok, Ao Phai and Ao Tubtim (Ao Phut Sa)

Backpackers especially appreciate the beaches south of Hat Sai Kaew: Ao Hin Khok and Ao Phai. They are somewhat reminiscent of Khao San Road, only located on an island, with affordable resorts, bars and beach restaurants that attract a young, carefree crowd.

Ao Tubtim (Ao Phut Sa), located south of Ao Phai, feels secluded despite the nearby resorts and restaurants. This makes Ao Tubtim an ideal choice for couples and families.

Ao Vong Duan, Ao Lung Dum and Ao Wai

The southernmost beaches appear more pristine and are completely deserted. There you'll find Ao Vong Duan, Samet's second-longest beach, ideally situated for jet skiing and other water sports. Ao Lung Dum is a small bay with low-lying, rentable huts. Ao Wai is a shady, white-sand beach with a single resort offering accommodation and meals.

Ao Prao (West Coast)

Ao Prao, a single beach on the west coast, is home to a considerable number of mid-range to luxury resorts. As a result, Ao Prao feels rather quiet and tranquil: no water sports, no screaming children, just a fine, white sandy beach where you can enjoy a breathtaking sunset with a cocktail in hand.

Selected articles about Ko Samet

A guide to stargazing in Thailand: The best places for stargazing, national parks and planetariums

In short: Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's best destinations for stargazing, with certified star parks, mountain viewpoints, island paradises,...

Visiting Thailand with children: A family-friendly travel guide

Planning a family-friendly holiday that offers something for everyone is often easier said than done, especially when you have small children...

Women's History Month: 5 influential Thai women

This list was compiled to mark Women's History Month. Women in Thailand occupy a special place in history…

Do you need travel information?

Discover everything you need to know before your trip – from visa requirements and entry guidelines to essential travel tips and frequently asked questions.