One Day on Koh Samet
Koh Samet is one of the closest islands you can get to from Bangkok in Thailand and it’s kind of a hidden gem! A lot of my friends in Bangkok have been to this island and told me a lot of great things. When I went, I couldn’t believe how beautiful the beaches were and it’s so close to Bangkok too.
It only takes about 3 hours to get to this island from Bangkok so it is a great weekend getaway - and one of the few options where you don’t need to fly to get to a stunning Thai island beach.
Things to Do & See
Chill on the beach and go snorkeling
I believe most people go to Koh Samet for just one thing: chilling on the beach and swimming in the clear waters. The beaches on this tiny island are quite stunning and the sand amazingly soft. I loved reading my book on the beach, sipping a coconut and going for a dip in the clear water.
There’s also a number of great snorkel spots, especially around the rocks.
A number of lovely snorkel places:
Ao Prao - on the west side, is the calmer side and the best location to spot some fishes
Ao Wai - another great spot for snorkeling, where you can spot giant clams
Go Kayaking
Kayaking around Koh Samet is a peaceful way to explore the island from a different perspective. Paddle along the coastline to discover hidden coves, quiet beaches, and crystal-clear waters you wouldn’t reach on foot. It’s slow, calming, and one of the best ways to soak in the island’s natural beauty.
Go hiking and explore the island by foot
Since Koh Samet is a relatively small island, you can easily discover it by foot. Stroll along the beaches and find hidden and beautiful photo spots on the rocks. Especially right before sunset, a hike will make some perfect shots.
Hike up to hills overlooking Ao Kiu Na Nok or jungle paths linking quieter beaches for stunning panoramas and unforgettable views.
Rent a scooter
If you don’t feel like hiking, then another option to explore the island is by renting a scooter. You can then easily visit all the small coves and beaches around the island. Renting a scooter on Koh Samet for a full day is around 300-400 THB, which is around 10 euros, so it’s super cheap.
Discover the mermaid statues
There is a Thai legend about an ogress that turned herself into a beautiful woman to be with a prince. However, the prince finds out about the deception and escapes with the help of a mermaid. The legend is more complicated than my simple explanation, but there are a few statues in Koh Samet that you can find that are related to this story. Here you can find the mermaid statue and when you arrive at the port, you will see the ogress statue.
Where to Eat & Drink Coffee
You definitely won’t go hungry on Koh Samet as there are so many restaurants on the island. Most of the offer Thai food and especially sea food.
Koh Samet is also know for it’s Roti - there are a number of Roti places on the island, so be sure to try some.
Here are a few other places I tried and would recommend:
Reef Bar & Restaurant - Serves both local Thai dishes as well as Western options. I really enjoyed their coconut coffee!
V Cafe - This little cafe is part of the hotel next to it, and serves great coffee and Thai food
Lamoon Cafe - for what is probably the best coffee on the island, visit this cafe close to the main pier
La Luna Pizzeria - If you’re craving some western food, then try this restaurant in the Northern part of the island
Where to Stay
There are a number of bungalows and hotels all across the island at different price points. Of course, the nicest ones are the ones right on the beach.
Here are a few options:
Budget
Sangthianbeach Resort Koh Samed – Simple beachfront accommodation just steps from the sand, ideal if you want great value and easy beach access without spending much.
Apache Loongdum Bungalow – A cozy bungalow-style stay with a laid-back island vibe at a very wallet-friendly price.
Mid-Range
Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa – Highly rated boutique cottages with tropical gardens, a spa, and easy access to the beach and local eateries.
Baan Ploy Sea – Stylish beachfront resort with sea views and relaxed vibes, great for couples or longer stays.
Higher End
Paradee – Luxury beachfront resort with private villas, exceptional service, and a tranquil setting — perfect for a special getaway.
Samed Tamarind Beach Resort – Elegant resort on a quieter beach with great sunset views, ideal if you want scenery and serenity.
When To Go
Koh Samet is lovely to go to all year round, but the best time is probably during dry season, from November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. Bear in mind that high season is December to January, so prices rise quite a bit.
The other times of the year are fine as well, but there may be some tropical rain showers in the afternoon and evening.
How To Get There
It only takes about 3 - 4 hours to get to Koh Samet from Bangkok.
Your first need to get a bus or a private car to the pier - called Ban Phe Pier. The bus leaves from Ekkamai bus station and you can find tickets here on 12go.asia or you can get them directly at the bus terminal. The buses are quite comfortable, with air conditioning and they also do rest stops.
Then you can either get the speedboat (e.g. White Shark speedboat) to the island, which takes about 15 minutes or the regular ferry service which takes about 25-30 minutes.
I would recommend to take the speed boat, because it’s faster and not super expensive, and it also often takes your right to your hotel, which is very convenient.
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