Weekend at Koh Samed

Koh Samed is an island in Thailand that is probably the closest to get to if you are staying in Bangkok. it's really quite amazing that you can change the scenery to this virgin island beauty in under 3 hours!

Getting there. the ferry to Koh Samed goes from Sri Ban Phe Pier - it's 2-3 hours drive from Bangkok. best to come early as the ferry to the island leaves before 12pm. it is common for a hotel to arrange ferry ride for you. so checking with them is a good idea. if you come late you can always hire a speedboat, you'll have to pay extra out of pocket.

Seafood. if you do come early one of the best things being in close proximity to the sea is the seafood. we stopped by the fresh seafood market for the freshest right from the boat seafood - crab, squid, shrimp, you name it - it is there and it's super fresh - you can cook all of it at the restaurants nearby.

if seafood market is too extreme for you eating in one of the seafood restaurants in the area will be a great alternative. this one was delicious!

Boat ride. the ride to the island is brutal - they all are and there is no way to avoid it so you just have to go through this knowing it won't last forever (that's my mantra).

Hangs at the beach. then you get to the beach and you know it was all worth it (until next time you are forced to get on the boat). we opted for a beach house, which was more expensive but right next to the beach, which felt like it was close to private beach. we spent all of our time there so it was really worth it with 2 little kids.

What to eat. everything. the hotels include breakfast as a norm. and usually have restaurant right next to/at the beach.

Kids beach essentials.

sunscreen. my favorite now is supergoop brand linked here

insect repellant. currently using this one

after bite. the badger brand has worked well for us

crocs.

3 x swim trunks/swim suite/swim diapers (if you plan on using the pool)

hats.

sunnies.

beach toys. i recommend some sort of watering can and stacking cups to build a sand castle or just dig a hole in the sand. you can certainly skip bringing a bucket and a shovel.

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xo.