Samae San Island is situated in the Sattahip district of Chon Buri province, Thailand. It is blessed with abundant natural beauty, both on the island and in its surrounding sea. Its proximity to Bangkok allows visitors to enjoy the island in just a day.
Samae San Island is small and is part of the Samae San archipelago, consisting of nine islands located in the outermost area of the inner Gulf of Thailand. The island is home to the Plant Genetic Conservation Project Under The Royal Initiative of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Managed by the Royal Thai Navy, it serves as both a learning resource center and a popular eco-tourism destination.
Things to know for eco-conscious tourists
Before visiting Samae San Island, it’s important to understand the do’s and don’ts. Pets are not allowed on the island, and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. Foam boxes of any kind are also not permitted. Visitors are required to attend a briefing conducted by officials on proper etiquette and behavior while on the island, with a strong emphasis on ecotourism principles. Once you’ve completed the training and gained an understanding of these guidelines, you can fully enjoy the various activities offered in this pristine environment.
Activities galore at Samae San Island
Samae San Island, known locally as Koh Samae San, is accessible year-round and offers convenient travel options with short journey times. The island remains relatively undiscovered and unspoiled, featuring beautiful clear seawater teeming with diverse marine life and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy an activity-packed experience, with ample photo opportunities and the chance to embark on a stunning and memorable day trip.
Samae San Island is rich in natural beauty, featuring clean white sandy beaches, crystal-clear seawater, and a thriving coral colony with diverse biodiversity. The island is home to various sea animals and birds. It boasts 5 beaches, though swimming is permitted at only 2 of them—Hat Thian and Luk Lom Beach.
Most activities on the island center around Luk Lom Beach, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and a variety of recreational options such as snorkeling to observe beautiful fish and coral colonies, kayaking, glass-bottom boat rides, beach volleyball, cycling, and a 1.2-kilometer nature trail for hiking. For panoramic views of the island, visitors can walk approximately 700 meters to the Luk Lom Beach viewpoint.
Snorkeling costs 50 Baht per person (including equipment). Certified staff provide equipment and instruction, and a boat transports participants to the snorkeling site, with the activity lasting about 1 hour. Glass-bottom boat rides are available for 20 Baht per person, and kayaking costs 100 Baht per hour.
Evening Sea Breeze at Khao Ma Jor Viewpoint
Khao Ma Jor viewpoint is the premier location to admire Samae San village from an elevated perspective. From this vantage point, you can also enjoy panoramic views of other islands such as Koh Raet, Koh Kham, and Koh Samae San itself. If time permits, a visit to Thai Island and Sea Nature History Museum, located at the mountain’s base, offers further opportunities for sightseeing. Tickets can be purchased at the building opposite the ferry ticket counter. Admission is priced at 50 Baht for Thai nationals and 100 Baht for foreigners.
Enjoy dinner at the Sattahip Night Market
After a day of exploring nature, treat your taste buds to delicious street food at the Sattahip Night Market. The entire alley is filled with restaurants and street vendors offering snacks, desserts, and drinks. Among the highlights of Sattahip Night Market, be sure to try “Amata Ros Roti,” a legendary roti (flatbread) establishment since 1966. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this flatbread is renowned for its crispy, fragrant, and sweet dough. Recommended roti options include Rose Roti, Banana Roti, and Coconut Roti.
Travel Tips
- From Bangkok, you can take a van or a bus from Bangkok Bus Terminal (Eastern), also known as Ekkamai Bus Terminal (Bangkok-Sattahip route) and alight at KM.6 Sattahip. From there, transfer to a blue minibus (Sattahip-Samae San) that stops in front of the Thai Island and Sea Natural History Museum.
- Tourists can visit Koh Samae San on a day trip only (no overnight stays). Tickets can be booked and purchased at the Thai Island and Sea Natural History Museum. Boats depart every hour, starting from 09:00 with the last departure at 13.00. The crossing to the island takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, reservations can be made up to 3 days in advance at www.samaesarnisland.com
Admission fees are 300 Baht for Thai adults and 220 Baht for Thai children. For foreigners, the fee is 600 Baht for both adults and children.
Let’s plan a trip to Samae San. Fly to Bangkok with Thai Airways!
