Travel Guide: La Bella Samed, Koh Samet

Introduction

Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of Koh Samet (沙美島), a quiet island gem in Thailand’s Rayong Province just a few hours from Bangkok, La Bella Samed offers a laid-back, authentic Thai island escape far from the overcrowded party hubs of the southern coast. Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking a budget-friendly base for coastal adventures, or craving a slow week of sun and sea, this welcoming small hotel checks every box for a comfortable, memorable Thai island getaway.

Hotel Overview

La Bella Samed is conveniently located at 153/9 Moo 4, Tambol Phe, Amphoe Mueang, Rayong 21160, a short walk from the island’s most popular western beaches. The property prioritizes comfort and accessibility, with amenities tailored to both short and long stays. All rooms are non-smoking, fitted with air conditioning or ceiling fans, hypoallergenic linens, flat-screen TVs with satellite and cable channels, and in-room tea and coffee making facilities including electric kettles. Every room has a private en-suite bathroom with a stand-up shower (or optional bathtub), free toiletries, a hair dryer, and fresh linens and towels.

For guests who prefer self-catering, a shared fully equipped simple kitchen with stovetops, refrigerators, and cleaning supplies makes it easy to prepare local seafood picked up from nearby markets. Free Wi-Fi covers the entire property, and free private street-side parking is available for guests arriving by car, with valet parking available on request. Additional conveniences include luggage storage, wake-up calls, fast check-in/out, and grocery delivery. For active travelers, the hotel organizes paid guided activities including snorkeling, off-site diving, fishing, pub crawls, and walking tours of the island’s fishing villages. On-site amenities include barbecue facilities and paid access to private terraces, with multilingual staff fluent in English and Thai on hand to assist with any request.

Local Attractions

Three nearby attractions are not to be missed during your stay. First, Ao Phrao Beach, a 10-minute walk from the hotel, is a crescent of soft white sand lined with casual beach shacks and calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and family-friendly sunbathing. Second, Koh Samet National Park, which covers most of the island’s southern tip, features scenic hiking trails through coastal scrub, hidden coves, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Third, Phe Fishing Village, a 15-minute songthaew ride from the hotel, offers a glimpse into local Thai life, with fresh seafood markets, street food stalls serving authentic papaya salad and grilled squid, and waterfront coffee shops where you can watch fishing boats unload their daily catch.

Travel Tips

If you’re visiting during peak season (November to February), book your room well in advance to secure your preferred rate, and request a ground-floor room if you have mobility issues. The paid private terraces are worth the small extra cost for guests who plan to spend evenings relaxing outdoors with a drink. For day trips, arrange activities through the hotel’s front desk—their local rates are often lower than booking through third-party tour agencies. Finally, remember that the entire property is non-smoking, with a designated smoking area available for guests who smoke.