Getting to Koh Samui is easier than ever, with multiple options to suit every budget and travel style. Whether you're flying direct, taking a ferry, or combining modes of transport, this guide covers all the ways to reach Thailand's paradise island in 2026.
Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 700km south of Bangkok. The island has its own international airport, but many travelers also arrive via ferry from the mainland.
Getting to Koh Samui by Air
Koh Samui Airport (USM)
Koh Samui's international airport is located on the east side of the island, near Choeng Mon Beach. It's a modern facility handling both domestic and international flights.
From Bangkok
Bangkok Airways operates the most frequent flights between Bangkok (BKK and DMK) and Koh Samui. The flight takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Bangkok Airways: 3,000-8,000 THB, hourly departures
- Air Asia: 2,000-4,000 THB, multiple daily flights
- Thai VietJet: 2,500-5,000 THB, daily flights
Pro tip: Book Bangkok Airways flights that include ferry or bus connections to save time on logistics.
From Singapore
Bangkok Airways offers direct flights from Singapore (SIN) to Koh Samui, taking approximately 2 hours. One-way fares typically cost $150-300 USD.
Alternatively, fly to Singapore Changi, then connect to Bangkok before heading to Koh Samui—often cheaper but takes longer.
Other Direct Routes
Direct flights to Koh Samui are available from:
- Hong Kong: Cathay Pacific (seasonal), Bangkok Airways
- Kuala Lumpur: Air Asia, Bangkok Airways
- Phuket: Bangkok Airways, Air Asia (seasonal)
- Singapore: Bangkok Airways
Getting to Koh Samui by Ferry
The mainland ferry piers are at Donsak (Surat Thani province), about 60km from the nearest bus station. Ferries to Koh Samui depart from:
Donsak Pier
This is the most common ferry departure point, connecting to Nathon Pier on Koh Samui.
- Raja Ferry: 150 THB, every 1.5 hours (6 AM - 8 PM)
- Seatran Ferry: 150 THB, every 1-2 hours
- Express Ferry: 200 THB, faster service
Journey time: 45-60 minutes
Bus + Ferry from Bangkok
One of the cheapest ways to reach Koh Samui:
- Take a bus from Bangkok (Southern Bus Terminal) to Donsak/Surat Thani
- Duration: 8-10 hours
- Cost: 600-1,000 THB
- Then take the ferry across (45-60 min, 150 THB)
Total cost: 700-1,200 THB ($20-35)
Total journey time: 10-12 hours
Train + Ferry from Bangkok
Another budget option:
- Take an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani
- Duration: 8-9 hours
- Cost: 300-1,000 THB (depending on class)
- Then bus to pier + ferry
Travel agencies in Surat Thani offer combined tickets including train, bus, and ferry.
Getting to Koh Samui from Singapore
There are two main options for traveling from Singapore to Koh Samui:
Option 1: Direct Flight
Bangkok Airways operates direct flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Koh Samui. Flight time is approximately 2 hours.
- Cost: $150-300 USD one-way
- Duration: 2 hours
Option 2: Fly via Bangkok
Fly from Singapore to Bangkok (5 hours), then take a domestic flight or bus+ferry to Koh Samui. This is often cheaper if you book in advance.
- Cost: $80-150 SGD + domestic connection
- Duration: 4-8 hours total
Arrival Tips
- Airport to hotels: Taxis and minibuses are available outside the terminal. Pre-booked hotel transfers are often cheaper and more convenient.
- Nathon Pier: If arriving by ferry, songthaews and taxis are available at the pier.
- Currency: Exchange some money before arriving—ATM fees on the island can be high.
- Timing: Allow buffer time for connections, especially during monsoon season when ferries may be delayed.
Getting Around Koh Samui
Once you've arrived, here's how to explore the island:
Songthaew (Shared Truck)
The most common and affordable transport:
- Cost: 50-100 THB per trip
- How to use: Flag down on the main road or wait at designated stops
- Routes: Run between major beaches and towns
Taxi
Available throughout tourist areas:
- Cost: Negotiate or insist on meter (usually 100-500 THB)
- Tip: Agree on price before departure
Grab
The ride-hailing app works well in Koh Samui:
- Cost: Similar to taxis, but with transparent pricing
- Availability: Good in Chaweng, Bophut, and Lamai
Scooter Rental
Popular for adventurous travelers:
- Cost: 200-400 THB per day
- Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended
- Safety: Wear a helmet and be cautious on steep roads
Cost Comparison Table
| Option | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Flight (Bangkok Air) | 3,000-8,000 THB | 1h 15m |
| Budget Flight | 2,000-4,000 THB | 1h 15m |
| Bus + Ferry | 700-1,200 THB | 10-12 hours |
| Train + Ferry | 600-1,500 THB | 10-12 hours |
Transport Pro Tip
If flying into Bangkok and wanting to reach Koh Samui cheaply, consider flying into Don Mueang Airport (DMK) and using Air Asia. Their connecting deals can offer significant savings compared to flying into Suvarnabhumi (BKK) with Bangkok Airways.
Ready to plan your arrival? Browse our hotels in Koh Samui and book your transfer or accommodation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get to Koh Samui from Bangkok?
The cheapest option is taking a bus from Bangkok to the ferry pier (Donsak or Don Sak) then the ferry across. Total cost is approximately 700-1,000 THB ($20-30), but the journey takes 10-12 hours. Flying with Bangkok Air or Air Asia is faster (about 1.5 hours flight) but costs 2,000-5,000 THB ($60-150).
Can I fly directly to Koh Samui from other countries?
Yes, several international airlines offer direct flights to Koh Samui including Bangkok Airways (from Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur), Cathay Pacific (from Hong Kong), and seasonal charter flights from various cities. However, most international travelers connect through Bangkok.
How long is the ferry from the mainland to Koh Samui?
The ferry journey from Donsak to Nathon takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Seatran and Raja Ferries operate multiple departures daily (roughly every 1-2 hours). The ferry is comfortable with air-conditioned seating and open deck areas.
How do I get around Koh Samui?
The most common ways to get around Koh Samui are: songthaew (shared trucks, 50-100 THB), metered taxis (more expensive but reliable), Grab app (works well in tourist areas), and scooter rental (200-400 THB/day for those with international driving permits). Most visitors rely on songthaew or taxis for convenience.