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 A
favorite get-away island for Bangkokians, Koh
Samet offers extensive pristine beaches with clean white sand
and strangely shaped rocks. A haven for relaxation, this T-shaped
island is a perfect retreat for those looking for sun, sand and
sea. The climate is always pleasantly cool with an abundance of
rain in August and windy monsoons in May.
There are a wide range of accommodations on the island with prices
at the low-end starting from 200 baht for a bungalow with basic
amenities, while bungalows with furniture and air-conditioning may
start at the rate of 600 baht. Mid-range hotels and resorts mostly
located around the Hat Sai Kaew area are also available. Reservations
for accommodations should be made in advance as the place gets crowded
especially during the festive season.
Attractions on Koh Samet
include:
 Hat
Sai Kaeo
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, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, jet
skiing, windsurfing, riding on a banana boat or even partying at
night.
Accommodations provided include bungalows and villas.
Ao Noi Na
Ao Noi Na, which is located near Hat Sai Kaew, has different
ambience. It is quieter and therefore more suitable for those looking
for a truly relaxing experience on the white, clean sandy beach.
Ao Hin Khok
Ao Hin Khok is separated from Hat Sai Kaew by a small rocky
sea point where a mermaid statue is located. The beach, which is
half the size of Hat Sai Kaew, is famous for its strangely shaped
rocks. There are inexpensive bungalows/huts located along the beach,
and also value-for-money restaurants providing fresh, quality seafood
dishes.
Ao Pai
Located close to Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Pai is therefore quite crowded.
For visitors interested in sunbathing, this is the ideal place as
swimming is not recommended as there is whirlpool on the sea, as
designated by the 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 quite retreat that reunites visitors with nature in
its crystal clear waters.
Ao Thapthim
Ao Tub Tim, which is set in a tranquil 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 Nuan
Ao Nuan is located near Ao Put Sa and is a perfect hideaway
for holidaymakers in search of tranquility.
 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 beautiful white
sandy beach and good accommodations. On top of this, good seafood
restaurants with nice views are also available.
Ao Thian (Candlelight Beach)
Ao Thian’s topography is painted by rocky beach in which
some nice spots for skin diving are available. This beach is very
quiet and free from group tours with bungalows and resorts available
around the beach area.
Ao Wai
Ao Wai is located within a short walking distance of Candlelight
Beach. Shaded by coconut trees, the beach is a quite, scenic and
serene spot for sea lovers.
Ao Kiu Nok
This bay is a perfect secluded den for those planning to keep
their distance from the busy, crowded beaches and vibrant nightlife.
From Aow Kiew Nok, visitors can actually walk to Aow Kiew Nai which
is the ideal spot to see the spectacular sun rise and sun set.
Ao Karang
The best place 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 fresh
seafood dishes at reasonable prices.
Ao Wiang Wan
Ao Wiang Wan is located on the west of Na Dan Pier, a large
bay where lots of sport activities such as fishing, etc. take place.
Ao Phrao
Ao Prow is one of the quietest beaches of Koh
Samet. Located quite far away from the lively nightlife of Koh
Samet; Ao Prow is preferred by travelers who quietly enjoy the
deep blue sea and white sand in the sunshine. Ao Prow has a long
white sandy beach which is ideal for swimming.
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