Travelling from Bangkok to Koh Samui gives you a genuine choice of modes. By air, the crossing takes around an hour and departures begin early in the morning — Bangkok's domestic terminals put you on Samui before most beaches have filled up. If you prefer to travel overland, a combined coach-and-ferry journey heads south through the Thai peninsula to the Gulf coast, where you board a ferry bound for Nathon, Mae Nam or Bangrak Pier on Samui.
Buses and vans depart from several Bangkok hubs including the Southern Bus Terminal, Hua Lamphong and Khao San Road. Overnight services are popular for the overland leg, letting you sleep through the long road section and arrive at the pier refreshed. Trains to Surat Thani are another well-regarded option before connecting to the ferry.
With over 30 operators and departures running from midnight through the morning, you can match your schedule to your budget and travel style. Tickets start from THB 804. We recommend booking ahead during high season — December through April — when demand on the air and overnight coach routes peaks sharply.