10 Things To Do In Ko Samet, Thailand

1. Enjoy amazing views of the beaches in Ko Samet

The first word that will spring to mind when you see Ko Samet’s beaches for the first time, is sure to be, “Incredible!” Ko Samet’s natural beauty is typified in their beaches and they will amaze you with their postcard-perfect splendor. Among the popular beaches is Had Sai Kaew, also known as Diamond Beach. This white, soft sand beach is situated on the northeast coast of the island. A smaller beach, named Ao Hin Khok, is just as astonishing and you can find budget accommodation here. Both beaches are crowded on the weekends.

There is another famous beach here, called Ao Phai, which offers a good choice of places to stay. The most famous bar on this beach is Silversand and features dance performances, in the evenings. Try their cocktail buckets, while having fun here. The luxury high-class beach is located on the west coast of the island. Ao Phrao resorts are air conditioned and pleasant, but expensive. They are popular among the VIPs of Bangkok, during the weekends.

Enjoy amazing views of the beaches in Ko Samet

Address: Ko Samet, Thailand

Website: Magnificent Beaches in Ko Samet

2. Diving and snorkeling

Two of the most popular activities in Ko Samet are diving and snorkeling. On the variety of tours offered on the island, you can explore the seven adventure islands, three or four coral islands, or sightsee on Samet Island itself and view the sunset. It is suggested you travel here from mid-October until mid-May, for the best snorkeling and diving conditions. The island trip will stop at the turtle farm on Koh Mannai, where, after feeding the turtles and taking some nice photos, you will continue on to another six islands. Next are the four coral islands of Koh Kudee, Koh Kham, Koh Plateen and Koh Talu, all of which are stunning. On the tree island coral tour, they visit all the same islands, except Koh Talu. Visit the various islands and take some memorable photos, while exploring the diverse and beautiful marine life.

Diving and snorkeling

Address: Ko Samet beach, Thailand

Website: Turtle Farm in Koh Mannai

3. Fire show at Ploy Talay

Ploy Talay is found on Saikaew Beach and is one of the best nightspots for chilling out, as they have an interesting fire show. Operating as a restaurant by day, and a nightclub by night, Ploy Talay features two dance floors, one right in front of the beach and one inside the pub. It is one of the busiest places in Samet, in the evenings, and sees the most people after 10 pm, until the early hours of the morning.

Fire Show at Ploy Talay

Address: Saikaew Beach, Ko Samet

Website: Plot Talay Fire Show

4. Jet ski

This challenging activity can be found on the north side of the island and is exciting whether the sea is wavy or calm. For those wanting to try jet skiing here, you’ll need to be patient and wait your turn and there is no bargaining on the price. The operator will show you how it works and where the safe zone is, before you take over. This provides a thrilling experience for those who have never ridden a jet ski before and it is fun both for solo travelers or those who want to take a passenger along.

Jet Ski

Address: North Island, Ko Samet

Website: Jet Ski

5. Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park

Don’t miss the opportunity to view the stunning Mae Ramphueng Beach, which is the main attraction here, other than Khao Laem and the Samet Archipelago. There are unique plants that grow here and there are two groups of forest here, both dry evergreen forest and a beach forest. You will also have a chance to see different kinds of wildlife, like various mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and a gorgeous underwater world.

Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park

Address: Lhang Wat Soi 1/1, Klaeng, Mueang Rayong District, Rayong 21160, Thailand

Website: Khao Laem Ya – Mu Ko Samet National Park

6. Rent a motorbike

How about renting a motorbike for sightseeing? This is a popular activity in Ko Samet. You can rent a bicycle, as well, but there are only a few paved roads, so your trip will be easier if you rent a motorbike. Explore all the beaches and inner roads on your bike as you stop to buy items, eat the local street food and relax anywhere, until your rental time ends. The island is small and you can easily cover it in a day. However, please be careful when riding a motorbike, especially during bad weather, as Thailand is notorious for motorcycle accidents, especially by inexperienced tourists and speeding locals.

Rent motorbike

Address: Ko Samet Island

Website: Explore Ko Samet with motorbike

7. Parasailing

Another interesting thing to do on Ko Samet is parasailing, for those who like a challenging activity. Only some of the beaches provide the service and one of them is Sai Kaew Beach. There is an operator who will guide and help you if it’s your first time. Don’t worry about the safety procedures because they will explain them all to you, as well as provide life jackets that are hooked up to the parachutes. You will need to have good bargaining skills to get the lowest price.

Parasailing

Address: Sai Kaew Beach

Website: Parasailing

8. Beach massage

The art of Thai traditional massage has been lifted to a new level on Ko Samet. You don’t have to go the masseuse though, as they will come to you. Get a massage right on the beach, in the shade but make sure you discuss the price first and tell the masseurs what kind of massage you want. Most importantly, don’t put your expectations too high, as many of them have no training. Some hotels on the island offer a variety of unique therapeutic sessions by professionals, but the price will be higher than on the beach.

Beach massage

Address: Ko Samet Beaches

Website: Massage

9. Party hard at the Naga Bar

If you’re looking for a fun night out, try the Naga Bar. After dark, the place gets lit with people having a lot of fun. It’s a crazy sort of place where you can get yourself body painted, drink from a bucket, dance, and listen to great music. Couples or groups of friends will have an enjoyable night trying the affordable cocktails.

Dress down, as you’re likely to end up with paint on you as the party grows after 10:00 pm. Party until midnight in a great holiday atmosphere. If you grow hungry, they also serve both local and western food.

Naga Bar

Address: Sai Kaeow Beach, Ao Phai, Ko Samet 21160, Thailand

10. Play pool, board games, and share bucket drinks at the Audi Bar

Tired of the beach and sand? The evenings are long, so why not grab some friends and go and play some pool or board games? All the while, you can enjoy those famous bucket drinks with your friends. This place has music but not as loud and overbearing as some night spots. The owner speaks English and is very welcoming.

Try your hand at Jenga, or a game of darts, or just chill and chat with the other people. The Bar stays open until the wee hours of the morning, so after some games and a fun time making friends, you can dance the night away. Alternatively, just relax with a cocktail and people-watch.

Audi Bar

Address: Koh Samed Main Street, Ko Samet 21160, (Above the 7/11)

Website: Audi Bar

Don't just read, go see!

You will not regret traveling to Ko Samet, where you can live your life to the fullest. You will feel every moment here, while you are entertaining yourself and enjoying the beautiful scenery.