Ao Chor Beach Koh Samet: Backpacker Vibe, Location & Tips

Ao Chor on Koh Samet, Thailand is a laid-back backpacker beach with a raw, social vibe, simple beach bars and clear blue water. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something more local, relaxed and off the main tourist trail.

Location & getting there

Ao Chor is a quiet beach on the east coast of Koh Samet. It is located between Ao Phai and Ao Wong Duean, separated from them by rocky headlands, which give the beach a secluded and natural feel.
From Nadan Pier, Ao Chor can be reached in about 10–15 minutes by scooter.

Beach & swimming Ao Chor

The beach has a relaxing, somewhat messy vibe. The small bars built here from natural materials fit the beach atmosphere perfectly. There is a wooden pier that has seen better days; after walking a few meters, we turned back because we were not sure the wooden planks could support our weight. The sea, however, was clear and blue and looked inviting.

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Sea-view wooden hut dining area on a sandy beach

Our experience

Ao Chor felt like the real backpacker spot — casual, social and easygoing. While we appreciated the vibe here, it’s not the beach we would choose to stay overnight. For us, it’s more a place to stay if you have more than five days to spend on Koh Samet. If you’re coming for a short beach holiday or to explore the island, as we did, we’d recommend choosing a more centrally located beach or one that offers better sun and sea views.

man in a red shirt making coffee at a rustic stall

Who it’s for & where to stay

Ao Chor is great for backpackers and budget travellers who want a social vibe and cheap bungalows

Although we had said earlier that we probably wouldn’t choose to stay here, we had to think twice when we saw an amazing treehouse on the beach. At high tide, its balcony was literally above the sea. There was only one. Super romantic, but very basic, with a cold shower and a mattress on the floor. In January, it cost about €30 per night for two people. This accommodation can only be booked on site.

That actually goes for most of the places we saw on this beach. They looked quite basic, so they are likely a good option if you’re looking for an affordable place to stay.

For us Ao Chor is the place to meet other travellers and enjoy a relaxed, budget‑friendly beach vibe.

More places to stay at Koh Samet

Sky Cottage

Basic but clean hotel, friendly staff and a good breakfast. Rooms with a balcony or terrace, close to quiet beaches such as Tubtim Beach, Ao Phai and Ao Nuan (Pashat/Tubtim nearby). Perfect for those seeking peace and for families — simple comfort and good value for money.

Booking

Agoda

Evelia Kohsamed

Quiet resort at Ao Pudsa, Koh Samet: clean, comfortable rooms, great value, and a top location just 190 m from the beach. Small outdoor pool with loungers and umbrellas. Scooter rental available.

Booking

Agoda

Samed Tubtim Resort

Beautiful wooden bungalows on stilts in a peaceful, green setting, with balconies overlooking the beautiful Tubtim Beach and the sea. Friendly service and a good breakfast buffet. The front bungalows are the nicest.

Booking

Agoda

Kerala Coco Resort

Resort on a beautiful beachfront with spacious rooms and stunning views. Friendly, helpful staff ensure a welcoming, worry-free stay.

Booking

Agoda

Ao Prao Resort

Ao Prao Resort is located on Ao Prao Beach. The resort offers clean rooms, friendly staff, and beautiful views. There is a swimming pool and a spa. It has a good restaurant. A lovely place for a relaxing beach holiday.

Booking

Agoda

Samed Villa Resort

Directly on Ao Phai Beach, with clean, spacious rooms (some with sea views), comfortable beds and an extensive breakfast buffet. Friendly and helpful staff, spotless rooms, delicious food and a green, peaceful setting.

Booking

Agoda

Samed Sand Sea Resort

Samed Sand Sea Resort — right on Sai Kaew Beach. Clean, comfortable rooms with a balcony and air conditioning; friendly, helpful staff. Good value for money; free Wi‑Fi. Close to shops, restaurants, and bars.

Booking

Agoda

Nong Nuey Rooms

Perfect location on Sai Kaew Beach: clean, simple rooms, friendly & helpful staff, cozy beach bar and right on the soft sand. Great for couples and beach lovers; interiors sometimes a bit dated but good value for money. Scooter rentals and watersports available.

Booking

Agoda

Sai Kaew Beach Resort

Sai Kaew Beach Resort is ideal for beach lovers who want restaurants and bars nearby. Rooms are clean and spacious with fresh linens, ample storage, and comfortable beds. The well-maintained pool is perfect for a dip after the beach or relaxing with a drink.

Booking

Agoda

Food, drinks & hotspots

De Pirates Bar & Rock Cafe is the most talked‑about place for food and evening vibe. Unfortunately, it was closed when we were there.

Beachside wooden bar on Koh Samet with signs Pirates Bar Rock Cafe chairs and turquoise sea in the background

Eat & Drink Koh Samet

Koh Samet is known for its relaxed beach vibe, and food and drink play a big part. From casual beach bars to seaside restaurants, there are many great places to eat and drink. In t […]

Getting to Koh Samet: easy and affordable

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