 
Ko Samet
 Ko
Samet has developed a loyal group of visitors who return to
it year after year to enjoy the superb beaches and relaxed
atmosphere. Less than seven kms off the coast of Rayong Province
in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, it combines the allure of
a tropical paradise with reasonable proximity to Bangkok.
Ko Samet has
been known as a safe anchorage for sailors since at least
the 13th century and in the 19th century its sheer beauty
was the inspiration for the literary  masterpiece
of Thailand's most famous romantic poet, Sunthorn Phu. In
the 1970's it was 'discovered' by Thai teenagers and young
couples seeking a weekend retreat from life in Bangkok. In
spite of its protected status as part of the Khao Laem Ya
- Samet National Marine Park the island has developed into
a resort destination much loved by both Thais and foreigners.
Episodic attempts by the authorities to evict the developers
have not yet dislodged them, and bungalow accommodations are
available all over the island. More than a dozen coves and
beaches provide visitors a range of choices from campsites
on secluded, deserted beaches to bungalows with all the modern
conveniences in more settled and gregarious communities.
A recently
constructed reservoir has improved the availability of fresh
water, which was an enduring problem on the hot and dry island
where the rainy season is limited to the May to July period.
Ko Samet gets significantly less rainfall than Rayong Province,
even though it is only a few km offshore. Round the clock
electricity is now available in most resorts on the island.
There are
regular ferries to Ko Samet from three different piers in
the fishing village of Ban Phe, about 20 km east of Rayong
City. The trip takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on which
part of the island it goes to. Long-tail boats can be hired
to make the trip in about half the time, but are much more
expensive. There is a 20 baht entry fee to the National Park.
 The
beaches on the northeast of the island are beautiful and better
developed. As you move south down the east coast the coves
and bays become less congested, though no less beautiful.
The beaches on the southeast coast are the least developed
and least visited. The west coast is rocky but does have one
very secluded beach with bungalow resorts and a nice view
of the sunset.
Ko Samet and
the minuscule islands nearby are surrounded by coral formations
in shallow water which make for enjoyable snorkeling. Scuba
divers may not find them very interesting. Other water sports,
including sailing, parasailing, skiing, and fishing can be
arranged at a number of resorts.
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