Holiday in Koh Samet

About Koh Samet

Koh Samet is a small island off the coast of Rayong Province in the Gulf of Thailand and the most popular weekend beach paradise for Bangkok residents. Just three and a half hours away by bus and ferry, Koh Samet offers dazzling white sand beaches with fine, almost squeaky coral sand that doesn't get muddy even in the rain — a unique feature that sets the island apart from other Thai beach destinations. The island is part of the Khao Läm Ya - Mu Ko Samet National Park and measures only seven kilometers in length. The most popular beaches are concentrated on the east coast: Sai Käw Beach (Diamond Beach) is the longest and liveliest with fire shows in the evening, while Ao Phai and Ao Vongdeuan offer a more relaxed atmosphere. At the southern end, Ao Wai and Ao Kiu entice with almost deserted solitude and crystal-clear water. Koh Samet benefits from an unusually dry microclimate — the island is in the rain shadow and receives significantly less rainfall than the mainland, making it a year-round travel destination. The west coast is less developed and offers stunning sunsets over the mainland. Although the island is not a diving paradise, the clear water is excellent for snorkeling, especially at the southern tip. The infrastructure ranges from simple wooden bungalows to upscale boutique resorts. Day trips from Bangkok or Pattaya are possible, but an overnight stay is worthwhile for the evening atmosphere with beach lanterns and the sound of the sea.