Thailand Guides - Koh Samed

This idyllic island is part of the Khao Laem Ya National park, 200km south-east of Bangkok. It is the setting that inspired the classical Thai poet, Sunthorn Phu, to write his most famous Thai literature "Phra Apaimanee". Travellers will notice on Sai Kaew beach the decaying statues of Phra Arpaimanee and a mermaid which are the two main characters of the story.

Overview

Most of Koh Samed is uninhabited and tourism consists of Thai visitors as well as foreign travellers and expats. Being so close to Bangkok, it gets extremely crowded on weekends and holidays. All parts of the island are easy to visit as it is only 6km long and 3km wide.

Attractions

Hat Sai Kaew -- One of the most beautiful and most popular beaches, Hat Sai Kaew is 1 kilometer long and 25 - 30 meters wide and is also the largest beach on the island. It is a nice beach filled with activities; sunbathing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing, riding a banana boat as well as partying at night.

Ao Phutsa -- Visitors, who are tired of crowded beaches and nightlife activities, repeatedly visit this small bay on the island. It offers quite a retreat that reunites visitors with nature in its crystal clear waters.

Ao Thapthim -- This bay, which is set in a tranquil atmosphere, is located near Ao Phutsa and is also well known for its white sand and clear water.