Are you traveling to Thailand soon and looking for budget-friendly options for a beach getaway not too far from Bangkok? Then Koh Samed is an excellent option for you!
It’s our second time visiting Koh Samed, and we like it for its family and kid-friendly calm beaches, fine sand, and, most of all, fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation and food.
Koh Samet – Island in Rayong, Thailand
While Phuket and Krabi are more popular choices for tourists, Koh Samed can be a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Accessibility
Koh Samet is only 168km from Bangkok, about a 2.5-3-hour drive followed by a 15-minute ferry ride. It’s a convenient location for those looking to spend only a few days on a beach without taking a flight or a whole day in transit.
We rented a van to drop off and fetch us at the pier at only 2,000 THB per way. But you can also take the bus from Ekkamai at 250 THB per head. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your departure time. Ferries are readily available at the pier, but it’s more convenient to pre-book it through your resort of choice so you also know which pier to get off at.
Less Crowded Beaches
Sometimes, a quieter environment adds to the beauty of the place. Koh Samet has fewer tourists than popular ones like Krabi or Phuket, so you can enjoy its crystal-clear waters and white sand a lot.
More Affordable Accommodation and Food
While Thailand is considered an affordable destination, going to provinces like Rayong puts it on another level. Accommodations on the island range from budget-friendly guesthouses to beachfront bungalows (and, of course, there are luxury resorts, too), so you can afford to stay longer or have your escape without having to break the bank.
As for the food, meals can start for as low as 60 THB if you eat at the business center in Saikeaw. Resorts also offer decent food options, from local dishes to Western cuisine. However, it is relatively pricier than the average range. In our experience, meals above 100 THB usually have bigger portions, so you can share them.
Activities for Every Taste: From Relaxation to Adventure
Koh Samet has something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer to unwind by the shore. Snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping are popular activities, and if you’d like to explore the whole island, motorcycles are available for rent; bring our driver’s license!
Koh Samet National Park
Koh Samet is part of the Khao Laem Ya–Mu Ko Samet National Park, which values preserving its natural beauty. Visitors pay a national park fee of 200 THB per head and are encouraged to respect the environment and participate in eco-friendly activities, ensuring that the island remains an untouched paradise for generations to come.
When to Visit: Finding the Perfect Time
Thailand can be extremely hot in the summer and then rainy right after. To make the most of your Koh Samet experience, plan your visit during the dry season (November to February). During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm, which are the optimal conditions for beach activities.
Koh Samet is an idyllic destination for those seeking a quieter, more affordable Thai beach getaway. With its accessibility, uncrowded beaches, diverse activities, and budget-friendly accommodations, this often-overlooked island is sure to captivate your heart as the perfect weekend escape with family or friends.
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Our recommendations and links
Koh Samed Resort: Sangthian Beach Resort
Airport Hotel: Gate43 Suvharnabumi Hotel
Van Rental: Van Bangkok Travel Rental Thailand (Facebook)
Transport Around Bangkok: Grab
Mark x Abi 