How to Get from Pattaya to Koh Samet

Koh Samet is one of Thailand's closest island escapes to Bangkok and Pattaya - a pristine paradise of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, yet far less developed than Phuket or Koh Samui. Located just off the coast of Rayong province, Koh Samet is the perfect tropical getaway from Pattaya. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about making this scenic coastal journey.

Transportation Options Overview

Distance: Approximately 95-110 km (59-68 miles) east from Pattaya to Ban Phe Pier, plus 30-minute ferry

🚐 Minivan + Ferry Package (Most Popular & Best Value)

Total Cost: 400-600 THB per person Total Duration: 2.5-3 hours Highly Recommended!

What's Included:

• Pickup from your Pattaya hotel
• Air-conditioned minivan to Ban Phe Pier
• Ferry ticket to Koh Samet (one-way or round-trip)
• Drop-off at your Koh Samet resort (via resort's transfer boat or songthaew)
• National Park entrance fee sometimes included (check)

How It Works:

Step 1: Book Combined Ticket

• Many tour agencies in Pattaya offer this package
• Book at your hotel tour desk
• Online: 12Go.asia, Klook, or direct with ferry companies
• Providers: Tammarind Ferry, Koh Samet Ferry

Step 2: Hotel Pickup

• Usually multiple departure times: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM
• Minivan picks up from your Pattaya hotel (or nearby meeting point)
• 12-seater minivan (sometimes full, sometimes just few passengers)

Step 3: Drive to Ban Phe Pier

• Route: Highway 3 (Sukhumvit) → Highway 36 → Highway 3 to Rayong → Ban Phe
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic and pickup route
• Air-conditioned, usually no stops (short journey)
• Scenic coastal and plantation views

Step 4: Ban Phe Pier to Koh Samet Ferry

• Main Pier: Nuanthip Pier (most common)
• Ferry ticket usually pre-arranged or bought at pier
• Ferry Types:
  • Regular Ferry: 50-70 THB, 40 minutes, slower
  • Speedboat: 100-150 THB, 15-20 minutes (included in most packages)
• National Park fee paid at pier: 200 THB foreigners, 40 THB Thais (if not included)

Step 5: Arrival at Koh Samet

• Main Piers on Island:
  • Na Dan Pier (north, main arrival point)
  • Ao Wong Duen Pier (east side, some boats)
• Songthaew (pickup truck taxi) to your beach resort: 50-100 THB
• OR walk if staying near Na Dan (10-20 minutes)
• OR resort's own boat if you booked transfer

Sample Timeline:

Morning Departure (Recommended):

• 9:00 AM: Pickup from Pattaya hotel
• 9:30 AM: Collect other passengers
• 10:00 AM: Depart Pattaya
• 11:30 AM: Arrive Ban Phe Pier
• 11:45 AM: Buy snacks, pay National Park fee
• 12:00 PM: Speedboat departs
• 12:20 PM: Arrive Koh Samet (Na Dan Pier)
• 12:30 PM: Songthaew to resort
• 1:00 PM: Check-in, lunch, beach time!

Afternoon Departure:

• 1:00 PM: Pickup from hotel
• 3:30 PM: Arrive Ban Phe
• 4:00 PM: Ferry departs
• 4:30 PM: Arrive Koh Samet
• 5:00 PM: Settle into resort, sunset beach time

Booking Options:

In Pattaya:

• Hotel tour desk (most convenient)
• Walking Street travel agencies
• Beach Road agencies
• Cost: 400-600 THB (shop around, prices vary)

Online:

• 12Go.asia: 450-600 THB, easy booking, English
• Klook: 400-550 THB, sometimes promotions
• Tammarind Ferry: Direct booking, reliable

At Bus Station:

• Pattaya Northern Bus Station has buses to Rayong/Ban Phe
• Cheaper but less convenient (see bus option below)

Pros:

✅ Door-to-door service (hotel to island) ✅ Everything arranged (no thinking required!) ✅ Good value for money ✅ Quick and efficient ✅ Meet other travelers ✅ Usually includes speedboat (faster) ✅ Multiple daily departures ✅ Easy to book last minute (except holidays)

Cons:

❌ Fixed schedule (less flexibility) ❌ Wait for other passengers sometimes ❌ May pick up from multiple hotels (adds time) ❌ Shared minivan (less private) ❌ Rush during peak season

💡 Pro Tip: Book the 9:00 AM pickup! Arrive Koh Samet by 1:00 PM with afternoon at the beach. Most packages are similar price (400-550 THB), so book one that includes speedboat AND National Park fee for best value. Check if return trip is included or one-way only. Round-trip packages (800-1,000 THB) often save money vs. buying two one-ways.

