Koh Samet is a great travel destination where you can visit and do very little besides enjoying water sports or lying about in the sand.
Unlike most tourist destinations in Thailand, Koh Samet is an extremely laid back and relaxed place to visit where locals offer a wide range of things to do which include pampering massage treatments as well as extreme water sports such as scuba diving, parasailing or jet skiing.
This place has something for everyone. Koh Samet is a beautiful and quiet island located in the gulf of Thailand just three hours from Bangkok. It is most famous for its serene atmosphere and relaxing beaches where both locals and internationals tourists can have a great time.
About Koh Samet
This island is conveniently located just 200 kilometers from Bangkok making it a popular weekend destination for Thais seeking an escape from the city. Great seafood restaurants, beachside bars as well as an excellent selection of resorts and bungalows make this small island a perfect travel destination.
Although this island is less developed than other popular islands such as Koh Samui and Koh Chang, its good selection of day trips and clean beaches make it a favorite destination for tourists. If you are also planning on visiting Pattaya or Jomtien beach, Koh Samet is only an hour drive away.
How to Get to Koh Samet From Utapao Airport
While there is no direct connection to Koh Samet from Utapao Airport, tourists can take a taxi to Nuanthip Pier or the line 399 bus that takes them to Rayong Bus Terminal 2 where they can then board the ferry to Koh Samet.
However, the cheapest way to get to Koh Samet from Pattaya ( Utapao ) Airport is by taking the line 399 bus and ferry. This costs approximately SFr 9 to SFr 18 and only takes 2 hrs and 50 minutes.
Main Attractions of Koh Samet
Here are some of the main attractions of this spectacular travel destination as well as the things to do.
1. Scuba Diving
This island has two dive shops where tourists can experience scuba diving. Koh Samet is known for its crystal clear waters and pristine white sands that make it a prime location for scuba diving and snorkelling.
Even with the limited PADI dive centers, the island is a perfect destination for both beginners and experienced divers. For instance , the Ao Prao bay in Koh Samet is an excellent diving site for those wishing to refresh their diving skills as well as PADI beginners.
2. Go Kayaking
You can rent a kayak either by the hour, half-day or full-day from various locations across Saikaew Beach. But the best selection is found at Green Bay Resort just after the Sunrise Bar where you can also hire safety equipment. For those tourists wishing to take long trips, it is advisable to carry water and sun protection.
3. The Big Bhudda
Not many tourists can afford to miss seeing the big Bhudda located near the Lima Duval and Lima Bella resorts.
4. Parasailing
This is one of the most popular and fun things to do in Koh Samet. Parasailing is suitable for everyone and is available on Saikaew beach.
5. Jet Skiing
Also available on Saikaew beach, this high-adrenaline water sport is a perfect way to have fun in this island. Jet skiing is great fun in both wavy and calm seas. There are many good providers for your jet ski rental in Samet.
6. Spa and Massage
There is a wide range of choices for your massage or spa treatment in Koh Samet. In the Saikaew Beach Resort complex, you will find the Wellness Center where you can indulge your mind, body and soul with a great collection of massages and spa treatments.
Best Places to Stay In Koh Samet
Here are some of the best places to stay in Koh Samet with great reviews from guests.
Saikaew Beach Resort
This resort is right next to the beach and is most preferred by guests for its on-site swimming pool and very clean bathrooms. It offers 2 beachfront restaurants, 3 outdoor pools as well as a variety of water sports.
Ao Prao Resort
It is has excellent reviews from guests for its breathtaking views and nearby beaches. It is found on the sandy beaches of Ao Prao and is surrounded by tropical vegetation. Its facilities include car hire, free parking and free WiFi. Activities include diving, snorkeling, windsurfing and many more.
Green Bay Samed Resort
Has very comfortable rooms with free WiFi access available throughout. Activities here include darts, canoeing, snorkeling and public bath. It also offers an airport shuttle.
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Visiting during the weekdays when most local visitors are at work gives tourists a more peaceful experience.
It is also important to note that tourists visiting Koh Samet are required to pay a 200 Baht entrance fee and 100 Baht for children since this island is part of a national park.