Ao Phai is a very popular stretch of white sand beach that has some of Ko Samet's best swimming. There's almost nothing in the way of shade though, so budget for a deckchair and umbrella else risk being burned to a crisp.

The guesthouse and resort scene on Ao Phai is moving more upmarket as bungalow operators begin to cash in and expand and upgrade. So although this used to be one of the the most popular backpacker beaches on Ko Samet, budget travellers are now slowly being priced out and despite the relatively high prices, most of the rooms are well off the beach.

There are a few restaurants just off the beach and evenings are generally quiet, except for the occasional beach party that will keep light sleepers up all night.

Even if you can't afford to stay on Ao Phai, it's worth wandering down for a daytrip.