🚗 Private Taxi/Car + Ferry (Most Convenient)

Total Cost: 1,500-2,500 THB (car only, not per person) Total Duration: 2-2.5 hours Best for: Groups, families, convenience

What You Get:

• Private car or van with driver
• Pickup from your exact Pattaya location
• Direct drive to Ban Phe Pier (no stops for other passengers)
• Flexible departure time
• Driver waits or you arrange return later
• Help with ferry booking if needed

Vehicle Options:

Sedan (Camry, Accord):

• Capacity: 3 passengers + luggage
• Cost: 1,500-1,800 THB to Ban Phe
• Per Person (3 pax): 500-600 THB

Van/SUV (Fortuner, Commuter):

• Capacity: 4-8 passengers + luggage
• Cost: 2,000-2,500 THB to Ban Phe
• Per Person (6 pax): 330-420 THB

Plus Ferry:

• Speedboat: 100-150 THB per person
• National Park fee: 200 THB per person (foreigners)
• Total per person (6 in van): ~700-900 THB all-in

How to Book:

Smile Taxi Service:

• Reliable, English-speaking drivers
• Book online or phone
• Fixed prices, no haggling

Pattaya Taxi:

• Negotiate at taxi stand
• Beach Road, Walking Street areas
• Agree on price BEFORE departing

Grab/Bolt:

• Available in Pattaya
• Sometimes can book intercity
• Price varies (1,200-2,000 THB)

Hotel Concierge:

• Can arrange private transfer
• Usually reliable
• May add commission (100-300 THB)

Sample Timeline:

• 10:00 AM: Driver picks up from hotel
• 12:00 PM: Arrive Ban Phe Pier (90-120 min drive)
• 12:15 PM: Buy ferry ticket, snacks
• 12:30 PM: Speedboat departs
• 12:50 PM: Arrive Koh Samet
• 1:00 PM: Songthaew to resort
• 1:30 PM: Check-in, lunch, beach!

Pros:

✅ Complete flexibility (depart when YOU want) ✅ Fastest option (direct, no waiting) ✅ Private and comfortable ✅ Good for families/elderly (no rushing) ✅ Can stop for bathroom/food en route ✅ Cost-effective for 4+ people ✅ Luggage space (no cramped minivan) ✅ Professional drivers who know route

Cons:

❌ Expensive for solo/couples ❌ Need to arrange separately (not package) ❌ Ferry and National Park fee extra ❌ Return trip needs separate arrangement

💡 Pro Tip: If you're 4-6 people, this is THE WAY. Split among 4 people = only 500-750 THB per person all-in (including ferry) - barely more than minivan but SO much better. You control schedule, stop at 7-Eleven for snacks, arrive relaxed. Worth every baht. Book through Smile Taxi or hotel for reliability.

🚌 Public Bus + Ferry (Budget Option)

Total Cost: 250-400 THB per person Total Duration: 3-4 hours For: Budget travelers, adventurous souls

Step 1: Pattaya to Ban Phe/Rayong by Bus

Departure: Pattaya Bus Station (Northern Bus Terminal) Location: North Pattaya Road (near Dolphin Roundabout)

Getting to Bus Station from Pattaya:

• Songthaew from Beach Road/Walking Street: 10-20 THB
• Motorbike taxi: 40-60 THB
• Grab: 60-100 THB

Bus Options:

Regular Bus to Rayong:

• Cost: 80-120 THB
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Schedule: Every 30-60 minutes, 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Air-conditioned
• Drops at Rayong Bus Terminal

Minibus to Ban Phe:

• Cost: 100-150 THB
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Schedule: Less frequent, ask at station
• Direct to Ban Phe market area
• May need songthaew to pier (30-50 THB)

