How to Get to Koh Samui from Bangkok: Flights, Ferries, Trains and Buses

Koh Samui sits in the Gulf of Thailand and can be reached by air, or by land and sea. The right choice depends on your budget, time and whether you mind a long journey. Here is how to get to Koh Samui by each route.

Option 1: Fly (fastest)

Bangkok Airways flies direct from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to Koh Samui Airport (USM) in about an hour. Samui’s airport is close to the main beaches, which makes it the simplest option for short trips. The airport is run by Bangkok Airways, and fares tend to be higher than on mainland routes, so book early for peak months.

Option 2: Bus plus ferry (cheapest)

A combined bus and ferry ticket from Bangkok takes roughly 10 to 12 hours: a bus to the ferry pier near Surat Thani, then a ferry across to the island. Many travelers take the overnight service to sleep on the way.

Option 3: Train plus ferry

An overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then a transfer to the ferry pier, takes about 12 to 14 hours in total. Book a sleeper berth for comfort.

Option 4: Fly to the mainland, then take a ferry

You can fly to Surat Thani (or a nearby airport) and continue by bus or taxi to the Donsak pier, then take a ferry. The crossing is a short part of the journey, and from Surat Thani the whole trip takes a few hours with connections.

Combined fly-and-ferry tickets

Some budget airlines sell a single ticket that combines a flight from Bangkok to Surat Thani with a bus to the pier and a ferry to Samui. It costs much less than a direct flight to Samui, but the journey takes most of a day. If your flight is delayed, the airline’s connecting service normally waits or rebooks you, which is the main advantage over booking each leg separately.

The ferries

• Raja Ferry and Seatran: larger car and passenger ferries from Donsak with frequent departures.
• Lomprayah: a faster passenger-only boat, about an hour on the crossing, with fewer departures. Check the timetable before you plan connections.

Fares and schedules change by season. Check operators for current times, and book ahead in the high season.

Car ferries arrive on Samui’s west coast, near Nathon and Lipa Noi. From there, it is about 30 to 45 minutes by road to the main beaches at Chaweng and Lamai, so arrange a transfer or use a taxi from the pier.

Getting to Samui from other parts of Thailand

• From Phuket: Bangkok Airways flies directly between the two islands, which is by far the fastest route. By land, it is several hours by road to Donsak followed by the ferry.
• From Krabi: buses and minivans link Krabi with the Donsak pier, with combined tickets to Samui.
• From Koh Phangan and Koh Tao: passenger ferries and catamarans run several times a day. The ride from Phangan is short; from Koh Tao, it is a little longer.
• From abroad: Samui has a few direct international flights from regional hubs, depending on the season; otherwise, connect in Bangkok.

Which route should you choose?

• Short on time or traveling with children: fly direct.
• On a budget and flexible: bus or train plus ferry.
• Already in the south: go via Donsak and the ferry.

Whichever route you take, allow a buffer for ferry delays and bad weather in the rainy months.

Getting around once you arrive

Samui’s airport is in the northeast, about 10 to 20 minutes from Chaweng and Bophut. Most resorts offer transfers. Taxis on the island are relatively expensive, so agree the fare before you get in. Shared pickup trucks (songthaew) run along the ring road during the day, and ride-hailing apps work in the main areas. Renting a car with a driver for a day is a good way to see the island’s viewpoints, waterfalls and temples.

Plan your Samui stay

See things to do in our Koh Samui guide, compare islands in Koh Samui vs Phuket, and browse our Thailand tours. Everyone must also complete the free TDAC arrival card before arriving in Thailand; use the official site only.

How to get to Koh Samui: FAQ

How do I get to Koh Samui from Bangkok?

Fly direct with Bangkok Airways, or take a bus or train to Surat Thani and then a ferry.

How long does it take to get to Koh Samui?

About an hour by direct flight; roughly 10 to 14 hours by land and ferry from Bangkok.

Is there a ferry to Koh Samui?

Yes; operators such as Raja Ferry, Seatran and Lomprayah sail from Donsak.

Which airport is closest to Koh Samui?

Koh Samui Airport (USM) on the island itself.

Can I get to Koh Samui by train?

Not directly: take the train to Surat Thani and continue by ferry.

Can I fly from Phuket to Koh Samui?

Yes. Bangkok Airways operates direct flights between Phuket and Samui, which take about an hour.