Koh Samet Travel Guide: 11 Best Beaches & Things to Do northabroad.com

A holiday paradise close to Bangkok

The small island of Koh Samet has a bit of everything.

In the main town of Na Dan, you’ll find street food, massage clinics, scooter hire and a lively bar scene. On Sai Kaew Beach, there are fire shows, jet ski rentals and beach vendors.

It may sound like many of Thailand’s other popular tourist islands, but what sets Koh Samet apart is its location within Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park.

This means there are also tranquil bays and protected natural areas where you can escape the crowds and unwind.

For decades, Koh Samet has been a favourite weekend getaway for Thais seeking a nearby escape. The island is just an hour from Pattaya and 2.5 hours from Bangkok.

Victoria first visited Koh Samet in 2012, and in 2024, we returned together for a week with our 9-month-old son.

We relished the island’s holiday atmosphere, particularly its stunning, swim-friendly beaches.