Ao Thian (Candlelight) Beach, Koh Samet
Ao Thian, the Candlelight Beach, lies in the middle of Koh Samet and is known for a relaxed backpacker mood and for dinners at candlelit tables on the sand. It is quiet and has few package groups.
| Taxi to the piers of Ban Phe | Standard Sedan, per car | |
|---|---|---|
| Bangkok to Ban Phe | 2,199 THB | Book |
| Suvarnabhumi to Ban Phe | 1,999 THB | Book |
| Don Mueang to Ban Phe | 2,299 THB | Book |
| Pattaya to Ban Phe | 1,099 THB | Book |
| U-Tapao to Ban Phe | 1,099 THB | Book |
The price is the same for every pier. Seven car types, see the price list.
The bay
The sand is good at high tide, and at low tide the beach is narrower. Bungalows and simple guesthouses stand behind it. The atmosphere is easy-going, and many of the visitors are travelling for weeks, not days.
The name comes from the candles on the dinner tables.
Reaching it
Ferries sail from 08:00 to 18:00 every day. The crossing takes 30 to 40 minutes, and the fare is 70 THB per person one way or 120 THB return. From the main pier a songthaew runs along the island road, and the last part may be on foot. The taxi leg is a fixed fare per car, listed in the table above for each starting point.
The form asks for a pier. Use the one on your ticket, or see the piers guide to choose.
Near the south end
To the south the bays of Ao Lung Dam and the southern tip are quieter still. For a livelier beach go north to Ao Wong Duean. All the beaches are on the Koh Samet page.
Questions and answers
Why is it called Candlelight Beach?
Restaurants light candles on the tables at dinner.
Is it crowded?
No. It has few package groups.
Is the beach good at low tide?
It is best at high tide.
Is there a direct boat?
The ferry lands at the main pier. A songthaew takes you on.
Book a taxi to Ban Phe pier
Free cancellation. Pay the driver in cash, or by Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, transfer by QR code or bank transfer to a Thai account if you prefer.