If you're wondering how much it costs to visit Koh Samet, this travel cost guide can help you plan with confidence. Our Koh Samet trip cost calculator uses real travel cost data from thousands of previous visitors, including average hotel prices, food and dining costs, sightseeing and entertainment expenses, and transportation details. Koh Samet is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities, all of which have their own costs you should know about ahead of time.
How much does it cost to travel to Koh Samet?
A typical traveler spends $130 (฿4,234) per day on a trip to Koh Samet. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Koh Samet based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $53 (฿1,730) on meals
- $77 (฿2,500) on local transportation
- $72 (฿2,343) on hotels
A one-week trip to Koh Samet for two people costs, on average, $1,820 (฿59,276). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Koh Samet expensive to visit?
In Koh Samet, budget travelers spend $58 (฿1,852) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $131 (฿4,234) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $251 (฿8,090) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Koh Samet.
Koh Samet is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Koh Samet has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by looking for discounts and coupons.
Within Asia, Koh Samet is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Koh Samet is generally more expensive than most.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Koh Samet Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Koh Samet?
The average Koh Samet trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Koh Samet travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Koh Samet cost?
Koh Samet on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$16
(฿513)
|
$36
(฿1,171)
|
$69
(฿2,239)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$34
(฿1,094)
|
$77
(฿2,500)
|
$147
(฿4,777)
|
|
Food2
|
$23
(฿757)
|
$53
(฿1,730)
|
$101
(฿3,306)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$4
(฿144)
|
$10
(฿329)
|
$19
(฿628)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$1-3
(฿38-113)
|
$3-8
(฿86-257)
|
$5-15
(฿164-491)
|
Accommodation Budget in Koh Samet
Koh Samet has a wide range of hotel prices. Luxury hotels come with higher price tags and better amenities, and prices are much steeper during peak season. On average, a room costs $41 in the off-season and averages $77 during peak season. Overall, you can expect prices from $24 to $129. Hostels, especially dorms, are cheaper alternatives. You can save by traveling in the low season, booking in advance, or looking for special offers.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Koh Samet for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $72 (฿2,343). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $36 (฿1,171) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Koh Samet? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Koh Samet include:
- Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa starting at $106
- SummerDay Beach Resort starting at $85
- Baan Ploy Sea starting at $68
- Baan Supparod starting at $34
- Ao Prao Resort starting at $83
By avoiding the peak season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in Koh Samet
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $77 (฿2,500) per person, per day, on local transportation in Koh Samet. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Koh Samet is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$77
฿2,500
There is just one main road on Ko Samet with smaller, bumpier ones branching out to the beaches. The distance between town and the beach isn't very far, so walking is totally possible.
Songthaews are available for those who would rather not walk, and there's also the option to rent a scooter and/or ATV 4-wheeler. Gas is often included and the prices are better down by the pier. If they ask you to leave a deposit or your passport, find another rental spot.
How much does it cost to go to Koh Samet? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Koh Samet will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Koh Samet
Tasting the local cuisine is a key reason for travel, so be sure to sample the unique dishes offered in the area.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Koh Samet can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Koh Samet is $53 (฿1,730) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$53
฿1,730
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Koh Samet is around $54 (฿1730) per person, with previous travelers spending from $24 to $103. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Koh Samet are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $16
- Lunch: $8 to $21
- Dinner: $16 to $38
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
As in most tourist destinations, you'll find food anywhere from local to completely Westernized. Almost every hotel has a restaurant and many will set up tables and chairs on the beach in the evening for some night dining.
If you find yourself in a happy little beach coma, no need to even get up. There are plenty of vendors selling fruits, chicken wings, dried squid, papaya salad and even ice cream to those who would rather not get up.
When the sun goes down, the Roti stands come out. These crepe desserts are typically filled with bananas and covered in chocolate syrup. If you see a stand, stop and treat yourself.
Many establishments feature breakfast in their pricing, although some tack it on as an added expense. The price and quality can fluctuate depending on the hotel. Being aware of this beforehand helps you gauge if you'll need extra cash. The hotel buffet might be a delicious choice, or you could save some cash by heading to a nearby bakery or cafe.
