Audio Guide of Ao Prao Beach

Ao Prao Beach is open 24 hours a day, as it is a public beach in Mu Ko Samet National Park. To get there, take a ferry from Ban Phe, Rayong, which takes 20–40 minutes; then take a songthaew or taxi on the island to the beach. Book your ferry at Ko Samet Speedboat.

Access to the beach itself is free, but you must pay the Mu Ko Samet National Park fee: approximately 300 THB (about 8–9 USD) for foreign adults and 100 THB for children. Guests staying at beach resorts usually have it included.

It is recommended to spend half a day or a full day enjoying the beach, swimming, and relaxing. If you combine it with snorkeling or a resort massage, it can easily extend to 4–6 hours.

Ao Prao Beach is part of Mu Ko Samet National Park, established in 1981, and the island has been a sacred place for Thai people for centuries, mentioned in ancient poems as a tropical paradise. It has been a peaceful retreat with luxury resorts since the 1980s.

The best time is the dry season from November to April, with clear skies and calm waters. Visit at sunset for spectacular views or early in the morning to avoid crowds.

The beach has fine, soft sand, but access from the main road involves stairs or uneven paths, making it not very accessible for wheelchairs. Some resorts such as Ao Prao Resort offer limited assistance; contact them in advance at +66 38 644 122.

Nearby you will find Ao Wong Duan Beach to the south for nightlife, and to the north, the lively Hat Sai Kaew Beach. You can also visit the Laem Yai viewpoint or go snorkeling in the adjacent bays of the national park.

Bring sunscreen, water, and cash, as there are few ATMs; reserve a table at a resort to enjoy fresh seafood. Respect the national park rules, with no bonfires or littering, and check the forecast to avoid monsoon conditions. More info at DNP Mu Ko Samet.