The Best Ways to Travel to Koh Samui: Your Complete Guide

“A question we're frequently asked is - How do we best travel to Koh Samui? Since most people travel from Bangkok, we'll focus on the best ways to get from Koh Samui to Bangkok in this Blog post. However, if you're traveling from Khao Sok, Phuket, or any other destination, the information below will still be helpful and the various options of transportation will be the same.” - Misty Dowling

The Best Ways to Travel from Bangkok to Koh Samui: Flights, Ferries, Buses, Trains, and Even a Cruise!

Planning a trip from Bangkok to Koh Samui? With its pristine beaches, swaying coconut trees, and vibrant island life, Koh Samui is a must-visit destination in Thailand that has something to offer for every type of traveler. But before your toes can sink into the powdery sands at Baan Suay Banta, you’ll need to make your way to the island.

Fortunately, there are several ways to make the trip from the bustling capital to this island paradise. Whether you're looking for the easiest, quickest route or you're a more adventurous traveler who doesn't mind taking the scenic way, we've got you covered! Let’s explore the best travel options:

1. Easiest, Quickest, and Most Comfortable: Direct Flight to Koh Samui Airport

Bangkok to Samui Airport by Direct Flight

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: Approx. 4,000 - 7,000 THB (per flight, depending on season)

If you’re looking for the smoothest and fastest way to get from Bangkok to Koh Samui, this is it. A direct flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui is hands down the easiest option and allows you to maximize your time on the island.

Koh Samui Airport (USM) is one of the most beautiful airports in the world. It's not your typical, concrete-heavy airport but more like a tropical garden with open-air terminals, lush greenery, and charming little boutique shops. Located just a short 20-minute drive from Baan Suay Bantai, this makes arriving on the island stress-free.

Flight Time & Duration Flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui usually take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, so it’s quick! Flights operate from both Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK), but most direct flights to Koh Samui depart from Suvarnabhumi.

Airlines Flying to Koh Samui The catch here? The price. Koh Samui’s airport is privately owned by Bangkok Airways, and they have a near-monopoly on flights to the island, which means flights are a little pricier than what you’d expect for domestic travel in Thailand. But you get what you pay for!

Bangkok Airways: A Little Slice of Luxury If you’re flying to Koh Samui, you’ll likely be flying with Bangkok Airways, often regarded as one of the best boutique airlines in the world. They are known for offering excellent onboard service (yes, even on short flights!), complimentary meals, and access to their airport lounges. Their flights often come with a higher price tag compared to other domestic routes in Thailand, but the comfort and convenience make it worthwhile.

Samui Airport: One of the Prettiest Airports in the World Samui Airport is truly unique. Instead of drab terminals, the airport is designed as a lush tropical oasis with thatched roofs, tropical flowers, and koi fish ponds. It’s as if you’ve already arrived in paradise the moment you step off the plane.

Pro Tip: For your domestic flight, we recommend arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in and security as Bangkok airport can be busy.

Pros:

• Fastest and easiest way to get to Koh Samui

• Convenient transfer from Samui Airport to your accommodation

• Comfortable flight with great service from Bangkok Airways
  

Cons:

• More expensive than other travel options

2. Budget-Friendly with a Bit More Adventure: Fly to Surat Thani + Ferry to Koh Samui

Duration: 4-5 hours (flight + transfer)
Cost: Approx. 1,500 - 2,500 THB (flight + ferry)

If you want to save a bit of money and don’t mind taking a slightly longer route, flying to Surat Thani and then catching a bus and ferry to Koh Samui is a popular choice among budget travelers.

Flight to Surat Thani From Bangkok, you can catch a budget-friendly flight to Surat Thani (URT) with airlines like AirAsia or Thai Lion Air. This flight takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, similar to the direct Koh Samui flight but comes at a fraction of the cost.

Bus & Ferry Transfer Once you arrive at Surat Thani Airport, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to Donsak Pier, which is about an hour’s drive from the airport. From there, you’ll board a ferry to Koh Samui, with the most common operators being Raja Ferry, Seatran Ferry, or Lomprayah Catamaran. The ferry journey typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose.
They leave from Surat Thani Airport every hour and you can easily get your tickets at one of the ticket counters at Surat Thani airport after you land. Travling in peak season or rather just have everything arranged and booked upfront for a stress-free journey? You can also book your combined bus & ferry tickets online on 12.go.asia

Booking Tip: To simplify the process, most travelers book a combined ticket that includes the bus transfer and ferry ride from Surat Thani Airport to Koh Samui. This can be done through travel agencies, at the airport, or online.

