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Trading the neon lights and bustling beachfronts of Pattaya for the coconut groves of Koh Samui means crossing from the eastern Gulf of Thailand coast to the Surat Thani side of the peninsula, several hundred kilometers away. Most travelers choose between a direct flight from U-Tapao Airport and a long private transfer by road and ferry. You can compare and book transfers for this route on GoAsia.cc.
Pattaya to Koh Samui by Flight
Bangkok Airways flies from U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport (UTP) to Samui Airport (USM), which saves the whole drive and the ferry crossing.[1] One-way economy fares start at THB 2,250 (about $67), including airport tax and ticketing fee, on a limited number of promotional seats. Regular fares are higher.[1] U-Tapao is a separate airport from Bangkok's, so allow time to get there from Pattaya.
Pattaya to Koh Samui by Private Transfer
A private transfer suits families, small groups and travelers who want to avoid changing between buses, piers and ferries. The trip takes from about 11 hours 30 minutes including the ferry, and a private car or van costs from about $400 up to about $550 per vehicle on booking platforms, depending on the vehicle class (October 2026).[2] You can choose between Comfort Car, Luxury SUV and Luxury VIP Van; the larger and more luxurious the vehicle, the higher the price.[2]
The last part of the trip is a ferry crossing from the mainland. Seatran Ferry runs from Donsak pier to Nathon on Koh Samui, a crossing of 1 hour 30 minutes with a departure every hour.[3] Ask the provider whether the ferry fee is included in your price and whether the car stays on the vehicle deck.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flight (Bangkok Airways) | From THB 2,250 (about $67) one way[1] | Direct from U-Tapao to Samui, no road or ferry leg |
| Private transfer | About $400 to $550 per vehicle[2] | From about 11h 30min door to door including the ferry |
Tips for Traveling from Pattaya to Koh Samui
- Plan for a Full Day by Road: The overland trip takes most of the day, so start early to reach your Koh Samui hotel before late evening.
- Check the Airport: Flights to Samui leave from U-Tapao, not from Bangkok's airports, so book the right departure airport.
- Book in Advance: Long-distance private transfers need coordination. Booking via GoAsia.cc a few days ahead helps ensure the vehicle you want is available.
Timetable
| Taxi Pattaya - Koh Samui $ 400.35–548.63 11h 30m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Pattaya to Koh Samui, including current prices and schedules.
The flight is cheaper: Bangkok Airways one-way fares from U-Tapao to Samui start at THB 2,250 (about $67), while a private car or van starts at about $400 per vehicle on booking platforms (October 2026). Fares vary by date.
Flying direct from U-Tapao Airport to Samui Airport is the fastest option, because it avoids the road and ferry route, which takes from about 11 hours 30 minutes.
A private transfer takes from about 11 hours 30 minutes, including the drive to the mainland ferry pier and the crossing to the island. The flight avoids this overland trip.
It depends on the provider. Ask before you pay whether the ferry fee for the vehicle and passengers is included.
Bangkok Airways flies from U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport (UTP) to Samui Airport (USM). This is a different airport from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang.
Many private drivers will stop for meals and bathroom breaks on a trip this long. Agree on stops with the provider when you book.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Bangkok Airways: Fly to Samui! (Bangkok Airways domestic fares). Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [2] 12Go: 12Go timetable: Pattaya to Koh Samui. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [3] Seatran Ferry Company: Seatran Ferry. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.