Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park in Rayong has opened for overnight stays for tourists, however, other attractions in the park are still closed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The national park covers an area of 131km², including islands and islets. Koh Samet is the most popular island destination of the park. It is located about 6.5km from the mainland and can be reached by either a 40-minute ferry ride or a 20-minute speedboat service.
The island can be visited all year round and the high season starts in November and lasts until April. The main attraction of Koh Samet is its white sandy beaches and clear water, especially after the island was recently closed for visitors.
Koh Samet is home to 900 households whose main income comes from tourism. The local tourism authority estimated that more than 1.5 million beachgoers visited Koh Samet per year prior to Covid-19, contributing more than 200 billion baht to Rayong province.
To assure safety, all people, including foreign workers have received their first jab of the Covid-19 vaccine. No Covid-19 infections have been found on the island for a couple of weeks.
The island is now ready to welcome visitors under new normal practices. Tourists are required to wear masks at all times and maintain social distance. They do not need a negative Covid-19 test result nor a vaccine certificate.
Hat Sai Kaeo on the northeastern part of the island and Ao Wong Duean on the east are popular places for visitors to stay due to long beaches. Those seeking solitude can stay on Ao Kio and Ao Phrao. Songthaew pick-up trucks are the main mode of transportation on the island.
Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park is located in the Muang district. The park is not yet open for visitors as well as other attractions such as Khao Laem Ya, Koh Kudi, Koh Kruai, Koh Kham and Koh Thalu.
For more information, visit call Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park at 038-653-034 or visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand's Rayong Office website at tat-rayong.com or call at 038-655-420.
