🏝️ KOH SAMET – Thailand’s Laid-Back Island Escape! 🌴

Location: Rayong Province, Thailand
Vibe: Chill | Beachy | Fun

My Visit
Spent a weekend on Koh Samet and loved every minute! It’s close to Bangkok, easy to get to, and packed with beautiful beaches, water sports, and cool nightlife. Perfect for relaxing or a bit of adventure. Not too crowded, just right!

How to Get There
🚗 Drive or bus from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier (about 3 hours)- bus +ferry 15$
⛴️ Take the ferry (30–45 min) to Na Dan Pier, Koh Samet
🛺 Songthaew (shared taxi) or scooter rental to your beach/hotel

What to Expect
🏖️ Sai Kaew Beach – biggest, most popular, lots of bars & water sports
🌊 Island hopping & snorkeling tours (from 400–1500 THB/person)
🔥 Fire shows at night (best at Ploy Talay, Sai Kaew Beach)
🍤 Fresh seafood & beachside restaurants
💆♂️ Thai massage on the sand
🛵 Easy to explore by scooter or songthaew
🧜♀️ Mermaid & fairy tale statues (Thai legends)

Costs
🪙 Budget: $55–$126 (฿2,000–4,200) per day (food, hotel, activities)
🎟️ National Park fee: 200 THB (foreigners, one-time)
🏄♂️ Jet ski: ~1500 THB/30 min | Parasailing: ~1000 THB/8 min
🍽️ Meals: 80–300 THB
🛏️ Hotels from $45/night

Pro Tips
☀️ Bring sunscreen – it gets hot!
🌅 Go early for quiet beaches
💸 Book hotels in advance (weekends get busy)
👀 Watch out for jet ski scams
📸 Great for photos, sunsets, and chill vibes

Rating: 9/10 – A fun, easy island getaway with something for everyone. Perfect for a quick escape from the city!

#summerbudgettrip #travel #beachlife