Ko Samet is all length and not very much width, a bit like a pin with its head, the part a little wider, lying to the north. Though the island is small, it is still possible to hire motorbikes or, better still, mountain bikes there. It is definitely the type of island to go to for a romantic holiday as a couple ; that, in any case, was the spirit in which I went there with my wife for a break out at sea. This is also one of the closest islands to Bangkok.
On Koh Samet, rest and relaxation are the order of the day ; because, and this goes without saying, there isn't much to do there. As it's a national park, its coastline is protected, which means there are few buildings. The consequence of this is that there aren't many restaurants, hotels, etc., to choose from. The options available are a walk in the forested area found in the center of the island, underwater diving, or admiring the sunset.
There are various places on the island where you can encounter statues; there is one of Aphai Mani and a mermaid at Hat Sai Kaew Beach for example.
Koh Samet is easy to get around so you'll quickly feel at home. I liked that this island was so close to the capital, as well as its small size and calm atmosphere. Even if the coastline doesn't lack resorts (the big island being a favourite with the Thais at weekends), Ko Samet has amazing mangroves, idyllic white, sandy beaches and incredible plantlife.
I settled down on the white sands at Hat Sai Kaeo and recharged my batteries at Ao Kiu Na Nok as well as Ao Nuan. I left Ao Phrao with the image of a perfect sunset in my head and, as I snacked on a pancake, I told myself I wouldn't miss the island's softly lit beaches once I got home...How wrong I was!