How to Get to Koh Samui: Flights, Ferry & Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Koh Samui? Getting to this beautiful island in southern Thailand is easier than you might expect. You can fly directly to Koh Samui from Bangkok and several international destinations, or take a scenic ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui.
Whether you are looking for the fastest way to reach the island or want to enjoy a more relaxed journey across the Gulf of Thailand, here is everything you need to know about how to get to Koh Samui.
Flying to Koh Samui
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Koh Samui is by plane.
Koh Samui Airport (USM) is located on the island and provides convenient access to popular areas including Chaweng, Bophut, Choeng Mon, Plai Laem, and Lamai.
There are direct flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui, making air travel a popular choice for visitors arriving from other parts of Thailand. Koh Samui is also connected by direct international flights from several destinations, depending on the season and airline schedules.
Flying is particularly convenient if you want to spend less time travelling and more time enjoying your holiday.
Taking the Ferry to Koh Samui
Another popular way to reach Koh Samui is by sea ferry.
If you are travelling through Surat Thani, you can travel to Donsak Pier, located on the mainland, and take a ferry across to Nathon Pier on Koh Samui.
The ferry crossing takes approximately 90 minutes. However, the journey can feel much shorter when you are enjoying the fresh sea breeze, open water, and views of the Gulf of Thailand.
It is not simply a transfer from the mainland to the island—it can be part of the experience.
Travelling to Koh Samui by Car
One advantage of travelling by ferry is that vehicles can be transported to Koh Samui. This makes the ferry a practical option if you are travelling around southern Thailand by car or prefer to have your own vehicle during your stay.
From Donsak Pier, your car can board the vehicle ferry and continue directly to Koh Samui, but required booking the space in advance. Once you arrive at Nathon Pier, you can drive to your stay.
Flying or Taking the Ferry: Which Should You Choose?
The best way to get to Koh Samui depends on how you prefer to travel.
Choose a flight if:
You want the fastest journey.
You are travelling from Bangkok.
You are arriving from an international destination with a direct flight.
You want to arrive on Koh Samui as quickly as possible.
Choose the ferry if:
You are travelling through Surat Thani.
You are travelling by car.
You enjoy scenic journeys.
You want to experience travelling across the sea to Koh Samui.
For many travellers, the ferry is more than just transportation. The combination of ocean views, sea breeze, and the first sight of Koh Samui on the horizon makes it a memorable part of the journey.
Welcome to Koh Samui
Whichever route you choose, your journey to Koh Samui is the beginning of your island adventure.
Once you arrive, it’s time to discover the island’s beautiful coastline. From lively Chaweng to peaceful Bophut and secluded beaches in the south and west, Koh Samui has a beach for every type of traveller.
Want to find the perfect beach for your stay? Explore our Koh Samui Beach Guide to discover the best beaches on the island, what each area is known for, and which beaches are ideal for swimming, relaxing, families, and sunset views.
Whether you fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui or take the ferry from Donsak Pier to Nathon Pier, the journey is well worth it.
Welcome to Koh Samui—your island escape starts here.