Discover Ao Nuan: a small, peaceful cove on Koh Samet with white sand, clear water, and shady trees — ideal for relaxing and swimming. Read on for tips on getting there, staying, and eating.
Ao Nuan is on the southeast side of Koh Samet. From Na Dan Pier it’s about a 10–15 minute scooter ride, followed by a short walk to the beach. You can also get there via the path from the neighboring Ao Tubtim. If you enjoy longer beach walks, start at Ao Phai, walk along Tubtim Beach and continue to Ao Nuan — perfect for a pleasant morning stroll along the shore or a daytime walk with refreshing dips in the clear blue sea. At the end of the bay in Ao Nuan we also saw a sign pointing to “Other Beach,” so if you feel like exploring further, this is your chance!
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The bay is small and sheltered with calm water, perfect for a leisurely swim. There are a few large rock formations, but they don’t spoil the fun. The beach has fine white sand with the occasional rock. You can rent sunbeds and parasols, but laying down a towel works just fine.
Our experience
Ao Nuan is a small slice of paradise on Koh Samed with a relaxed atmosphere. The vegetation provides pleasant shade from the trees. We enjoyed the peace and the simple vibe — perfect for reading, swimming, and doing nothing. It’s a great place to unwind.
Because it’s small, it can sometimes feel a bit crowded, but the bay is definitely worth visiting. When we were there in late afternoon in December, it wasn’t busy; that was a big difference compared with most other beaches on Koh Samed. That’s probably because many people skip this beach or don’t know it exists: you can’t reach it directly by scooter and you have to walk a short distance.
Who it’s for & where to stay
Ao Nuan is for travelers who want peace and privacy. Accommodation can only be booked by contacting the bungalow owner of Ao Nuan Bungalows or Noina’s Mystic Mountain Restaurant & Bungalows directly.
Ao Phutsa (Ao Tubtim)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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