Ferry Ride Experience: The ferry ride itself is relatively smooth, with beautiful views of the surrounding islands as you sail across the Gulf of Thailand. Onboard, you’ll usually find seating areas, small cafes, and restrooms to make the trip more comfortable.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly option

• Several flights per day to Surat Thani with low-cost carriers
  

Cons:

• Longer travel time (including the bus and ferry ride)

• Less comfortable and convenient than a direct flight

3. Overland Journey: Bus or Train from Bangkok to Surat Thani + Ferry

Duration: 10-12 hours (overnight bus or train)
Cost: Approx. 1,000 - 1,800 THB (train/bus + ferry)

If you have time to spare, you can opt for the slower but often rewarding journey by bus or train to Koh Samui.

Taking the Bus

You can take a direct bus from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) to Surat Thani or directly to Donsak Pier. These buses are usually overnight and take approximately 10 to 12 hours.

Once you arrive at the pier, you’ll hop on a ferry to Koh Samui (2 hours, as mentioned above). Most buses that head to Koh Samui will have the ferry ticket included in the price, and it’s relatively easy to make this trip on a budget.

Taking the Train

Alternatively, if you prefer a more scenic and leisurely journey, Thailand’s train network can be a great experience. Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station and take about 9 hours to reach Surat Thani.

For maximum comfort, we recommend opting for the overnight sleeper trains, which offer you the chance to catch some sleep in an air-conditioned berth.

After arriving at Surat Thani Station, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to Donsak Pier and follow the same ferry journey to Koh Samui.

Booking Tip: Train tickets sell out quickly, especially for the sleeper class, so we recommend booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Train/bus + ferry tickets can be booked on 12.go.asia or on the Thai railway website.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly

• Scenic and relaxed journey

• Sleeper trains offer comfortable overnight travel
  

Cons:

• Significantly longer travel time (12+ hours)

• Bus travel can be tiring; trains require multiple transfers

4. The Newest & Most Luxurious Option: A Cruise from Bangkok to Koh Samui

Duration: 24 hours
Cost: Starts at 1,500 THB (basic seat), up to 25,000 THB (luxury jacuzzi suite)

If you’re in no rush and want a more leisurely experience, consider hopping aboard the Seahorse Ferry, Thailand’s new cruise-style ferry service that runs between Bangkok and Koh Samui. This is a fantastic way to experience the Gulf of Thailand at a slower pace, all while avoiding the hustle and bustle of flying.

The ferry departs from Saengthong Warehouse in Bangkok at 5:30 PM and arrives in Samui around 5 PM the following day. With various ticket options, from basic seats to capsule rooms, family rooms, or even luxurious suites with jacuzzi tubs, this cruise is perfect for those looking for a unique travel experience. You can also bring your vehicle along for an additional fee, making it a great choice for anyone planning to explore the island by car.

Onboard Amenities:

• Restaurants and cafes serving Thai and international dishes.

• Indoor and outdoor bars to enjoy the views of the Gulf.

• Occasional live music and entertainment.

• The option to bring your car or motorcycle to Koh Samui.
  

What to Expect:

• A full 24-hour journey from Bangkok to Koh Samui.

• A slower pace, ideal for those who want to enjoy the experience of being at sea.

• Various ticketing options, including basic seating, luxury suites, and the ability to bring a vehicle.

• A more luxurious, hassle-free travel option compared to flying.
  

Pro Tip: The ferry departs every week, so make sure to book your spot early, especially during peak travel seasons!

Final Thoughts

No matter your budget or travel style, getting from Bangkok to Koh Samui offers a variety of options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you fly in directly, take the more adventurous bus or ferry route, or indulge in a luxurious cruise, your journey to this tropical paradise will be an unforgettable part of your trip.

At Baan Suay Bantai, we’re always here to help you plan your trip and ensure that your journey to Koh Samui is as smooth as possible. We’re also more than happy to assist with airport transfers and local recommendations once you arrive.

Also read our blog: Essential Money Tips for Thailand: Currency, Exchange Rates, and More