Koh Samui Airport
Why visit 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.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Koh Samui Airport?
There are 2 ways to travel the 20 kilometre (12 miles) distance from Koh Samui Airport. You can choose between the shared minivan and taxi or private transfer. The journey takes 15 minutes - 2 hours and the quickest way is by taxi or private transfer. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by shared minivan with tickets starting at 130 THB ($4.10).
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 Samui Airport by Shared Minivan
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can also take a shared minivan from Koh Samui Airport. These minivans are also operated by SmackOne, and you can buy your tickets at the transport counter at the arrival hall.
The shared minivans also depart from the Arrival Hall Exit B of Samui Airport. For this option, there are only two drop-off zones:
- Koh Samui Zone 1: Big Buddha, Bophut, Chaweng
- Koh Samui Zone 2: Nathon Beach, Four Seasons, Lamai Canter, Silavadee Hotel, Renaissance Hotel, Banyan Tree Hotel, Maenam
Same as the private transfer, rates vary depending on the zone, but rates start from 130 THB ($4.10). Travel time is 2 hours, depending on your destination.
Minibus Schedules from Samui Airport
Note that you might have to wait up to 30 minutes before the minivan leaves because it needs a minimum of 5 passengers. During peak season (January), when many travellers are looking to save a few dollars and share a ride, the waiting time will be shorter.
For destinations such as Lamset, Lipa Noi, Taling Ngam, or the Conrad Hotel, the service costs 600 THB ($18.80) for 1-2 people from Samui Airport.
Koh Samui Airport by Taxi or Private Transfer
Metered taxis are not permitted to queue at Koh Samui Airport. This means that you’ll either have to use the airport transport services or arrange your transport in advance.
Samui Accom Company (SmackOne) is the official transport service provider that connects Samui Airport to Koh Samui island’s resorts.
From the Arrival Hall Exit B of Samui Airport, there are three drop-off zones:
- Koh Samui Zone 1: Bangrak, Bophut, Chaweng, and Choengmon
- Koh Samui Zone 2: Chaweang Noi and Maenam
- Koh Samui Zone 3: Lamai North, Lamai Center, Bantai, and Bangpor
The transfer time from the airport to the most popular destinations in different zones takes around 15 to 45 minutes. See here an overview of the fares:
- Zone 1: 475 THB ($14.90)
- Zone 2: 530 THB ($16.60)
- Zone 3: 685 THB ($21.50)
SmackOne counter is located at the arrival hall inside Koh Samui Airport. However, we recommend booking online through BookAway because they offer competitive rates and avoid extra bookings once arriving after your flight.
Klook also offers private transfers to take you to the nearest hotels. The driver will be waiting for you with a sign at the arrival hall of Koh Samui Airport. Fares are even a bit cheaper with a 3-seater car costing 435 THB ($13.60), while a 6-seater van starts from 580 THB ($18.10).
Note that fares still vary depending on the location of your hotel.
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.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Koh Samui Airport. 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 Samui Airport
What is the distance from Koh Samui Airport?
The distance from Koh Samui Airport is 20 kilometre (12 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Koh Samui Airport?
The fastest way to get from Koh Samui Airport is by taxi or private transfer and takes 15 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Samui Airport?
The cheapest way to get from Koh Samui Airport is by shared minivan with ticket costs starting from 130 THB ($4.10).
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.
