The distance between Phuket and Koh Samui is about 345 kilometers (214 miles). There are three main ways to travel from Phuket to Koh Samui:
- Direct flights (recommended)
- Bus + ferry
- Private transfer (car) + ferry
| Direct Flights | Bus + Ferry | Car (Private Transfer) | |
| Cost | From 3,172 THB (US$95) | From 600 THB (US$18) | From 6,672 THB (US$200) |
| Time | 1 hour | 9½ hours | 6–8 hours |
| Advantage | Easiest, fastest | Cheap | Door-to-door service Less expensive if shared with 2–3 people |
| Disadvantage | Expensive | Slow, connected trip | Still slow |
| Recommended for | Couples, friend trips | Budget travelers | Families |
| Rating | *** | * | ** |
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Amazing service - Thailand trip
We had a lovely experience with the service received from all the team of Asia Highlights (travel specialist/coordinator, guides, drivers). In particular, the representative that organized our trip, Jimmy, was amazing. He was able to prepare our trip in a very short notice and customize it to satisfy all our requests. He was knowledgeable and always replied very fast. We were very pleased with his service and we highly recommend the agency. More
Yanelis, Mar 2025
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Every Detail Attended To
Our guide, Marie, was so knowledgeable, professional, and kind. She was really attuned to our needs and spoke perfect English. She even brought me a special gift this morning because she knew I was looking for a Christmas ornament representative of Thailand. We did not have to think about any of the details. More
Ekie, Mar 2025
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Ms Ying is the Guide you should ask for in Bangkok
Ms Ying was our guide in Bangkok for the past 4 days and if we could give her a higher rating than 5 we absolutely would! Ying speaks English perfectly and was completely dedicated to ensuring we had an outstanding stay. More
roxanne odell, Mar 2025
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1. Direct Flights (Easiest and Fastest)
- Cost: from 3,172 THB (US$95) p/p
- Journey time: 1 hour
This is the most recommended way to get to Koh Samui from Phuket.
Phuket has two direct flights to Samui International Airport (USM) daily, supplied by Bangkok Airlines, at 1pm and 4:30pm.
The Samui airport is only about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) to Chaweng Beach, one of Koh Samui's most popular beaches. That's only 8 minutes' driving.
Check the sample itineraries for Thailand tours: Top 5 Thailand Itineraries for 10 Days.
Is there a cheaper flight from Phuket to Koh Samui?
No. Currently only Bangkok Airlines has direct flights. A cheaper flight from Phuket to Surat Thani (US$65) + airport–port transfer (~US$20) + ferry (US$8-18) is no cheaper. The total cost is about the same as taking a direct flight (US$95), but much more time-consuming (the whole journey takes 7 hours).
2. Car (Private Transfer)
- Cost: from 6,672 THB (US$200) per car
- Journey time: 6–8 hours
You can book a taxi online for the transfer very easily. This option is most likely to be chosen for its door-to-door convenience or because there is no connecting flight available from Phuket to Koh Samui. You will be transported from your hotel in Phuket or Phuket airport to your hotel in Koh Samui. Short stops are counted in the journey time and can be had at your convenience.
3. Bus + Ferry (Cheapest)
- Cost: from 600 THB (US$18) p/p
- Journey time: 9½ hours
Phuket Bus Terminal 1 has minivans "to Koh Samui" from 8am. A minivan will take you to the Surat Thani ferry (included in the bus price) for the crossing to Nathon Pier in Koh Samui.
Though it is the cheapest way, some disadvantages come with it. It is relatively uncomfortable, awkward, and time-consuming, making it "the backpackers' option". The minivan doesn't always leave on schedule, and the driver will collect passengers on the road, which may take extra time. The free luggage allowance is 1 item per person, and you will be asked to pay for excess luggage.
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