Koh Samet, located in Rayong Province, is a beautiful island known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. Situated 90 km (56 miles) southeast of Pattaya, Koh Samet is accessible by bus + ferry, private car + ferry, or speedboat. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. 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 Pattaya to Koh Samet:
- By Bus/Minivan + Ferry: The most affordable and popular option.
- By Private Car/Taxi + Ferry: The most comfortable and flexible choice.
- By Direct Speedboat: The fastest but most expensive option.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Pattaya to Koh Samet.
Timetable
By Bus/Minivan + Ferry: The Most Affordable and Popular Option
Taking a bus or minivan from Pattaya to Ban Phe Pier and then a ferry to Koh Samet is the most budget-friendly and common way to travel.
Step 1: Take a Bus or Minivan from Pattaya to Ban Phe Pier
- Departure Points:
- Pattaya Bus Terminal (North Pattaya).
- Some operators offer hotel pickup in central Pattaya.
- Arrival Point: Ban Phe Pier, Rayong (Main ferry terminal to Koh Samet).
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Price: 200–400 THB (~$6–$12 USD), depending on the operator.
- Bus/Minivan Operators:
- Pattaya to Rayong minivans (frequent departures).
- Public bus (cheaper but slower, with fewer departures).
- Departure Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Step 2: Take a Ferry from Ban Phe Pier to Koh Samet
- Departure Point: Ban Phe Pier.
- Arrival Point: Na Dan Pier, Koh Samet.
- Duration: 30–40 minutes.
- Price: 70–100 THB (~$2–$3 USD).
- Ferry Operators:
- Public Ferries (cheaper, more crowded).
- Speedboat Ferries (faster but more expensive).
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Total Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours.
Total Price: 270–500 THB (~$8–$15 USD).
Pros:
- Cheapest option.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
- Public ferry tickets available at the pier (no advance booking needed).
Cons:
- Longer travel time due to multiple transfers.
- Buses/minivans can be crowded.
Booking Tip:
For best convenience, book a combo ticket (bus + ferry). Use our online search form to check schedules and secure your ticket.
By Private Car/Taxi + Ferry: The Most Comfortable and Flexible Choice
For travelers who prefer comfort, privacy, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Pattaya to Ban Phe Pier is a stress-free option.
Step 1: Take a Private Car or Taxi from Pattaya to Ban Phe Pier
- Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Pattaya.
- Arrival Point: Ban Phe Pier.
- Duration: 1.5 hours.
- Price: 1,500–2,500 THB (~$40–$75 USD), depending on car type.
- Taxi & Private Car Services:
- Grab (ride-hailing app, cheaper than taxis).
- Private car rental with driver.
Step 2: Take a Ferry from Ban Phe Pier to Koh Samet
- Duration: 30–40 minutes.
- Price: 70–100 THB (~$2–$3 USD).
Total Duration: 2 hours.
Total Price: 1,570–2,600 THB (~$45–$78 USD).
Pros:
- Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
- More comfortable than buses and minivans.
- Flexible departure time.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses.
- Traffic congestion may increase travel time.
Booking Tip:
For lower fares, book your taxi or private car in advance using our online search form.
By Direct Speedboat: The Fastest but Most Expensive Option
For travelers who want a fast and hassle-free journey, taking a private speedboat from Pattaya to Koh Samet is the best option.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Pattaya Beach or Bali Hai Pier.
- Arrival Point: Na Dan Pier or beach resorts on Koh Samet.
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Price: 3,500–6,000 THB (~$100–$180 USD), depending on boat size.
- Speedboat Operators:
- Pattaya Speedboat Services.
- Private charter boats.
Pros:
- Fastest way to reach Koh Samet.
- No need for multiple transfers.
- Direct beach drop-off available for some hotels.
Cons:
- Most expensive option.
- Weather-dependent—rough seas can delay or cancel services.
Booking Tip:
For better rates, share a speedboat with other travelers. Use our online search form to compare speedboat services.
Final Tips for Traveling from Pattaya to Koh Samet
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus/Minivan + Ferry (~270 THB, 2.5+ hours).
- Best Option for Comfort & Flexibility: Private Car + Ferry (~1,570+ THB, 2+ hours, door-to-door service).
- Best Option for Speed: Direct Speedboat (~3,500+ THB, 1+ hour).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Ferries and speedboats sell out quickly during weekends and holidays.
- Prepare for Wet Boarding: Speedboats often require walking through shallow water, so wear flip-flops and quick-dry clothing.
