How To Get To Koh Tao From Bangkok

By Bryan Roseman

Modified 9th June 2025

How To Get To Koh Tao From Bangkok: Complete Travel Guide 2025

Getting to Koh Tao from Bangkok involves combining air, land, and sea transport since the island has no airport. The fastest route is flying to Koh Samui then taking a 1.5-2 hour ferry (5-6 hours total), while budget travelers can choose bus and ferry combinations (10-12 hours) or scenic train and ferry options (12-14 hours). All routes end with a ferry to Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao.

Planning how to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok requires understanding your transportation options, as Thailand’s premier diving destination sits in the Gulf of Thailand without an airport. Whether you prioritize speed, budget, or scenic experiences, multiple route combinations can get you to this tropical paradise known as “Turtle Island.”

This comprehensive guide covers every transportation method, timing, costs, and insider tips to help you choose the perfect route for your Koh Tao adventure. For routes from other locations in Thailand, check out our complete transportation guide.

Transportation Options Comparison

Route	Total Time	Cost Range (฿)	Comfort Level	Best For
Flight + Ferry (via Koh Samui)	5-6 hours	3,500-8,000	High	Time-conscious travelers
Bus + Ferry Combo	10-12 hours	1,250-1,800	Medium	Budget travelers
Train + Ferry	12-14 hours	800-1,500	Medium-High	Scenic journey lovers
Flight + Ferry (via Chumphon)	6-8 hours	2,500-5,000	High	Alternative fast route
Night Bus + Night Boat	12-15 hours	1,500-2,200	Medium	Overnight travelers

Route Recommendations

✈️

Fastest Option

Flight + Ferry via Koh Samui

Total time: 5-6 hours

Cost: ฿3,500-8,000

Best for time-conscious travelers who want to maximize island time.

🚌

Budget Option

Bus + Ferry Combination

Total time: 10-12 hours

Cost: ฿1,250-1,800

Most economical choice with coordinated transfers and comfortable seating.

🚂

Scenic Option

Train + Ferry

Total time: 12-14 hours

Cost: ฿800-1,500

Experience Thailand’s countryside with comfortable sleeper options.

🌙

Overnight Option

Night Bus + Night Boat

Total time: 12-15 hours

Cost: ฿1,500-2,200

Travel while you sleep and arrive with a full day ahead.

Fastest Route: Flight to Koh Samui + Ferry

Flying to Koh Samui and catching a ferry represents the quickest way to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok. Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways operate multiple daily flights, with the entire journey taking 5-6 hours including connections. For detailed information on this route including minivan and taxi options, see our complete Koh Samui to Koh Tao guide.

Flight Details and Booking Tips

Flight duration: 1.5 hours Bangkok to Koh Samui
Daily flights: 8-12 flights available
Airlines: Bangkok Airways (main carrier), Thai Airways
Airport code: USM (Koh Samui Airport)
Cost: ฿2,500-6,500 depending on season and booking time

Ferry Schedule from Koh Samui to Koh Tao

Daily Departures: 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 4:00 PM

Journey Time: 1.5-2 hours

Cost: Starting from ฿550 per person

Operators: Lomprayah

Pro Tip: Book morning flights to catch same-day ferries

Budget Option: Bus and Ferry Combination

The bus and ferry combination offers the most economical way to reach Koh Tao from Bangkok. Combined tickets eliminate the hassle of separate bookings while providing significant cost savings compared to flying.

Bus and Ferry Package Benefits

Single ticket covers entire journey
Coordinated transfers between bus and ferry
Multiple departure times daily
Air-conditioned buses with reclining seats
Onboard refreshments and rest stops

Booking Recommendation

Always book bus and ferry combinations through reputable operators like Lomprayah or established travel agencies. Avoid booking with unlicensed street vendors who may not provide reliable connections or proper insurance coverage.

Scenic Route: Train and Ferry

Taking the train from Bangkok to Chumphon followed by a ferry offers the most scenic and culturally immersive way to reach Koh Tao. This option allows you to experience Thailand’s countryside while enjoying comfortable overnight accommodations. For detailed information on the Chumphon to Koh Tao leg, see our comprehensive Chumphon guide.

Train Journey Details

Departure station: Hua Lamphong Railway Station, Bangkok
Journey time: 8-9 hours to Chumphon
Train classes: 3rd class (seat), 2nd class (sleeper), 1st class (private cabin)
Departure times: Multiple trains from 7:30 AM to 10:50 PM
Cost: ฿250-800 depending on class

Sleeper Train Benefits

Comfortable beds with linens provided
Air conditioning and reading lights
Onboard dining car with Thai meals
Arrive refreshed in the morning
Scenic views of rural Thailand

Alternative Ferry Routes

Besides the main routes through Chumphon and Koh Samui, several alternative ferry connections provide flexibility for island-hopping travelers or those coming from different parts of Thailand.

