Koh Samed Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Most travelers reach Koh Samed by first traveling to Ban Phe pier in Rayong province, approximately 3.5 hours by bus or 2.5 hours by car from Bangkok. Regular buses and minivans depart from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) and Victory Monument throughout the day. Upon arriving at Ban Phe, speedboats make the crossing to Koh Samed in about 15 minutes, while the more economical wooden ferry takes around 40 minutes. If driving, several secured parking facilities near the pier offer daily and weekly rates. The last ferry typically departs around 6:00 PM, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Just a few hours from Bangkok, Koh Samed (also spelled Koh Samet) offers a perfect blend of pristine white beaches and lush forests. This T-shaped island in the Gulf of Thailand presents visitors with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. As one of the driest islands in Thailand, Koh Samed promises sunshine nearly year-round, making it a reliable weekend retreat for both locals and international travelers seeking a quick tropical getaway.

Koh Samed enjoys a microclimate that shields it from much of the rainfall that affects other Thai destinations, making it a viable option throughout the year. The absolute peak season runs from November to February, when temperatures hover between 25-30°C with minimal rainfall and refreshing breezes. March to May brings hotter temperatures but quieter beaches, ideal for those seeking tranquility. While the official monsoon season spans June to October, Koh Samed typically experiences only brief afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours. Ferry services operate consistently year-round, though rough seas occasionally affect schedules during rare strong storms.

Koh Samed serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Thailand's eastern seaboard islands. From here, boat trips can take you to the nearby Koh Kudee, a tiny uninhabited island perfect for a day of snorkeling among vibrant coral formations, just 30 minutes away. Adventurous travelers can arrange transport to Koh Chang, Thailand's second-largest island, via a combination of ferry and bus connections (approximately 4 hours total). The less-visited Koh Mak offers a glimpse of traditional island life and pristine beaches, accessible by speedboat in about 2 hours. For diving enthusiasts, day trips to the underwater paradise of Koh Talu provide encounters with diverse marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Koh Samed's crown jewel is undoubtedly Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach), where powdery white sand meets turquoise waters perfect for swimming and water sports like jet-skiing and parasailing. Nature lovers should explore the hiking trails through the island's national park status interior, leading to panoramic viewpoints and hidden coves. The evening fire shows on Sai Kaew and Phai beaches showcase impressive displays of skill as performers twirl flaming batons to rhythmic music. Culinary adventures await at the seafood restaurants along Ao Wong Duean, where freshly caught fish, squid, and prawns are prepared with aromatic Thai herbs and spices. Don't miss exploring the quieter southern beaches like Ao Wai and Ao Pakarang, where development remains minimal and nature prevails.

Despite its small size (just 13.1 square kilometers), Koh Samed features prominently in Thai literature as the setting for the classic 19th-century poem 'Phra Aphai Mani' by Sunthorn Phu, often called the Shakespeare of Thailand. The island's name derives from the cajeput trees (called 'samet' in Thai) that once densely covered its hills, though many have been cleared for development. Interestingly, Koh Samed receives approximately 50% less rainfall than mainland Rayong Province just a few kilometers away, thanks to its unique positioning in the Gulf of Thailand. Local fishermen maintain the tradition of painting bright colors on their boat prows to honor the guardian spirits believed to protect them at sea.