What to expect when visiting Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a popular island in the Gulf of Thailand, east of the mainland. As the country’s second-largest island, Koh Samui offers a beautiful mix of culture and nature. It’s also more developed than its neighbours, but not less appealing.
From the beaches alone, there are over 40 in Koh Samui — all picturesque and white-sand shores. This makes the island a favourite for relaxing, snorkelling and soaking up the sun. Away from the shore, you can immerse yourself in history and culture with a temple visit or munch on fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Village.
1 way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Samui
The ferry is the only suitable way for travellers to cross the distance of 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Koh Tao to Koh Samui. The journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes and costs start from €14.80.Where to stay in Koh Samui?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Koh Samui at the bottom of this page.
Koh Tao to Koh Samui by Ferry
All ferries operating from Koh Tao to Koh Samui depart from Mae Haad Pier. However, they dock at different ports in Koh Samui. Make sure you choose a ferry that docks near your accommodation.
Due to the pandemic, the number of ferry companies operating between Koh Samui and Koh Tao is limited. The last time we checked (June 2022), the route is only served by Marine Passion*, Songserm and Lomprayah. Both are good choices, but they each offer only one ferry trip daily.
Departure and arrival ports
All ferries heading to Koh Samui depart from Mae Haad Pier on the east side of Koh Tao.
Being the more popular and bigger island, Koh Samui has many ports spread around the island.
We recommend checking the location of your hotel first, so you can choose the pier that is closest to your hotel. The ferries leaving from Koh Tao to Koh Samui arrive at either Bangrak Pier or Nathon Pier.
To help you plan your trip, we have provided an overview of the ferries to Koh Samui, ordered per pier. You can book your ferry tickets through the link below.
Option 1: Ferry schedule from Koh Tao to Bangrak Pier, Koh Samui*
The ferry of Marine Passion arrives at Marine Passion Koh Samui office next to Bangrak Pier. This pier is located in the north of Koh Samui. This port is only about 10 km from Chaweng Beach, which is one of the most popular areas to stay in Koh Samui.
Option 2: Ferry schedule from Koh Tao to Nathon Pier, Koh Samui
Songserm ferries operate on the Koh Tao to Koh Samui route and arrive at Na Thon Pier.
Option 3: Ferry schedule from Koh Tao to Maenam Pier
Lomprayah also operates a ferry from Koh Tao to Koh Samui leaving from Lomprayah office at Maenam Samui pier.
This pier is also located in the north of Koh Samui, but more on the western side. This is a bit further than Bangrak if you stay around Chaweng beach area.
Best places to stay in Koh Samui
Palm Coco Mantra - Budget Friendly
Located on a hill, Palm Coco Mantra offers amazing sea views from your private balcony and room. The spectacular views continue at the swimming pool which also overlooks the beach. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink from a poolside bar.
Definitely try the onsite restaurant serving delicious Western and Thai food. This hotel is the perfect getaway for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation, without having to break the bank!
- Swimming pool
- Stunning sea views
- On-site restaurant & bar
- Extremely clean and luxurious hotel
Private rooms start from $28 per night.
Three Trees Samui Resort - Mid Range
Three Trees Samui Resort is located right on Lamai Beach. You can eat, drink and swim only metres from the beach and sparkling ocean. Or you can enjoy the view from your private balcony. The location is perfect!
One of the best things about the resort is that they offer free kayaks, paddle boards and snorkelling gear to explore the waters. The staff are incredible and make you feel right at home.
- Seconds from the beach
- Free watersports
- Amazing staff
- Private balcony
Private rooms start from $31 per night.
Baan Boom Boxes - Mid Range
Baan Boom Boxes is an eco-friendly resort offering a unique stay in Koh Samui. If you want to experience a different side of the island, head to this jungle retreat. Every room has its own rooftop balcony offering spectacular views of the island’s nature. Some of them even have a bathtub on the roof!
The family who own the resort are conscious of their impact on the environment so the resort uses solar panels and reused materials to create the rooms. It’s truly a special place to visit.
- Eco-friendly
- Family run and amazing hospitality
- Surrounded by nature
- Bathtub on a private rooftop terrace
Private rooms start from $35 per night.
Viva Vacation Resort - Treating Yourself
Steps away from Lipa Beach, Viva Vacation Resort offers Thai-style villas set within tropical gardens. And the villas are HUGE! Everyone has its own living room, bedroom and some of the biggest bathrooms that have bathrooms which come with a view!
Outside of the luxurious villas, you’ll find a gorgeous swimming pool, a fully-stocked bar and a section of the beach for the resort. This is the place to relax!
- Stunning and huge villages
- The best bathrooms on the island
- Beautiful swimming pool
- Steps from the beach
Villas start from $64 per night.
Centara Reserve Samui - Treating Yourself
There are several luxury resorts to choose from on Koh Samui, but Centara Reserve Samui is up there with the best. This is the kind of place where you don’t have to lift a finger — some of the villas even come with your own host to help you with anything.
You’ll find multiple dreamy beachfront pools, with some of the villas having private pools too. A stay here kind of feels like a dream, it’s so beautiful and perfect!
- An incredible luxury resort
- Exceptional villas
- Beachfront pools
- Some rooms come with a personal host
Deluxe suites start from $230 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Koh Tao to Koh Samui
What is the distance from Koh Tao to Koh Samui?
The distance from Koh Tao to Koh Samui is 70 kilometers (43 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Samui?
The fastest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Samui is by ferry and takes 1 hour 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Samui?
The cheapest way to get from Koh Tao to Koh Samui is by ferry with ticket costs starting from €14.80.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Koh Tao to Koh Samui. 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!
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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.
