Sunset at Ao Phrao, Ko Samet

Taken on: 18th January, 2004. Copyright: All Rights Reserved - See travelfishery's page of Flickr

Read more about Ao Phrao

One of the only beaches on Ko Samet's west coast, Ao Phrao is a scenic bay with a sweeping shallow beach. It's also the most luxurious beach on Ko Samet, with just three top-end resorts.

It's a popular choice amongst hi-so (high society) Thais, so don't be surprised at the sight of sudden influxes of VIP-keepers dossing around while their self-important employers sip overpriced wine at Le Vimarn before jetting off again by high-powered speedboat.

Despite the beach having some fancy resorts, it is not all that spectacular. Yes, the sunsets are pretty, but as a swimming beach the waters are very shallow -- better for frolicking than swimming. Many guests take advantage of the scuba diving lessons available as the shallow waters make it easy to perfect those underwater skills.

If you're not staying here, it is worth a visit -- enjoy the spectacular sunset over a cocktail -- and if you're feeling really decadent, once the sun has dipped below the water, you ... Read our complete Ao Phrao travel guide

More images