Home
Thailand
Koh Phangan
OverviewCompareFerryTo Stay
How to get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
When you’re finished exploring Koh Samui, head over to Koh Phangan for more stunning beaches and world famous parties. Koh Phangan is mainly known for the original Full Moon Party which occurs every full moon, but it’s also well known for the Half Moon Parties, Jungle, Lighthouse and Waterfall parties.
While this island has a reputation for being a bit wild, it also offers amazing beaches, stunning nature and excellent food, giving you the best of both worlds in one location. Especially the North of Koh Phangan offers very quiet and beautiful beaches and nature that most travellers don’t expect on a party Island like Koh Phangan.
Ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
| Transport mode | Duration | Costs | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry | 30-90 minutes | 180 THB ($5) | Check Ferry Tickets |
For the journey from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, the only mode of transport is the ferry. Koh Phangan is located only 15 km north of Koh Samui. The ferry ride takes 30-90 minutes, depending on the ferry port you depart from.
Rates from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan start from 180 THB ($5). However, for most travellers, it will be more convenient to take the ferry leaving from Bangrak Pier, which is closest to Chaweng Beach. The ferry departing from this pier costs 360 THB ($10.50).
To get to the ferry ports, you can also book an additional pick-up service with almost all the ferry companies operating between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. This service comes at an extra fee, which we included below all schedules.
You can also book a shuttle + ferry service if you’re coming from Koh Samui Airport. Fares for this option start from 550 THB ($16), and total travel time is around 2-3 hours.
Where to stay in Koh Phangan?
Still looking for accommodation? Don’t forget to check out ourfavourite places to stay in Koh Phanganat the bottom of this page.
Itinerary from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
Koh Samui to Koh Phangan by Ferry
Duration: 30 – 90 minutes
Cost: 180 THB ($5)
Duration: 30 – 90 minutes
Cost: 180 THB ($5)
Being the more popular and bigger island, Koh Samui houses many piers. When you travel from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, you can board ferries from any of these piers.
The ferry trip to Koh Phangan takes between 30-90 minutes, depending on the ferry company. There is also an option to depart from Samui Airport, which will take around 3 hours to Koh Phangan.
TIP: Book your tickets at least several days in advance as tickets tend to sell out fast.
Departure and arrival station
We recommend first checking the location of your hotel so that you can choose the pier that is closest to your hotel. Even with hotel pick-up, it will save you some travel time.
All ferries going to Koh Phangan dock at the Thong Sala Pier in the southwest part of the island. The exception is the shuttle + ferry service provided by SmackOne.
SmackOne offers pick-up service from Koh Samui Airport, and the ferry drops off passengers at Haad Rin Beach – the beach that became famous for its full moon parties in the south of Koh Phangan.
From Koh Samui Airport to Koh Phangan
| Ferry Operator | Schedule | Costs |
|---|---|---|
| SmackOne (to Haad Rin Pier) | 09:30-12:20 16:00-18:50 | 550 THB ($16) Check Ferry Tickets |
| Seatran Discovery (to Thong Sala Pier) | 08:00-09:45 14:30-16:15 | 550 THB ($16) Check Ferry Tickets |
Coming from Koh Samui Airport and wanting to go straight to Koh Phangan? SmackOne and Seatran Discovery both offer shuttle + ferry services from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan.
If you’re planning to stay in the southern part of Koh Phangan (and can’t wait to hit the first bar), you can book with SmackOne, as the arrival port is Haad Rin Beach. Meanwhile, Seatran Discovery heads to Thong Sala Pier, along with all other ferries.
The combined shuttle and ferry ride takes 2-3 hours and costs 550 THB ($16).
From Bangrak Pier to Thong Sala Pier
| Ferry Operator | Schedule | Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Seatran Discovery | 09:30-10:15 14:30-15:15 | 360 THB ($10.50) Check Ferry Tickets |
| Lomprayah* | 08:00-8:30 12:00-12:30 12:30-13:00 14:30-15:00 16:30-17:00 | 380 THB ($11) Check Ferry Tickets |
Bangrak Pier on the north coast is the port nearest to Chaweng Beach, the most popular beach on the island. This is why tourists usually take ferries from this port when travelling to Koh Samui.
Lomprayah used to operate on this route, but the last time we checked (October 2022), only Seatran Discover departs from Bangrak Pier. They offer hotel pick-up service for an additional fee of 180 THB ($5) per person.
