Koh Samui, the tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, is a top destination for beach lovers, party goers and nature lovers. Getting to this island can be an adventure in itself with many options to suit all budgets and preferences. This guide will show you the best and most cost effective way to get to Koh Samui.
How to get to Koh Samui
Flying to Koh Samui
Direct Flights to Koh Samui
The easiest way to get to Koh Samui is to fly directly to Samui International Airport. This private airport offers a luxury travel experience. Bangkok Airways is the main airline that flies direct to Koh Samui from cities like Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong. Bangkok Airlines offers the most frequent daily flights to Koh Samui. Thai Airways and Air Asia also fly to the island but with layovers.
- Bangkok Airways: Exclusive routes and great service, several flights daily from Bangkok to Koh Samui. 1 hour 15 minutes flight time.
- Thai Airways: Connecting flights from international destinations via Bangkok.
- Air Asia: Budget options with connecting flights via Bangkok or other Thai cities.
Connecting Flights to Koh Samui
If direct flights are not available, connecting flights are an option. You can fly to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket or Krabi and then take a domestic flight to Koh Samui. Samui International Airport is well connected with multiple daily flights from these major cities.
- Bangkok to Koh Samui: Many flights daily so a good option for travelers.
- Chiang Mai to Koh Samui: Several airlines offer connecting flights via Bangkok or direct flights during peak season.
- Phuket to Koh Samui: Direct flights or flight and ferry combination.
Other Airports and Routes
Surat Thani Airport
For budget travelers, flying to Surat Thani Airport and then bus and ferry combination to Koh Samui is an option. Surat Thani is on the mainland and is the entrance to the island.
- Flight to Surat Thani: Air Asia and other budget airlines have many flights from Bangkok and other Thai cities to Surat Thani.
- Bus and Ferry Combination: From Surat Thani Airport, take a bus to Don Sak Pier and then a ferry to Koh Samui. Total travel time is 4-5 hours.
Don Sak Pier
Don Sak Pier is the main pier for ferries to Koh Samui. Several operators have regular ferry services.
- Major Operators: Lomprayah, Seatran, Raja Ferry.
- Schedules: Ferries run several times a day, 1.5 to 2 hours travel time.
- Price: 150 to 300 THB.
Bangkok to Surat Thani
If you prefer a slower pace, travel from Bangkok to Surat Thani by bus or train.
- Flights: Many flights daily from Bangkok to Surat Thani.
- Overnight Train: The overnight train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Station to Surat Thani is an adventure. 8-12 hours travel time, sleeper cabins available.
- Bus Services: Several companies have bus services from Bangkok to Surat Thani, 9-12 hours travel time.
Train and Bus
Hualamphong Station to Surat Thani
Traveling by train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong Station to Surat Thani is an adventure. The overnight train is a budget traveler’s favorite.
- Train Schedules: Trains daily, various classes, including sleeper cabins.
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online or at the station. Book early especially during peak season.
- Train Journey: See Thailand’s countryside, dining cars and restrooms available.
From Surat Thani Train Station to Koh Samui
From Surat Thani Train Station, take a bus to Don Sak Pier and then a ferry to Koh Samui.
- Bus and Ferry Services: Combined tickets are available for bus and ferry services.
- Timings and Price: Buses are timed to match train arrivals, combined ticket is 400-600 THB.
Ferry to Koh Samui
Major Operators
Ferry is a popular and scenic way to get to Koh Samui. Lomprayah, Seatran, Raja Ferry.
- Lomprayah: High-speed catamarans.
- Seatran: Reliable and frequent, comfortable seating.
- Raja Ferry: Budget-friendly, can accommodate vehicles.
| Operator | Travel Time | Ticket Price (THB) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | 1.5 hours | 300-400 | High-speed catamarans |
| Seatran | 1.5-2 hours | 250-350 | Comfortable seating |
| Raja Ferry | 2 hours | 150-250 | Budget-friendly, accommodates vehicles |
Ferries from Nearby Islands
If you’re island hopping, ferries from Koh Phangan and Koh Tao to Koh Samui are available.
- Koh Phangan to Koh Samui: Frequent ferries, 30-45 minutes travel time.
- Koh Tao to Koh Samui: 1.5-2 hours travel time, scenic views of the Gulf of Thailand.
