| | | Koh Samet
Ko Samet
Koh Samet (Thaïlande)
| | | | Koh Samet is one of the Eastern Seaboard Islands of Thailand. It is located in the Gulf of Thailand off the coastline of the Thai province of Rayong, approximately 220 km southeast of Bangkok. | | Koh Samet : Virtual tour |  | 5 sections and 3 items |
 Koh Samet : Place(s) (5)
|  | Ban Phe Piers
There are difference ferry services from Ban Phe. Nuan Thip Pier (0 3865 1956), Phe Pier (0 3889 6155-6) and Sri Ban Phe Pier (0 3865 1901) to Samet Island everyday.
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|  | Hat Sai Kaew Beach
Diamond Beach
Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) One of the most beautiful and most popular beaches on Koh Samet, Hat Sai Kaew is 1 kilometer long and 25/30 meters wide.
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|  | Ao Noi Na Beach (2)
Ao Hin Khok
Ao Noi Na, which is located near Hat Sai Kaew, has a different ambience to Hat Sai Kaew. It is quieter and therefore more suitable for those looking to relax on the white, sandy beach.
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|  | Ao Phai Beach (1)
Located close to Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Pai is therefore quite crowded. For visitors interested in sunbathing, this is the good place as swimming is not recommended as there is whirlpool on the sea. It is designated by a red flag.
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| | Koh Samet : Visit Guide | |
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Transportation
Most of Koh Samet, including all of the good parts, is part of Khao Laem Ya and Mu Koh Samet National Park and has an entry fee. Thais pay 40 baht, foreigners 200 baht - a classic example of Thai dual pricing. This two-tier pricing policy is applicable to all national parks. If you can explain, however, that you actually live or work in Thailand, then you may not have to pay the 'tourist' price. If your ferry arrives at the main pier and you take a songthaew to the beaches, there will be a stop at the main ticket checkpoint. If your ferry arrives at one of the beaches, an officer will collect the fee as you step out of the surf. Note that there is plenty of foot traffic in and out of the park to the 7-Eleven, ATM or other shops and restaurants and if you have no bags you can nonchalantly walk into the park without anyone checking your ticket. There is a road via the temple which avoids the checkpoint entirely.
By Car
There are many routes from Bangkok to Rayong :
- 1. Driving along Sukhumvit road (Highway n° 3)- Passing Bangpu, Chonburi town, Bangsaen, Sri Racha, Pattaya, Jomtien Beach, Sattahip, Banchang and get into the centre of Rayong province. The total distance is approximately 220 kilometres.
- 2. Taking Bangna-Trat road (Highway n° 34) - Off the Highway n° 3 at Chaloen Nakorn Toll Plaza through Pang Phi and Bang Bo of Samut Prakarn province and connect with the Sukhumvit road (Highway n° 3) at 70th kilometres. The total distance of this route is approximately 220 kilometres.
- 3. Drive along the Sukhumvit road (Highway No. 3) from Bangkok to Banglamung then off at 140th kilometres that connected with Highway n° 36 and take about 70 kilometres to Rayong. The total is about 176 kilometres.
- 4. Taking Highway n° 344 to Chonburi - Through Ban Bung, Nong Yai, Wang Chan and end at Klang district, Rayong province. Total distance is 180 kilometres.
- 5. Driving along Motoway from Pattanakarn road to Pattaya and followed by Highway n° 36 about 50 kilometres to Rayong province.
By Air
Bangkok Airways has operated a flight daily from Phuket and Samui to U-taphao Airport. For more information contact Bangkok Airways at number (0 2265 5678) or travel agents.
By Bus
The 1st class bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) to Ban Phe usually takes 3.5 hours, costs 178 baht, and terminates opposite the ferry piers (there's no direct service to Ban Phe from Moh Chit - nearest alternative is to Rayong, from there you can take a songthaew to Ban Phe). If you take a regular bus from Pattaya or Sattahip, you'll need to take a songthaew or charter a tuk-tuk to the ferry piers. Minibus services go straight to the piers.
For Ekamai Station
- Rayong Tour Company : 0 2712 3662
- Cherdchai Tour Company : 0 2391 2237
- Khonsong Co. Ltd. : 0 231 2504
For Mo-Chit Station
- Rayong Tour Company : 0 2936 1216
- Cherdchai Tour Company : 0 2936 0199
- Khonsong Co., Ltd. : 0 2936 2852 to 311
From Rayong to Bangkok
Buses from Rayong to Bangkok are available from 03 :00-21 :30
- Rayong Tour Company : 0 3886 1354-5
- Cherdchai Tour Company : 0 3867 4144 (Samyan), 0 3861 1528 (Phe)
- Khonsong Co., Ltd. : 0 3861 1378
- Nakornchai Air Company : 0 3861 6009
Ferries from Ban Phe to Koh Samet take around 30 to 45 minutes. Only buy a one-way ticket, as there's no discount on round-trip tickets and you won't have to worry about losing it or finding that your ticket isn't valid for the most convenient return ferry. The ticket sellers may also offer to sell you the national park ticket - don't bother.
