Rayong Province, Thailand
The island's location in the Gulf of Thailand generally protects it from the most severe tropical storms, unlike the Andaman Sea coast. No risk of hurricanes in this region. Extreme heat occurs during the hot season (March-May). Visitors during this time must prioritize hydration, wear light clothing, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day. Sun exposure can quickly cause heatstroke.
Match your visit to your preferred activities for the best experience.
Beach relaxation and sunbathing: November to February (cool season) provides ideal conditions with abundant sunshine and comfortable temperatures.
Snorkeling and Diving: November to April (dry season and early hot season) offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Island Hopping: November to April also stands as the preferred time for island hopping to nearby smaller islands, thanks to calm sea conditions.
Exploring the National Park: November to February offers comfortable temperatures for walking and exploring the island's interior.
Budget travel: The low season (July-September) presents the most attractive deals on accommodation and flights, ideal for cost-conscious travelers.
This period coincides with the dry/cool season, offering ideal weather. Expect perfect weather with cool, dry, and sunny days. Seas are calm, excellent for snorkeling and diving. Fire shows and beach activities are in full swing. Accommodation and flight prices are highest. Beaches and attractions experience significant crowds. Advance booking becomes useful for securing preferred lodging and availability. Restaurants can fill quickly, especially in the evenings.
These months mark a transition between peak and low seasons. Fewer crowds compared to peak season, resulting in lower accommodation prices and some tours. Much of this period still offers pleasant weather, notably March and early June. The landscape turns lush and green after rain, offering beautiful scenery. This season balances favorable weather with more affordable costs. March can be very hot. May, June, and October have increasing chances of rain, which can occasionally disrupt outdoor plans. Some smaller businesses might have reduced hours.
Accommodation prices reach their lowest, offering great value. The island sees the fewest tourists, meaning quieter beaches and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Higher chance of rain, though showers are often brief. Seas can be rougher, potentially impacting some boat trips, snorkeling, or diving excursions. Some smaller businesses might close temporarily due to lower demand. Be prepared for potential ferry delays or cancellations if conditions are very rough.
Entry rules vary based on your nationality and planned stay duration. Thailand offers several entry programs for tourists.
Visa Exemption Program: Citizens of many countries (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU) enter without a visa for up to 30 days (air or land arrival). This exemption has a single extension option for an additional 30 days at an immigration office in Thailand, typically for a fee. Check official sources for current lists of eligible nationalities.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Citizens of certain countries (e.g., India, China) obtain a VOA for 15 or 30 days at designated international airports and land border checkpoints. This requires specific documentation and a fee upon arrival.
Tourist Visa (TRV): For stays beyond visa exemption or VOA limits, or for non-eligible nationalities, a Tourist Visa becomes necessary. Apply at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country before travel. A TRV usually grants a 60-day stay, extendable for an additional 30 days at an immigration office. This visa suits travelers planning more extensive exploration.
Non-Immigrant Visas: For non-tourism purposes (work, study, retirement), a Non-Immigrant Visa applies. Apply for these at an Embassy or Consulate; specific documentation applies.
Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your departure date, with at least two blank pages.
Onward/Return Ticket: Immigration officials may request proof of onward or return travel within your permitted stay.
Accommodation Proof: Evidence of confirmed lodging (e.g., hotel booking for first few nights) may be requested.
Funds: You may need proof of sufficient funds. Guideline: THB 10,000 per person or THB 20,000 per family for visa exemption/VOA entries.
Visa Application Form/Photos/Fee: Required if applying for a visa or VOA. Have correct currency ready if paying on arrival.
National Park Entrance Fee: Ko Samet is part of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park. A park entrance fee applies to all visitors upon arrival, typically collected at Nadan Pier. As of early 2024, the fee for foreigners generally ranges from THB 200-400 for adults and THB 100-200 for children. This fee supports park maintenance and conservation and is separate from visa fees.
Immigration Procedure: Upon arrival at an international airport, complete an arrival card, then proceed to immigration control. Present your passport and any visa documents to receive an entry stamp. Immigration typically moves efficiently, but wait times vary. No specific health-related entry requirements currently apply for general entry to Thailand.
Note: No special permits are generally needed for standard tourist activities on Ko Samet beyond the national park entrance fee. For specific water sports or diving, local operators manage any local permissions.
Ko Samet offers travel options for every budget, from frugal backpackers to luxury seekers. Thailand's currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 Baht. Coins include 1, 2, 5, 10 Baht, and satang (25, 50 satang), though satang are less common.
ATMs are widely available on Ko Samet, especially around Hat Sai Kaew and Nadan Pier. They accept major international cards (Visa, MasterCard). Thai ATMs typically charge a flat fee of THB 220 per transaction for foreign cards, in addition to any fees your home bank may impose. Credit cards find acceptance in larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is the preferred payment method for street food, smaller shops, local transport like songthaews, and many activity bookings. Exchange offices exist on the island, but rates might be slightly less favorable than in major cities like Bangkok. Carrying some THB cash upon arrival on the island is advisable, especially for initial expenses like the national park fee and songthaew rides.
Eat local (street food, local Thai restaurants away from main tourist beaches). Travel in low season (July-September) for accommodation and flight savings. Use shared songthaews instead of private ones. Negotiate politely for market purchases and souvenirs. Buy large water bottles from minimarts. Consider a Filtered water bottle for long-term savings and environmental care.
Accommodation: Basic fan room/guesthouse: THB 500-800. Mid-range resort (AC, pool): THB 1,500-3,500. Luxury resort/villa: THB 4,000-15,000+. Meals: Street food/local noodle soup: THB 50-100. Mid-range restaurant meal: THB 150-400 per dish. Fresh seafood BBQ: THB 300-800+. Transportation: Songthaew THB 50-200. Scooter rental THB 250-400/day. Longtail boat tour: THB 500-800/person. National Park Fee: THB 200-400.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it finds appreciation for good service, especially in tourist areas. Restaurants: Many add a 10% service charge. If not, rounding up or leaving THB 20-50 per person is common practice. Taxis/Songthaews: Not typically tipped, but rounding up remains acceptable. Hotel staff: THB 20-50 customary. Tour guides/boat crew: THB 50-100 per person for good service. Massage therapists: THB 50-100 customary.
These figures are averages and can fluctuate based on season, specific choices, and personal spending habits. Excludes international flights to Thailand and mainland transfers to Ban Phe.
| Category | Budget Traveler (THB) | Mid-Range Traveler (THB) | Luxury Traveler (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 500-1,000 | 1,500-3,500 | 4,000-10,000+ |
| Meals | 200-400 | 500-1,000 | 1,000-3,000+ |
| Transportation | 100-200 | 200-400 | 500-1,000+ |
| Activities | 0-300 | 300-1,000 | 1,000-3,000+ |
| Total Daily | 800 - 1,900 | 2,500 - 5,900 | 6,500 - 17,000+ |
| Approx. USD | ~USD 22 - 52 | ~USD 68 - 160 | ~USD 177 - 460+ |
