Koh Samui and Phuket are two of Thailand’s most popular islands, located in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea respectively. Many travelers want to explore both islands due to their unique beaches and vibrant cultures.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Phuket to Koh Samui, including flights, ferries, and buses. You will get detailed advice on routes, travel times, costs, and practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Phuket to Koh Samui – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Phuket and Koh Samui. It suits travelers who want to save time and avoid long road or sea journeys.

• Direct flights operate from Phuket International Airport (HKT) to Koh Samui Airport (USM), taking about 1 hour. Airlines like Bangkok Airways offer daily services with fares ranging from 2,500 to 4,500 THB.

• Flights are frequent but can be pricier than other options, especially during peak tourist seasons like December to February and April holidays.

• Booking tickets in advance through airline websites or travel apps helps secure better prices and preferred timings, especially during festivals or weekends.

• Both airports have good facilities, and Koh Samui Airport is close to popular beaches, reducing onward travel time.

• Weather delays are rare but can occur during the monsoon season (May to October), so check flight status before departure.

Ferry

Taking a ferry is a popular choice for travelers who want a scenic and budget-friendly journey. However, there is no direct ferry from Phuket to Koh Samui; you must combine bus and ferry travel.

• Most travelers take a combined bus and ferry ticket from Phuket to Koh Samui, usually operated by Lomprayah or Seatran Discovery, departing from Phuket Bus Terminal or Chalong Pier.

• The journey typically takes 6 to 8 hours, including a 3 to 4-hour ferry crossing from Surat Thani or Don Sak Pier to Koh Samui.

• Tickets cost between 700 to 1,200 THB, including bus transfers, ferry, and sometimes hotel pickup or drop-off.

• Ferries run several times a day, but schedules may vary by season; booking in advance is recommended during peak travel times.

• Sea conditions can be rough during the monsoon season, so check weather forecasts and be prepared for possible delays.

Bus / Coach

Traveling by bus combined with ferry is a cost-effective way to reach Koh Samui from Phuket, suitable for budget travelers with flexible schedules.

• Buses depart from Phuket Bus Terminal to Surat Thani or Don Sak Pier, where you transfer to a ferry bound for Koh Samui. Total travel time is around 7 to 9 hours.

• Tickets usually cost between 600 to 900 THB and can be booked at bus terminals or online through travel agencies.

• Buses are air-conditioned and comfortable but can be crowded during holidays or weekends, so booking early is advised.

• Rest stops with food and restroom facilities are available during the bus journey, often at highway service areas along Route 4 (Phetkasem Road).

• Traffic congestion near Surat Thani can cause delays, especially during festivals or weekends.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Phuket to Koh Samui is possible but involves a ferry crossing. This option suits travelers who want flexibility and to explore en route.

• The drive covers about 350 km via Route 4, taking 5 to 6 hours to reach Don Sak Pier, where you board a car ferry to Koh Samui.

• Car ferries run frequently, and the crossing takes about 1.5 hours. Ferry fees for cars range from 400 to 600 THB, plus passenger fares.

• Driving allows stops at attractions like Khao Sok National Park or Surat Thani city, adding to the travel experience.

• Road conditions are generally good, but watch for tolls on highways and heavy traffic near ferry terminals during peak seasons.

• Ensure your rental car agreement allows ferry transport and check ferry schedules in advance to avoid long waits.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is for first-time travelers moving from Phuket to Koh Samui, helping you navigate booking and travel smoothly.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Flights are fastest, ferries and buses are economical, and driving offers flexibility.

• Step 2: Book tickets online or at official counters. For flights, use airline websites or apps like Bangkok Airways. For bus-ferry combos, use Lomprayah or Seatran Discovery websites or authorized agents.

• Step 3: Arrive at Phuket Airport, Bus Terminal, or Pier at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and confirm your seat or boarding pass.

• Step 4: Pack light and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, especially if traveling by bus or ferry where stops are limited.

• Step 5: On arrival at Koh Samui, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Grab for safe and fixed-price transfers to your accommodation.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a printed or digital copy of your ticket and passport or ID, as checkpoints may ask for identification during inter-island travel.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially on longer bus or ferry rides.

• Book tickets at least a week in advance during high season (December to March) to avoid sold-out services and inflated prices.

• Use local transport apps like Grab or Bolt for last-mile connectivity in both Phuket and Koh Samui, as taxis can be expensive and unmetered.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended on ferries or buses, as crowded conditions increase theft risk.

• During monsoon season (May to October), check weather updates and be prepared for possible delays or cancellations of ferries and flights.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel between Phuket and Koh Samui depends on weather and tourist seasons. December to March offers dry, sunny conditions ideal for smooth travel.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and rough seas, especially affecting ferry services. Plan accordingly to avoid disruptions.

• Avoid traveling during Thai New Year (Songkran) in mid-April when transport is crowded and prices rise sharply.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon traffic jams and to catch connecting ferries comfortably.

• During the monsoon, afternoon storms can cause ferry cancellations, so morning trips are safer and more reliable.

• Peak tourist months (December to February) see higher demand, so book flights and ferries well in advance.

Arrival at Koh Samui & What to Expect

When you arrive at Koh Samui Airport or the ferry piers (Nathon or Bangrak), you will find several transport options to reach your hotel or beach area.

Prepaid taxis and app-based ride services like Grab are available at both arrival points, offering fixed fares and safer rides. Tuk-tuks are common but negotiate fares before boarding.

Popular areas to stay include Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Bophut. These locations have good connectivity and amenities, making onward travel easy.

At ferry piers, you may find local buses or songthaews (shared pickup trucks) that connect to main towns and beaches at affordable rates.

Conclusion

For most travelers, flying from Phuket to Koh Samui is the most efficient and comfortable option, saving time and avoiding long road and sea journeys. However, bus-ferry combos offer budget-friendly alternatives with scenic views, while self-driving provides flexibility for those who want to explore en route.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and choosing transport modes that suit your schedule and comfort needs. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy a smooth and enjoyable journey from Phuket to Koh Samui.