How to get from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
Why visit Koh Phangan?
Koh Phangan is an island known for its full moon parties. Every month during full moon, Haad Rin Beach hosts an all-night-long celebration. This alone attracts thousands of travellers to this side of southeast Thailand!
But Koh Phangan is more than just a party destination. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and a lush green landscape, there are plenty of things to do in Koh Phangan during the day. You can explore the island’s best beaches, discover its 7 waterfalls, or join a yoga and meditation course.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan?
There are 2 ways to travel the 60 kilometre (37 miles) distance from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan. You can choose between the ferry + van and ferry. The journey takes 50 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes and the quickest way is by ferry. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry with tickets starting at 365 THB ($11.30).
Where to stay in Koh Phangan?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Koh Phangan at the bottom of this page.
Koh Tao to Koh Phangan by Ferry
The only way to go to Koh Phangan from Koh Tao is via ferry. There are two ferry companies operating from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan: Lomprayah and Songserm. The companies offer rides on a speedboat or catamaran that can take you to Koh Phangan in just 50 minutes - 2 hours.
Departure and arrival ports
All ferries in Koh Tao depart from Mae Haad Pier on the east side of Koh Tao.
The ferries arrive at Thong Sala Pier on Koh Phangan. This pier is located in Ban Tai, on the east side of Koh Phangan.
Ferry schedules from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
There are only a couple of trips per day so it’s best to book early.
You may require transfers to get to and from the piers mentioned. Check with your hotels if they offer transportation.
Koh Tao to Koh Phangan by Ferry + Van
If you want to be dropped off at your hotel in Koh Phangan, you can book a combined ferry and minivan ride with Songserm.
Total journey takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes, and combined fares start at 662 THB ($20.50).
Koh Tao to Koh Phangan by Ferry + Minivan
Best places to stay in Koh Phangan
Benjamin's Hut - Budget Friendly
Benjamin’s Huts are very far from huts. In fact, they’re not huts at all. They’re spacious and modern rooms that offer a very comfortable night’s sleep. If there’s a group of you, opt for the two-bedroom village with its own private pool!
Staying here you’re seconds from the sea and a 10-minute drive from Thong Sala Pier. This accommodation proves that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to have a paradise beachfront stay.
- Modern and clean rooms
- Option for private pool
- On the beach
- Great value for money
Private rooms start from $29 per person.
Secret Garden - Budget Friendly
You don’t need to splash the cash to go for a splash in a pool on Koh Phangan. Secret Garden has a stunning swimming pool surrounded by greenery, sun loungers and beanbags.
The hotel is located in Thong Sala, putting you close to plenty of restaurants and cafes, but the onsite restaurant is the real hidden gem! Make sure to check it out.
- Beautiful swimming pool
- Comfortable chill spots
- Great location
- Delicious onsite restaurant
Private rooms start from $27 per night.
CheeVa Beach Resort - Mid Range
Just 500m from Baan Tai Beach, CheeVa Beach Resort offers a stunning place to stay. There’s an onsite restaurant, a beautiful outdoor swimming pool with sea views and a fully-stocked bar. You’ll even find a pool table on the beach.
Each room comes with its own sun terrace, comfortable beds, and air conditioning. Need help with something? The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful.
- Great location
- Beautiful swimming pool
- Tasty onsite restaurant
- Sea views from private sun terrace
Private rooms start at $35 per night
Baan Manali Resort - Mid Range
Baan Manali Resort is incredible value for money. You can get the beachfront bungalow experience for less than $50 per night. The bungalows are beautiful with a private balcony and hammock.
Enjoy a quiet location on the private Nai Wok Beach. Spend all day lounging on the white sand or swimming in the infinity pool overlooking the beach.
- Beachfront bungalow
- Private balcony and hammock
- On Nai Wok Beach
- Infinity pool
Private rooms start from $43 per night.
Mangata Boutique Bungalows - Treating Yourself
With an almost perfect rating, Mangata Boutique Bungalows ticks all of the boxes. Want to open your curtains in the morning and be greeted by stunning sea views? You can do that here!
Or do you want to swim in an infinity pool overlooking the beach? You can do that too. The rooms are absolutely stunning boasting unique designs and a balcony. This place feels like your own private oasis.
- Incredible accommodation
- Right on the beach
- Infinity pool
- Beautiful rooms with balcony
Bungalows start from $140 per night.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Koh Tao to Koh Phangan
What is the distance from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan?
The distance from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan is 60 kilometre (37 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan?
The fastest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan is by ferry and takes 50 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan?
The cheapest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 365 THB ($11.30).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
