There is more to Chon Buri than Pattaya city and Bang Saen Beach. When the COVID-19 situation eventually improves, we hope you can enjoy a trip to this East Coast province once again. After all, Chon Buri is very easily accessible from Bangkok and boasts many marine attractions, some of which are usually overlooked. And the small fishing village of Samaesan in Amphoe Sattahip is among the province’s best-hidden gems. You can save our programme that covers many interesting attractions to rediscover Chon Buri when better times arrive!
Day 1
– Enjoy snorkelling and hiking at Ko Kham Underwater Park.
Day 2
– Visit Wat Chong Samaesan.
– Widen your education at the Thai Island and Sea Natural History Museum.
– Get to know the world of sea turtles at the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, Royal Thai Navy.
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If you are using public transport, get off at Amphoe Sattahip town from where you can hop on a song taeo (blue one) to Tambon Samaesan some 15 km away. Alternatively, you can hire your own vehicle to travel to each point.
Ko Kham Underwater Garden
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Ko Kham is a small Island located to the west of Ko Samaesan in Sattahip. The island, which boasts a sandy beach and crystal clear water, is designated as an ecotourism spot under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy. Only day-trippers are allowed on the island where various activities are available.
If you love colourful fish, join the sightseeing tour in a glass-bottomed boat (20 Baht/person/ 30 min).
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Should you want to explore the crystal clear water of Ko Kham on your own, try snorkelling – the gear is available for rent (50 Baht/person/2 Hrs.)
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Hiking along a 300-metre nature trail to the viewpoint is also a popular activity.
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And for those who are curious about coral life, join the coral gardening project (contact the Royal Thai Navy in advance for the details).
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There are food stalls on Ko Kham, and visitors are not allowed to bring any containers made from plastic, glass, or polystyrene foam to the island. Every effort is made to preserve the island’s pristine environment.
transportation, tell the driver of the blue song taeo to take you directly to the pier.
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Boat Schedule
Monday – Friday
To the island: 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m.
From the island: 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m.
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Saturday – Sunday and holidays
To the island: 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m.
From the island: 12:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m.
Please check the ferry schedule again before travelling.
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Fee (round trip) 600 Baht.
Koh Kham is an island that is not allowed to stay overnight. To save travel time, you can choose accommodation and restaurants near Khao Ma Jor Pier.
Tambon Sattahip, Amphoe Sattahip, Chon Buri
For ticket reservations or more information:
Tel. 033 124 848, 093 397 1342 (Only Mon.-Fri. from 8:30 – 11.30 a.m. and 1:00 – 4.30 p.m.)
Day 2
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Wat Chong Samaesan
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Our second day starts at the main temple in Samaesan community, Wat Chong Samaesan, to pay respect to its principal Buddha image, Luangpho Dam. The statue is revered by local fishermen who usually come to ask for a blessing before setting sail.
Take time to admire the stucco exterior of the temple’s wihan.
The temple is also a good spot to take in the sea views.
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Tambon Samaesan, Amphoe Sattahip, Chon Buri
Open daily from 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Tel. 038 431 123, 092 662 8987
Museum of Thai Island and Sea Natural History
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Set on Khao Ma Cho by the sea, the Museum was opened on the initiative of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to promote the concept of natural conservation among Thai youth.
It is managed by the Royal Thai Navy and houses five buildings dedicated to various topics; such as, ecology, mangrove ecosystems, as well as Thailand’s sea pollution problems. Even though the building is located on a different slope, don’t miss climbing up to building No. 5 where you can enjoy spectacular sea views of Sattahip. The Museum has a food court and a co-op shop that cater to visitors.
Admission fee: 100 Baht
(Holders of a ticket to Ko Kham can enjoy a waiver of this fee.)
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Tambon Samaesan, Amphoe Sattahip, Chon Buri
Open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tel. 038 432 471, 038 432 475, 089 603 4663
You need to ride a song taeo to our last attraction which is inside the Royal Thai Navy Base and not within walking distance. And if you are driving, you need to deposit your ID before entering.
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Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, Royal Thai Navy
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Expect to see adorable sea turtles in the nursery here. The Centre, though not large, will delight those interested in learning about the turtle’s life cycle. It also runs a hospital for other rare marine creatures.
No admission fee
Air and Coastal Defense Command, Tambon Sattahip, Amphoe Sattahip, Chon Buri
Open daily from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tel. 094 006 2320, 038 431 477 ext. 79308-9