Ferry from Phe to Samet Island
There are difference ferry services from Ban Phe - Nuan Thip Pier (0 3865 1956), Phe Pier (0 3889 6155-6) and Sri Ban Phe Pier (0 3865 1901) to Samet Island everyday. The trip take about half and hour. Fare ranges from 50-150 baht. Hiring private boat is also available. Transportation on Samet Island is local bus services and on foot.
Alternatively, there are 2 speedboat companies that operate from the Phe Pier. A speedboat prices can range from 600B to NaaDaan pier to a few thousand baht for the outer-lying bays and beaches.
The nearest airport fielding commercial flights is U-Tapao, just east of Sattahip - about 45km from Ban Phe - however it only has flights to Ko Samui and Phuket.
There are direct 1st class bus services between Rayong and Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
Get around
Getting around on Koh Samet : The island has only a single main road. Some parts are concrete and some parts are only a dirt trail. There are two methods to get around the island. The first is by songthaew (usually a rather well-worn pickup truck with two benches in the back and no roof), which costs 200 baht for a private trip, or between 20 and 60 baht per person for a full car, depending on which beach you are going to. This is a rather expensive method to get around the island, and the dusty roads can make it an uncomfortable trip. The second way is by renting a motorcycle. Signs advertise 300 baht per day or 100 baht per hour, but when you go to enquire about renting they will often say 400 or 500 baht per day. Insist on paying 300 baht. That is for mechanic moto. If you want to get automatic one, you will pay 400 Baht per day. You will usually be able to rent it from the hotel you are staying at. Leaving your passport or a deposit is not necessary or advisable. Warning : Only hire a bike from a reputable hotel and not some dodgy agent; he could be a scammer. You can also rent/hire an ATV/Quad/4x4 for 1600 baht/day
Boat
Koh Samet has 5 piers : Ao Klang, Ao Phrao, Ao Wong Duen, Ao Thian and Ao Wai. Ao Klang Pier is the port to mainland. The rest are piers for diving and excursions. | | Koh Samet : Description | |
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Koh Samet is part of the Phe District of the Amphoe Mueang Rayong of Rayong province. Koh Samet is the largest and westernmost of a cluster of islands not far from the coast.
The island derives its name from the cajeput tree found throughout the island, as the Thai language word for cajeput is samet. In the past, this island has also been referred to by its colloquial name, Ko Kaew Phitsadan, or the "Magic Crystal Island".
The Island
Popular with foreign tourists and as a weekend getaway for residents of nearby Bangkok, most of the island (excluding the Na Dan area) belongs to the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Koh Samet National Park. In 1981, the Royal Forest Department declared the archipelago of Samet, along with nine other small islands, the headland of Khao Laem Ya, and 11 kilometer Mae Rampeung Beach to be a National Park, and is thus Koh Samet is under the protection of the National Parks Division of the Thai Government.
Samet
View Larger Map
Travel to and from Koh Samet is typically via the small local port at Ban Phe on the coast. Travelers from Bangkok frequently travel by bus, with departures to Ban Phe from Bangkok's Eastern Bus terminal, the Ekamai bus station, and travel time from Bangkok to Ban Phe of approximately 3-1/2 hours. Owing to the island's close proximity to the coast, just 7 km offshore, boats travel casually from Ban Phe to Koh Samet in approximately 30 minutes.
Geography and Climate
Located just 200km from the capital in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samet is approximately 13.1 km2 in size, and shaped somewhat like a letter "t". Along the length of the "t" (north-south) the island measures approximately 7 km, and measures 4 km across the "t" (west-east). Forest remains blanket up to 80% of the total area.
Closest to the Rayong coast, lies the small island port village of Na Dan, commonly known as Koh Samet Village, with its popular nearby beach Hat Sai Gaew, the longest beach on Koh Samet. Most of Koh Samet's beaches lie along the eastern shore of the island. Other beaches on the island include : Ao Phai, Ao Wai, Ao Kui Na Nai, Ao Cho, Ao Kui Na Nok, Ao Vong Duern, Cape Khut, Ao Toei, and Ao Korang at the southern tip, and Ao Prao on the western shore of the island. Just off the southern tip of the island are three small rock-islands, Ko Jan (Moon Island; Thai), Ko San Chalam (Shark Fin Island), and Hin Khao (White Rock).
Koh Samet is one of the driest archipelagos in Thailand. Koh Samet gets significantly less rainfall than Rayong Province, even though it is only a few kilometres offshore. The island's "rainy season" extends only from May to July, but even during this season it has less rain that other islands in Thailand. The island despite being arid, consists of lush forested hills, covered with evergreen and deciduous forest and cajeput trees grow abundantly. Owing to the lack of rain, Koh Samet still ships in potable water to the island.
