Wondering where to stay in Koh Samet? We’ve got you covered!
Koh Samet is an ideal travel destination that offers beautiful beaches crystal-clear waters, and a great atmosphere to fully enjoy Thailand’s famous island life.
Known as the “Paradise Island” of Thailand, Koh Samet’s is especially a popular destination for those living in Bangkok, as this is the closest holiday island near Thailand’s capital.
So, if you’re looking for a beautiful beach escape near Bangkok, Koh Samet is the perfect choice.
While other nearby spots like Pattaya Beach and Pranburi Beach may not be as picturesque, this island paradise offers stunning shorelines with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.
Koh Samet’s beaches each have their own unique vibe. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) or the peaceful seclusion of Ao Wong Duean, there’s a stretch of sand to match every mood.
Water lovers can dive into activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, or simply lounge under the sun, listening to the gentle waves.
But there’s more to Koh Samet than just its beaches.
The island’s tropical forests and rugged hills are perfect for nature enthusiasts, with scenic hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints.
For those who love a bit of nightlife, Koh Samet doesn’t disappoint—beach bars and clubs come alive after sunset, offering a laid-back yet energetic party scene right by the water.
Seafood lovers will also be in for a treat, as the island is known for its freshly caught seafood served at charming beachside restaurants.
Add in the relaxed atmosphere, warm hospitality, and stunning natural beauty, and it’s easy to see why Koh Samet is a favorite getaway for both relaxation and adventure.
Travel Tip: If you’re planning a visit, try to avoid public holidays and long weekends, as Koh Samet is a popular escape for Bangkok locals. The ferry lines can get incredibly long, so visiting on quieter days will make for a much smoother experience.
But with so much to offer, choosing the right area to stay in can be tricky.
Each part of the island has its own vibe, advantages, and drawbacks, which we’ll break down in the next section.
To make things even easier, we’ve included a detailed map at the end of this article highlighting our recommended areas and must-see attractions.
Let’s kick things off with a quick overview to help you find the perfect spot for your stay.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
The best areas to stay in Koh Samet are Ao Hin Khok (Hat Sai Kaew), Ao Phai, Ao Wong Duean, and Ao Noi An.
Koh Samet offers a variety of areas to suit different travel styles, from the lively Hat Sai Kaew with its buzzing beach bars and water activities to the more relaxed Ao Phai, which balances entertainment with a laid-back vibe.
For a peaceful retreat, Ao Wong Duean provides a quieter, scenic escape, while Ao Noi Na offers a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path Thai experience.
Below, we’ll dive into each of these recommended areas in more detail to help you decide which one is best for you.
⚠️ Tip: Tap the area name to jump straight to that section of the article for more information!
Ao Hin Khok (Hat Sai Kaew) – If you love being in the heart of the action, Ao Hin Khok—home to the famous Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach)—is the place to be. This stunning stretch of soft white sand is buzzing with beach bars, restaurants, and water sports, making it the ideal spot for those who enjoy a vibrant and social atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want to soak up the island’s energy both day and night.
Ao Phai – Just south of Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Phai offers a more laid-back alternative without losing access to the fun. The beach here is just as beautiful but noticeably less crowded, making it a great choice for those who want a mix of relaxation and entertainment. You’ll still find plenty of restaurants, bars, and water activities, but with a more easygoing vibe.
Ao Wong Duean – For a peaceful retreat, Ao Wong Duean is a fantastic choice. This crescent-shaped beach is less developed and offers a quieter, more serene setting—ideal for travelers looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature. While there are still some resorts and restaurants, the atmosphere here is all about relaxation.
Ao Noi Na – If you’re seeking a truly laid-back, off-the-beaten-path experience, Ao Noi Na is worth considering. Located on the southern part of the island, this area has a more local and traditional Thai feel, making it a great option for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful stay.
Having lived in Thailand and after years of exploring Thailand’s islands, I’ve learned that finding the right balance between action and relaxation is key to an amazing beach getaway.
Ao Phai, on Koh Samet’s east coast, nails that balance perfectly.
It’s close enough to the island’s lively hotspots but far enough to give you that laid-back, tropical escape.
If you want stunning beaches, a relaxed yet social vibe, and easy access to everything Koh Samet has to offer, Ao Phai is where you should stay.
Ao Phai sits just south of Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach)—the busiest beach on the island.
While Hat Sai Kaew is fantastic for energy and nightlife, it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Ao Phai, on the other hand, offers a much more chilled atmosphere without feeling too isolated.
During the day, you can enjoy the soft white sand and clear waters without the constant buzz of jet skis and partygoers.
