Things to Do on Koh Samet: Walking the Koh Samet Nature Trail

If you’re looking for things to do on Koh Samet beyond beaches and bars, the Koh Samet Nature Trail is an easy, rewarding option.

Yesterday, we walked the trail with a few hostel guests and Talay, and it turned out to be one of the most enjoyable low-key activities on the island. It’s not a demanding hike, but it offers one of the best viewpoints on Koh Samet and a peaceful walk through jungle scenery.

This guide is based on our own experience and is written to help you decide if the trail is worth adding to your Koh Samet itinerary — and how to do it without small mistakes slowing you down.

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Why the Koh Samet Nature Trail Is One of the Best Things to Do on Koh Samet

Koh Samet is best known for its beaches, but the island also has a surprisingly scenic interior. The Nature Trail gives you a chance to:

• See Koh Samet from above
• Walk through shaded jungle paths
• Visit historical sites like ancient kilns
• Enjoy a quiet activity away from the busier beaches

If you enjoy light walking, viewpoints, and slower travel experiences, this is one of the most underrated things to do on Koh Samet.

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Where the Koh Samet Nature Trail Starts and Ends

Trail Entrance Near the Koh Samet Visitor Center

The entrance to the Koh Samet Nature Trail is located near the Koh Samet Visitor Center. From our hostel, it’s an easy walk, making this a very convenient activity if you’re staying nearby.

Trail Exit Toward Ao Phrao

The trail exits on the road leading to Ao Phrao, close to the reservoir lake. This is not a loop trail, so it’s worth planning your return before you start.

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How Long Does the Koh Samet Nature Trail Take?

According to the official signage at the entrance, the hike takes around 2 hours.

In reality:

• We completed the trail in about 1 hour
• We also spent around 15 minutes lost just after the viewpoint before finding the correct path

Even with the wrong turn, we were still under the official estimate. Most people should expect 1–1.5 hours, depending on pace and photo stops.

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How Difficult Is the Koh Samet Nature Trail?

The trail is moderately easy and suitable for most travellers.

What you’ll encounter:

• Clear, well-used paths
• Some short, steep sections
• Rope handrails on the steepest parts

What Shoes Should You Wear?

• Best option: trainers, running shoes, or light hiking shoes
• Possible: sandals — but expect slower progress on steep sections

If it’s rained recently, proper footwear is strongly recommended.

What to Bring on the Koh Samet Nature Trail

To make your walk comfortable and enjoyable, here’s what we recommend taking along:

• Water: At least one bottle per person, especially on hot days — the trail can get warm and humid.
• Mosquito spray: The jungle sections can be buggy, particularly in the late afternoon.
• Light snacks (optional): Something small to keep your energy up, especially if you plan to stop at the viewpoint.
• Hat and sunscreen: For the exposed sections, especially near the viewpoint.
• Comfortable shoes: Trainers, running shoes, or light hiking shoes are best (sandals are possible but less ideal).

These few items make a big difference in comfort and safety and help you focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about thirst, bites, or tired feet.

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Highlights of the Koh Samet Nature Trail

Viewpoint Over the “Tail” of Koh Samet

The viewpoint is the highlight of the entire walk.

From here, you can see the “tail” of Koh Samet stretching and snaking off into the distance — a perspective you simply don’t get from the beaches. It’s easily one of the best viewpoints on the island.

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Ancient Kilns and Historical Sites

Along the trail, you’ll pass ancient kiln sites, offering a glimpse into Koh Samet’s history long before tourism arrived. They’re clearly signposted and add cultural interest to the walk.

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Buddha Statues Along the Trail

You’ll also encounter several Buddha statues placed in unexpected locations. They make for atmospheric photo stops and quiet moments along the route.

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The Ravine Section (Most Pleasant Walking)

After the viewpoint, the trail opens up and heads downhill. This was, in our opinion, the most pleasant part of the walk.

The path runs beside a beautiful ravine, with more open space, better airflow, and easier footing — a really nice way to finish the hike.

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Important Tip: Don’t Miss the Path After the Viewpoint

Just after the viewpoint, it’s easy to lose the correct trail — and we did.

Our advice:

• Slow down after leaving the viewpoint
• Watch carefully for trail markers
• If the path suddenly feels wrong, it probably is

This is the most common place to lose time on the hike.

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How to Get Back After the Hike

Using Motorbikes (Best for Groups)

If you’re travelling with more than one scooter:

• Park one scooter at the exit point first
• Ride back to the entrance together
• Start the hike

When you finish, one or two people can ride back to collect the remaining bikes.

Without a Scooter

You have several easy options:

• Take a songthaew taxi from Ao Phai or Ao Tub Tim
  • You can find our complete guide to the Koh Samet taxi system here.
• Walk back to the hostel if you still have energy — it’s a pleasant route, especially later in the day

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FAQ: Koh Samet Nature Trail

Is the Koh Samet Nature Trail worth doing?

Yes. If you’re looking for relaxed, non-beach things to do on Koh Samet, the trail offers great views, light exercise, and a quieter side of the island.

How long is the Koh Samet Nature Trail?

Most people complete it in 1 to 1.5 hours, despite signs suggesting 2 hours.

Is the Koh Samet Nature Trail difficult?

No. It’s moderately easy with a few steep sections. Anyone with basic fitness should manage it comfortably.

Do I need hiking shoes?

Hiking shoes aren’t essential, but trainers or running shoes are strongly recommended. Sandals are possible but not ideal.

Can I do the trail without a scooter?

Yes. You can return by songthaew from nearby beaches or walk back if you’re not too tired.

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Final Thoughts: A Relaxed Alternative to the Beach

If you’re putting together a list of things to do on Koh Samet, the Nature Trail is a great way to add variety to your stay. It’s calm, scenic, and easy to fit into a half-day plan — especially if you enjoy viewpoints and gentle walking.

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