What to expect when visiting Phuket
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and one of the most visited destinations in the country. The beautiful shores of Karon Beach, the historic charm of Old Town, and the nightlife in Patong beach attract millions of tourists every year.
Surrounded by numerous smaller islands, Phuket also offers unbeatable snorkelling, diving, and water sports adventures. You can explore the colourful marine life while snorkelling at the nearby Koh Phi Phi Island or embark on a diving trip. Located just a short distance from the international airport, Phuket is easily accessible for travellers who want to visit Thailand’s beautfiul beaches without having to travel too far.
2 ways to get from Surat Thani to Phuket
There are two ways to travel the distance of 240 km (149 miles) from Surat Thani to Phuket: by bus (4.5 hours) and taxi (4 hours). The journey takes between 4h - 4h30m and the quickest way is by taxi. The lowest priced tickets start from 350 THB ($9.50) for the bus.Where to stay in Phuket?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Phuket at the bottom of this page.
Surat Thani to Phuket by Bus
Many opt to travel from Surat Thani to Phuket by bus, simply because it is a lot cheaper and the buses offer standard fares.
There are multiple trips operating from Surat Thani to Phuket daily. The earliest trip is 9:00 in the morning and the latest is 17:00 in the afternoon. The last time we checked (August 2022), Phantip Travel is the only company operating on this route.
Departure and arrival stations
Buses heading to Phuket from Surat Thani depart from Phantip Travel Head Office. You can easily reach this departure point because it is located in the centre of Surat Thani town.
The buses will drop you off at Phuket Bus Terminal 1. From here, you can reach Phuket town via taxi in 5 minutes.
Bus Schedule from Surat Thani to Phuket
- 24/7 customer support
You can also arrange a further transfer from here to your hotel or island destination via local bus, mini-van, taxi, tuk-tuk, or songthaew.
Surat Thani to Phuket by Taxi
Hiring a taxi for your Surat Thani to Phuket trip allows you to travel comfortably, but it will cost you quite a bit more.
A taxi offers you the luxury of additional space and comfort, direct drop-off at your hotel, and not having to arrange transfers but this comes at a high price.
Taxi rates start at 4,730 THB ($130.00) for a trip from Surat Thani town to your hotel in Phuket. If you travel between the airports, fares start a bit cheaper at around 3,850 THB ($105.00).
Check Private Transfers on 12GoAsia
Travelling in a big group? There are also private minivans available on BookAway that can seat up to 9 passengers. Rates start from 4,460 THB ($125.00). The travel time is about 4 hours.
You can contact local travel agencies to arrange your trip from Surat Thani to Phuket, or you can ask your hotel to arrange a private transfer for you.
Our favourite places to stay in Phuket
Aekkeko Hostel - Budget Friendly
Aekkeko Hostel is set in central Phuket Town within walking distance of numerous bars, restaurants, and sights. It’s a vibrant and colourful place with so many chillout places it’s impossible to keep count.
Offering both dorm beds and private rooms, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the dorm beds are huge! The staff will welcome you like family making you feel right at home.
- Excellent staff
- Ideal location
- Terrace and many chillout spots
- Clean and comfortable
Private room starts at $19 per night.
Baan Sutra Guesthouse - Budget Friendly
Baan Sutra Guesthouse is in the perfect location, just a 1-minute walk from the Old Town. Yet when you step through its doors, you forget about the chaos outside. The hotel is clean, serene and homely.
The rooms are bright and very spacious. You’re guaranteed to have a comfortable stay here, especially with the helpful and friendly staff.
- Beautiful rooms
- Clean and comfortable
- Perfect location
- Helpful staff
Private rooms start from $28 per night.
HOMA Phuket Town - Mid Range
Calling all digital nomads or anyone looking to relax without having to spend too much money. HOMA has everything you could need — a huge rooftop swimming pool, games room, gym, co-working space and an Italian restaurant. You never have to leave!
The rooms are modern with vibrant pops of colour and huge beds. Need any help? The staff are always there to give you recommendations and make sure you have the best stay.
- Huge rooftop swimming pool
- Games room
- Onsite gym and co-working space
- Italian restaurant
Private rooms start from $49 per night.
Hotel Tide - Treating Yourself
Staying at Hotel Tide puts you seconds from the beach and in the middle of luxury. The huge swimming pool overlooks the beach and is the perfect place to escape the heat. Or relax on the terrace or nets overlooking the sea.
Here you’ll be a 10-minute drive from the Old Town, but if you don’t want to make the journey, you can enjoy the onsite delicious restaurant. This is the ideal place to unwind and chill in Phuket.
- Amazing swimming pools
- Right on the beach
- Beautiful and spacious rooms
- Onsite restaurant
Private rooms start from $57 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Surat Thani to Phuket
What is the distance from Surat Thani to Phuket?
The distance from Surat Thani to Phuket is 240 km (149 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Surat Thani to Phuket?
The fastest way to get from Surat Thani to Phuket is by taxi and takes 4 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Surat Thani to Phuket?
The cheapest way to get from Surat Thani to Phuket is by bus with ticket costs starting from 350 THB ($9.50).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Surat Thani to Phuket. 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.