Budget Travel
Cheapest way to get to Koh Samui
For budget traveler, combining flights, buses and ferries can save you money.
- Bangkok to Surat Thani by Train: The overnight train is the cheapest option.
- Bus and Ferry Combination: From Surat Thani Airport or Train Station, take a bus to Don Sak Pier and then a ferry to Koh Samui.
- Tips to save: Book in advance, travel off-peak, look for package deals.
Car and Road Trips
If you love road trips, you can rent a car from major cities and drive to Koh Samui.
- Car Rentals: Available from Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and other major cities.
- Travel Routes: Drive to Don Sak Pier and take a car ferry to Koh Samui.
- Travel Tips: Check your rental agreement if ferry transportation is allowed and plan your route with rest stops.
More Tips to get to Koh Samui
Best Time to go
- Weather: Dry season (December to April) is the best, wet season (May to November) has fewer tourists and lower price.
- Festivals: Plan your trip around Songkran (Thai New Year) for a unique experience.
What to Bring
Pack the right things to make your trip to Koh Samui more fun.
- Essentials: Light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottle.
- Special: Pack motion sickness medication for ferry and comfortable shoes for island hopping.
Safety and Tips
Travel safe and worry free to Koh Samui.
- Staying Safe: Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid unlicensed taxis, follow local customs and laws.
- Health Tips: Stay hydrated, use sunscreen and be careful with street food to avoid stomach issues.
After Arrival Koh Samui
Transportation on the Island
Getting around Koh Samui is easy.
- Taxis: Everywhere but agree on fare in advance.
- Scooters and Bicycles: For short distance and hidden gems.
- Car Rentals: For family or group to explore the island thoroughly.
Top and Hidden Gems
Koh Samui has a mix of top attractions and hidden gems.
- Must-see: Maenam Beach, Big Buddha Temple, Chaweng Beach.
- Hidden: Laem Sor Pagoda, Secret Buddha Garden, Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks.
Accommodation
Koh Samui has many accommodation options for all budget.
Luxury Resorts: For a luxurious and relaxing stay.
Budget Hostels: For backpackers and budget traveler.
Mid-range Hotels: Balance of comfort and price.
Sample Itineraries for different types of traveler
Luxury Traveler
- Day 1: Arrive at Samui Airport, check-in at a luxury resort and relax by the pool.
- Day 2: Private yacht tour around the island and snorkeling at Coral Cove.
- Day 3: Spa day at the resort and fine dining at a beachfront restaurant.
- Day 4: Explore hidden gems Laem Sor Pagoda and Secret Buddha Garden with a private guide.
Budget Backpacker
- Day 1: Arrive at Surat Thani, take a bus and ferry to Koh Samui and check-in at a budget hostel.
- Day 2: Rent a scooter to Maenam Beach and Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks.
- Day 3: Take a ferry to Koh Phangan for a day trip and Full Moon Party.
- Day 4: Visit local markets and street food.
Family Traveler
- Day 1: Arrive at Samui Airport, check-in at a family hotel and beach time.
- Day 2: Big Buddha Temple and Aquarium & Tiger Zoo.
- Day 3: Namuang Waterfall and Elephant Sanctuary.
- Day 4: Resort time and family activities.
End
Getting to Koh Samui can be an adventure but with proper planning it can be smooth and fun. There are various transportation methods to reach Koh Samui, including the popular train and ferry combination from Bangkok, as well as direct and connecting flights to Koh Samui Airport, which offers convenient amenities for travelers. Whether you fly direct, take a ferry or drive, there are many options to fit your travel style and budget. Once you arrive, Koh Samui’s beaches, culture and scenery await you. Happy travel!
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about traveling to Koh Samui
What is the cheapest way to get to Koh Samui?
Cheapest is to fly to Surat Thani and then take a bus and ferry to Koh Samui.
How long is the ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui?
Ferry from Don Sak Pier in Surat Thani to Koh Samui takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Are there direct flights to Koh Samui from international destinations?
Yes, airlines like Bangkok Airways fly direct from international cities like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
Which airlines fly to Koh Samui?
Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways and Air Asia are among the airlines flying to Koh Samui.
How can I get from Bangkok to Koh Samui without flying?
Take an overnight train or bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then bus and ferry to Koh Samui.
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