Step 2: Rayong Bus Terminal to Ban Phe Pier

If Bus to Rayong (not Ban Phe):

• Songthaew: 30-50 THB, 20-30 minutes
• Taxi: 150-200 THB
• Distance: 15 km from Rayong to Ban Phe

Ban Phe Pier Location:

• Main fishing town, easy to find
• Piers clustered together
• Nuanthip Pier most used for Koh Samet

Step 3: Ferry to Koh Samet

Regular Ferry:

• Cost: 50-70 THB one-way
• Duration: 40 minutes
• Schedule: Hourly from 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM (approximately)
• Slower wooden boats
• Can be crowded

Speedboat:

• Cost: 100-150 THB one-way
• Duration: 15-20 minutes
• Schedule: When full or hourly
• Faster, more expensive

National Park Fee:

• Pay at pier before boarding
• Foreigners: 200 THB
• Thais: 40 THB
• Valid for your stay (keep ticket)

Sample Timeline:

• 9:00 AM: Songthaew to Pattaya Bus Station (20 min)
• 9:30 AM: Bus departs to Rayong
• 11:00 AM: Arrive Rayong Bus Terminal
• 11:15 AM: Songthaew to Ban Phe Pier
• 11:45 AM: Arrive pier, buy ferry ticket, pay park fee
• 12:00 PM: Ferry departs
• 12:40 PM: Arrive Koh Samet (Na Dan Pier)
• 1:00 PM: Songthaew to resort
• 1:30 PM: Check-in, lunch

Total: 250-350 THB (bus 100 + songthaew 30-50 + ferry 70 + park 200 = ~400 THB with park fee)

Pros:

✅ Cheapest option ✅ Flexible (many bus times) ✅ Local experience ✅ No advance booking needed ✅ Frequent departures

Cons:

❌ Longest journey ❌ Multiple transfers (bus → songthaew → ferry) ❌ Need to navigate yourself ❌ Less comfortable ❌ Carrying luggage through transfers ❌ More time-consuming ❌ Language barrier possible

💡 Pro Tip: This is doable and saves money, but only worth it if you're VERY budget-conscious or enjoy the adventure of local transport. The minivan package (400-600 THB) is only 200 THB more and SO much easier. But if you're backpacking and every baht counts, take the 9:00-10:00 AM bus from Pattaya to arrive Koh Samet for lunch. Bring snacks for the journey and download maps.me offline map.

🏍️ Rental Motorbike + Ferry (Adventurous Option)

Cost: 200-300 THB/day rental + 100-200 THB fuel + ferry Total Duration: 2.5-3 hours For: Experienced riders, adventure seekers

Renting in Pattaya:

Where to Rent:

• Countless shops on Beach Road, Second Road, Pattaya Tai
• Hotels sometimes have rental
• Cost: 200-300 THB/day for automatic scooter (Honda Click, Yamaha NMAX)

Requirements:

• Passport (they keep it - unfortunately standard but risky)
• OR cash deposit (2,000-5,000 THB)
• International Driving Permit (legally required, rarely checked)
• Helmet included (wear it - 500 THB fine if caught)

Check Before Riding:

• Brakes work
• Lights work
• Fuel level
• Tires condition
• Take photos of existing damage

The Route:

Pattaya → Ban Phe (95-110 km depending on start point):

Route 1: Highway 3 (Sukhumvit) - Fastest

• South on Sukhumvit Road through Pattaya
• Continue on Highway 3 toward Rayong
• Follow signs to Ban Phe/Koh Samet
• Distance: 95-100 km
• Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Roads: Good condition, straight, some traffic

Route 2: Coastal Route - Scenic

• Highway 3 → detour through coastal roads near Bang Saray
• More scenic but slower
• Distance: 110-120 km
• Time: 2-2.5 hours

Navigation:

• Use Google Maps
• Set destination: "Ban Phe Pier" or "Nuanthip Pier"
• Offline maps recommended (Maps.me)

Stops En Route:

• Gas stations every 20-30 km
• 7-Eleven, coffee shops
• Scenic viewpoints near coast

At Ban Phe Pier:

Parking:

