Thailand

In the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Koh Samet is a trendy beach resort for tourists and the Thai jet-set. Here's a closer look.

Perched on a rock, a prince plays magical tunes on his flute for his beloved mermaid. This statue of a hero from a famous Thai poem captivates the minds of all visitors during their time on Koh Samet. It overlooks the magnificent Hat Sai Kaew Beach, one of the most touristic in the archipelago. Coastal tourism began in the mid-1980s, when Bangkok students made Koh Samet a destination for escape and romance. Since the 20th century, the island has undergone significant urban transformation, being invaded by luxury tourism complexes. Travelers from all corners of the globe come here to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. It's a very fashionable beach destination off the coast of Rayong, about 220 kilometers from Bangkok.

History

The name Koh Samet comes from the "cajeput" tree, which grows abundantly on its hills. Locals derive a lucrative income from the cajeput oil extracted from its leaves and branches. In the 13th century, Ko Samet served as a stopover for sailors and a retreat for pirates.

However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the island gained recognition when Sunthorn Phu chose it as the setting for his famous poem, Phra Aphai Mani, which tells the unfortunate love story of a Thai prince with a beautiful blonde-haired mermaid. This literary masterpiece spread throughout Thailand, helping to publicize the island in the media.

Koh Samet today

Koh Samet and tourism are now inseparable. The tropical forest covers 80% of the territory, which is 7 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide. In recent years, residents have suffered from a shortage of drinking water due to drought, but the housing boom has added additional pressure. In fact, the local government is torn between the need to protect the natural environment and the ambition to establish itself as a luxury beach resort. While the coastal front boasts a good number of hotels, bungalows, and recreational facilities, Koh Samet Island was declared a "protected site," along with nine other neighboring islands, under a royal decree issued in 1981. It is an integral part of Khao Laem Ya National Park. Thus, during your stay on Koh Samet, tourists have the opportunity to combine a seaside vacation with a dreamy stroll in the woods.

Koh Samet is mainly visited on weekends by Bangkok city dwellers who come here to unwind and enjoy water activities. Foreign tourists also visit for the same reason.

Activities to do on Koh Samet

Beach outing

Shaped like a "T," Koh Samet Island covers an area of approximately 13 km2. Many beaches line the eastern coast of the island, while on the west coast, the secluded and peaceful Ao Phrao Beach is mainly frequented by the Thai jet-set. With its shallow waters, it's ideal for swimming. To broaden your choice, here's a list of the most popular beaches on Koh Samet:

Ao Wong Duean

Nestled in a pleasant bay, Ao Wong Duean, with its four beachfront establishments, is located north of Ao Cho. Its 400 meters of shoreline make it the second-largest beach on the island in terms of size. Both beaches are equal in quality with their white sand and clear waters, except that the smaller one resembles a family vacation spot while a noisy and festive atmosphere prevails on Ao Wong Duean Beach. Relax in the shade of umbrellas or take a reconnaissance tour of the coastal species. If you want to go scuba diving or snorkeling, you can rent equipment from specialized establishments along the beach.

Ao Tubtim

This dreamy beach is reminiscent of Koh Samui with its white sand and tropical vegetation lining the shore.

Ao Nuan

This small secluded beach is pleasing to vacationers seeking an intimate spot. It can be accessed on foot from Ao Tubtim Beach.

Haad Sai Kaew

Stretching about 1 km, this seaside promenade holds the record for attendance among the island's beaches, followed by Ao Wong Duean. Many Thai and foreign tourists gather here each year. Buoy rings, folding chairs, and other recreational equipment can be rented cheaply from hotel resorts. Days are filled with the comings and goings of jet skis and windsurfing boards. While sunbathers spend their time sunbathing on their loungers, children frolic in the warm water. The animation at Haad Sai Kaew continues until nightfall with barbecues, DJ remixes, and fire shows.

One of the must-dos in Koh Samet is to have a photo session near the statue of Phra Aphai Mani standing on the beach. It depicts a Thai prince playing the flute on a reef for a mermaid.

Ao Hin Khok

The sand is fine, and the clear shallow water is inviting for swimming. There are few shaded spots for those looking to perfect their tan.

Ao Phai

This beach is located between Haad Sai Kaew and Ao Tubtim. The fine sand is interspersed with rocks in some places. The waters around Ao Phai are known for harboring exceptional marine life.

Scuba diving at Koh Samet

If you enjoy underwater hiking, you will undoubtedly appreciate your stay at Koh Samet. The bay east of the island is a favorite refuge for diving. Among the aquatic species that roam the seabed in this area are, among others, porcupine fish, sea turtles, manta rays, tiger sharks, and barracudas. Additionally, night diving is widespread at Koh Samet. And for good reason, the activity of ocean hosts intensifies more during the night.

Discovering local gastronomy

To taste local specialties, head to one of the restaurants along the shore. Seafood takes center stage at all tables in the town. In the dessert chapter, there is the banana roti to absolutely taste. This crispy pancake with a chocolate sauce topping is a local tradition. 

Climate

The little paradise Koh Samet is subject to a microclimate. Although located not far from Rayong Province, the island receives little precipitation compared to its neighbor. It is recommended to go during the sunniest months between October and February.

How to get there?

From Bangkok, take a bus at the Ekkamai terminal to reach the Ban Phe pier located south of the capital, in Rayong province. The journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. From there, take one of the boats moored at the port. The crossing time varies depending on the boat: 45 minutes by ferry at a price of 50 baht and 10 minutes by speedboat at a price of 200 baht.

Once you reach the small marina of Koh Samet, located in the northeast part, head to the main Haad Sai Kaew beach to pay your entrance fee. Remember, this island is a national park. The entrance fee is 250 baht per person.

Going to Ban Phe by minivan

To quickly reach the Ban Phe port from Bangkok, you can also take a minivan. You will find many such vehicles parked at the Victory Monument. Departures are scheduled every hour, and the round-trip fare ranges from 300 baht to 400 baht.

Getting around Koh Samet

By Songthaew

Songthaews are pick-up trucks adapted for passenger transport in Thailand. They serve all neighborhoods in Koh Samet. For a more comfortable journey, you can rent one privately.

By motorbike

Locals often offer tourists to rent their motorbikes. The rental price usually ranges around 300 baht per day. However, before taking the bike, check it from all angles to spot any potential damage to the fairing. If necessary, take photos and videos as evidence. This precaution will prevent you from being ripped off by an unscrupulous owner. For your information, on the island, traffic moves on the left.