But when you’re in the mood for some action, it’s just a short walk to the bars, restaurants, and nightlife of Hat Sai Kaew.
Whether you want to sip cocktails by the beach, grab some fresh seafood, or dance under the stars, everything is within easy reach—but you can still retreat to peace and quiet when you need it.
One of the things I love most about Ao Phai is its beach.
While it’s not as crowded as Hat Sai Kaew, it’s just as beautiful, with powdery sand and calm, turquoise waters.
It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and even a bit of snorkeling.
The beachfront here also has a handful of great resorts and bungalows, many offering direct access to the sand, so you can wake up to the sound of the waves every morning.
Ao Phai is especially great if you’re traveling as a couple or solo. T
he atmosphere is relaxed but social, so it’s easy to meet other travelers without feeling overwhelmed by party crowds.
The beachfront restaurants serve up delicious Thai food, and the bars offer a more laid-back nightlife compared to the full-on party scene at Hat Sai Kaew.
If you’re looking for the sweet spot on Koh Samet—beautiful, peaceful, but still fun—Ao Phai is hands down the best place to stay.
If you’re looking for a balance between relaxation and convenience, Ao Phai is one of the best areas to stay in Koh Samet.
Nestled just south of Hat Sai Kaew, the island’s main beach, Ao Phai offers the perfect mix of tranquility and accessibility.
It’s far enough from the busiest crowds but still close to the island’s best restaurants, bars, and activities, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a bit of everything.
While Hat Sai Kaew is known for its lively energy, Ao Phai has a much more laid-back feel.
The beach here is just as stunning—soft white sand and clear turquoise waters—but with fewer people and less noise.
You won’t have to compete for a good sunbathing spot, and the atmosphere is noticeably calmer, making it ideal for swimming, reading a book by the shore, or enjoying a quiet beachfront meal.
One of Ao Phai’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Hat Sai Kaew’s nightlife without being in the middle of the action.
If you’re in the mood for a fun night out, you’re just a short walk from beach bars, live music, and fire shows.
But at the end of the night, you can return to Ao Phai for a peaceful sleep without the loud party scene keeping you up.
Ao Phai’s relaxed yet social vibe makes it a great choice for couples and solo travelers. It’s not as rowdy as Hat Sai Kaew, but still offers plenty of beachfront dining options and casual bars where you can meet other travelers.
The mix of seclusion and accessibility makes it easy to enjoy both privacy and social interaction as you choose.
Overall, if you want a beautiful beach, a peaceful atmosphere, and easy access to Koh Samet’s highlights, Ao Phai is a fantastic option for your stay.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil and scenic stay on Koh Samet, Ao Wong Duean is a fantastic choice.
Located about halfway down the island’s eastern coast, this crescent-shaped bay offers a peaceful escape while still providing enough amenities to keep you comfortable.
The beach here is stunning, with soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
Unlike the busier beaches like Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Wong Duean has a more relaxed atmosphere, attracting couples, families, and travelers looking to unwind.
While it’s quieter, you’ll still find a handful of beachfront resorts, restaurants, and bars, allowing you to enjoy fresh seafood and tropical cocktails without venturing too far.
The area also offers opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and boat trips, letting you explore the surrounding coastline at your own pace.
One of the biggest perks of staying in Ao Wong Duean is that it strikes a balance between seclusion and accessibility—you’re far from the party scene, but if you ever feel like a livelier evening, you can take a short boat ride or a 15-minute drive to Hat Sai Kaew for a night out.
It’s an excellent spot for those who want a laid-back, scenic getaway with just the right amount of convenience.
For whose looking to escape the crowds and experience a more peaceful, local side of Koh Samet, Ao Noi Na is an excellent choice.
Located on the northern coast of the island, this area is far removed from the bustling beaches and party spots, making it perfect for those seeking a quiet, authentic retreat.
The beaches here may not be as famous as Hat Sai Kaew or Ao Phai, but they offer a serene atmosphere, calm waters, and beautiful sunset views over the mainland.
What makes Ao Noi Na special is its laid-back charm and traditional feel—you’ll find small resorts, family-run guesthouses, and local seafood restaurants that give you a taste of island life without the touristy buzz.
It’s also a great spot for cycling or walking along the coastline, enjoying the slower pace and scenic views.
While Ao Noi Na is more secluded, it’s still close enough to the main pier and town, so you can easily take a quick ride to the livelier areas if you want more dining or nightlife options.
If you’re after a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience with a more local vibe, Ao Noi Na is one of the best places to stay on Koh Samet.