Administration
Koh Samet is under the administration of Pe Sub-district, Muang District, Rayong Province.
Get around
Getting around on Koh Samet : The island has only a single main road. Some parts are concrete and some parts are only a dirt trail. There are two methods to get around the island. The first is by songthaew (usually a rather well-worn pickup truck with two benches in the back and no roof), which costs 200 baht for a private trip, or between 20 and 60 baht per person for a full car, depending on which beach you are going to. This is a rather expensive method to get around the island, and the dusty roads can make it an uncomfortable trip. The second way is by renting a motorcycle. Signs advertise 300 baht per day or 100 baht per hour, but when you go to enquire about renting they will often say 400 or 500 baht per day. Insist on paying 300 baht. That is for mechanic moto. If you want to get automatic one, you will pay 400 Baht per day. You will usually be able to rent it from the hotel you are staying at. Leaving your passport or a deposit is not necessary or advisable. Warning : Only hire a bike from a reputable hotel and not some dodgy agent; he could be a scammer. You can also rent/hire an ATV/Quad/4x4 for 1600 baht/day
Boat
Koh Samet has 5 piers : Ao Klang, Ao Phrao, Ao Wong Duen, Ao Thian and Ao Wai. Ao Klang Pier is the port to mainland. The rest are piers for diving and excursions.
Tourism
As Koh Samet is so near Bangkok, the island is ideal for those in the capital wanting to chill-out with their families for a couple of days, without having to go through all that rigmarole of having to travel down south. Koh Samet has developed steadily over the past decade or so, but it hasn't been the victim of over zealous construction which has hit the likes of Ko Samui or even Ko Chang. The island is typified for its splendid beaches and white silky sand, surrounded by tropical coral reefs and crystal clear sea. Tourists can also enjoy a plethora of delicious cuisine and fine nightlife.
Sights
Most beaches are on the eastern side of the island. The beaches hide in small bays and stretch some 200 metres. From the north, there are Hat Sai Kaeo, Hat Hin Khrong, Hat Khlong Phai, Ao Phutsa, Ao Thapthim, Ao Naun, Ao Cho, Ao Thian, Ao Wai, Ao Kio Na Yok and Ao Karang. The only beach on the western side is Ao Phrao. One of the famous beaches is Ao Wong Duean in the middle of the eastern side. This beach stretches in the shape of an almost complete circle. Both Ao Wong Duean and Hat Sai Kaeo have very fine white sand.
Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach)
One of the most beautiful and most popular beaches on Koh Samet, Hat Sai Kaew is 1 kilometer long and 25/30 meters wide. The name speaks for itself, Hat Sai Kaew, which literally means Crystal Sand Beach, is a nice beach filled with activities. From dusk to dawn, it is the place for sunbathing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing, riding on a banana boat or even partying at night.
Ao Noi Na
Ao Noi Na, which is located near Hat Sai Kaew, has a different ambience to Hat Sai Kaew. It is quieter and therefore more suitable for those looking to relax on the white, sandy beach.
Ao Pai
Located close to Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Pai is therefore quite crowded. For visitors interested in sunbathing, this is the good place as swimming is not recommended as there is whirlpool on the sea. It is designated by a red flag.
Ao Phutsa
Ao Put Sa is a small bay on Koh Samet which draws repeat visitors intent on relaxing. Suitable for those who are tired of crowded beaches and nightlife activities, Ao Put Sa offers a quiet natural retreat.
Ao Thapthim
Ao Tub Tim, which is set in a peaceful atmosphere, is located near Ao Put Sa and is well known for its white sand and clear water. Ao Tub Tim has a small, cozy resort, which provides nice services in a well decorated compound.
Ao Wong Deuan
Ao Wong Deuan is the second largest beach on the island (the first being Hat Sai Kaew). Ao Wong Deuan attracts tourist groups during both the high and low seasons due to its beach and good accommodation. On top of this, seafood restaurants with nice views are also available.
Ao Wai
Ao Wai is located within a short walking distance of Candlelight Beach. Shaded by coconut trees, the beach is quite and scenic.
Ao Kiu Nok
This bay is decent for those planning to keep their distance from the busy, crowded beaches and nightlife. From Aow Kiew Nok, visitors can actually walk to Aow Kiew Nai is the ideal spot on the island to see the sun rise and sun set.
Ao Karang
This is the best place on the island to experience the traditional lifestyle of the residents of Koh Samet, is at Ao Karang, where there also are a number of seafood restaurants providing seafood dishes.
Ao Phrao
Ao Prow is one of the quietest beaches of Koh Samet. Located quite far away from the nightlife of Koh Samet. Ao Prow is preferred by travelers who quietly enjoy the sea, swimming and sand.
