I Finally Visited KOH SAMET 🇹🇭 But Is It Really Thailand’s BEST Island?
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Koh Samet—an island just a short boat ride from the mainland—offers a perfect escape with its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back island vibes. My journey began at the pier, where I took the slow boat over, soaking in the anticipation of exploring this tropical paradise for the first time. Staying at a beachfront hotel on Ao Cho Beach, I had direct access to calm waters and a peaceful atmosphere, setting the tone for a relaxed island experience. From there, I ventured to Ao Phuttha Beach, a lesser-known stretch of sand with crystal-clear waters, before making my way to the famous Sai Kaew Beach, the island’s liveliest spot filled with beach bars, restaurants, and activities.
Exploring further, I headed to the southernmost point of Koh Samet, where rugged coastlines and panoramic sea views made for an epic adventure. Ao Wai Beach, a secluded gem, provided a break from the crowds, with its untouched beauty and serene surroundings making it a highlight of the trip. Along the way, I stumbled upon a charming viewpoint that perfectly captured the essence of the island—lush greenery meeting endless ocean views. Whether riding around on a motorbike or trekking through sandy trails, every corner of Koh Samet revealed something special, proving why it remains a favorite island getaway for locals and travelers alike.
As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Ao Prao Beach, also known as Sunset Beach, to witness the sky transform into shades of orange and pink. With the gentle sound of waves in the background and the sun dipping below the horizon, it was the perfect way to end my first experience on Koh Samet. From lively beaches to hidden gems, this island has a little bit of everything—whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a stunning tropical escape. Safe to say, Koh Samet left a lasting impression, and I can already see why so many people keep coming back.
– – 🗺️ Locations From Todays Adventure 🗺️ – –
📍 – Koh Samet Island – https://maps.app.goo.gl/wzfSd3gkz9nteWbX9
📍 – Pier for the Slow Boat – https://maps.app.goo.gl/VVv48vxo98LVVrWV9
📍 – My Hotel on Ao Cho Beach – https://maps.app.goo.gl/S1nvXNAE9ayDCwfZ6
📍 – Ao Phuttha Beach – https://maps.app.goo.gl/dNcym6GXeetCs4tf9
📍 – Sai Kaew Beach – https://maps.app.goo.gl/sK5tpkdphdaPGyZo9
📍 – Southern Most Point – https://maps.app.goo.gl/9hsjRNtvq6tHKzTy8
📍 – Ao Wai Beach – https://maps.app.goo.gl/mbHuuybNRhQKcV7z6
📍 – Cute Viewpoint – https://maps.app.goo.gl/rhPJsQCZNcrUq8N27
📍 – Ao Prao Beach (Sunset Beach) – https://maps.app.goo.gl/aD8eLGXUh9bXD4748
Chapters:
00:00 – 01:17 – Why Samet?
01:18 – Getting here
04:07 – What a welcome..
05:20 – Problems with money
06:53 – First Impressions
08:50 – My Hotel and Beach
14:07 – Fun Hike
21:25 – Seafood Dinner
23:25 – Exploring the Island Properly
38:20 – Is Koh Samet Thailand’s Best Island?
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44 Comments
Have you been to Koh Samet? – If not, will you?
Hi paddy. Thanks for the video. We are coming to Thailand in July. I think we may spend a few days to unwind before returning to Canada. Some nice quiet spots to chill.
Good to know about not having ATM's.
Many thanks,
Rob, Toronto.
As a part time "local" in Klaeng, you summed up Ko Samet great! Well known and a hidden gem at the same time.
Shame all the atm's were taken off of the island.
Koh Samet really looks like a hidden gem. This tropical paradise islands are a relaxing watch ❤
400 baht for a acooter in Thailand what a scam
85 Dollar a night ??? Bro what are these prizes ? I lived last conplete year in Thailand. 85 Dollar ist round about is over 3k baht ,a normal 7 eleven guy earns 15k a month…so you live for 5 days what a normal loan is in Thailand ? 😂
I went to thailand last year for a month and m heading this year at mid July again…this island is a must for me now, Thanks Paddy 🙌
I was in Kohl's Samet 5 times before covid and loved it, went back a year ago for my birthday and would never go back again, dirty and the food for what it is street food was expensive. My Thai wife felt the same way.
