Koh Samet is a small island that may not be the best of Thailand’s many islands, but it is certainly one of the easiest to reach from Bangkok. Most of the island is within a protected area, so, although close to Bangkok, the island is only lightly developed.
If you’re a new traveler to Thailand or haven’t traveled outside of Bangkok, you might be wondering just how to reach Koh Samet.
Car or Bus?
To get to Koh Samet form Bangkok, you’ll need to reach Nuan Thip Pier in Bang Phe. This can easily be done by hiring a private car or taxi, or by public bus. The drive will take about 3-4 hours.
However, be aware that hiring a car will set you back about 2,500-3,000 baht. The cheaper alternative is to take a bus from the eastern bus terminal in Ekkamai. A bus ticket will cost you 166 baht. Buses depart about every 90 minutes with the last bus leaving at 17:00.
At Nuan Thip Pier
If taking a car, you’ll be able to be dropped off right outside the covered ticketing area. If you opt for the bus, you’ll be dropped off across the street in a parking area, which is just a short walk to the ticketing area and pier.
Once at the pier you’ll need to purchase a ferry ticket for 60 baht or 120 baht for a round trip ticket. You can also purchase your return bus ticket to Bangkok. We recommend doing this, as the buses do fill up quickly.
From here you’ll be directed to the waiting area on the pier and then it’s a 45 minute ferry ride to the island.
Alternatively, you can choose to purchase a speedboat ticket, which takes about half the time. Speedboat tickets are 300 baht per person or 500 baht per person for a round trip ticket. BUT, if you’ve already booked accommodation with a resort, be sure to check whether they offer a speedboat service, as many of them do.
Arriving at Koh Samet
Ferries arrive at the Nu Dan Pier in Ao Klang. It can easily be spotted by its arches and the topless ogress from Thai folklore Once moored to the pier you’ll disembark from your boat and queue up to exit the pier.
Once you leave the pier you’ll need to pay the national park entrance fee.
The rates are:
Thai Adults: 40 baht
Thai Children: 20 baht
Foreign Adults: 200 baht
Foreign Children: 100 baht
Yes, dual pricing is a common complaint, but save yourself the stress of a random ticket check when entering the park.
After purchasing your ticket, exit the building and finally begin your island holiday. And remember, the town is so compact, you likely don’t need transportation from the pier, so say no to offers unless you’re staying far from town.
And that’s how you go to Koh Samet form Bangkok. It’s fairly easy and a Koh Samet is popular weekend getaway location for Bangkokians. Enjoy the travel adventure and the beach!
