Koh Samui and Phuket are two of Thailand's most popular island destinations. Koh Samui lies in the Gulf of Thailand, while Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea on the west coast. Many travelers want to explore both islands during their trip.

This guide explains the main ways to travel from Koh Samui to Phuket. You will learn about ferry, flight, and car options, including travel times, costs, and practical tips to make your journey easy and comfortable.

Getting from Koh Samui to Phuket – Main Options

Flight

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

• Koh Samui Airport (USM) offers direct flights to Phuket International Airport (HKT) with airlines like Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia, taking about 1 hour.

• Flight prices typically range from 1500 to 3500 THB, depending on booking time and season, with multiple daily flights available.

• Airports have good facilities, and Phuket Airport is well connected to city centers via taxis and shuttle buses.

• Booking flights early through airline websites or travel apps helps secure better fares and preferred timings.

• During peak tourist seasons, flights can fill quickly, so plan ahead to avoid last-minute price hikes or sold-out flights.

Ferry and Bus Combination

This option is popular among budget travelers who want to enjoy scenic views but have more time. It involves taking a ferry and then a bus or minivan to Phuket.

• Ferries depart from Koh Samui’s Nathon Pier or Big Buddha Pier to Surat Thani or Donsak Pier, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours.

• From the pier, buses or minivans connect to Phuket, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and route.

• Combined ferry and bus tickets cost around 600 to 900 THB and can be booked at travel agencies or online.

• Services run several times daily but may be less frequent during monsoon season when rough seas can cause delays or cancellations.

• Rest stops along the bus route offer food and restroom facilities, but comfort levels vary between operators.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Koh Samui to Phuket involves a ferry crossing and a long road journey. This option suits travelers who want flexibility and enjoy road trips.

• You can rent a car or motorbike on Koh Samui and take the ferry from Nathon Pier to Surat Thani mainland, which takes about 1.5 hours.

• From Surat Thani, the drive to Phuket covers around 300 km via Highway 4 and takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Road conditions are generally good, but watch for toll plazas and occasional heavy traffic near towns.

• Fuel stations and restaurants are available along the route, but plan refueling and breaks carefully in rural stretches.

• Driving in Thailand requires an international driving permit and caution due to local traffic rules and left-hand driving.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan helps first-time travelers move smoothly from Koh Samui to Phuket, covering key actions and tips.

• Book your preferred transport in advance, especially flights or combined ferry-bus tickets, to avoid last-minute hassles and higher prices.

• Arrive at Koh Samui Airport or ferry pier at least 1 hour before departure to handle check-in and boarding procedures calmly.

• If taking the ferry and bus, confirm your bus connection before boarding the ferry to avoid waiting times at the pier.

• Carry light luggage and keep essential items like water, snacks, and travel documents handy for long journeys.

• On arrival in Phuket, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Grab for safe and reliable transport to your accommodation.

• Check weather forecasts before travel, especially during monsoon months, to anticipate possible delays or cancellations.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a printed or digital copy of your tickets and identification to avoid boarding issues, especially on ferries and flights.

• Drink bottled water and eat at well-reviewed stops during road or bus journeys to prevent stomach issues common among travelers.

• Use official travel agencies or airline websites for bookings to avoid scams or inflated prices common in tourist areas.

• Local transport in Phuket and Koh Samui includes songthaews and tuk-tuks; agree on fares before starting your ride to avoid overcharging.

• Pack a small first-aid kit and motion sickness tablets if you are prone to seasickness during ferry rides.

• During the rainy season, expect rough seas and possible ferry cancellations; have backup plans and flexible schedules.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel between Koh Samui and Phuket depends on weather and tourist seasons. Both islands have different monsoon periods affecting travel.

Plan your journey to avoid heavy rains, rough seas, and peak tourist crowds for a comfortable trip.

• Avoid traveling during September to November when the Andaman Sea experiences strong monsoons causing ferry cancellations and flight delays.

• December to March is the dry season with calm seas and clear skies, ideal for flights and ferry rides.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid afternoon traffic jams and enjoy smoother travel conditions.

• Major Thai holidays like Songkran (April) and New Year see high travel demand; book transport well in advance.

Arrival at Phuket & What to Expect

Phuket International Airport is modern and well-equipped, with clear signage and multiple transport options. If arriving by ferry and bus, you will reach Phuket Bus Terminal 2, located near the city center.

From the airport or bus terminal, you can take prepaid taxis, Grab cabs, or local buses to your hotel. Popular areas to stay include Patong Beach, Kata, and Phuket Town, all accessible within 30 to 60 minutes.

Conclusion

Flying from Koh Samui to Phuket is the fastest and most convenient option, especially for travelers with limited time. Booking flights early ensures better prices and seat availability. For budget travelers, the ferry and bus combination offers scenic views but requires more time and patience.

Driving offers flexibility but demands careful planning and awareness of local traffic rules. Regardless of the mode you choose, advance booking, checking weather conditions, and preparing for local travel norms will help you enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey between these two beautiful Thai islands.