How to Reach Koh Samui
For those who haven’t yet visited Koh Samui, you might not know that Bangkok Airways has a monopoly over the island’s airport. This means they don’t allow other airlines to operate flights to Samui, and as a result, they charge sky-high fares—often 2 to 3 times the average price.
But don’t let that deter you! Travelers from all over the world, not just VIPs, still flock to this paradise island. How do they do it, you ask?
The secret is simple: they fly with AirAsia to Surat Thani, the nearest mainland city. The best part? The ticket price includes a transfer to the ferry terminal and the ferry ride itself.
This means that 95% of your journey is by plane, and only the last 5% involves a transfer and a scenic ferry trip. And the cost? It’s a third of what Bangkok Airways charges.
If your ferry ride is closer to 6 or 7 PM, you’ll even be treated to stunning sunset views from the ferry’s rooftop—perfect for your Instagram feed.
How Much Does a Taxi Cost from the Ferry or Airport?
The average taxi fare on the island ranges from 300 to 800 baht, depending on the distance. Want to save some cash? Walk to the main road and hop on a songthaew (shared taxi). It’ll cost you just 20-100 baht, again depending on the distance.
Additionally, the Grub app (similar to Uber) is widely used on Samui, offering lower fares than local taxis. If you pay by card, you might even snag a sweet discount!