Location - Over to the eastern side of Thailand, past Pattaya. Accessed by ferry or speedboat from Ban Phe. Google Map location.
Warm, clear blue seas, pristine white sands, quiet beaches- what more can you ask from a holiday resort? Ko Samet still has all of this, despite its growing reputation. During weekends and public holidays it will get crowded on certain beaches, mainly concentrated on the north east side of the island. This island is popular with Thais as well as foreign tourists. This creates a feeling of actually being in Thailand, this is an advantage Ko Samet has over other resorts.
The island itself is very small but there is plenty to do to occupy yourself for a few days. Aside from lying on the beach and taking in the stunning scenery there are a few boat trips to choose from as well as walking through the fairly unspoilt interior of the island, although pollution and piles of waste are becoming more of a problem as development continues apace.
There are a few big resorts to and they offer accomodation to suit all budgets. Transport to the island is only by boat, either the ferry or by chartering your own speedboat at Ban Phe. Once on the island there are "sawngthaews" (a pickup with two benches in the back!) which pick up and drop off at all of the beaches.
Ko Samet is only a 4-5 hour ride away from Bangkok and makes for a relaxing addition to your holiday.