• Secure parking near pier: 50-100 THB/day
• Guarded parking lots
• Keep parking ticket

Your Bike While You're on Koh Samet:

• Option 1: Leave at Ban Phe parking (most common)
• Option 2: Some people ride bike ONTO ferry to Koh Samet
  • Ferry for bike: 100-200 THB extra
  • Koh Samet roads okay for scooters
  • But island is small, walking/resort bikes easier
  • Not recommended - leave it at Ban Phe

Sample Timeline:

• 9:00 AM: Depart Pattaya on motorbike
• 9:45 AM: Coffee/fuel stop (15 min)
• 11:00 AM: Arrive Ban Phe, park bike
• 11:30 AM: Speedboat departs
• 11:50 AM: Arrive Koh Samet
• 12:30 PM: Settle into resort

Pros:

✅ Ultimate freedom and flexibility ✅ Stop wherever you want (beaches, viewpoints, food) ✅ Cheapest option (if renting anyway) ✅ Scenic coastal ride ✅ Adventure and fun ✅ Keep bike for return trip

Cons:

❌ 100 km ride (tiring for inexperienced) ❌ Safety risks (traffic, unfamiliar roads) ❌ Hot sun (wear sunscreen!) ❌ Need riding experience ❌ Parking fees ❌ Bike sitting at pier for days (security concern) ❌ Legally need International Driving Permit

Safety Notes:

• Wear helmet ALWAYS
• Obey speed limits (don't ride like locals!)
• Stay hydrated
• Thai roads can be dangerous (defensive driving)
• No riding if tired or after drinking

💡 Pro Tip: Only do this if you're an experienced rider and ENJOY riding. The coastal Highway 3 is actually quite pleasant - not too much traffic mid-morning, ocean views, good road. But it's HOT and tiring. Bring neck scarf for sun protection, water bottle, sunglasses. Start early (8:00-9:00 AM) before heat peaks. The freedom to stop at random beaches or viewpoints is genuinely fun. But if you're nervous on bikes, take the minivan - this isn't the time to learn!

🚗 Rental Car + Ferry (Family/Group Option)

Cost: 1,000-1,500 THB/day + fuel ~300 THB + ferry Total Duration: 2-2.5 hours Best for: Families, small groups who want flexibility

Renting in Pattaya:

Where:

• Budget: 800-1,200 THB/day
• Sixt, Avis: 1,200-2,000 THB/day
• Hotel concierge can arrange

Requirements:

• Passport
• International Driving Permit (REQUIRED for insurance)
• Credit card (deposit)
• 21+ years old (some companies 23+)

Vehicle Types:

• Small car (Honda City): 800-1,200 THB/day
• SUV (Fortuner): 1,500-2,000 THB/day
• Van (Commuter): 2,000-2,500 THB/day

The Drive:

Same Route as Motorbike:

• Highway 3 (Sukhumvit) south
• Follow signs to Rayong, then Ban Phe
• ~100 km, 1.5-2 hours
• Easy drive, good roads

Parking at Ban Phe:

• Secure lots: 100-200 THB/day
• Guarded
• Car stays there while you're on island

Ferry:

• Same as other options
• Speedboat 100-150 THB per person
• National Park 200 THB per person

Costs for Family of 4:

• Car rental: 1,200 THB/day
• Fuel: 300 THB
• Parking (3 days): 300 THB
• Ferry: 600 THB (4 people x 150)
• Park fees: 800 THB (4 people x 200)
• Total: ~3,200 THB for family of 4

Compare to:

• Minivan package: 400 x 4 = 1,600 THB (saves 1,600 THB!)
• Private taxi: 2,000 THB + ferry 600 + park 800 = 3,400 THB (similar)

Pros:

✅ Flexibility to stop, explore ✅ Air-conditioned comfort ✅ Luggage space ✅ Good for families with kids ✅ Can explore Pattaya area on return too

Cons:

❌ Expensive for short trip (just to Koh Samet) ❌ Car sits in parking for days ❌ Fuel and parking add up ❌ Need International Driving Permit ❌ Responsible for car (insurance, damage)

💡 Pro Tip: Only rent car if you ALSO want to explore Rayong area, visit fruit plantations, or road trip on return. For JUST Pattaya → Koh Samet → Pattaya, the minivan package or private taxi makes more sense (cheaper and easier). But if you're doing a coastal road trip (Pattaya → Rayong → Chanthaburi → Trat over a week), then yes, rent a car!