From Surat Thani

Ferry duration: 4-5 hours
Cost: Around ฿850
Departure pier: Donsak Pier
Transport to pier: ฿550-700 by taxi from Surat Thani town

For complete details on traveling from Surat Thani, including all transport options and schedules, check our Surat Thani to Koh Tao guide.

Ferry Schedule from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao

Daily Departures: 8:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:45 PM

Journey Time: 45-60 minutes

Cost: Starting from ฿450 per person

Essential Packing Guide

Smart Packing for Your Koh Tao Journey

Pack efficiently for tropical weather and diverse activities:

Swimwear: Multiple sets for daily water activities
Light clothing: Breathable fabrics for hot, humid weather
Reef-safe sunscreen: SPF 30+ protecting marine environment
Insect repellent: Essential for evening and jungle activities
Waterproof bag: Protect electronics during boat trips
Comfortable sandals: Easy to remove for boats and beaches
Light rain jacket: For unexpected tropical showers

Money-Saving Travel Tips

💰

Book Combined Tickets

Purchase bus/train + ferry combinations for better rates than separate bookings. Many operators offer package discounts.

📅

Avoid Peak Seasons

Travel during shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) for lower accommodation and potentially cheaper flights.

⏰

Book Early Morning Flights

Early flights to Koh Samui allow same-day ferry connections, avoiding overnight accommodation costs.

🎒

Pack Light

Minimize luggage for easier transfers between transport modes. Most ferries allow one large bag per person.

🌤️

Check Weather

Monitor weather forecasts, as rough seas can disrupt ferry schedules, especially during monsoon months.

📱

Download Offline Maps

Save Bangkok transit maps and Koh Tao island maps offline for navigation without internet connection.

Getting Around Koh Tao Upon Arrival

Once you reach Mae Haad Pier, Koh Tao’s main ferry terminal, several transportation options help you reach your accommodation and explore the compact 21-square-kilometer island. Known as “Turtle Island” for its rich marine life and fascinating history, Koh Tao offers world-class diving experiences year-round.

Local Transportation Options

Private taxis: Direct transport to accommodations (฿200-500)
Motorbike taxis: Quick transport for solo travelers (฿50-100)
Walking: Many accommodations within walking distance of pier
Hotel transfers: Many accommodations offer free pickup services

🌊 Start Your Koh Tao Adventure with La Bombona Diving

Ready to make the most of your journey to Koh Tao?

Once you arrive on our beautiful island, La Bombona Diving offers the perfect introduction to Koh Tao’s underwater wonders. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to advance your skills, we provide safe, professional, and unforgettable diving experiences.

Located near Mae Haad Pier – easy access from ferry terminal
Try Dive experiences perfect for first-day arrivals
Open Water certification courses for serious divers
Multilingual instructors and small group sizes
Modern equipment and proven safety protocols
Flexible scheduling to fit your travel plans
Local expertise on island attractions and activities
Help with accommodation recommendations

Start with our Try Dive experience to test the waters!

Book Your Try Dive Experience

Try Dive: ฿2,500 (1 dive) or ฿3,500 (2 dives) | Full day experience | Perfect for arrivals

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cheapest way to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok?

The most affordable option is the combined bus and ferry ticket, starting around ฿1,250. This journey takes 10-12 hours but offers excellent value while allowing you to see Thailand’s countryside. Book through reputable operators like Lomprayah for reliability.

How long does it take to get to Koh Tao from Bangkok?

Travel time varies by route: flying to Koh Samui then ferry takes 5-6 hours (fastest), bus and ferry combinations take 10-12 hours, while train and ferry options require 12-14 hours including overnight travel. Choose based on your time constraints and budget.

Can I book bus and ferry tickets in advance?

Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons (December-March). You can purchase combined tickets online, through travel agencies in Bangkok, or directly from ferry operators. Booking ahead guarantees seats and often provides better prices.

When is the best time to travel to Koh Tao?

March through September offers the best weather with dry, sunny conditions ideal for diving and beach activities. November through January is monsoon season with heavier rainfall and rougher seas, though the island remains accessible year-round.

What luggage restrictions apply to ferries?

Most ferries allow one large suitcase and one small carry-on bag per passenger. Pack light for easier transfers between transportation modes. Consider waterproof bags for electronics, as ferry decks can get wet from sea spray during the journey.

Are there direct flights to Koh Tao?

No, Koh Tao has no airport. All routes require combining air/land transport with ferry connections. The closest airports are Koh Samui (fastest ferry connection), Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Flying to Koh Samui provides the quickest overall journey time.

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Tagged bangkok, ferry, how to get to, island life, KOH TAO, koh tao island, la bombona diving, plane, scuba diving, thailand, Thailand travel