Summary

Koh Samet is presented as a tranquil and picturesque island near Bangkok, offering serene beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere, especially during the pandemic with its high vaccination rate and reduced tourist activity.

Abstract

Koh Samet, a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, is highlighted as a weekend retreat for Bangkok residents, boasting fine sandy beaches and a serene environment. Despite occasional crowding, the island provides quiet spots and empty beaches, especially after the pandemic's impact, which led to a high vaccination rate among the local population. The article describes the island's charm through personal experiences, noting the clear waters, empty accommodations, and the opportunity to explore various beaches on foot or by scooter. It also emphasizes the island's beauty through sunsets, sunrises, and an abundance of beach swings, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Opinions

The author expresses a preference for the tranquility of Koh Samet, particularly during the pandemic when the island was less crowded and offered a more intimate experience with nature.
There is an appreciation for the island's proximity to Bangkok, making it an accessible getaway for city dwellers.
The author enjoys the walking paths along the coastline, suggesting that exploring on foot is a pleasant way to experience the island's beaches.
Scooter rentals are recommended for those wishing to explore further, with a note of caution about the island's steep and poorly maintained roads.
The article conveys a fondness for sunrises over sunsets due to their peaceful and undisturbed nature, offering a unique experience for early risers.
The presence of swings along the shore is seen as a delightful feature, adding to the island's charm and providing a simple pleasure for visitors.
The author's difficulty in selecting photographs for the article reflects a deep appreciation for the island's beauty and a desire to share this with readers through compelling imagery.
The inclusion of a quote by Sandy Gingras at the end of the article underscores the author's philosophical view of beach life, emphasizing a timeless and mood-driven experience.

TRAVEL TIPS. ADVENTURE

Fine Sandy Beaches in Proximity of the Mega-City Bangkok

Koh Samet — a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand

Koh Samet is a popular weekend getaway for residents of Bangkok which is only about 200 kilometers away. While there are closer islands, this one is sure one of the prettier ones.

While it can get crowded here on weekends due to the locals coming down, you can always find some quieter spots and almost empty beaches.

When I was here in 2019 and 2020 just before the pandemic hit, the main beach close to the harbor was surely overrun by Chinese tourists (like many other places in Asia).

Today, about 2 years into the pandemic, the island has reopened with a close to 100 percent vaccination rate among residents and workers on the island. And visitors — well yes, you have to be vaccinated to be allowed to go on the ferry.

But once you get there you’ll realize — you’re in paradise.

The beaches are empty.

The accommodations are empty and available at reduced rates.

The island is quieter than ever.

The ocean remains calm and crystal clear.

And so here I present you the beauty of Koh Samet.

**The Bay of Ao Nuan. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

Walking from one beach to another

Most of the beaches are located on the eastern side of the island. The longest and busiest beach, Sai Kaew Beach, is close to the harbor and where most hotels and beach resorts are situated.

But if you head further south you’ll find more tiny bays, secluded beaches, and cliff sides decorating the coastline.

There are small hills and boulders in between the beaches but there’s a walking path all along the coastline. Especially in the evenings when the temperatures have cooled off I do enjoy going on those walks. From one bay to another.

**Walking along the shoreline. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

Going swimming in the crystal clear waters

Since the island is just out of the bay of Bangkok, it is protected from water pollution and excessive industries. The water is much clearer than the one inside the bay and cleaner for sure.

The white sand is all you can find along the shore next to rocks and boulders inviting you for a snorkel.

The water is comfortably warm and the ocean most of the time rather calm. It’s perfect for swimming or playing in the gentle waves. Several beach resorts do rent out kayaks or stand-up paddleboards (in case you didn’t bring your own the way I did).

**Crystal clear water and gentle waves.** | Credit: Anne Bonfert

Exploring the island on a scooter

If you want to explore further than your feet can carry you, just go ahead and rent a scooter. I hope you got some riding skills because the roads on the island are rather steep and in bad condition.

The further south you drive, the fewer people you’ll meet. There are only a few resorts in the southern part and right at the end is all just untouched nature since it’s part of a National Park.

The southernmost tip of the island is a beautiful spot for sunset or sunrise lovers. Depending on the time of the day you’ll sit onshore facing east or west while watching the sky burst into colors.

While touring around on a scooter last year, we did explore a remote snorkeling spot as well where we spotted plenty of colorful fish.

**Exploring Koh Samet on a Scooter in January 2020.** | Credit: Anne Bonfert

Watching sunsets and sunrises

I mean who doesn’t like a good sunset? Or sunrise. Sure, most people prefer the sunset over the sunrise since the latter one requires an early start of the day.

But that is why I almost prefer sunrises over sunsets. They are more peaceful and tranquil. Fewer people are out and about and everything around you is still sleeping. During sunrise, you won’t be bothered by hundreds of selfie sticks.

You can just sit there. In the sand. On the beach. And watch the sun climbing above the horizon.

Since my resort is located on the east side of the island, I get to see the sun rising right above the ocean. And this last morning it was uniquely pretty.

**Sunrise at Ao Nuan. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

Swinging into eternity

If you like swings the way I do you’ll love Koh Samet. I know, most islands in Thailand have swings along the shore but this one got a remarkably high number of them.

And well, I love sitting on a swing, staring onto the ocean, and letting my thoughts get blown away by the wind.

**Relaxing on a swing on the beach. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

More of Koh Samet’s beauty

And because I couldn’t decide on which pictures to select for this article I’ll add this gallery at the end. If my previous narrative and storytelling didn’t convince you yet, I hope these photographs will do.

**Boulders in the bay of Ao Nuan. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**Hammock on the beach. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**Beach chairs in the water. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**Beach chairs on a look-out point. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**A hammock on the hill in the shade. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**Cloudy skies above the ocean. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**Cloudy skies during sunset. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**My bungalow on the beach with my paddleboard in front. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

**Looking from the terrace of my bungalow onto the beach. |** Credit: Anne Bonfert

“At the beach, life is different. Time doesn’t move hour to hour but mood to moment. We live by the currents, plan by the tides and follow the sun.” — Sandy Gingras

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