The objective of this thesis is to recommend onthe physical development of Ko Samet to accommodatetourism within the carrying capacity of the islandbased on the relationship between the ecosystem,tourism, infrastructure and public utilities. The thesis is based on primary data gathered fromfield research (incl. interviews) in Ko Samet, as wellas secondary data. The data were used to study the landuse from the past to the present, including occurringproblems and their priorities

the carrying capacity ofthe island

and, to recommend guidelines forappropriate development and management of the island. The result of this study points to three majorproblems, namely: - deterioration of land

- property distribution

and, - lack of a basic infrastructure All three problems are related to the invasion ofthe National Park. Furthermore, the thesis shows that the touristcarrying capacity can be divided into the carryingcapacity based on nature and carrying capacity based onavailable infrastructure. At present, the later isgenerally effected by lack of proper management. The recommendation resulting from the thesis canbe summarized as follows: -The target of development should be to increase the quantity of daytime visitors and to control the number of overnight staying visitors. In support of the overall target the followingmeasures should be taken: 1. limit areas assigned for tourism

2. increase measures to control number ofvisitors

3. increase infrastructure capacity

and, 4. limit concentration of activities on theisland.