Looks gorgeous. Definitely on our list of places to visit 👍. Fab video xx
Did i miss it or did you forget to say where to catch the ferry from ? It's a town called Rayong. Details Paddy…..
….
นั่นคือรูปปั้น..ผีเสื้อสมุทร..หล่อนคือนางยักษ์ในตำนาน..นิทานพื้นบ้านของประเทศไทย
the beaches are beautiful and clean but the interior of the west lands is disgusting. and there are too many taxis driving on a road that is too narrow. it is quite dangerous at night. so paying 500 baht to go to the beach where you can see the sunset. round trip. 1000 baht. it is simply theft…. at that price I will wait to be in Kai Bay in a week….
There are loads of ATMs on Samet! (At least 2 that i can think of anyway)
You describe the Island perfectly. I loved the beach and the hidden quiet places. Is it for a singel guy? i wouldnt say yes to that. I was there alone 3-4 days it was cosy during daytime, but on the nights i was just waiting for the next day to come.
Perfect place for family, couple or friends couple etc. will be back and i would say if you like the peace. Ko samet is perfect.
Koh Samet was the first Thai Island I visited in 1989 and went for another visit in 2014. So much change between my 2 visits and Paddy's.
Sshhhh don't let the cat out of the bag!!!! Luckily many of us know where the secret beaches are. You described whitesand beach exactly how it is!!!
How does a scooter licence work as a foreigner?
400 Baht for motorbike seems a little overpriced but not that bad
Hello Paddy. I stayed at Koh Samet for 7 Months in 2010-2011. I stayed in a cheap room in the village, had a thai lady friend i met there. I loved it and miss it. That road was difficult in places and dusty, muddy in places before it was paved. Looks like it sold out to tourism a bit. Glad i was there when the Chinese and Russians were still in Diapers. Some of the best sand and beaches in Thailand. I live in Cambodia now and Sihanoukville also was nice before the Chinese and massive construction. That super touristy beach is new.
My lasting memory of Koh Samet from many years ago was how the sand actually squeaked under your feet as you walked on it.
bro, it is okay to be full of Chinese like me… was enjoying ur video but the comments on full of Chinese on that island seems a bit….
My husband and I are long time followers. We are doing some of your best of Thailand islands right now. Will put Koh Samet on a list for next time. Thank you as always! Your "productions" are better ALL-THE -TIME!!!
Been there 10 years ago. The public beach was full of garbage. Also went to Ang Thong national park, the first day of reopen after clean up, still ton of garbage. All I remember Koh Samui, I was swimming with garbage 😂
it was great in 1982 even the weekend I went back 10 years later & it was still fantastique on the week days but like you saw the weekend was horrible
I visit Koh Samet last January. (2025) very nice and small island. And see the busy beach. For next time I wanna see I more quiet beach.😍
3 ATM near 7 eleven
This island is the first place I visited when coming to Thailand. Went there a few times whilst dating my wife. We will always go back there.
First went 10 years ago alot busier now still a great little break. 10/10 girls in the bars. Restaurants close early. HIPPY pizza is a chill place for something different. Enjoy paddy 🎉🏝
Thanks Paddy. This has persuaded me to visit Koh Samet. I’ll be there from 9-11th April. The piña coladas are on me! 🙂
I’m travelling alone and carry my photography equipment with me at all times. If I go snorkelling, how likely am I to find my camera bag untouched when I get back?
You have been in Thailand long enough to know how to pronounce the word “Koh.”
olive trees 🤣
Awesome!! Thanks Paddy , Now i will xx
Thailand: added to our to-go-list. Thanks for sharing 😍
Koh chang or Koh Samet? Which one is better ? 🙂
There is atm’s. Down by the other two 7/11’s. I was there in mid January.
Sounds great x
2.5 hours from Bangkok ??? On a Ferrari van probably…
Literally Nobody has ever said Samet is the best island in Thailand 😂
I used to go there in 2002 till 2010 when you could rent a hut for 300 THB. This is not for me no more.
Stayed at the same hotel when I was there, and flew my drone off the same dodgy wooden pier, really nice spot 👌
It`s also popular because it`s even closer to Pattaya.. Don`t forget that. Lovely island, but I agree with folks here, it was a lot quieter and more untouched a decade or two ago. But thank you for showing us that the island still has its beautiful, more or less untouched few areas and beaches. And is still clean! Thanks, Paddy 🙏🙏
The "best" island is one where no Youtuber has bothered to visit.