The journey is worth it
So you have heard about our little island paradise and were wondering how to get to Koh Tao? We are a small 21 square kilometer island situated in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand. A remote island paradise can sometimes be a little hard to reach. Koh Tao however is serviced by ferries from the coastal towns of Surat Thani and Chumpon as well as the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Once you are at one of these destinations it is quite easy to reach us by boat. If you have just landed in Thailand’s capital, don’t worry, we will also explain how to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao in a few different ways.
How to Get to Koh Tao from Koh Samui?
The most expensive yet also the most convenient option to get to Koh Tao is to fly to Koh Samui first. From there you catch the Lomprayah ferry that leaves at either approx. 8am or 12pm. You can book the ferry ticket when you arrive at the airport and they have a minivan transport service. Koh Samui is an international airport serviced by Bangkok Airways.
If you want to catch the Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran ferry, sometimes you need to transfer to another pier on Koh Samui. Either Pralarn or Nathon, depending on your departure time. Please note that after covid the ferry websites are not functioning well, our advice is to ask your hotel in Thailand to book tickets to Koh tao. You can also do this in the many travel agents in tourist areas.
How to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok
Most international travelers enter Thailand through Bangkok. Bangkok is a fun, bustling city with many noises, smells and quirks (Also some great shopping, bars and restaurants) Let’s have a look at some of the options available to you to trade the city for tranquility on Koh Tao.
Fly from Bangkok
Catch a flight with Nok Air domestic airline from Bangkok to either Surat Thani or Chumphon. From either airport there is a shuttle provided by the ferry company Lomprayah to take you to the respective pier. From their you catch the ferry to Koh Tao.
By Bus from Khao San Road
You can catch a bus directly from Khao San road to Chumphon with a connecting ferry service to Koh Tao. Lomprayah offers this service and it is a combined ticket which includes both bus and ferry.
(not the actual train…)
By Train
You can take the overnight train from Bangkok to Chumphon and catch the early morning ferry straight to Koh Tao. Train tickets can by pre-purchased on Seat 61.
How to Get to Koh Tao from Krabi or Phuket
Option 1: Take a domestic flight with Nok Air to Chumphon or Surat Thani and catch the next ferry to Koh Tao.
Option 2: Take a minivan to Chumphon or Surat Thani and catch the next ferry to Koh Tao.
Getting to Koh Tao: Things to Consider
Boat journey times vary due to the different boats used by the various ferry companies. Travel times are also affected by weather and some services might be cancelled in extreme weather conditions. All ferries dock at the main pier in Mae Haad, Koh Tao. It is a short 5 minute taxi ride to our dive resort on Sairee Beach.
When leaving Koh Tao, transport can be booked to get off the island at the Sairee Cottage reception. During busy periods such as ‘Full Moon’, we recommend that you purchase a ticket one or two days in advance.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Sairee Cottage Diving family!
