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Koh Samet guide
The best beaches on Koh Samet
Koh Samet is small, roughly 6–7 km from north to south, but its beaches have very different personalities. Here is how to choose.
Checked October 2026. Beaches change with the seasons; follow local safety flags and national park rules.
Sai Kaew Beach (Hat Sai Kaew)
The island’s longest and best-known beach, on the north-east coast. The sand is very fine and white (the name means “crystal sand”), the water is shallow near the shore and there are restaurants, beach chairs and water sports. It is the liveliest beach, especially at weekends and on Thai holidays.
The famous Mermaid statue sits on the rocks at the northern end. TipThong Hut is about 100–150 m from Sai Kaew Beach.
Ao Hin Khok
Just south of Sai Kaew, Ao Hin Khok is a smaller bay framed by rocks, with a more relaxed atmosphere and a few beach bars. It is a nice walk from Sai Kaew along the coast.
Ao Phai
A little further south (roughly 500–650 m from TipThong Hut), Ao Phai is a pretty, compact beach known for its friendly evening atmosphere. Good for a sunset drink after a day on the sand.
Ao Tub Tim, Ao Nuan and Ao Cho
Keep walking south and the bays get smaller and quieter. Ao Tub Tim (Ruby Bay) is calm and sheltered, tiny Ao Nuan is reached via rocky paths, and Ao Cho has clear water that is popular for snorkelling when the sea is calm.
Ao Wong Duean
A crescent-shaped bay halfway down the east coast, with gentle water and a good range of restaurants. It has its own boat connections to Ban Phe and is easy to reach by songthaew.
Ao Prao: the west-coast sunset beach
Most Koh Samet beaches face east, which makes them great for sunrise. Ao Prao is the main beach on the west coast and the classic place to watch the sun set over the sea.
Tips for a good beach day
- Come early: mornings are calmer and less crowded, especially at Sai Kaew.
- Respect the national park: take your rubbish with you and do not touch or stand on coral.
- Plastic bags and foam boxes are not allowed on the island.
- Watch for jet skis and boats near the shore, and swim in marked areas.
- Bring cash for beach chairs, drinks and songthaews.
Wake up near Sai Kaew Beach
TipThong Hut is a short walk from Sai Kaew Beach. Check live prices and availability: