Sai Kaew Beach Phuket
Koh Samet's most popular beach, offering vibrant energy, clear waters, and a wide range of activities and dining options.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, calm seas, fewer crowds
Sai Kaew Beach Phuket
Best Time
Sunny days, calm seas, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Koh Samet's most popular beach, offering vibrant energy, clear waters, and a wide range of activities and dining options.
"The main beach buzzes with activity, offering sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and stunning turquoise waters."
🚗 Getting to Koh Samet
Drive to Rayong, then take a ferry to Koh Samet. It's a 3-hour trip from Bangkok, no flight needed!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and enjoy a more relaxed vibe. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Beachfront
Sai Kaew Beach
The main beach buzzes with activity, offering sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and stunning turquoise waters.
Sunset Views
Western side of Koh Samet
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors. A perfect romantic moment or a peaceful end to your day.
Island Exploration
Koh Samet
Rent a scooter or take a songthaew to explore other charming beaches and hidden coves around Koh Samet.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Sai Kaew Beach
Best Time to Visit Sai Kaew
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Getting to Koh Samet
Drive to Rayong, then take a ferry to Koh Samet. It's a 3-hour trip from Bangkok, no flight needed!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and enjoy a more relaxed vibe. :sunwithface:
🛵 Island Hopping
Rent a scooter to easily explore other beaches on Koh Samet. :scooter:
📸 Capture the Sunset
Find a good spot on the western side for stunning sunset views. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Getting to Koh Samet
Drive to Rayong, then take a ferry to Koh Samet. It's a 3-hour trip from Bangkok, no flight needed!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and enjoy a more relaxed vibe. :sunwithface:
🛵 Island Hopping
Rent a scooter to easily explore other beaches on Koh Samet. :scooter:
📸 Capture the Sunset
Find a good spot on the western side for stunning sunset views. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sai Kaew Beach is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, clear waters, and abundance of amenities, making it a popular choice for both relaxation and water sports. Visitors appreciate the convenience of numerous beachfront restaurants and bars. However, its popularity means it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, which some find detracts from a peaceful beach experience.
"What a beautiful beach with Crystal clear water and almost completely deserted. This part of Phuket has so far escaped the relentless development that has progressed along the west coast of the island. But I wonder how much long this will be so before its pristine beauty becomes part of another private development like Laguna. Visit it whilst you can. There's a nice little restaurant here with little bamboo huts on the beach. The last one on the northwest coast."
Miles Macdonald
"First time seeing these sand dune fences — unbelievable! I mean, who knew? They’re doing an amazing job, really. Tremendous. Nobody builds fences like this anymore. Just incredible — totally next-level stuff. Believe me."
Sonny Lin
"In the very north of Phuket Island is the first beach, Hat Sai Keo. This is a large beach, its length is approximately 2.5 kilometers.
In translation, the name “Hat Sai Keo” means “glass sand”. In general, the name of the beach justifies itself. The sand here is really fine, clean and crisp.
On the beach there is no rent of umbrellas and sun beds. Also there are no hotels and restaurants here.
On the shore is average, in depth, the entrance to the sea, it can be quite windy even in high season.
There are no tides on the beach - you can swim here all day long, anywhere on the beach. Even in the low season there are no high waves. The water in the sea is transparent, has an aquamarine color.
Flora
Coniferous casuarinas, which gives the air a special note.
The beach is located within the Sirinat National Park, it is deserted and suitable for: yoga; meditation; solitary walks.
Full information with videos and easy navigation - in the app 👉 PHUKETON"
Igor Dvorov (PhuketON)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sai Kaew Beach is located on Koh Samet, not Phuket. The journey from Bangkok involves a drive to Rayong province (approx. 3 hours) and then a short ferry ride to the island.
