Island in Rayong, Thailand
Getting around Koh Samet
How to get around Koh Samet
A short boat from Ban Phe, then shared pickups from Nadan pier to each bay. The island is small, but roads are rough and prices are higher than the mainland.
Ways to get around Koh Samet
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry from Ban Phe pier | About 70–100 THB each way | Slow boat or speedboat to Nadan, 30–45 min; fares rise for speedboats |
| Songthaew (pickup truck) | About 50–150 THB | From Nadan pier to the bays; fixed price per route |
| Motorbike taxi | About 50–150 THB | Agree the price; useful on rough tracks |
Taxis in Koh Samet
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. No ride apps. Songthaews and hotel pickups set prices; confirm fares before leaving the pier. Speedboat transfers should be booked ahead.
Arriving in Koh Samet
Via Bangkok, then Ban Phe (BKK)
Minivan from Ekkamai to Ban Phe about 200–300 THB, 3–3.5 h; or taxi about 2,000–2,800 THB, then ferry.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rented for 300–500 THB a day; the main road is paved but tracks to quiet bays are rough. Police are less active than on bigger islands.
- Driving: on the left. Drive with your home licence plus a 1949-Convention IDP; scooters need the motorcycle category or police fine you.
- Onward travel in Thailand: Cheap domestic flights link main cities; overnight sleeper trains run Bangkok–Chiang Mai and south; VIP buses, minivans and ferries cover the rest.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Koh Samet?
No ride-hailing apps work here. No ride apps. Songthaews and hotel pickups set prices; confirm fares before leaving the pier. Speedboat transfers should be booked ahead.
What's the best way to get around Koh Samet?
A short boat from Ban Phe, then shared pickups from Nadan pier to each bay. The island is small, but roads are rough and prices are higher than the mainland.
How do I get from the airport to Koh Samet?
Minivan from Ekkamai to Ban Phe about 200–300 THB, 3–3.5 h; or taxi about 2,000–2,800 THB, then ferry.
Is Koh Samet walkable?
You'll need transport.
More about Koh Samet
Going to Koh Samet solo?
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Sources
- State Railway of Thailand e-ticketing
- Airports of Thailand
- Tourism Authority of Thailand: Rayong
- Thai National Parks (Khao Laem Ya–Mu Ko Samet)
- Bangkok Hospital Rayong
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.