Squid Fishing and Eating Squid Eyes at Samet

Squid fishing and eating squid eyes at Koh Samet, Rayong Province

When it comes to Rayong Province, many people probably think of Koh Samet first because this island not only has beautiful beaches and clear sea water but also exciting activities like squid fishing, which has become an experience I, mr.hotsia, never miss whenever I visit here.

The last time I had the chance to go squid fishing at Samet, I woke up early and traveled from Rayong city to quickly take a boat to the island. The trip was easy with convenient and affordable passenger boats from Ban Phe. Upon arriving, I met fishermen and a small group of tourists preparing their squid fishing gear with enthusiasm.

What I really like is the atmosphere of squid fishing at night, which is when the squid swim toward the boat's light. Fishermen light green lamps on the boat to attract the squid. The small boats in the sea filled with colorful lights create a beautiful and lively scene that is hard to describe.

The squid fishing equipment is simple—just a squid fishing rod and a flashlight. Sometimes I try catching squid myself. Although I don’t catch as many as the pros, the fun and excitement of seeing live squid jump onto the boat make me feel like a kid discovering a new toy again.

Savor Fresh Squid Eyes at Koh Samet

After squid fishing to my satisfaction, I didn’t miss the chance to taste the special dishSquid Eyesat a small restaurant by Sai Kaew Beach. Samet is famous for fresh seafood, and squid eyes are one of the special dishes I highly recommend everyone to try.

The squid eyes here are very fresh, with sweet, tender meat and some crispy parts, combined with a spicy seafood dipping sauce that Rayong people love. I, mr.hotsia, paired it with hot sticky rice and the seafood sauce at Jeab Bungalow restaurant, popular among tourists, for a perfect flavor combination.

If you want a local atmosphere, I recommend walking to Wat Lum Market in Rayong city, a place I have documented inFish Watching at Wat Lum Market, RayongThis market is full of fresh seafood and local desserts worth trying, such as Khanom Tang Taek and Khanom Rang Phueng, which I have tasted and really liked.

The Lifestyle and Culture of Rayong People in the Old Wat Lum Market Area

Another charm I, mr.hotsia, want to invite everyone to visit is theOld Wat Lum Market, Rayongwhich is not far from the city center. This is an old neighborhood where Rayong locals have well preserved traditional houses and culture.

I enjoy strolling in this area because I get to experience the real lifestyle of Rayong people, passing by local dessert shops with fragrant aromas and flavors loved by locals, and having the chance to talk with elders about the city’s stories and culture reflected through the market and old houses.

If you are interested in culture, joining the morning alms giving in this area is a great experience that helps you understand the lifestyle and way of life of Rayong people better. Don’t forget to visitWat Lum Cultural Plazawhich is the center for Rayong’s traditional festivals and activities.

Travel and Accommodation on Koh Samet

Regarding transportation on Koh Samet, I have written about it inGetting Around Sametso you don’t have to worry about travel because there are green songthaew trucks serving all main beaches at reasonable prices, starting from only 10 baht. You can comfortably ride to various beaches like Sai Kaew Beach, Ao Wong Duean, or Ao Thian.

Accommodations on Koh Samet range widely from budget options to luxury resorts. I, mr.hotsia, recommend booking in advance, especially during festivals, for convenience and the best prices. But if it’s not a long holiday, you can easily find places by walking around.

Koh Samet with a Complete Travel Experience

Koh Samet is not only good for squid fishing or beaches. At night, almost every beach has restaurants and exciting fire-spinning shows. I, mr.hotsia, enjoy walking along Sai Kaew Beach, watching people and listening to the waves. The atmosphere is both refreshing and peaceful at the same time.

If you like spicy Isaan food, I recommend the Tam Lao from street vendors on Koh Samet, which I have tried and was very impressed with. For a full experience of eating and traveling atmosphere, you can watchGrilled Chicken, Tam Lao, Sticky Rice at Koh SametandThe Ultimate Tam Lao Street Food at Samet

Summary

For anyone looking for a unique travel activity in Rayong, I, mr.hotsia, recommend trying night squid fishing at Koh Samet along with tasting fresh squid eyes, a dish only found here. Don’t miss walking through the colorful and culturally rich Old Wat Lum Market.

Rayong and Koh Samet offer a complete package of nature, lifestyle, and fresh seafood waiting for everyone to experience firsthand. Then you will understand why I, mr.hotsia, am so fond of and keep returning to this place.