Koh Samet Travel Guide 2025: For Solo Female Travellers

If you’re dreaming of a quick island escape from Bangkok, look no further than Koh Samet. Just a few hours south of the capital in Rayong province, this small but stunning island is part of a protected national park. Known for its powdery white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and chilled local vibe, it offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

What makes Koh Samet unique is its accessibility – it’s one of the easiest Thai islands to reach without needing to fly, making it a favourite for both weekend getaways and longer trips. Unlike larger islands such as Phuket or Koh Samui, Koh Samet still feels intimate and laid-back. Whether you’re here for sunrise hikes, beach-hopping by scooter, or sunset cocktails with your toes in the sand, the island has plenty to offer.

For solo female travellers in Thailand, Koh Samet ticks all the boxes: it’s safe, welcoming, and easy to navigate, with just enough buzz to keep things interesting without being overwhelming. Add to that the fact that it’s budget-friendly, has a strong backpacker community, and is small enough to explore in just a couple of days – it’s the ultimate stop on a Thailand solo travel itinerary.

I recently spent 1 night and 2 days on Koh Samet, and in this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know: from where to stay in Koh Samet for solo travellers, the best beaches in Koh Samet Thailand, transportation tips, budget hacks, and how to make the most of your solo adventure.

My 2-Day Koh Samet Solo Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival, Beaches & Sunset Views

  • Morning: Take the bus from Bangkok to Rayong (you can book in advance using my link to make the trip stress-free). This link also includes the ferry ticket to ensure your trip is hassle free.

  • From Rayong, it’s a short taxi ride to Ban Phe ferry port, where ferries and speedboats depart for the island. I booked my ferry ticket in advance through the 12Go Asia app, which I recommend during high season as tickets sell out fast.

  • Arrival: I arrived at Nadan Pier, Koh Samet’s main entry point. After paying the 200 baht national park fee, I grabbed a scooter rental (300 baht/24 hrs) to make exploring easier. Cash is king on the island, so bring plenty with you.

  • Afternoon: Checked into my accommodation at Koh Samet Ville Resort, right on Ao Wai Beach. The rooms were basic, but the views were stunning – and during low season, I pretty much had the beach to myself.

  • Evening: Rode my scooter to the Koh Samet Sunrise & Sunset Viewpoint. There’s a small hiking trail up to the lookout, and it’s a magical spot where locals and travellers gather to watch the sun dip into the horizon. For dinner, I tried Nan by the Sea, a beachfront restaurant with a gorgeous setting perfect for a relaxed solo meal.

Day 2 – Exploring Beaches & Saying Goodbye

  • Morning: Woke up early to catch the sunrise on Ao Wai Beach – worth the 6am alarm! After a coffee at the little café near Sai Kaew Beach, I scootered around to explore more of the best beaches in Koh Samet, including Ao Prao (great for swimming) and Ao Phai (laid-back with beach bars).

  • Afternoon: Spent a few hours at Kae Bay, a quiet and chilled resort area close to some of the island’s best viewpoints. It was the perfect way to round off my short stay before returning my scooter and heading back to the pier.

  • Evening: Ferry back to Ban Phe, then onward to Bangkok.

My honest opinion? 1–2 nights in Koh Samet is perfect for a solo trip. It’s enough time to soak up the island’s vibe, visit the viewpoints, and hop between beaches. If you want to add hiking, snorkelling, or just more relaxation, extend to 3 nights – but any longer and you may run out of things to do.

Practical Koh Samet Travel Tips for Solo Travellers

Where to Stay in Koh Samet for Solo Travellers

  • Budget stays: Hostels and guesthouses around Sai Kaew Beach offer a social vibe for meeting fellow travellers.

  • Mid-range: Koh Samet Ville is great for location (right on Ao Wai Beach), but u would recommend renting a scooter as it is on the other side of the island, away from the main hub.

  • Luxury: Ao Prao has gorgeous beach resorts if you’re looking to splurge.

Pro tip: Don’t bring a suitcase – the ground is uneven, and if you’re hiring a scooter, a backpack is much easier to manage.

Koh Samet Transportation Tips

  • Ferry vs. speedboat: The ferry takes ~40 minutes, while the speedboat is just 10 minutes. Both depart from Ban Phe.

  • On the island: Taxis are shared pickup trucks, but renting a scooter is the most flexible option. Always check brakes, lights, and take photos before riding away.

Koh Samet Nightlife for Solo Travellers

While not as wild as Koh Phi Phi or Phuket, Koh Samet nightlife is lively enough if you fancy a night out. Sai Kaew Beach is where you’ll find fire shows, live music, and beach bars. For something more chilled, sunset cocktails at a beachfront café are perfect.

Koh Samet Budget Travel 2025

I spent 1,500 baht (~£35) in 2 days, excluding accommodation. This covered scooter hire, taxis, food, and drinks. Expect slightly higher prices than the mainland, but still affordable compared to other Thai islands.

Travel Safety on Thailand’s Islands

As a solo female traveller in Koh Samet, I felt safe the entire time. The island has a friendly, welcoming vibe, and locals are used to travellers. Usual travel safety rules apply – keep an eye on your belongings, wear a helmet if you rent a scooter, and carry cash.

  • Cash is king: While there are a couple of 7-Eleven stores (one opposite Nadan Pier and another in the town square), card payments aren’t widely accepted. Stock up on cash before arriving. Outside of those 7/11s, local shops are more like small shacks and aren’t always well-stocked.

  • Bug spray is a must: Mosquitoes are everywhere – especially around sunset and in more remote beaches. Bring repellent and after-bite cream with you, as options on the island are limited and pricier.

  • Stock up early: Things tend to close around 11 pm, so grab snacks, water, and essentials beforehand if you don’t have a scooter to nip out later.

Need Help Planning Your Koh Samet Trip?

If you’re feeling inspired to add Koh Samet to your Thailand solo travel itinerary but don’t know where to start, I’ve got you covered. 

Through my growing travel business, I help travellers like you take the stress out of planning. Whether you need advice on the best beaches in Koh Samet Thailand, guidance on where to stay as a solo traveller, or tips on transportation and island hopping in Thailand 2025, I can help you build the perfect trip.

Get in touch here. Let’s turn your travel dreams into reality together.

FAQs About Koh Samet Solo Travel

1. Is Koh Samet safe for solo female travellers?
Yes! The island is safe, relaxed, and welcoming. I travelled solo and felt comfortable exploring by scooter and dining out alone.

2. How long should I stay in Koh Samet?
1 – 3 nights is ideal. It’s a small island, so you can see a lot in just a short time.

3. What are the best beaches in Koh Samet?
Ao Wai, Ao Prao, Ao Phai, and Sai Kaew are my top picks. Each offers a different vibe, from quiet relaxation to lively nightlife.

4. Can I use my card in Koh Samet?
Cash is best. ATMs are limited, and many places don’t accept cards. Stock up before arriving.

5. What should I pack for solo travel in Koh Samet?
Light clothes, swimwear, mosquito repellent, reef-safe sunscreen, and a backpack instead of a suitcase.

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