How to Travel from Phuket to Koh Samui? (See the Best 3 Ways)

The distance between Phuket and Koh Samui is about 345 kilometers (214 miles). There are three main ways to travel from Phuket to Koh Samui:

Direct flights (recommended)
Bus + ferry
Private transfer (car) + ferry

	Direct Flights	Bus + Ferry	Car (Private Transfer)
Cost	From 3,172 THB (US$95)	From 600 THB (US$18)	From 6,672 THB (US$200)
Time	1 hour	9½ hours	6–8 hours
Advantage	Easiest, fastest	Cheap	Door-to-door service Less expensive if shared with 2–3 people
Disadvantage	Expensive	Slow, connected trip	Still slow
Recommended for	Couples, friend trips	Budget travelers	Families
Rating	***	*	**

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Bangkok and Chiang Mai

In Bangkok, our guide Ann and driver "Mr. Ot" (I don't know how to spell his name) were very friendly and professional. You simply can't underestimate the value of having an English speaking guide to show you around, and a driver with a comfortable, sizeable, air-conditioned van take you from place to place. Ann taught us so much about Thailand's history, food, and religion. Mr. Ot always opened our door with a smile, and had cool towels and ice-cold bottled water for us.

, Apr 2024

Very great experience our driver D was…

Very great experience our driver D was never late and always had waters and a cold towel for us and our tour guide Som was very informative and had amazing English I recommend them both highly for anyone else traveling

Rylan Coache, Feb 2024

Excellent guide in Siem Reap

Our recent time spent in Siem Reap was made even more memorable by our expert guide, Som Piseth. Som was knowledgeable, attentive, flexible and super helpful - we learnt so much about Siem Reap and Cambodia in our 3 days with him. His English was excellent and his knowledge of, and pride in, his country was outstanding. We would highly recommend Som for anyone wanting an excellent guide in Siem Reap!

Sharon Townshend, Feb 2024

1. Direct Flights (Easiest and Fastest)

Cost: from 3,172 THB (US$95) p/p
Journey time: 1 hour

This is the most recommended way to get to Koh Samui from Phuket.

Phuket has two direct flights to Samui International Airport (USM) daily, supplied by Bangkok Airlines, at 1pm and 4:30pm.

The Samui airport is only about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) to Chaweng Beach, one of Koh Samui's most popular beaches. That's only 8 minutes' driving.

Check the sample itineraries for Thailand tours: Top 5 Thailand Itineraries for 10 Days.

Is there a cheaper flight from Phuket to Koh Samui?

No. Currently only Bangkok Airlines has direct flights. A cheaper flight from Phuket to Surat Thani (US$65) + airport–port transfer (~US$20) + ferry (US$8-18) is no cheaper. The total cost is about the same as taking a direct flight (US$95), but much more time-consuming (the whole journey takes 7 hours).

2. Car (Private Transfer)

Cost: from 6,672 THB (US$200) per car
Journey time: 6–8 hours

You can book a taxi online for the transfer very easily. This option is most likely to be chosen for its door-to-door convenience or because there is no connecting flight available from Phuket to Koh Samui. You will be transported from your hotel in Phuket or Phuket airport to your hotel in Koh Samui. Short stops are counted in the journey time and can be had at your convenience.

3. Bus + Ferry (Cheapest)

Cost: from 600 THB (US$18) p/p
Journey time: 9½ hours

Phuket Bus Terminal 1 has minivans "to Koh Samui" from 8am. A minivan will take you to the Surat Thani ferry (included in the bus price) for the crossing to Nathon Pier in Koh Samui.

Though it is the cheapest way, some disadvantages come with it. It is relatively uncomfortable, awkward, and time-consuming, making it "the backpackers' option". The minivan doesn't always leave on schedule, and the driver will collect passengers on the road, which may take extra time. The free luggage allowance is 1 item per person, and you will be asked to pay for excess luggage.

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