From Mae Nam Pier to Thong Sala Pier
| Ferry Operator | Schedule | Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | 08:00-08:30 12:30-13:00 16:30-17:00 | 375 THB ($11) Check Ferry Tickets |
Another port you can depart from is Mae Nam Pier on the north coast of the island. Located about 20 minutes from Bangrak Pier, this port is accessible to tourists staying at the beaches on the north and northeastern side of Koh Samui.
For 375 THB ($11), the Lomprayah ferry can take you from Mae Nam Pier to Thong Sala Pier in Koh Pangan in just 30 minutes.
From Na Thon Pier to Thong Sala Pier
| Ferry Operator | Schedule | Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | 15:30-16:00 | 350 THB ($10) Check Ferry Tickets |
Lomprayah also has a ferry departing from Na Thon Pier. This pier is on the western side of Koh Samui and is less convenient if you’re staying around Chaweng beach area.
If you’re staying on the west side of the island, leaving via Na Thon pier is a great option that gets you to Koh Phangan in just 30 minutes.
This ferry company also offers hotel pick-up service for an additional 440 THB ($13) per person.
From Lipa Noi Pier to Thong Sala Pier
| Ferry Operator | Schedule | Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Rajah Ferry | 07:00-08:30 16:30-18:00 | 180 THB ($5) Check Ferry Tickets |
Rajah Ferry is the cheapest option when travelling from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan. While it is the cheapest option at 180 THB ($5), this ferry has the longest travel time, around 1.5 hours compared to other ferries’ 30-minute travel time.
This ferry operates from Lipa Noi Pier, which is also on the west side of the island and a few km away from Na Thon Pier. If you’re staying at Chaweng beach, you have to take a 45-minute taxi ride to this port.
Rajah Ferry also offers hotel pick-up with a private van that fits up to 6 passengers for 800 THB ($23.50). This service is a great option if you’re travelling in a group. However, if you are only with 1 or 2 people, you might be better off with a taxi to Lipa Noi Pier.
Our favourite places to stay in Koh Phangan
See Sea Backpackers Hostel
Located in Baan Tai, just 70 meters from the beach, the hostel is set in an ideal location. There is a restaurant, bar, and shared lounge on-site for socializing, and a large terrace area for taking in all the views. Car and bike rentals are available at the property, as well as a tour desk to assist with all your excursions. You will be treated like family by the warm and welcoming staff.
- Excellent location
- 70 meters to the beach
- Onsite bar and restaurant
- Very friendly staff
Single bed in dorm room starts at $6 - Be aware that these prices may increase around the time of the Full Moon Party
BeauBo Beach
This beachfront accommodation offers stunning views, white sandy beaches and the sea at your fingertips. You’ll find a restaurant, bar, and garden on location for your enjoyment and convenience. The property also offers a terrace for relaxing and taking in the surrounding sights. Well known for hospitality, the staff here will great you with a warm welcoming smile.
- Beachfront location
- Onsite bar and restaurant
- Garden and terrace
- Stunning views
Private bungalows start at $21 per night
Lily: A beach hotel by Wild & Wandering
Located in Haad Rin, just a few steps to the beach and Full Moon Party, Lily: a beach hotel is a great place to stay for travelers of all types. You will find a shared lounge and bar onsite for your enjoyment as well as evening entertainment and a tour desk. With the beach just steps away, the staff welcoming you with a warm smile and offering a cold drink, there’s really no better place to stay when in Haad Rin!
- Great location for Full Moon Party
- Steps to the beach
- Bar and live entertainment on site
- Clean and comfortable rooms
Private rooms with sea view start at $31 per night
CheeVa Beach Resort
Set in Baan Tai, just 500m from the Baan Tai Beach, CheeVa Beach Resort offers stunning accommodations. An on-site restaurant, a beautiful outdoor swimming pool with sea views and a bar are just a few of the luxuries here. Each room comes with its own sun terrace, comfortable beds, and air conditioning. Highly recommended for the excellent hospitality.
- Beach resort
- Swimming pool
- Excellent staff
- Onsite bar
Private rooms start at $42 per night
Routes from Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan to Bangkok
Koh Phangan to Koh Samui
Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
Koh Phangan Travel Guides
The Ultimate Koh Phangan Travel Guide
Most popular routes in Thailand
Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Phuket to Surat Thani
Bangkok to Phuket
Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Koh Samui to Koh tao
Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
Phuket to Krabi
Was this post helpful?
