Koh Samet | A Guide for Solo Female Travellers

Koh Samet Travel Guide 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.

Where Is Koh Samet? And How Far is it from Bangkok?

Koh Samet is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, part of Rayong Province, located approximately 220 kilometres (137 miles) southeast of Bangkok. It’s a perfect getaway for those looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital. The island is renowned for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for solo travellers, families, and couples alike.

The quickest way to get to Koh Samet is by taking a bus or private car from Bangkok to the Ban Phe Pier in Rayong, followed by a ferry or speedboat to the island. The total journey time from Bangkok to Koh Samet takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic and the type of transport.

How to Get to Koh Samet from Bangkok

By Private Car/Taxi: You can hire a private taxi from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier, which takes about 2.5-3 hours depending on traffic. If you prefer flexibility and comfort, you can easily book a taxi through 12Go Asia for a smooth, stress-free transfer. They offer door-to-door services to and from the pier. Check out options with 12Go Asia here.

By Bus: If you’re on a budget, you can also take a bus from Ekkamai Bus Station in Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier, which takes around 3-4 hours. Buses run frequently and are an affordable option.

Ferry or Speedboat to Koh Samet: Once you arrive at Ban Phe Pier, you can hop on a ferry (about 40 minutes) or a speedboat (just 10 minutes) to the island. Ferries are less expensive, but speedboats are faster, making them a great option for solo travellers on a tight schedule.

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

Koh Samet offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a social atmosphere, a secluded retreat, or a luxurious beachfront experience, you’ll find something that fits your needs. Here are my top recommendations for solo travellers:

Budget Stays:

If you’re looking to meet fellow travellers, Sai Kaew Beach is the perfect spot for budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. The area is lively and full of social spots where you can easily strike up conversations with other solo travellers. It’s close to the beach, making it convenient to enjoy the sea, restaurants, and bars without much effort. Popular budget options like Samed Villa Resort or Samed Grandview Resort offer affordable rates with a friendly atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a social vibe.

For easy booking and great deals, check out Booking.com for a list of affordable stays near Sai Kaew Beach. Search for budget accommodations here.

Mid-Range:

For a bit more comfort and privacy, Koh Samet Ville is a fantastic choice. Located right on Ao Wai Beach, it offers a peaceful retreat with excellent amenities. While the location is quieter and more relaxed, it’s a bit further from the main nightlife and restaurants of the island, so renting a scooter is highly recommended for getting around easily. Ao Wai Beach itself is quieter, perfect for those who enjoy more tranquillity without being far from the action. You can easily access Sai Kaew Beach and the main hub by scooter within 10 minutes.

Check out Koh Samet Ville and other mid-range options on Booking.com to find the best deals. Explore mid-range stays on Koh Samet.

Luxury:

For those wanting to indulge in a luxurious beach experience, Ao Prao Beach is where you’ll find the island’s most stunning beachfront resorts. Offering beautiful views, top-notch amenities, and a high level of privacy, these resorts are ideal for solo travellers looking to splurge. Ao Prao Resort and Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa offer gorgeous rooms and world-class services, perfect for a peaceful getaway with all the luxuries you could want.

If you’re ready to treat yourself to a luxurious stay, browse the best deals at Ao Prao Beach resorts. Find luxury accommodations in Ao Prao Beach.

Koh Samet Transportation Tips

• Ferry vs. speedboat: The ferry from Ban Phe to Koh Samet takes around 40 minutes and offers a relaxed journey to the island. Ferries are affordable and convenient, making them ideal for most travellers. However, if you’re in a hurry and want to get to the island faster, the speedboat is a great choice. Speedboats take about 10 minutes, making them the fastest option to Koh Samet. Both ferries and speedboats depart from Ban Phe Pier, and you can easily book tickets for both options in advance through 12Go Asia for peace of mind. Book your ferry or speedboat tickets here.

• On the island: Once you’re on the island, you’ll find that taxis are actually shared pickup trucks, which are a great and affordable way to get around. However, if you prefer flexibility and independence, renting a scooter is your best bet. Not only does it give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but it’s also the most practical option for getting to more secluded beaches. Just be sure to check the brakes, lights, and condition of the scooter before you take it out. It’s also a good idea to take photos of any damage to avoid disputes when returning the scooter.

Koh Samet Nightlife for Solo Travellers

Koh Samet’s nightlife may not be as wild as islands like Koh Phi Phi or Phuket, but it still offers plenty of fun for solo travellers. The island’s main nightlife hub is Sai Kaew Beach, where you’ll find fire shows, live music, and several lively beach bars. It’s the perfect spot if you’re looking to mingle with fellow travellers or enjoy a vibrant night out by the sea.

For a more relaxed experience, why not enjoy sunset cocktails at a beachfront café? The vibe here is laid-back and ideal for those seeking a peaceful evening to unwind after a day of exploring. Whether you want to party or simply enjoy a drink with a view, Koh Samet offers something for every solo traveller.

Koh Samet Budget Travel

Koh Samet is relatively affordable compared to other Thai islands, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious solo travellers. For example, during my 2-day stay, I spent around 1,500 baht (~£35), excluding accommodation. This amount covered scooter hire, taxis, meals, and drinks. While prices on the island are slightly higher than on the mainland, they are still more reasonable compared to the larger, more popular islands.

Expect to pay around 200-300 baht for meals at local restaurants, and around 500-600 baht per day for scooter rental. Accommodation can range from budget guesthouses (around 500-800 baht per night) to more luxurious resorts (starting at 1,500-2,500 baht per night). It’s easy to find options that suit your budget.

Travel Safety on Thailand’s Islands

As a solo female traveller, I felt incredibly safe during my time in Koh Samet. The island has a very friendly, welcoming vibe, and the locals are used to hosting travellers from around the world. That said, general travel safety rules should always apply – keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas, and be cautious if you’re heading out after dark.

• Scooter Safety: If you’re planning on renting a scooter (highly recommended), always wear a helmet and check the condition of the bike before heading out.

• Cash is King: While there are a couple of 7-Eleven stores on the island, cash payments are preferred. Card payments are not widely accepted in smaller shops or restaurants, so it’s best to stock up on cash before heading to Koh Samet.

• Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be quite prevalent, especially around sunset or in more remote beach areas. Pack bug spray and after-bite cream to avoid discomfort during your stay.

Stock Up Early: Things tend to close around 11 pm, so if you don’t have a scooter to go out later, be sure to grab snacks, water, and other essentials in advance.

Thinking about visiting Koh Samet?

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, I can help you build the perfect trip. You can also check out my Thailand destination guide here. 

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

FAQs – Koh Samet Solo Female Travel