Koh Samet

Koh Samet, is one of the Eastern Seaboard Islands of Thailand. It is located in the Gulf of Thailand off the coastline of the Thai province of Rayong, approximately 220 kilometres southeast of Bangkok. Koh Samet is part of the Phe District of the Amphoe Mueang Rayong. Koh Samet is the largest and westernmost of a cluster of islands not far from the coast.

Most of Koh Samet, including all of the good parts, is part of Khao Laem Ya and Mu Koh Samet National Park and has an entry fee. Thais pay 40 baht for adults, 20 baht for children (current as of 6/09); foreigners pay 100 baht for adults, 50 baht for children. This two-tier pricing policy is applicable to all national parks. If you can explain, however, that you actually live or work in Thailand, then you may not have to pay the ‘tourist’ price. If your ferry arrives at the main pier and you take a songthaew to the beaches, there will be a stop at the main ticket checkpoint. If your ferry arrives at one of the beaches, an officer will collect the fee as you step out of the surf. Note that there is plenty of foot traffic in and out of the park to the 7-Eleven, ATM or other shops and restaurants and if you have no bags you can nonchalantly walk into the park without anyone checking your ticket. There is a road via the temple which avoids the checkpoint entirely. Note: some bungalows might give the impression that the entry fee is included in their booking, but it is not.