Direct flights from Don Muang airport facilitate easy transfer to Koh Samui from Bangkok. The Samui Airport is privately owned and operated by Bangkok Airways and has secured international awards for its environmentally friendly design.
However tickets are costlier compared to other locations. A 400 baht per person surcharge is charged upon departure from the Samui Airport.
It is better to take a flight from Bangkok to Suratthani with Thai Airways and then take a bus from the airport to the ferry for a 1 hour 20 minute boat ride to the island of Koh Samui. The Berjaya Air also operates two flights per week on Thursdays and Sundays directly from Kuala Lumpur to Koh Samui.
The Koh Samui Airport is the prime operator for flights to Koh Samui from Thailand and other locations. It is frequented mostly by Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways. Tickets are expensive and flights depart almost every hour. Reservations made in advance cancost around 3000-4500 baht one-way while it is almost double for on the spot reservations.
There are daily flights to / from Phuket, U-Tapao and Singapore, four direct flights a week from Chiang Mai and twice weekly flights to/from Hong Kong. However no direct flights are available in the opposite direction.
The International Departure Gate has a courtesy corner that has provision for food and wi-fi access. Ground transportation from the airport is readily available through mini buses and taxis.
Buses are apt for budget travellers. The major Bangkok public bus station is the Southern Bus Terminal. However, buses may also be boarded from Khao San Road. These overnight buses depart in the evening and travel southwards to halt at Suratthani.
Overnight “Super” VIP buses are more comfortable with air conditioned double-decker vehicles having toilets and reclining seats. Blankets are also supplied.
All buses stop at least once for refreshment, but little or no food or drink is served on board. Videos and films are shown on board usually till 10 pm.
Car ferry services are also available for transfer of passengers and vehicles to Koh Samui.
Flights
