Samae San Island

Samae San Island is a small, protected coastal island in Samae San Subdistrict, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province, managed by the Royal Thai Navy. Located in the Gulf of Thailand near Sattahip, it is noted for clear turquoise water, white sandy beaches and well-preserved coral reefs. Access is limited to day visitors via navy-operated boats, with conservation and marine research as primary purposes, making it a controlled eco-tourism destination.

Visitors can expect a controlled day-trip to a protected island with clear shallow water, white sandy beaches and preserved natural surroundings. Access is by Royal Thai Navy boat from Khao Ma Cho Pier. On the island, visitors find designated swimming and snorkeling areas, nature trails, viewpoints, a small museum and conservation exhibition, tram transport between beaches, and facilities for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat viewing. The environment is quiet and regulated with limited daily visitor numbers.

The island is under the care of the Royal Thai Navy and is part of the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. It has been maintained as a restricted military and conservation area, used for marine conservation, research and rehabilitation of coral reefs and marine resources.

The island is significant as a marine conservation and environmental education site, showcasing Thai naval stewardship of natural resources and royal conservation initiatives, with exhibitions on island ecology and sea conservation.