Having a water bottle can help you save on drinks and do your part for the environment.
Planning a tour? Be sure to confirm in advance which meals are provided. You could find yourself footing the bill for some meals, which can affect your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Koh Samet
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Koh Samet typically cost an average of $10 (฿329) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$10
฿329
The sights in Ko Samet are found all along the east coast of the island. This is where you'll find the bays that make this area so popular. A good general rule of thumb is the more south you go, the quieter the beaches get. Northern beaches will have things like fire-juggling shows and barbecues while more southern beaches are home to monks.
One of the most popular beaches on the island is Hat Sai Kaew, or Diamond Beach. This beach is ready to cater to tourists with activities like jet skiing, windsurfing, catamaran sailing and more. It can get a little loud during the day and definitely comes to life at night.
If you had your heart set on some peace and quiet, go where the monks go. Just past the mermaid statue in Hat Sai Kaew is Ao Hin Khok. This beach is half the size and the monk accommodation along the sand have signs asking visitors to please keep quiet. It's the perfect spot for quiet sunbathing and inner reflection.
But if it's the local culture you're interested in, you'll want to visit Ao Karang. This beach located at the very tip of the island is extremely quiet where you'll find the best examples of traditional Ko Samet lifestyle.
As you travel along the east coast, you can follow signs for the "next beach," and experience all the bays Ko Samet has to offer. Ao Pai and Ao Wong Deuan are more popular tourist beaches, while places like Ao Put Sa, Ao Nuan, Ao Thian, and Ao Wong Deuan are quieter places for the traveler not looking for some peace and quiet.
The best experiences on Ko Samet are the ones spent exploring the island itself. Walk along out-of-the-way trails, or rent an ATV for a bit more of an adrenaline rush. Take boat trip, strap on a scuba suit and visit the land beneath the water. The calm waters of Ko Samet are perfect for those who have always wanted to scuba dive, but have never had the opportunity. It's an easy place for beginners to start their training. Classes are usually small, if not one-on-one, and the coral reefs of surrounding islands are not bad to practice on.
Nightlife Budget in Koh Samet
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $5.26 (฿171) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Koh Samet per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$5.26
฿171
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
Travel cost data last updated: Apr 30, 2026
Traveling in Koh Samet
Koh Samet, Thailand
The country of Thailand is full of some of the world's most stunning beauty and peaceful settings. So it begs the question, where the Thai people go to get away from it all? They go to Ko Samet on the eastern gulf coast. Located just outside of Bangkok, Ko Samet provides visitors an easily accessible and desirable weekend getaway spot. With white beaches and coral of every other color, this island has steadily developed over the last few years without an intense construction increase like many other Thai beaches. Once thought to be the home of pirates, this island provides plenty to wonder about including, are there hidden treasures under that gorgeous white sand?
In order to secure a place to lay your head, try to get to the island early, and keep in mind that the high tourist season is usually November to February and from June to August.
Related:
Partying in Chiang Mai or other parts of Thailand?
Going to the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan?
Hitting the beach in Koh Samui?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Koh Samet, it's important to have realistic expectations about your budget. Many believe they can travel on a shoestring, but that often leads to either uncomfortable travel experiences or some surprisingly high expenses. Consider your vacation style. Do you enjoy staying in hostels, resorts, regular hotels, or vacation rentals? Are attractions and dining experiences a priority? These factors will affect how much you spend and your itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $58 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Luckily, Koh Samet has plenty of hostels, including Sundaze Samet - Bar & Hostel, The Cocoon Hostel, and Stay Samed. Here, you can enjoy budget dorm accommodation along with a friendly, social vibe, but amenities are quite limited.
So, are you average?
As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Visitors to Koh Samet typically prioritize the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks during their stay. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $131 per person, per day.
Koh Samet offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Baan Ploy Sea is an excellent option for kids, and Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Koh Samet here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $251 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination, a luxury budget will be necessary.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