Snorkeling/Diving
The Koh Samet area is a popular for divers and snorkelers due its close proximity to Bangkok and abundance of clear water, colorful coral and diversity of marine life such as : turtles, tiger sharks and manta rays. Two of the most favoured locations for diving around Koh Samet are Ko Talu and Ko Kud. Tourists can take a tour around the island and go snorkeling off the rocky uninhabited western side, or around the reefs at the southern tip. Scuba diving excursions can be arranged at Vong Duang.
Boat Trips
These are arranged to take tourists (either by slow boat or speedboat) around the island to snorkeling and diving spots.
Windsurfing
With its rocky coastline and offshore winds, north of Hat Sai Kaew is a good location for windsurfing.
the main roads are massage shops.
Massage
On the beach there are countless masseurs offering their massage service. Of the beach on the main roads are massage shops.
Shopping
Koh Samet doesn't have much in the way of shopping beyond basic beach accessories (sarongs, T-shirts, etc). But, there are high quality crystal products and reed products. Good quality crystals are usually sold at the Lotus Crystal Factory.
Nightlife
There are bar-beers at virtually every beach, nearly all of them on Hat Sai Kaew have hostesses. Besides bars there isn't much else but restaurants selling alcohol.
Local Culture
Story has it that Thailand's most famous poet, the Sunthorn Phu, set his classic Phra Aphai Manee on Koh Samet. The story revolves around a giantess who captured the revered Phra Aprai Manee and held him there. Subsequently, he was able to escape and married a delightful mermaid and lived happily ever after. There is a statue of him at Hat Sai Kaew.
Life-style
Thai Buddhism is a large part of the people's lives on Koh Samet and so there are some temples scattered around. Many of the folk on Koh Samet however, are not originally from the island, but moved there to make a decent living through tourism.
Events/Festivals
- Rayong Fruit Festival : In May of each year, Rayong's fruit reaches its peak season. The venue for celebration is always changed between Mueang and Klaeng districts. Tourists can enjoy floats decorated with fruits, fruit contests, beauty contests, as well as fruit and seafood fair.
- Sunthon Phu Day : Organised on June 26 of each year at Sunthon Phu Monument, Klaeng district, to honour him. There are also exhibitions and plays from his poetry.
- Changing the robe for Phra Chedi Klang Nam : The annual traditional event is held during the full moon night of the 12th lunar month, or in November. The robe blanketing around the pagoda in the middle of the Rayong River, in Mueang district, will be changed. Meanwhile, the people celebrate the event along with the Loi Krathong Festival by boat racing and many kinds of local entertainment.
- Thot Pha Pa Klang Nam (Waterborne Robe Offering Ceremony) : During the Loi Krathong Festival of each year, or on the full moon night of November, people living near the mouth of the Prasae River prepare a monk's robe at the pier. After completing the ceremony on the boat, a monk comes to get it. Normally, the robe offering ceremony is held at the temple. This special tradition has been inherited for over a century.
Local Food
Popular local food in Koh Samet includes fried durian and fruits which also includes rambutan and mangosteen. The province is also well-known for its seafood products such as : shrimp paste, fish sauce, dried shrimp, squid, octopus and other dried seafood.
Medical Health Care
On Koh Samet, there is one hospital near Sai Kaew beach, but for anything serious it's better to return to Bangkok. For nothing too severe there are plenty of clinics and pharmacies in the main areas.
Retirement
More and more foreigners are living on Koh Samet, many of them retirees. A favourite spot for them are on the beaches. There are some other retirees though, who reside in quieter locations away from the tourist scene.
Media/Contact
Nationwide television, cable TVs, local cable TV channels are available in Koh Samet . International newspapers and magazines are available at the tourist spots.
Landline telephones, satellite phones, all mobile phone systems, high-speed internet (ADSL), post offices and parcel services are available in province. | | Koh Samet : History | |
It is believed that once upon a time, Koh Samet was the home of pirates and that until this very day there is still lost treasure buried somewhere on the island.
The classical Thai Poet, Sunthorn Phu (1786-1855), set part of his epic work, Phra Aphai Mani (sometimes transliterated as Pra Apaimanee), on the shores of the island. [3] Statues of the title character, Prince Aphai Mani and the siren/mermaid which guided him to Koh Samet can be found on the Hat Sai Gaew beach.
Even though Bangkokians had known about the beauty of Koh Samet for decades before, the Thai government put this island off limits and restricted overnight stay there; that was until 1981. In that year, on 1 October, the Forestry Department of Thailand declared Koh Samet and its surrounding to be a national park. | | Koh Samet : More pictures | |
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Public holidays in Thailand
Public holidays in Thailand are regulated by the government, and most are observed by both the public and private sectors.
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