🗺️ Understanding Koh Samet

Island Basics:

Size: Small - only 6.5 km long, 2.3 km wide Location: 6.5 km off Rayong coast Status: Part of Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park (hence the entrance fee) Nearest City: Rayong (15 km from pier) From Pattaya: ~100 km east

Geography:

East Side (Sunrise):

• Most developed
• Best beaches
• Most resorts and restaurants
• Protected from southwest monsoon
• Beaches: Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Hin Khok, Ao Phai, Ao Wong Duen, Ao Thian, Ao Wai

West Side (Sunset):

• Rocky, less developed
• Fewer beaches
• Quieter
• Ao Prao (main west beach - beautiful for sunset)

North:

• Na Dan Village (main pier and village)
• Shops, restaurants, minimarts
• Not a beach destination

South:

• Quieter, fewer resorts
• Ao Kiu beaches
• More budget/hippie vibe

Main Beaches (East Side, North to South):

1. Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) - Most Popular

• Longest beach on island (1 km)
• White sand, clear water
• MOST crowded
• Lots of resorts (budget to mid-range)
• Beach bars, restaurants, nightlife
• Water sports available
• 5-minute walk from Na Dan Pier

2. Ao Hin Khok

• Next to Sai Kaew (south)
• Slightly quieter but still busy
• Good swimming
• Naga Statue landmark

3. Ao Phai (Coconut Bay)

• Popular with backpackers
• Lively nightlife (fire shows)
• Budget to mid-range resorts
• Good beach, nice vibe

4. Ao Wong Duen

• Large bay, horseshoe shape
• Family-friendly
• Mix of budget and mid-range
• Some boats arrive here (alternative pier)
• Restaurants, bars, water sports

5. Ao Thian (Candlelight Beach)

• Smaller, quieter
• Good snorkeling (rocky areas)
• Mid-range resorts
• Romantic setting

6. Ao Wai

• Far south (end of road)
• Very quiet
• Budget bungalows
• Snorkeling
• Long walk or songthaew needed

West Side:

Ao Prao

• Only developed west beach
• Beautiful sunset views
• Upscale resorts (more expensive)
• Rocky in parts
• Quieter, more private
• Harder to access (songthaew from Na Dan 100-150 THB)

Getting Around Koh Samet:

Songthaew (Pickup Truck Taxi):

• From Na Dan Pier to beaches:
  • Hat Sai Kaew: 50 THB
  • Ao Phai: 70 THB
  • Ao Wong Duen: 100 THB
  • Ao Wai: 150 THB
  • Ao Prao (west): 100-150 THB
• Fixed routes and prices (posted at pier)
• Shared service (leaves when full)

Walking:

• Na Dan to Sai Kaew: 1.5 km, 20 minutes (easy)
• Between beaches: Possible but hot and hilly
• Main road connects east beaches
• Paths between some beaches

Motorbike Rental:

• 300-400 THB/day
• Not necessary (island is small)
• Roads okay but hilly
• Only useful if staying far south

Bicycle:

• Some resorts rent bikes
• 100-150 THB/day
• Hilly sections tough

Resort Boat:

• Some resorts have own boats from Ban Phe
• Usually more expensive
• Direct to resort beach

Best: Walk between northern beaches, songthaew for longer distances. Island is small and walking is pleasant (except midday heat).

🎯 Recommended Options by Traveler Type

Weekend Couples

Minivan Package (400-600 THB) Easy, affordable, everything arranged. More budget for romantic dinners!

Families with Kids

Private Taxi/Car (split cost) No rushing, bathroom stops anytime, comfort. Worth it with kids.

Budget Backpackers

Public Bus + Ferry (250-350 THB) Cheapest option. Adventure, local experience, save money for beach parties.

Groups of 4-6

Private Van (per person 400-600 THB) Split cost makes it reasonable, convenient, arrive together.

Adventure Seekers

Motorbike Ride + Ferry (300-400 THB total) Freedom, scenic ride, fun. Only if experienced rider.

