How to Get to Koh Tao
Plan the easiest trip to Koh Tao with our quick guide to ferries, flights, trains and bus + ferry combos from Bangkok, Koh Samui, Krabi and Phuket—plus arrival tips.
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 the Lomprayah ferry company 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. On the airport they have a minivan transport service that will bring you to the pier. 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. You can also ask your hotel in Bangkok 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 Bangkok Airways, AirAsia or Nok Air domestic airline from Bangkok to either Samui, 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 there 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.
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 12Go.
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 Lomprayah ferry to Koh Tao.
Ask your hotel in Krabi or Phuket to organise tickets
Getting to Koh Tao: Things to Consider
Boat journey times vary due to 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. We offer free pick up with confirmed bookings.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to get to Koh Tao?
Many travelers fly to Koh Samui and then take the Lomprayah ferry to Koh Tao. It’s the most convenient option, with morning and midday departures most days. Check current schedules before you travel.
How do I get to Koh Tao from Bangkok?
You can fly from Bangkok to Chumphon, Surat Thani, or Samui and connect with a ferry; take a combined Lomprayah bus + ferry ticket from Khao San Road; or ride the overnight train to Chumphon and connect to the morning ferry.
How do I get to Koh Tao from Koh Samui?
From Koh Samui, take the Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran to Koh Tao. Depending on your departure, you may use Pralarn or Nathon pier. Airport or hotel transfers are available—confirm when booking.
Can I travel from Krabi or Phuket to Koh Tao?
Yes. Either fly to Chumphon, Surat Thani, or Samui and take a ferry, or use a minivan transfer to those coastal towns and connect to the Lomprayah ferry.
Are the ferries to Koh Tao year-round?
Ferries operate year-round but schedules can change, and services may be cancelled during rough weather. Always check for updates close to your departure date.
Where do ferries arrive on Koh Tao?
All ferries dock at Mae Haad Pier. Sairee Beach is about a 5-minute taxi ride away. With confirmed bookings, we offer free pickup to our dive resort.
Can I book transport on the island or with my hotel?
Yes. Hotels and local travel agents can arrange combined tickets. At Sairee Cottage, you can also book onward transport at reception when leaving Koh Tao.
Which operators run ferries to Koh Tao?
Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran operates frequent services connecting Koh Tao with Chumphon, Surat Thani and Koh Samui. Check their website for live schedules.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended in peak seasons and around Full Moon dates, as boats can sell out. Buy a day or two ahead when possible.
Is there a combined bus or train + ferry ticket?
Yes. Lomprayah sells combined bus + ferry tickets from Bangkok (Khao San Road). Train travelers can book an overnight sleeper to Chumphon and connect to the morning ferry.