What to expect when visiting Surat Thani
Surat Thani is a popular transport hub in southern Thailand. It often serves as a stop along the way to Krabi, Phuket or to islands in the Gulf of Thailand. The city may not be as exciting as the islands but it still offers some charm and sights.
Often used as a mere stopover by tourists, you can enjoy a more authentic Thai experience in this city. So if you have some extra time in your itinerary, our recommended activities in Surat Thani include exploring the floating market, the nearby Khao Sok National Park, and Surat Thani Pillar Shrine.
2 ways to get from Krabi to Surat Thani
There are two ways to travel the distance of 150 km (93 miles) from Krabi to Surat Thani: by minivan (3h-4h30m) and taxi (2.5-3 hours). The journey takes between 2h30m - 4h30m and the quickest way is by taxi. The lowest priced tickets start from 270 THB ($7.50) for the minivan.Where to stay in Surat Thani?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Surat Thani at the bottom of this page.
Krabi to Surat Thani by Minivan
If you are travelling on a budget, booking a minivan is the way to go. There are several trips per day from 06:00 to 13:30. Fares start at 270 THB ($7.50) for the 3-4 hour journey.
Pichet Transport Company Ltd, Phantip Travel, and Hat Yai World Tour are the companies that operate the route from Krabi to Surat Thani.
Departure Stations
Pichet Transport Company Ltd and Phantip Travel minivans depart from Krabi Bus Terminal, which is 10 minutes away from Krabi Town by taxi. If you book with Hat Yai World Tour, the ticket includes a hotel pick-up in Krabi Town.
If you’re staying near Ao Nang beach, you can book with Phantip Travel which also has minivans departing from Ao Nam Mao Pier.
Minivan schedules from Krabi to Surat Thani
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
To go around to the city centre, you can take the local orange bus for 20 THB ($0.50). You can find this bus near the car park area.
If you prefer something more comfortable, you can take a metered taxi, which will cost about 140 THB ($3.80). Be sure to agree with the driver on a price or have the metreturned on prior to departing.
Arrival Stations
In Surat Thani, there are three arrival stations. Pichet Transport completes its journey at Tha Kaset 2 Market.
The last stop for Phantip Travel minivans is their head office in the city centre, while Hat Yai World Tour minivans arrive at Surat Thani Town bus stop.
Krabi to Surat Thani by Taxi
Booking a taxi from Krabi to Surat Thani is much more expensive than taking a minivan. However, if you are travelling in a group, this can be a good option for you.
The benefit of taking a taxi is that you have door-to-door transportation. Travel time is around 2.5-3 hours, so you will arrive in Surat Thani faster than if you’d taken the minivan.
Rates for a 3-person car start from 2,800 THB ($78.00). Note that taxis should be booked in advance.
Our favourite places to stay in Surat Thani
DD Modern House - Budget Friendly
DD Modern House, as the name suggests is a modern, clean and bright hotel that will make you feel instantly at home. It’s amazing value for money with king rooms costing just $14 per night. The beds are huge and the room comes with everything you could need.
The rooms even have their own balcony overlooking Surat Thani. Plus, you won’t have to go too far to find a number of restaurants and shops. This place books up fast, so don’t miss out!
- Huge and comfortable beds
- Spacious and clean rooms
- Private balcony
- Good location
Private rooms start at $14 per night.
Garden Homestay - Budget Friendly
Looking for authentic Thai culture and a welcome like no other? Garden Homestay is the best choice for you! The hosts are known to be extremely friendly and enjoy spending time with guests, showing them around town and taking them to the sights.
A wonderful Asian-style breakfast is included every morning and the homestay is centrally located.
- Extremely friendly and welcoming hosts
- Breakfast included
- Very comfortable beds
- Garden area
Private rooms start at $20 per night.
Blu Monkey Hub and Hotel Suratthani - Budget Friendly
Set centrally in Surat Thani, the Blu Monkey Hub and Hotel Suratthani is a quirky monkey-themed hostel/hotel. It’s a great place to meet other travellers as the place offers free activities and also free bike rental. All day there’s complimentary drinking water and juice to enjoy.
And don’t forget about the delicious Asian breakfast that’s included in your stay. In need of coffee? They have an onsite coffee shop.
- Very comfortable beds
- Onsite coffee shop
- Walking distance to the night market
- Delicious breakfast included
Private rooms start at $23 per night.
Bangsrai Cottage - Mid Range
Enjoy the stunning river views from the terrace at this centrally located cottage in Surat Thani. The outdoor swimming pool is the perfect place to cool down after exploring the area and the cottage gardens.
There is also a shared lounge, free Wi-Fi and free bike rentals for guests to enjoy. A delicious continental breakfast is included with your stay too.
- Delicious breakfast included
- Swimming pool
- River views
- Centrally located
Private bungalows start at $41 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Krabi to Surat Thani
What is the distance from Krabi to Surat Thani?
The distance from Krabi to Surat Thani is 150 km (93 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Krabi to Surat Thani?
The fastest way to get from Krabi to Surat Thani is by taxi and takes 2.5-3 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Krabi to Surat Thani?
The cheapest way to get from Krabi to Surat Thani is by minivan with ticket costs starting from 270 THB ($7.50).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Krabi to Surat Thani. 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.