Click on a star to rate it!
Average rating 4.8 / 5. Vote count: 9
No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.
As you found this post useful...
Follow us on social media!
We are sorry that this post didn't meet your expectations.
Your feedback is very valueable to us
What was missing in this post? (TIP: If you want us to reply to your feedback, you can leave your email in this text box.)
About the author(s)
Maarten
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.
Abegail
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.
Was this post helpful?
Click on a star to rate it!
Average rating 4.8 / 5. Vote count: 9
No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.
As you found this post useful...
Follow us on social media!
We are sorry that this post didn't meet your expectations.
Your feedback is very valueable to us
What was missing in this post? (TIP: If you want us to reply to your feedback, you can leave your email in this text box.)
FAQs
How do you get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan? ›
Regular ferry services operate between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan's Thong Sala Pier. The boats are large, comfortable and safe, though not very quick. The final departure times vary by piers – 12.30 pm from Maenam Pier (20 minutes), 4.30 pm from Bangrak Pier (30 minutes) and 7 pm from Nathon Pier (30 minutes).
How long is the boat ride from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan? ›Koh Phangan (Haad Rin Pier)
It depart from Koh Samui Big Buddha pier, which is located near Koh Samui Airport. The journey takes about 50 minutes in a nice wooden boat and is a good choice if you stay around Haad Rin or plan to visit fullmoon party.
There is currently just the 1 ferry route running between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan Island operated by 1 ferry company – Lomprayah High Speed Ferries. The Koh Samui (Mae Nam Pier) to Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) ferry crossing operates Daily with a scheduled sailing duration from about 30 minutes.
How much is speed boat from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan? ›| Ticket Options | |
|---|---|
| One Way Ticket | THB 900 per person |
| Round Trip Ticket | THB 1,600 per person |
If you want to visit the full moon party, it is convenient to take a direct ferry or boat from Koh Samui to Haad Rin. Note that there are also ferries that go to Thong Sala, which is the central town of Koh Phangan. From Thong Sala, it is a taxi ride of 30 minutes to Haad Rin.
Is it worth going to Koh Phangan? ›It is definitely worth visiting Koh Phangan, which has developed a reputation as one of the most relaxed tourist islands in Thailand. For travellers looking for the ultimate tropical escape, Koh Phangan offers beautiful beaches, authentic local culture, and wonderful accommodation options.
Is Koh Phangan cheaper than Koh Samui? ›There are some differences in hotel prices and variety between the two islands. Koh Samui is a bit cheaper, and there are far more options to choose from, whereas Phangan has fewer to choose from, and they're slightly more pricey.
Can you island hop from Koh Samui? ›Looking out to a sunrise or a sunset from your villa infinity pool after a day trip exploring islands from Samui is a dream come true. Since island-hopping is a must-do part of the Koh Samui adventure, here are some of the most memorable expeditions you can take.
How many days are enough for Koh Samui? ›3 days is the perfect amount of time to explore Koh Samui. What is this? You'll be able to do lots of sightseeing, eating, swimming, relaxing, and hanging on the beach, and still have time for a day trip outside the island.
What is Samui sealed route? ›Days 4-7 (sealed route): travellers are allowed to travel within specified routes/travel programme on Koh Samui. Traveller must undergo second RT-PCR test on 6th or 7th day. the Thai Government. proof of 7 days of stay in Koh Samui/Khon Phangan/Koh Tao and 2 RT-PCR test results.
How do you get to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party? ›
To get there you can take a boat taxi from Haad Rin to Haad Yuan, which costs about 200 Baht per person. You can negotiate it down to about 300 baht (150 thb p.P.) if you travel with two persons. The closer you get to the date of the full moon party the more expensive the rooms will get.
Are there tuk tuks in Koh Phangan? ›As the island's perimeter is only around 40km, you can easily get a tuk-tuk around the island if you want to explore.
Can you do a day trip from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan? ›Much closer to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is another great day trip destination. Just 20 minutes by speedboat, Koh Phangan is famous for monthly full moon parties that last until morning. If all-night beach parties aren't your speed, you'll still find things to do in Koh Phangan on your day trip from Koh Samui.
Can you walk around Koh Phangan? ›Walking or Hiking
If you love nature and adventure, you should go for a stroll or go hiking, explore the island on foot, and witness the untouched tropical beaches and viewpoints. There are many hiking trails in Koh Phangan however, The Khao Ra hike is the toughest and highest peak on the island.