Large Families (6+)

Rent Van + Ferry Most economical when split, most comfortable, flexibility.

📅 Sample Itineraries

2-Day Weekend Escape:

Friday:

• 3:00 PM: Finish work, pickup from hotel
• 5:30 PM: Arrive Koh Samet
• 6:30 PM: Check-in, freshen up
• 7:30 PM: Sunset beach walk
• 8:00 PM: Seafood dinner on beach
• 9:00 PM: Fire show at Ao Phai

Saturday:

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast
• 9:00 AM: Beach time, swimming
• 12:00 PM: Lunch at beach restaurant
• 2:00 PM: Snorkeling or water sports
• 5:00 PM: Sunset watching
• 7:00 PM: Dinner
• 9:00 PM: Beach bars

Sunday:

• 7:00 AM: Sunrise walk
• 8:00 AM: Breakfast
• 10:00 AM: Last beach swim
• 12:00 PM: Check-out, lunch
• 1:00 PM: Ferry back
• 3:30 PM: Arrive Pattaya

3-Day Relaxation:

Day 1: (As Friday above)

Day 2:

• Island hopping tour
• Snorkeling spots
• Visit multiple beaches
• Beach BBQ

Day 3:

• Kayaking or SUP
• Explore southern beaches
• Afternoon: return to Pattaya

💡 Essential Tips

Best Time to Visit:

High Season (Nov-Feb):

• Weather: Perfect 25-30°C, sunny, dry
• Sea: Calm, clear, ideal
• Crowds: More tourists (but Samet never as crowded as Phuket)
• Prices: Peak rates
• Best: December-January

Hot Season (Mar-May):

• Weather: Hot 30-35°C, sunny
• Sea: Warm, good swimming
• Crowds: Thai holidays (Songkran mid-April) = packed
• Prices: Variable

Rainy Season (Jun-Oct):

• Weather: Afternoon rain, stormy at times
• Sea: Can be rough, less ideal
• Crowds: Fewer tourists, quiet
• Prices: Low season discounts 30-50%
• Note: Jun-Jul okay, Aug-Oct rainier

Best Overall: November-February (perfect weather, calm seas)

National Park Rules:

Entrance Fee:

• Foreigners: 200 THB
• Thais: 40 THB
• Valid for your stay (keep ticket)
• Paid at pier before ferry

Park Rules:

• No littering (enforced)
• No loud music after 10 PM (mostly)
• No camping on beaches (designated areas only)
• No fires (except designated BBQ spots)
• Coral protection (no standing on coral)

Why It's a National Park:

• Protects marine life and coral
• Keeps development somewhat controlled
• Maintains natural beauty
• Fee goes toward conservation (theoretically)

What to Pack:

Beach Essentials:

• ✅ Swimwear (multiple)
• ✅ Sunscreen SPF50+ (CRITICAL - sun is strong)
• ✅ Reef-safe sunscreen (protect coral)
• ✅ Sunglasses and hat
• ✅ Beach cover-up
• ✅ Flip-flops and water shoes (rocky areas)
• ✅ Waterproof phone case/bag
• ✅ Snorkel mask (can rent but own is better)

Other:

• ✅ Light clothes (breezy, quick-dry)
• ✅ Light jacket (boat ride can be breezy)
• ✅ Mosquito repellent (evenings)
• ✅ Basic first aid (cuts from rocks)
• ✅ Cash (ATM on island but limited)

Don't Need:

• ❌ Formal clothes (ultra casual)
• ❌ Heavy luggage (minimal packing)
• ❌ Heels (sandy beaches!)

Money:

ATMs on Koh Samet:

• At Na Dan village (near pier)
• 7-Eleven at Sai Kaew
• 220 THB fee per withdrawal
• Sometimes run out of cash (weekends)
• Bring enough cash from Pattaya/Ban Phe

Costs on Island:

• Accommodation: 500-1,000 THB budget, 1,500-3,000 THB mid-range, 4,000+ THB resort
• Meals: 80-150 THB local restaurant, 200-400 THB beachfront
• Beer: 80-100 THB local shop, 120-180 THB beach bar
• Water sports: Jet ski 1,000 THB/30min, kayak 200 THB/hour, SUP 300 THB/hour
• Snorkeling trip: 500-800 THB
• Massage: 300-400 THB/hour

Credit Cards:

• Resorts accept cards
• Many restaurants/shops cash only
• Bring cash!

