How to Get to Koh Samui: Flights & Ferries Explained

What You Need to Know About Getting to Koh Samui

Tucked into the warm, turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is the ultimate tropical escape—famous for its palm-fringed beaches, lush jungles, and laid-back charm. The best part? It’s easier to reach than you think. Whether you’re flying in direct or island-hopping your way from Bangkok or Phuket, here’s everything you need to know about getting to Koh Samui.

✈️ Flying to Koh Samui: Direct & Domestic Options

Koh Samui Airport (USM) is one of the most beautiful small airports in the world—open-air terminals surrounded by tropical gardens and coconut palms. It’s privately owned and operated by Bangkok Airways, which means flight options are a bit limited, but the service is top-notch.

🛫 Domestic Flights:

• Bangkok to Koh Samui: 1 hour
  • Carriers: Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways
• Chiang Mai to Koh Samui: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Seasonal direct flights available
• Phuket to Koh Samui: 1 hour
  • Bangkok Airways operates daily flights

🌐 International Flights:

You can fly direct to Koh Samui from a few international hubs, especially in peak season:

• Singapore (Singapore Airlines, Bangkok Airways)
• Hong Kong (Hong Kong Airlines, seasonal)
• Kuala Lumpur (Bangkok Airways)
• Shanghai & Chengdu (seasonal charter flights)
• From Europe or the Americas: Connect through Bangkok (BKK) or Singapore (SIN) for easiest access.

🧳 Pro Tip: Booking a codeshare flight with Bangkok Airways ensures your luggage is checked through to Koh Samui even if you fly internationally into Thailand.

⛴️ Ferry Routes to Koh Samui: Scenic Island-Hopping by Sea

If you're traveling from mainland Thailand or nearby islands like Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, ferries are a scenic and budget-friendly way to get to Koh Samui.

🚢 Main Ferry Terminals to Koh Samui:

1. Donsak Pier (Surat Thani mainland):
   • Ferry duration: ~1.5 hours
   • Carriers: Seatran Ferry, Raja Ferry
   • Best for travelers coming via overnight train or flight into Surat Thani Airport (URT)
2. Nathon Pier (Koh Samui arrival):
   • Main entry point for most ferries
3. Koh Phangan to Koh Samui:
   • Duration: ~30 minutes
   • Frequent service, ideal for Full Moon Party hoppers
4. Koh Tao to Koh Samui:
   • Duration: ~1.5–2 hours
   • Carriers: Lomprayah, Songserm

🧠 Insider Tip: Book ferry combos (flight + bus + ferry) from Bangkok or Phuket with companies like Lomprayah or Phantip Travel. It’s cost-effective and simplifies the whole journey.

🚗 Getting Around Koh Samui After Arrival

Once you're on the island, transportation is easy but varies in price and comfort.

• Taxis are readily available but expensive—always negotiate or insist on the meter.
• Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are a fun, cheap option for beach-hopping.
• Scooter rentals are everywhere (~$6–$10/day), but drive cautiously.
• Private transfers and car rentals are available for families or travelers wanting flexibility.

🧳 Entry Requirements & Travel Notes

• Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of 60+ countries (including the U.S., UK, EU, Australia) can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days.
• Thai eVisa or Visa on Arrival available for others.
• COVID-19 Requirements: As of 2025, Thailand does not require testing or vaccination proof, but check for updates before travel.
• Currency: Thai Baht (฿), and ATMs are widely available.
• Connectivity: Buy a local SIM at the airport or 7-Eleven for cheap data and island-wide coverage.

🗺️ Best Travel Routes to Koh Samui

Departure PointTravel OptionDurationBangkokDirect Flight1 hourPhuketFlight or ferry combo1–5 hoursSurat ThaniBus + Ferry~3 hoursKoh PhanganFerry30 minutesKoh TaoFerry1.5–2 hoursSingaporeDirect Flight1.5 hours

🌟 Whether you want to fly in fast or soak up the journey by sea, Koh Samui offers a smooth arrival for every type of traveler.

🌺 Getting to Koh Samui: A Seamless Start to Paradise

From jungle-lined roads to pristine beaches and luxury resorts tucked between coconut groves, Koh Samui is a breeze to reach and a joy to explore. With a mix of flights, ferries, and flexible routes, the journey is as memorable as the destination. So pack your swimsuit, book that ferry, and let Koh Samui work its tropical magic on you.