Ban Phe Fresh Market

Located in the coastal town of Ban Phe — the main departure point for ferries to Koh Samet — this bustling fresh market draws locals and travellers alike with its impressive spread of just-landed seafood, including shrimp, crab, and clams sourced directly from nearby fishing boats. Alongside the wet market stalls, visitors will find dried seafood, local snacks such as durian chips, and a range of fresh produce that reflects the flavours of Thailand's eastern Gulf coast. The atmosphere is lively and authentically local, with vendors setting up well before sunrise and activity peaking in the early morning hours. It is an excellent stop for those looking to experience everyday Thai market culture away from the more tourist-facing environments found on the island itself. The variety on offer makes it equally appealing to travellers self-catering and those simply browsing for packaged goods and snacks to take across to Koh Samet. The market operates six days a week, opening at 05:00 and running through to 17:00, though arriving in the morning gives the best access to the freshest seafood selections before stock runs low. Given its location near the Ban Phe pier, it pairs naturally with an early ferry departure or a return trip from Koh Samet. Bring cash, as card payments are not typically accepted at market stalls of this kind.