Thailand Koh Samet Guide: Clear Water, White Sand, Few People, Relax for 3 Days at 800 RMB

After visiting Thailand five times, I finally discovered a "non-mainstream" hidden gem—Koh Samet. Compared to the crowded Phuket and the high prices of Koh Samui, this small island tucked away in Rayong Province feels like a secret garden favored by the gods, even loved by locals seeking peace and quiet.

The first time I arrived, escaping the hustle and bustle of Pattaya, I took a one-hour ferry to the island and was instantly stunned: the sea water was layered shades of blue, near the shore it was a clear mint green, gradually deepening to sapphire blue further out. The sand felt like fine flour underfoot, and even the shells shimmered with a pearly glow. The best part was that even in peak season, walking along the coastline for 10 minutes, you could always find a stretch of beach all to yourself—no need to compete for umbrellas, and the sea breeze felt like a private luxury.

Many people think Koh Samet is too small to spend more than a few days, but the island’s "slow pleasures" are hidden in every detail. With a good plan, you can enjoy a unique sense of relaxation.

First, understand the transportation: avoid overpriced transfers and save half the money with local options.

You can’t fly directly to Koh Samet; you must first get to Ban Phe Pier in Rayong Province, then take a ferry to the island. Don’t trust taxis at the airport charging 500 THB; public transport is convenient and cheap.

- From Bangkok: The most cost-effective way is to take the BTS to Ekkamai Bus Station, buy a bus ticket to Rayong for 150 THB per person, a 2.5-hour direct ride to Ban Phe Pier. After getting off, walk 5 minutes to the pier. Ferry tickets are only 80 THB per person, with departures every 30 minutes. No need to book in advance; just board with your luggage.

- From Pattaya: There are minibuses from Pattaya Bus Station directly to Ban Phe Pier for 100 THB per person, taking about an hour—saving over 300 THB compared to taxis. Avoid the 2 PM heat; it’s better to take the 9 AM or 4 PM bus to enjoy the seaside sunset along the way.

Once on the island, no need to rent a motorbike (the island’s small roads are tricky for beginners). Renting an electric bike is the most comfortable option, 200 THB per day, and one charge can cover the whole island. Remember to ask the owner for a helmet and a hand-drawn map marking all the hidden beaches clearly.

How to choose a beach? Three “characteristic beaches” for different needs.

Koh Samet’s beaches each have their own personality; not all beaches suit everyone. Picking the right one makes your trip more enjoyable.

- Ao Phai Beach: The top choice for families. The water here is the shallowest, only knee-deep 10 meters out, and the beach has no pebbles. Kids can run barefoot chasing little crabs and collecting shells. Many family-run guesthouses line the shore, where owners provide sand toys for children. At night, you can pitch a tent on the beach to stargaze, creating a more atmospheric experience than staying in a hotel.

- Hat Sai Ri Beach: A must-visit for couples. This is the island’s most “romantic” beach. At dusk, the sunset dyes the sea orange-red, and the coconut trees cast long shadows, creating a “Thai-style Kenting” vibe in every photo. Several seaside restaurants serve Thai pineapple fried rice paired with chilled coconut water—watching the sun slowly sink into the sea here is more romantic than any candlelight dinner.

- Ao Wong Duan Beach: Perfect for solo relaxation. This beach is the most secluded, with no commercial restaurants or shops, only a few minimalist thatched huts. Come here at sunrise to hear only the sound of waves and birds. Sit on a lounge chair, daydream or read a book, and you’ll want to switch your phone to airplane mode. Remember to bring bottled water and snacks, as buying things here is inconvenient.

Besides lounging, these three experiences are a must; otherwise, your trip is incomplete.

Don’t think Koh Samet is just about the sea; there are many “off-the-beaten-path” activities even locals might not know.

1. Go clam digging at 4 AM: Check the tide schedule in advance and go with local fishermen about an hour before and after low tide to dig for small seafood on the beach. Bring gloves and a small shovel to find clams, little crabs, and if lucky, starfish. After digging, take your catch to a nearby restaurant for processing. For just 50 THB, you can enjoy the freshest seafood meal, cheaper and cleaner than night markets.

2. Rent a long-tail boat for “uninhabited island snorkeling”: Avoid the fixed snorkeling tours on the island. Rent a long-tail boat directly from fishermen for 800 THB for 3 hours, visiting three uninhabited islands. The snorkeling spot at Koh Kham is amazing, with 10-meter underwater visibility, schools of tropical fish, and even gentle starfish you can touch. Bring bread crumbs to attract fish for great photos.

3. Visit the Koh Samet night market: Unlike the big night markets in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, this one is small but full of local life. Try the Thai stir-fried flat noodles, cooked fresh on a griddle with crushed peanuts and lime juice, 100 THB for a large portion. Also, the mango sticky rice is a must—mangoes as sweet as honey and sticky rice soaked in coconut milk, so good you’ll want to take some home. The market also has handmade jewelry stalls; shell necklaces cost only 200 THB, offering great value.

Accommodation tips: Avoid staying near the pier; these two areas are more comfortable.

Many people stay near the pier for convenience, but it’s noisy and expensive. The truly comfortable stays are in these two areas:

- Central area (near Hat Sai Ri Beach): Ideal for those who want easy access to food and shopping. Many mid-range guesthouses offer sea view rooms with balconies for 300-500 RMB per night. It’s a 5-minute walk to the night market and convenience stores. Recommended is Koh Samet Resort, which has a private beach, morning yoga by the sea, and free Thai massage sessions in the evening.

- Northern area (near Ao Wong Duan Beach): Perfect for those seeking tranquility. Accommodations here are mostly thatched villa-style, with private pools for 600-800 RMB per night and ocean views right from your window. There are no streetlights at night, only moonlight, and you can fall asleep to the sound of waves—excellent sleep quality guaranteed.

Finally, a reminder: these three “small details” will make your trip smoother.

1. There are no ATMs on the island, so be sure to withdraw enough cash at Ban Phe Pier. Both Thai baht and RMB are accepted, but the exchange rate for RMB is not as good, so it’s better to exchange baht in advance.

2. Sunscreen is a must! The island’s UV rays are very strong, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen and wear long-sleeve swimwear or sun-protective clothing to avoid sunburn.

3. Respect local customs: Remove shoes when entering temples, don’t touch others’ heads, and don’t litter on the beach. Being a civilized traveler helps keep this small island beautiful.

Travel doesn’t always have to be to popular spots. Sometimes a small, lesser-known island can bring more surprises. Koh Samet is like a glass of iced Thai milk tea—refreshingly sweet at first sip, with a subtle tea aroma that lingers. If you want to escape city stress and relax for a few days, Koh Samet will definitely not disappoint.