Escape to the hidden gem of Koh Samet, the most beautiful beach paradise near Bangkok that you never knew about! Explore the crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical landscapes of this stunning Thai island. Join Brant and Tracy on an unforgettable journey to the stunning island of Koh Samet! -- Contents of the video -- 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - Getting to Koh Samet 02:58 - Samet Hideaway Resort 05:17 - Sai Kaew neighborhood and beach 07:15 - Getting around the island 07:58 - Sai Kaew Resort 08:34 - Fire show 09:46 - Snorkeling tour 10:49 - Prao Beach 11:25 - TubTim Beach 12:14 - Baikarang Bay 12:29 - Drone footage of southern Koh Samet 15:04 - Sunset in North Koh Samet 15:43 - Outro Additional Facts about Koh Samet: Name's Origin: The name "Koh Samet" is derived from the Samet trees (Cajuput trees) that are abundant on the island. These trees are known for their white bark and aromatic leaves, often used for medicinal purposes. National Park Status: Koh Samet is largely part of the Khao Laem Ya–Mu Ko Samet National Park. This designation helps protect the island's natural beauty, including its beaches, forests, and marine life. There is often an entrance fee for foreigners to access the national park areas. A Setting for Epic Literature: Perhaps one of the most enchanting aspects of Koh Samet is its strong connection to Thai literary history. The island is widely believed to be the primary setting for "Phra Aphai Mani," a sprawling epic poem penned by the revered Thai poet Sunthorn Phu in the early 19th century. Often considered a masterpiece of Thai literature, this 30,000-line verse tells the captivating tale of Prince Aphai Mani, who embarks on extraordinary adventures across a fantastical realm filled with mythical creatures, enchanting women, and magical islands. Many scholars and locals believe that the "magical island" described in the poem, known as "Koh Kaew Phitsadan" (Magic Crystal Island), directly corresponds to the Koh Samet we know today. As you explore Koh Samet, keep an eye out for statues depicting key characters from "Phra Aphai Mani," such as the flute-playing prince himself, the alluring mermaid, and the formidable female giant. These artistic representations serve as a tangible link to this rich literary heritage, adding a layer of cultural significance to the island's natural beauty. Sunthorn Phu's ability to weave tales that resonated with the common people has cemented his place as one of Thailand's most beloved poets, and his association with Koh Samet adds a unique dimension to its allure. Island Size: Despite its popularity, Koh Samet is a relatively small island, approximately 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) long and 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles) wide at its broadest point. This makes it easy to explore the different beaches and areas within a short time. Dry Season Paradise: The best time to visit Koh Samet is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny with calm seas, making it ideal for beach activities and boat trips. Varied Beach Experiences: Koh Samet offers a range of beach experiences, from the lively and social atmosphere of Sai Kaew Beach to the more tranquil and secluded settings of beaches like Ao Prao and Ao Wai. This variety caters to different preferences and ensures there's a perfect spot for every visitor. Marine Biodiversity: The waters surrounding Koh Samet are rich in marine biodiversity, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. Coral reefs and various species of fish can be found just offshore. Sunset Views: Koh Samet is renowned for its stunning sunset views, particularly from the western-facing beaches. Many visitors gather in the late afternoon to witness the spectacular colors painting the sky. Watch to find out! Our Channels @Betweenmeals @StreetsandStructures Reach us at https://www.betweenmeals.net/ The only portion of this video that has been assisted with AI is the production of the theme and any versions of the theme music where SUNO was used as the music creation tool by Tracy Fetter, © 2025 Tracy Fetter. All rights reserved. Other Videos by Between Meals Discover Talat Noi's Amazing Art Secrets! Street Murals and Galleries! Talat Noi https://youtu.be/5w4L4EbGaV0 Koh Samet: An Epic Travel Adventure Koh Samet Adventure https://youtu.be/GrlJ9rNQfLQ Getting Around Pattaya Like A Local! Pattaya Transportation https://youtu.be/5dHb9zvSTPM Snorkeling Koh Samet: Should You Go Solo or Join a Tour? Koh Samet Snorkeling https://youtu.be/4PQkEqfTVb0 Koh Larn: Which beach is a sanctuary and which is a zoo? Koh Larn Beaches https://youtu.be/3bmlpzJue3c Discover the Hottest Spot in Town at Tichuca Rooftop Bar! https://youtube.com/shorts/fnNHkydkazw?feature=share Brant and Tracy, thank you for watching Between Meals. There will be more. Please like and subscribe.