Accommodation Tips:

Book Ahead:

• Weekends: 1-2 weeks ahead (especially high season)
• Holidays: 2-4 weeks ahead
• Weekdays: Can sometimes walk in (low season)

Where to Stay:

• Sai Kaew: Most options, lively, convenient but crowded
• Ao Phai: Backpacker vibe, nightlife, budget-friendly
• Ao Wong Duen: Families, quieter but still accessible
• Ao Wai: Quiet, budget, far from action
• Ao Prao (west): Upscale, sunset, pricey, quiet

Types:

• Beach bungalows: 500-1,500 THB, basic, steps from beach
• Mid-range resorts: 1,500-3,000 THB, pool, better facilities
• Luxury: 4,000-8,000+ THB, spa, fine dining, upscale

🏖️ What to Do on Koh Samet

Beach Activities:

Swimming:

• All east beaches good for swimming
• Clear, warm water
• Watch for rocks in some areas
• Calm seas (except monsoon season)

Snorkeling:

• Best spots: Ao Thian, Ao Wai, rocky areas
• Rent gear: 100-150 THB/day
• See colorful fish, coral (don't touch!)
• Better snorkeling at nearby islands (tours available)

Water Sports:

• Jet Ski: 1,000-1,500 THB per 30 minutes
• Banana Boat: 300-400 THB per person
• Kayak: 200-300 THB per hour
• SUP (Paddleboard): 300-400 THB per hour
• Parasailing: 1,000-1,500 THB
• Available at Sai Kaew, Wong Duen

Beaches:

• Best for swimming: Sai Kaew, Wong Duen
• Best for quiet: Ao Wai, southern beaches
• Best for sunset: Ao Prao (west side)
• Best for nightlife: Ao Phai

Day Trips & Tours:

Island Hopping:

• Cost: 800-1,200 THB
• Visit nearby islands
• Better snorkeling
• Lunch included
• Islands: Koh Thalu, Koh Kruai
• Book at travel agencies on island

Fishing Trips:

• Half-day: 800-1,500 THB
• Equipment included
• Early morning best

Nightlife:

Fire Shows:

• Ao Phai beaches: Nightly fire dancing shows
• Free to watch (buy drinks)
• Around 9:00-10:00 PM
• Impressive performers

Beach Bars:

• Open-air bars along beaches
• Reggae, EDM, chill music
• Bucket drinks (250-350 THB)
• Naga Bar (Sai Kaew): Popular
• Silver Sand (Phai): Fire shows
• Jep's Bar (Wong Duen): Chill vibe

Note: Koh Samet nightlife is FUN but not wild like Pattaya. More relaxed, beach vibe.

Other Activities:

Viewpoints:

• Hike to hilltop viewpoints
• Sunrise/sunset spots
• Short trails between beaches

Massage:

• Beach massage: 200-300 THB/hour
• Thai massage
• Relaxing with ocean sounds

Village Exploration:

• Na Dan village (near pier)
• Local shops, 7-Eleven
• Restaurants
• Authentic Thai town (small)

Chill:

• Hammock time
• Beach reading
• Sunset watching
• This is OKAY - Samet is for relaxing!

🍜 Food on Koh Samet

What to Eat:

Seafood:

• Fresh catch daily
• Grilled fish, prawns, squid, crab
• 150-400 THB depending on size/type
• Best: Beachfront BBQ restaurants

Thai Classics:

• Pad Thai: 80-120 THB
• Fried Rice: 70-100 THB
• Tom Yum Soup: 100-150 THB
• Green Curry: 120-180 THB

International:

• Burgers, pizza available (200-300 THB)
• Breakfast (Western): 150-250 THB
• Not amazing quality but available

Where to Eat:

Budget (80-150 THB/meal):

• Local restaurants in Na Dan
• Small eateries behind beaches
• 7-Eleven (sandwiches, instant noodles)

Mid-range (150-400 THB/meal):