There's no entrance fee
Although other festivals usually require the goers to book tickets or entrance fees in advance, you don't need that to attend the Full Moon Party! The only things you need to pay for to have a good time are your food and drinks.
By normal boat about 30-45 mins cost 200-350 baht, the last boat depart 5pm from Had rin queen pier in Bangrak beach.
How Much Is Full Moon Party ticket? ›The party ticket is 200 Baht (around 6 USD), and it is sold in the main alleys that lead to the beach area. As proof of purchase, you get a wristband. The ticket gives you access to all the party locations along the beach.
Is the Full Moon Party worth it? ›Why you should go early to Koh Phangan for Full Moon. In the same way you could not stay in Haad Rin, you could rock up the day before Full Moon or even boat from somewhere else on the day, but then you'd miss half the fun. The full Moon Party build-up is well worth the early trip to Koh Phangan!
Is Koh Phangan cheap? ›Cost of Living in Koh Phangan, Thailand
The cost of living in Koh Phangan it's quite cheap. If you eat Thai food you can eat for about TBH 60 to 100. If you're looking for Western food, you will have to pay a little bit more (around TBH 200).
Koh Phangan is well known as the party island of Thailand and that is not for nothing. Full moon, half moon or no moon always there is an excuse to party! But what many people don't know is that Koh Phangan is much more than just a party island.
Can you do a day trip to Koh Phangan? ›
Today's itinerary may seem like a lot to get through, but Koh Phangan is a relatively small island - so you can definitely fit these in a day if you want to. The best way to explore much of this itinerary is to embark on a One-day road trip around Koh Phangan.
Is 3 days enough in Koh Samui? ›It depends on what you want to do and see on Koh Samui. If you just want to relax on the beach and do some snorkeling, 3-4 days might be sufficient. However, if you want to explore the island and do more activities, such as visiting temples and waterfalls, 5-7 days might be a better amount of time.
Is there a red light district in Koh Samui? ›It has two big red light district on Koh Samui. One is in Lamai and the other in Chaweng. Here women dance half-naked and are always in search for customers. You can go drinke just one beer or have a good time for money.
Is Uber in Koh Samui? ›Therefore, Uber is not available in Koh Samui. Although you can use Grab App, you won't find that many drivers. There used to be another app called Navigo, but unfortunately it doesn't work anymore.
What islands are easy to get to from Koh Samui? ›- Koh Wua Talap.
- Koh Phangan.
- Koh Tao.
- Koh Mae Koh.
- Koh Taen.
- Ang Thong National Marine Park.
- Koh Mudsum.
Useful Koh Samui Travel Information
For example, the island has neither tuk-tuks nor formalized bus service. However, there are public transportation options to get you to most of the key destinations.
The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is most settled. The hottest month of the year is June with an average daily maximum of 33 C and an average low of 24 C. The coolest month of the year is January with an average daily maximum of 29 C and an average low of 23 C.
Which is more beautiful Phuket or Koh Samui? ›If you want a more lively beach scene, then Phuket is definitely the choice for you. If you want to find calmer, and more private beaches, Koh Samui is the better choice.
What is the rainy season in Koh Samui? ›Koh Samui climate & weather
Instead, it has its own rainy season between October and December, when the weather is largely warm and wet. Most travellers head for Koh Samui between December and April when days are warm and dry.
Malaria precautions
There is low to no risk in the cities of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Sot, Pattay and Phuket, the islands of Ko Samui and Ko Chang and the River Quai bridge area. Malaria precautions are essential. High risk areas: atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline is advised throughout the year.
Can you drive around Koh Samui in a day? ›
Koh Samui may look small on a map but it's actually the second largest island in Thailand. It's located in the Gulf of Thailand – off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus and it's a part of Surat Thani Province. Driving around the 50-kilometre long ring road of the island takes about 1.5 hours.
Can you stay on Koh Samui for full moon? ›Overall if you're on a tight budget in Thailand I would definitely recommend staying in Koh Samui during the Full Moon Party. You can cut costs by a few hundred dollars and save time simply by staying on this neighbouring island.
Where is the best place for a Full Moon Party in Thailand? ›Venue for the Full Moon Party in Thailand in 2022 – Haad Rin Beach. Amongst the best places to visit in Thailand, Koh Pha-Ngan tops the list. Situated on the southern side of Koh Pha-Ngan is Haad Rin or Hat Rin beach, which is a traveller's paradise.
