As
Koh Samet is so near Bangkok, the island is ideal for those in the capital wanting to chill-out with their families for a couple of days, without having to go through all that rigmarole of having to travel down south. Ko Samet has developed steadily over the past decade or so, but it hasn’t been the victim of over zealous construction which has hit the likes of
Koh Samui or even
Koh Chang. The island is typified by its splendid beaches and white silky sand, surrounded by tropical coral reefs and crystal clear sea. Tourists can also enjoy a plethora of delicious cuisine and fine nightlife.
Activities at Koh Samet
Windsurfing
With its rocky coastline and offshore winds, Hin Khrong beach is a good location for windsurfing.
Snorkeling / Diving
The Ko Samet area is a popular for divers and snorkelers due its close proximity to Bangkok and abundance of clear water, colorful coral and diversity of marine life such as: turtles, tiger sharks and manta rays. Two of the most favoured locations for diving around Ko Samet are Ko Thalu and Ko Kut. Tourists can take a tour around the island and go snorkeling off the rocky uninhabited western side, or around the reefs at the southern tip. Scuba diving excursions can be arranged at Vong Duang.
Volleyball / Frisbee
Tourists enjoy playing volleyball and Frisbee on the beach.
Fishing
Night fishing trips for squid are usually arranged.
Boat Trips
These are arranged to take tourists (either by slow boat or speedboat) around the island to snorkeling and diving spots.
Massage
On the beach there are countless masseurs offering their massage service. Off the beach on the main roads are massage shops.
Shopping
Ko Samet doesn't have much in the way of shopping beyond basic beach accessories (sarongs, T-shirts, etc.).
Nightlife
There are beer bars at virtually every beach, nearly all of them on Hat Sai Kaeo have hostesses. Besides bars there isn’t much else but restaurants selling alcohol. You can even get the popular sand bucket full of your favorite drink.
Life-style
Thai Buddhism is a large part of the people’s lives on Ko Samet and so there are several temples scattered around. Many of the folk on Ko Samet however, are not originally from the island, but moved there to make a decent living through tourism.
