Koh Samet is a small island in Rayong province, around 200 km Southeast of Bangkok, along the way to Trat province and the island of Koh Chang. Technically part of Khao Laem Ya – Koh Samet National Park, Koh Samet is a popular weekend getaway for Thais and foreigners living in Bangkok, so there are dozens of beach resorts, bars, and restaurants on nearly every beach, although visitors are allowed to camp if they wish to do so.Quiet and relaxing on the weekdays, raucous and fun on the weekends, Koh Samet is, despite its proximity to Bangkok, a beautiful island with powdery white sand, generally great year round weather, and a variety of lodging options.Koh Samet derives its name from the cajeput trees that grow on the island, called “samet” in Thai. In the past however, it was called Koh Kaew Phitsadan. It’s no surprise from that name that Koh Samet was chosen to be part of a national park.