• Beachfront restaurants (most)
• Fresh seafood BBQ
• Thai and international menus
• Good spots: Restaurants along Sai Kaew, Phai, Wong Duen

Resort Dining (400-800 THB):

• Nicer resorts have restaurants
• Better presentation, service
• Pricier
• Romantic atmosphere

Best Dining:

• Pick a beachfront spot at sunset
• Order grilled seafood platter (300-500 THB)
• Cold beer (80-120 THB)
• Toes in sand, waves lapping
• THIS is why you came to Koh Samet

⚠️ Important Warnings

Safety:

Generally Very Safe:

• Low crime
• Theft rare (but lock valuables)
• Safe to walk at night

But Watch For:

• Strong sun (serious burns possible)
• Dehydration (drink water!)
• Rocks when swimming (water shoes help)
• Jellyfish (rare but possible)
• Drunk jet ski operators (avoid)

Monsoon Season:

June-October:

• Seas can be rough
• Ferries may cancel
• Less ideal for swimming
• Some resorts close
• Check weather before booking

Jet Ski Scam:

The Scam:

• Rent jet ski
• They claim you damaged it
• Demand money for "repairs"

Prevention:

• Inspect thoroughly before riding
• Take photos/video of condition
• Bring a witness
• Get receipt with condition noted
• OR skip jet skis (not worth the risk)

Trash & Environment:

Please:

• Don't litter (it's a National Park!)
• Use reef-safe sunscreen
• Don't touch coral
• Take only photos
• Respect marine life

Sadly:

• Some beaches have trash issues (despite park status)
• Do your part to keep it clean

🎁 Final Recommendations

Best Overall Option:

Minivan + Ferry Package (400-600 THB)

Why: ✅ Best value for money ✅ Door-to-door convenience (hotel to island) ✅ Everything arranged (ferry, transfers) ✅ Easy and stress-free ✅ Usually includes speedboat ✅ Good for all traveler types ✅ Easy to book (hotel, online, agencies)

Book 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM pickup for perfect timing - arrive Koh Samet by early afternoon, full evening at beach.

Best for Groups (4+ people):

Private Taxi/Van (400-600 THB per person when split)

Why: ✅ Similar cost to minivan when divided ✅ Much more convenience ✅ Flexibility in timing ✅ No waiting for others ✅ Direct service ✅ Worth it for families/groups

Budget Champion:

Public Bus + Ferry (250-350 THB)

Why: ✅ Cheapest option ✅ Local experience ✅ Totally doable (if you don't mind transfers) ✅ Save money for beach time

Only if: You're comfortable navigating, carrying luggage through transfers, and have extra time.

Adventure Option:

Motorbike + Ferry (300-400 THB total)

Why: ✅ Freedom and flexibility ✅ Scenic coastal ride ✅ Stop at viewpoints, beaches ✅ Fun if you enjoy riding

Only if: Experienced rider, have IDP, comfortable with 100 km ride.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Koh Samet is the PERFECT escape from Pattaya:

• Close enough for weekend trip (2-3 hours)
• Far enough to feel like a real island getaway
• Beautiful beaches but not overdeveloped
• Lively enough (beach bars, fire shows) but not crazy
• Great seafood, swimming, relaxing

The Common Mistake: Trying to do too much. Koh Samet rewards SLOW. This isn't an island for sightseeing temples or museums. It's for:

• Waking up when you feel like it
• Breakfast on the beach
• Swimming until you're wrinkly
• Napping in a hammock
• Sunset with a beer
• Fresh grilled fish for dinner
• Fire shows and beach bars
• Repeating

Pro Tip: Pick ONE beach and stay there. Don't hop around. Get to know your beach, your little restaurant, the local massage lady, the best sunset spot. Koh Samet is small - you can walk the whole east side in a day if you want. But that's not the point.

Book the 9:00 AM minivan package (400-500 THB). Arrive by 1:00 PM. Check into your bungalow on Ao Phai or Sai Kaew. Change into swimsuit. Walk into that crystal-clear water. Float on your back looking at blue sky. This is what you came for. Everything else is just details.

See you on the beach!

Questions about Koh Samet beaches, where to stay, or what to do? Happy to help!