Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ao Thian (Candlelight Beach) is punctuated by big boulders that shelter small sandy spots
creating a castaway ambience. More developed than it once was, it's still one of Samet's
most easy-going beaches and is deliciously lonely on weekdays. On weekends, Bangkok
university students serenade the stars with all-night guitar sessions.
Ao Wai
The cove 'caboose' is Ao Wai, a lovely beach far removed from everything else (in reality
it is 1km from Ao Thian).
BEACH
Ao Prao
On the west coast, Ao Prao is worth a visit for a sundowner cocktail but the small beach is
outsized by the high-end resorts that promise (but don't deliver) solitude.
BEACH
AO PRAO OIL SPILL
In late July 2013, the east coast of Ko Samet was severely affected by the fourth-largest oil spill in Thailand's his-
tory. Around 50,000 litres of crude oil gushed out of a pipeline operated by PTT Global Chemical, a subsidiary of
Thailand's largest energy company, into the Gulf of Thailand close to Samet.
Worst hit was the beach of Ao Prao, where an estimated 20% of the oil ended up. After a massive clean-up op-
eration, the beach has been restored to its usual, sandy state. Less certain, though, is the condition of the ocean,
with reports in the Thai media stating that the number of fish being caught in the area has plummeted since the
spill.
For now, we don't advise swimming off Ao Prao. But check with the locals to ascertain the current situation.
Tours
Ko Samet, along with nine neighbouring islands, is part of the Khao Laem Ya/Mu Ko
Samet National Park. While there is some development on the other islands, most visitors
come for day trips.
Ko Kudee
has a small, pretty sandy stretch, clear water for decent snor-
kelling and a nice little hiking trail. Ko Man Nai is home to the
Rayong Turtle Conservation
Centre
, which is a breeding place for endangered sea turtles and has a small visitor centre.
Agents for boat tours camp out on the popular beaches and have a couple of different
boat trips on offer (from 1200B).
Sleeping
Though resorts are replacing bungalows, much of Ko Samet's accommodation is still sur-
prisingly simple and old-fashioned compared to Thailand's other beach resorts. Weekday
