Just 200 kilometres from Bangkok, Koh Samet is the nearest major island to Bangkok. With fine powdery sands, gentle waves and shady, tree-fringed beaches, it offers a great break for families. Here are 5 of the island’s top family-friendly resorts on Samet’s smaller, less busy beaches.
Ao Prao Resort
Luscious tropical gardens and white sandy beaches make Ao Prao Resort the kind of place you can feel instantly relaxed. Located on the west coast of Koh Samet, the resort’s spacious accommodation options 10 room type that feature their own separate living rooms. In addition to babysitting services, families will appreciate Ao Prao Resort’s super-convenient location – it’s just a 5-minute walk from the ferry terminal on Samet. Resort shuttle boats depart from Ban Phe pier.
Contact : +66 (0)38 644 100 +66 (0)61 413 8468 – 70
Email: frontoffice_aoprao@samedresorts.com
Paradee Resort
Located towards the southern end of Samet, Paradee has 40 luxury beachfront villas sprawled out across a landscape of tropical gardens. Each villa contains a Villast boasting tall vaulted ceilings, an individual living room, spacious bedroom and a private outdoor living space. Resort facilities include a pool, a fitness centre, library and access to 2 separate beaches. A wealth of water sports can be arranged. Hotel transfer service is available with speedboat.
Contact : 038 644 285, frontoffice@paradeeresort.com
Samed Villa Resort
This casual resort situated beside Ao Phai Beach offers no less than 6 different types of accommodation for families. Looking for maximum space and comfort? Go for the ‘Superior Family Bungalow sea view’ option. These big bungalows include a large private balcony and 2 separate rooms with a king sized bed in one room and 2 single beds in the other. You’ll also find plenty of fun-packed activities to fill your days. Book snorkelling, kayaking and boat trips to the mainland, or visit Khao Laem Ya–Mu Ko Samed National Park – just a 2 km drive from the resort. Access to the resort is via chartered speedboat at an additional cost.
Contact : 081 761 5578
E-mail : info@samedvilla.com
Saikaew Beach Resort
Sai Kaew Beach Resort A perfect blend of comfort and convenience, Sai Kaew Beach Resort offers modern beachfront living with family-friendly facilities, vibrant surroundings, and direct access to one of Koh Samet’s most popular beaches. Suitable for groups of friends, couples, seniors or all age groups. Ideal for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and island fun!
Located just about 2.5 to 3 hours’ drive from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier in Rayong, followed by a 15–20 minute speedboat ride to Koh Samet, it’s an easy and accessible escape for a weekend getaway or a short family vacation. The resort even offers boat transfer services, making your journey smooth and stress-free.
Contact : 038 644 195
Email : frontoffice_saikaew@samedresorts.com
Le Vimarn Cottages and Spa
Situated on a beautiful and secluded section of Ao Prao beach, Le Vimarn offers families a relaxed retreat in Koh Samet. Rooms are spacious and the service is incredibly attentive. Alongside playing on the beach and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, families can enjoy access to an infinity edge 15m pool, fitness studio and 2 restaurants, including an Italian restaurant with a wood-burning pizza oven – always a favourite option with the kids!
Contact : 038 644 104
E-mail : frontoffice_levimarn@samedresorts.com
Tips on Getting to Ko Samet
First, travel to the Municipality, Nuan Thip, or Ban Phe piers in Rayong; they are all on the same oceanfront strip within 200 to 300 metres of each other, along with a number of other piers. The easiest options for families are to drive to the piers and park in a paid lot, or hire a private car/van with a driver to bring you there (and pick you up). You cannot bring a car to the island.
If your hotel does not have ferry/speed boat service leaving from a specific pier, you can easily charter a speed boat from a private operator to your desired beach. The cost is about 2,000 to 3,000 baht for a one-way journey (larger boats cost more and you can try to negotiate a better rate for a round-trip transfer). The ride takes around 20 minutes.
For a more tranquil (and cheaper) option, you can take one of the ferries that leave regularly from the above piers. They stop at Nadan Pier (the main ferry terminal on Samet’s north coast, which may require a “songtaew” or open-aired communal taxi ride to your resort) or Ao Vongduern, a large beach on the eastern side of the island. Check about docking options on other beaches, including Ao Prao. The ferry ride takes 40 minutes at the cost of around 70 to 100 baht per person, depending on your destination. Tickets can be purchased at the harbour offices or right before you get on the ferry itself.
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