Koh Samet, a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located about 220 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, Koh Samet is a popular getaway for both locals and tourists. This guide covers all the transportation options for getting from Bangkok to Koh Samet, providing essential details to help you plan your trip. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Bangkok to Koh Samet:
- By Bus or Van and Ferry: The most popular and affordable option.
- By Private Car or Taxi and Ferry: The most convenient way to travel directly.
- By Flight and Transfer: A combination of air and ground travel for a faster trip.
Each option involves a combination of land travel to Ban Phe Pier (the mainland pier for Koh Samet) and then a ferry or speedboat to the island. Let’s explore each option in detail.
| Flight Bangkok - Pattaya ฿ 4,540–5,340 4h 15m – 6h 20m | |
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| Bus Bangkok - Koh Samet ฿ 350–450 4h – 4h 50m | |
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| Taxi Bangkok - Koh Samet ฿ 4,070–9,020 3h | |
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| Van Bangkok - Koh Samet ฿ 390–670 4h 10m – 5h 40m | |
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| Taxi Suvarnabhumi Airport - Koh Samet ฿ 3,545–6,732 2h 30m | |
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| Taxi Don Mueang Airport - Koh Samet ฿ 4,208–6,078 2h 30m | |
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By Bus or Van and Ferry: The Most Popular and Affordable Option
Taking a bus or minivan from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier, followed by a ferry to Koh Samet, is the most popular and budget-friendly way to travel. Buses and vans leave frequently and offer direct services to the pier.
Key Details:
- Departure Points: Buses and minivans typically leave from Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal in Bangkok.
- Arrival Point: Arrive at Ban Phe Pier, where you can board a ferry or speedboat to Koh Samet.
- Duration: The bus ride takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, followed by a 30 to 45-minute ferry ride to the island.
- Price Range: Bus or van tickets cost between 200 to 300 THB (
$6 to $10 USD), while ferry tickets cost around 50 to 150 THB ($2 to $5 USD). - Bus and Van Operators:
- Rayong Tour: Offers bus services from Ekkamai to Ban Phe.
- Suan Son Transport: Provides minivans to Ban Phe Pier.
Ferry Details:
- Ferries depart regularly from Ban Phe Pier to Na Dan Pier on Koh Samet.
- Ferries run about every hour, with the last ferry leaving in the late afternoon.
Pros:
- Most affordable way to travel to Koh Samet.
- Direct service to Ban Phe Pier, with frequent departures throughout the day.
- Scenic ferry ride with views of the island.
Cons:
- Travel time can vary due to traffic.
- Ferries may not run late in the evening, requiring early travel.
Booking Tip:
It’s a good idea to book your bus or van tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holiday seasons. You can use our online search form to book your tickets for both the bus and ferry.
By Private Car or Taxi and Ferry: The Most Convenient Option
For travelers who prefer flexibility and comfort, hiring a private car or taxi from Bangkok to Ban Phe Pier is the easiest and most direct way to travel. From the pier, you can take a ferry or speedboat to Koh Samet.
Key Details:
- Duration: The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, followed by a 30 to 45-minute ferry or speedboat ride to the island.
- Price Range: A private car or taxi costs between 2,000 to 3,500 THB (
$60 to $110 USD), depending on the vehicle and service. Ferry or speedboat tickets cost around 50 to 400 THB ($2 to $12 USD), with speedboats being more expensive but faster. - Route: Most drivers will take the Sukhumvit Road (Route 3) or the Bang Na-Chonburi Expressway, offering a smooth and direct ride to Ban Phe Pier.
Ferry/Speedboat Options:
- Speedboats are available from Ban Phe Pier, cutting the travel time to about 15 minutes. Prices are higher but ideal for those looking for a quick transfer.
- Speedboats can also drop you off directly at some of the popular beaches on Koh Samet.
Pros:
- Most convenient and comfortable option.
- Flexible departure times with the option for private speedboat transfers.
- Ideal for families or groups traveling together.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses or vans.
- Traffic delays can affect travel time.
Booking Tip:
Private transfers can be arranged through travel agencies or online platforms. Use our online search form to book your private car and ferry or speedboat tickets for a smooth and stress-free journey.
By Flight and Transfer: The Fastest Option
While Koh Samet doesn’t have its own airport, you can fly to U-Tapao International Airport in Rayong, located about 40 kilometers from Ban Phe Pier. From there, a short taxi ride will take you to the pier, where you can catch a ferry or speedboat to Koh Samet.
Key Details:
- Departure Points: Flights depart from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK).
- Arrival Point: Arrive at U-Tapao International Airport (UTP), followed by a 40-minute taxi ride to Ban Phe Pier.
- Duration: The flight takes about 45 minutes, followed by a 30 to 45-minute ferry ride to Koh Samet.
- Price Range: Flights range from 1,500 to 3,000 THB (
$45 to $90 USD), depending on the airline and booking time. Taxi fares to Ban Phe Pier are around 500 to 800 THB ($15 to $25 USD). - Airlines:
- Bangkok Airways: Offers frequent flights to U-Tapao.
- Thai Lion Air: A low-cost carrier with affordable options.
Pros:
- The fastest option to reach Ban Phe Pier from Bangkok.
- Ideal for travelers short on time or looking to avoid long drives.
Cons:
- Requires coordination between flight and ferry times.
- More expensive than buses or vans, especially with the added taxi fare.
Booking Tip:
Flights to U-Tapao are limited, so it’s important to book in advance. Use our online search form to book your flight, taxi transfer, and ferry tickets.
Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Samet
- Best Time to Visit: Koh Samet is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is ideal for beach activities.
- Ferry Schedule: Ferries from Ban Phe Pier typically run from early morning until late afternoon, so plan your trip accordingly to avoid missing the last ferry. Speedboats are available throughout the day and into the evening.
- Book in Advance: For buses, vans, private transfers, and ferries, booking in advance is recommended to secure the best prices and availability, especially during peak travel seasons. Use our online search form at the top of this page to compare all travel options and book your trip to Koh Samet.
