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 Phangan to Koh Samui
The ferry is the only suitable way for travellers to cross the distance of 35 km (22 miles) from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui. The journey takes around 30 minutes - 1h30m and costs start from 205 THB ($5.50).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 Phangan to Koh Samui by Ferry
There are several ferry companies that operate on this route from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui. The most popular companies are Lomprayah, Raja Ferry, and Marine Passion.
Seatran Discovery and Songserm also used to have trips from Koh Phangan to Ka Samui, but they haven’t resumed operations yet since the pandemic.
The ferry trip from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui takes just 30 minutes with the speedboat and about 1.5 hours with the ferry.
Departure and arrival stations
All ferries operating from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui depart from Thong Sala Pier. This pier is located in Ban Tai, which is on the east side of Koh Phangan.
Before choosing your arrival port, we suggest first checking the location of your hotel in Koh Samui. Doing so will save you some travel time and avoid additional transfers.
There are 3 arrival stations where you can dock on Koh Samui:
Lipa Noi Pier is located in the western part of Koh Samui, while Bangrak Pier and Marine Passion Koh Samui Office are located in the northeast of the island.
Below you’ll find the ferry and fast boat schedules order per pier.
Ferry schedule from Koh Phangan to Bangrak Pier
Lomprayah and Marine Passion operate ferries that dock at Bangrak Pier. This pier is located in the north of Koh Samui, just 10 km from Chaweng Beach. Chaweng Beach is a popular area to stay for many tourists visiting Koh Samui.
Lomprayah also offers a drop-off service in Koh Samui for an additional fee.
Ferry schedule from Koh Phangan to Lipa Noi Pier
Raja Ferry takes 90 minutes to go from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui and is the cheapest option for this route. The company operates ferry trips going to the Lipa Noi Pier on the west side of Koh Samui Island.
This location is a bit further from popular areas like Chaweng Beach (30 km).
Raja Ferry also offers an additional drop-off service with a private van for an extra fee. This is a great option if you travel with companions. However, if you are solo or with another person, you might be better of with a taxi.
Our favourite 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 Phangan to Koh Samui
What is the distance from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui?
The distance from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui is 35 km (22 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui?
The fastest way to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui is by ferry and takes 30m-1h30m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui?
The cheapest way to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Samui is by ferry with ticket costs starting from 205 THB ($5.50).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Koh Phangan 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.
