Koh Samed is one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands. Its stunning coral reefs sit in crystal blue waters which are ringed by some of the world’s most stunning white sand beaches. Koh Samed is the largest of ten islands that make up part of the Khao Laem Ya National Park a protected area of outstanding natural beauty. The National Parks Department, which has responsibility for Khao Laem Ya has permitted controlled development on Koh Samed which has opened the island up to tourist development. It is an extremely popular holiday destination for Thais and has developed a reputation as an island paradise that is increasingly attracting international tourists.
To get to Koh Samed, visitors need to get take a ferry from either Ban Phe or Nuan Thip piers. A bus direct to Ban Phe pier leaves daily from Bangkok’s Ekkamai bus terminal. Alternatively visitors can get a bus to Rayong and pick up a taxi or songthaew one of the piers. Once on Koh Samed, visitors will find there is only a single road that circumnavigates the island parts of which are unpaved. This route is plied by soingthaews which operate an informal bus system or can be hired as private taxis if preferred. Motorbike, quadbikes and bicycles are all available for hire on the island for those who prefer to get about under their own steam.
Most of the attractions on Koh Samed naturally centre on beach life. Many visitors simply head to the beach, relax, soak up the sun and bathe in the clear blue waters. Koh Samed has many fine beaches from the busy crystal sand Hat Sai Kaew to the often near deserted, peacefulAoNuan. It is easy to take a songthaew from one to another so several can be experience if staying on the island for any length of time.
For those who are more active and want to see what lies under the surface, Koh Samed offers some excellent scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities. There is plenty of colourful tropical coral, fish and other sea life that can be seen at the closest quarters.