Food Market
Tucked away on the island of Koh Samet in Rayong Province, this local food market serves as a gathering point for both residents and visitors looking to experience everyday island life beyond the beach. It offers a grounded, authentic alternative to the resort restaurants and tourist-facing food stalls that dominate much of the island, making it a worthwhile stop for travellers who want a more genuine sense of local culture. Visitors can expect a relaxed, neighbourhood market atmosphere with vendors selling fresh produce, ready-to-eat Thai dishes, and basic household goods. The market caters primarily to locals, which means prices tend to be accessible and the food reflects genuine regional cooking rather than menus adapted for foreign palates. It is a practical spot to pick up snacks, fresh fruit, or a simple meal without the premium pricing common in tourist areas. Good to know: as with many local markets in Thailand, visiting in the early morning or early evening typically offers the widest selection of food and the most activity. Market hours have not been formally listed, so it is worth asking at your accommodation for current operating times before making a trip. Given the outdoor or semi-open nature of most markets of this type, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended, particularly during the hotter months.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Food Market, round out your day in Koh Samet with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Samet

Koh Samet
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Nuanthip Pier
The main ferry departure point connecting the mainland at Ban Phe to Koh Samet island.

Saikaew Beach Resort
Upscale beachfront resort on Koh Samet with bright rooms, three pools, a spa, and open-air dining.

Samed Villa Resort
Beachfront resort on Koh Samet offering casual rooms with balconies, a bar, dining, and spa treatments.
Food Market: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Food Market worth visiting?
Food Market holds a 4.6★ rating from 23 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated markets & shopping in Koh Samet.
When is the best time to visit Food Market?
The best months to visit Koh Samet are November – April (driest island near Bangkok), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Weekends & Thai public holidays — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Thai long weekends (crowds, not weather).
Where is Food Market located?
Food Market is at Thailand, 12.569013, 101 Tambon Phe, Amphoe Mueang Rayong, Chang Wat Rayong 464570, Thailand, in Koh Samet. Getting around Koh Samet: Green songthaews between the pier and the beaches; Walking — the east-coast beaches connect via a coastal path.
Location Info
Thailand, 12.569013, 101 Tambon Phe, Amphoe Mueang Rayong, Chang Wat Rayong 464570, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (driest island near Bangkok)
Avoid: Thai long weekends (crowds, not weather)
Rainy season
May – October (lighter than elsewhere)
Avg. temperature
25°C – 33°C(77°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: Weekends & Thai public holidays
Getting there
Bus or minivan from Bangkok's Ekkamai terminal to Ban Phe pier in Rayong (~3–3.5 hrs), then a 40-minute ferry or 15-minute speedboat to Na Dan pier. The island is part of a national park — foreigners pay a ฿200 entry fee on arrival.
Getting around
- •Green songthaews between the pier and the beaches
- •Walking — the east-coast beaches connect via a coastal path
- •Motorbike rental (฿300/day; interior roads are partly dirt)
Where to stay near Food Market
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Tips for Visiting Markets & Shopping
Haggle at Markets, Not Malls
Prices at market stalls are negotiable — start at 50–60% of the asking price and meet in the middle. Fixed-price shops and malls don't haggle. Smile and keep it friendly; aggressive bargaining is considered rude.
Arrive Early or Late
Vendors believe the first sale of the day is lucky — you'll often get a better deal if you arrive right when the market opens. Late in the evening, sellers may also discount to avoid packing unsold goods.
Be Cautious with Tailors
Bangkok has excellent tailors, but also many tourist traps. Avoid anyone offering suspiciously cheap suits or who approaches you on the street. Ask your hotel for recommendations, read reviews, and always get two fittings.
Similar Markets & Shopping Across Thailand

Chatuchak Weekend Market
A sprawling open-air weekend market with 15,000+ stalls across 35 acres, selling everything imaginable.

centralwOrld
One of Bangkok's largest shopping complexes, offering premium retail, dining, and entertainment in the city's heart.

Asiatique The Riverfront
A sprawling open-air riverside destination combining shopping, dining, and entertainment along the Chao Phraya River.

MBK CENTER
A sprawling Bangkok shopping complex with over 2,000 shops offering everything from electronics to custom clothing.
Where to stay near Food Market
Find hotels in Koh Samet on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (driest island near Bangkok)
Avoid: Thai long weekends (crowds, not weather)
Rainy season
May – October (lighter than elsewhere)
Avg. temperature
25°C – 33°C(77°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: Weekends & Thai public holidays
Getting there
Bus or minivan from Bangkok's Ekkamai terminal to Ban Phe pier in Rayong (~3–3.5 hrs), then a 40-minute ferry or 15-minute speedboat to Na Dan pier. The island is part of a national park — foreigners pay a ฿200 entry fee on arrival.
Getting around
- •Green songthaews between the pier and the beaches
- •Walking — the east-coast beaches connect via a coastal path
- •Motorbike rental (฿300/day; interior roads are partly dirt)