You can drive to the mainland pier in Rayong, but cars are not allowed on Koh Samet. You'll need to park your car and take a ferry or speedboat to the island. :car: :ferry:
Several ferry services operate from piers like Ban Phe in Rayong to various points on Koh Samet, including near Sai Kaew Beach. Speedboats are also available for a quicker transfer. :boat:
Ferry rides typically take around 30-45 minutes, depending on the type of boat and the destination pier on Koh Samet. :stopwatch:
While ferries go to the main piers on Koh Samet, you might need a short taxi (songthaew) ride or a walk to reach Sai Kaew Beach itself, depending on your disembarkation point. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a national park fee for entering Koh Samet, which covers access to its beaches, including Sai Kaew Beach. This fee is usually collected at the pier before boarding the ferry. :ticket:
Sai Kaew Beach is a public beach and is generally accessible at all hours. However, facilities and services like restaurants and shops operate on their own schedules, typically from morning to late evening. :clock10:
Ferry tickets can usually be purchased directly at the pier on the day of travel. Booking in advance is generally not necessary unless you are traveling during a major holiday period. :credit_card:
Ferry prices can vary slightly between operators and depending on whether you choose a standard ferry or a speedboat. It's advisable to check current prices at the pier. :moneywithwings:
The national park fee grants you access to the natural attractions of Koh Samet, including its beaches and hiking trails. It's a one-time fee per person for your stay on the island. :park_park:
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Sai Kaew Beach offers a range of activities including swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and various water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides. :beachwithumbrella: :volleyball:
Yes, Sai Kaew Beach is lined with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a variety of Thai and international cuisine, as well as refreshing drinks. :hamburger: :tropical_drink:
Sai Kaew Beach is the most popular and developed beach on Koh Samet, so it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak season. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours is recommended for a quieter experience.
There are many resorts and guesthouses available directly on or very close to Sai Kaew Beach, ranging from budget-friendly to more upscale options.
Yes, beach chairs and umbrellas are readily available for rent from vendors along Sai Kaew Beach, allowing you to relax comfortably. :sun_umbrella:
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but vibrant beach scenes are still possible. :sunrise: :city_sunset:
While the beach itself is picturesque, exploring the rocky outcrops at either end of Sai Kaew Beach can offer unique perspectives. Also, consider viewpoints from nearby hills if you rent a scooter. :camerawithflash:
Expect to capture stunning beach landscapes, clear turquoise waters, vibrant beach bars, and lively scenes of people enjoying the sun and sea. :ocean: :palm_tree:
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas, especially near resorts or if it interferes with other visitors. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. :drone:
Besides Sai Kaew Beach, consider Ao Prao for serene sunsets and Ao Wai for a more secluded feel. The viewpoint near the lighthouse also offers panoramic island views. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a bit more adventure, water sports like banana boat rides can be a fun activity for older children. The island's songthaew taxis are also an easy way to explore other nearby beaches that might offer different experiences. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water to keep everyone comfortable throughout the day. :sunprotectionglasses: :water_bottle:
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize the public ferries from Ban Phe to Koh Samet, which are significantly cheaper than speedboats. Once on the island, walking or using the shared songthaew taxis are the most economical ways to get around. Pack your own snacks and water bottle to save on daily expenses. :ferry: :walking: :water_bottle:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Koh Samet: Transport & Getting Around
Once you're on the island and settled near Sai Kaew Beach, getting around is relatively easy. Many visitors choose to rent a scooter to explore the island's various beaches and viewpoints at their own pace. This offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, songthaews are a convenient and affordable option for hopping between different parts of the island. They operate on set routes and can be hailed down. For shorter distances along the beachfront, walking is also a pleasant option, especially during the cooler parts of the day. :scooter: :bus: :walking:
When planning your transport, consider the time of day and your budget. Weekends and public holidays can see increased traffic to the piers, so factor in extra travel time. For those seeking a more direct and comfortable experience, private transfers can be arranged, though they come at a higher cost. Remember to factor in the national park entrance fee, which is usually collected at the pier before you board your ferry to Koh Samet. :ticket: :moneywithwings:
Experiencing Sai Kaew Beach: Activities & Atmosphere
The beachfront is lined with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, creating a bustling scene from morning till late night. You can enjoy a delicious Thai meal with your feet in the sand, sip on a refreshing cocktail while watching the waves, or simply grab a coffee. The energy here is palpable, making it a great spot for those who enjoy a social beach experience.
While Sai Kaew Beach offers plenty of excitement, it can get quite crowded, especially during peak season and on weekends. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting during weekdays or exploring the quieter beaches on the island. However, if you're looking for a beach with a buzz, plenty of amenities, and a wide range of things to do, Sai Kaew Beach is an excellent choice. :beachwithumbrella: :tropicaldrink: :camerawith_flash:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit