Koh Samet Island Guide 2025
Discover Koh Samet, Bangkok's closest beach escape. Perfect for weekend getaways with white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and easy accessibility.
About Koh Samet
Koh Samet is a small tropical island just 200km southeast of Bangkok, making it the capital's most accessible beach destination. This T-shaped island in Rayong province is part of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park and famous for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Unlike many Thai islands, Koh Samet has minimal rainfall year-round, making it perfect for quick escapes from Bangkok's urban chaos. The island attracts weekend warriors, families, and couples seeking a quick tropical fix without long travel times.
Best Beaches & Areas
Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach)
Best for: First-time visitors, families, convenience
Most popular and developed beach with white sand and plenty of restaurants, bars, and accommodation. Closest to the pier with best facilities but also most crowded.
Ao Hin Khok
Best for: Budget travelers, backpackers, nightlife
Rocky bay with budget accommodations and beach bars. Famous for its fire shows and party atmosphere. More affordable dining and accommodation options.
Ao Phai (Paradise Bay)
Best for: Day trips, swimming, water sports
Beautiful curved beach with clear water and soft sand. Popular for day trips with banana boat rides, jet skis, and parasailing available.
Ao Wong Duen
Best for: Families, quieter atmosphere, mid-range resorts
Crescent-shaped bay on the east coast with calmer waters. Less crowded than main beaches with several mid-range resorts and family-friendly atmosphere.
Ao Wai & Ao Kiu
Best for: Couples, luxury seekers, privacy
Secluded beaches on the south end with upscale resorts. More expensive but offer privacy, romantic settings, and premium amenities.
Climate & Weather
Hot Season
Mar - May
30-35°C, very dry. Peak heat but minimal rain, clear skies.
Rainy Season
Jun - Oct
28-32°C, some rain. Less rain than mainland, still visitable.
Cool Season
Nov - Feb
26-30°C, perfect weather. Peak season, crowded weekends.
Activities & Attractions
- •Beach Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, jet skiing
- •Water Sports: Snorkeling, banana boats, parasailing, kayaking
- •Island Hopping: Boat trips to nearby smaller islands
- •Nightlife: Beach bars, fire shows, beachfront dining
- •Hiking: Short trails to viewpoints and quiet beaches
- •Fishing: Shore fishing and boat fishing trips
- •Massage: Beachside Thai massages and spa treatments
- •Photography: Stunning sunrises and sunsets for Instagram
Accommodation Costs
Budget
฿500-1,500/night
- • Hostels and guesthouses
- • Fan rooms, shared bathrooms
- • Basic beachfront bungalows
- • Backpacker areas like Ao Hin Khok
Mid-Range
฿1,500-4,000/night
- • AC beach resorts
- • Swimming pools
- • Breakfast included
- • Hat Sai Kaew area
Luxury
฿4,000-15,000/night
- • High-end beach resorts
- • Spa services
- • Private beach access
- • Ao Wai premium locations
Getting There & Transportation
From Bangkok
Bus + Ferry: 3-4 hours total. Buses from Ekkamai or Mo Chit to Ban Phe pier, then 15-minute ferry. Most economical option.
Private Transfer: 2.5-3 hours direct to pier. More expensive but convenient, especially with luggage or groups.
Ferry Services
Regular ferries from Ban Phe pier (฿50-70). Speedboats available (฿200-300). First ferry around 7 AM, last ferry around 6 PM. More frequent on weekends.
On-Island Transport
Songthaews (shared taxis) connect all beaches. Walking possible between some areas. Motorbike taxis for quick trips. No cars allowed for tourists.
Food & Dining
Koh Samet offers diverse dining from beach stalls to upscale restaurants:
- •Fresh Seafood: Grilled fish, prawns, and crab at beachfront restaurants
- •Thai Favorites: Pad thai, som tam, green curry at local eateries
- •BBQ Nights: Many resorts offer beachfront BBQ buffets
- •International: Western food available but limited and pricey
- •Tropical Fruits: Fresh mango, coconut, and tropical smoothies
💡 Koh Samet Tips:
- • Book accommodation in advance for weekends and holidays
- • Bring cash - few ATMs on island and they charge high fees
- • Pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent - island prices are inflated
- • National park entrance fee ฿200 for foreigners
- • Avoid weekends and Thai holidays for better prices and fewer crowds
- • Last ferry usually around 6 PM - don't miss it!
- • Electricity may be limited in budget accommodations
- • Respect the national park rules - no fires on beaches
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