What do people wear to the Full Moon Party? ›The clothes consist of bright-colored vests or shorts, covered with the full moon party written on them. You will find most people at the party wearing them. The idea of wearing next to nothing in clothing is so you can cover your skin in neon paint from one of the many artists on the beach.
How much should a tuk tuk cost in Thailand? ›How much does a tuk-tuk cost? Expect to pay about 40-50 THB (less than US$2) for a short ride, but prices go up in more touristy areas or during rush hour.
Does Koh Phangan have snakes? ›There are dangerous snakes on Koh Phangan such as Cobras and King Cobras, but these are very rare and if you see one, count yourself lucky - but keep your distance. However you may come into close contact with some smaller snakes such as the coconut or green tree snake.
Does Koh Phangan have malaria? ›Anti-malaria medications
Malaria is present throughout the year in in rural areas that border Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar (Burma); risk in Koh Phangan. No risk in cities and no risk in major tourist resorts. No risk in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pattaya, Phuket Island and Ko Samui.
The Worst Times to Visit Koh Samui
October and November are the rainiest months, with an average of 18 rainy days each. If you don't like the rain, then this is the period you should avoid. But one good thing is that there are fewer people. The rainfall usually hits in the late afternoon or early evening.
Generally speaking here on Koh Phangan the South of the island is not the best place for swimming, although you can if the tide is right. Baan Tai and Thong Sala are notorious for its shallow water, possibly because this is the coastline which is closest to the neighboring island of Koh Samui.
What is Koh Phangan famous for? ›Koh Phangan is a paradise Island located in the Gulf of Thailand (Southern region). Our island is famous for the Full Moon Party which is held on full moon nights every month. This world famous beach party brings thousands party lovers. Koh Phangan also has tranquil places for visitors to enjoy.
Which trek is best in Koh Phangan? ›
One of the Most Popular Hikes in Koh Phangan: Bottle Beach
Bottle Beach is also called Haad Kuad which is the Thai name. The hike leaves from around Haad Khom which is near Chaloklum. The path is marked pretty good, unlike some other trails. So you don't have to worry about getting lost.
The Koh Samui (Mae Nam Pier) to Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier) ferry crossing operates Daily with a scheduled sailing duration from about 30 minutes.
Is full moon or half moon party better? ›The Half Moon Party has a more of a festival vibe as it is more organized and properly staged as opposed to Full Moon Parties where it is more chaotic. The Full Moon Party takes place once a month while Half Moon Parties are thrown twice each month due to the presence of two half-moons each month.
Is night of the full moon free? ›“Night of the Full Moon” is a free-to-play game that would be worth paying for – Review – Indie Bandits.
How do you get to Koh Phangan? ›Getting to Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is about 2 1/2 hours from Surat Thani Province and 45 minutes from Koh Samui Island by ferry boat. There are ferries between Suratthani, Samui and Phangan. You can also go by a speed-boat from Bophut pier or Mae Naam pier on Samui only taking 20 minutes.
At the bare minimum, you should be planning for at least 3 days in Koh Samui. You will be able to at least tick off the major attractions and activities. Four days gives you a bit more flexibility while 5–7 days allow for more time-consuming activities, such as island-hopping, or a more relaxed schedule.
Is 2 weeks in Koh Samui too long? ›Well, people can stay for weeks and months on Koh Samui and not become bored of exploring Koh Samui or not find anything new to do. However, most people come for a week to ten days.
What city is closest to Koh Phangan? ›The closest city to Koh Phangan is Koh Samui. So, for travelers taking the water route, a boat ride from Koh Samui is the best possible choice.
How do you get to Koh Phangan for the full moon party? ›To get there you can take a boat taxi from Haad Rin to Haad Yuan, which costs about 200 Baht per person. You can negotiate it down to about 300 baht (150 thb p.P.) if you travel with two persons. The closer you get to the date of the full moon party the more expensive the rooms will get.
How do you get to Koh Phangan full moon party? ›From Lub d Samui, you'll need to take a ferry to Koh Phangan to enjoy the Full Moon Party. There are regular ferries operating from the main piers, costing about 200-300 baht per person. It's quicker but more expensive to go from Bangrak Pier, on the northern coast of Samui, to Lipa Noi Pier in the southwest.