How to Get to Koh Samet from Bangkok (2025 Complete Guide)

Koh Samet is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Bangkok, known for its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and relaxed island vibe.

If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to get from Bangkok to Koh Samet, this 2025 guide covers everything you need to know.

Discover the easiest transport options — bus, minivan, taxi, and ferry — along with travel times, ticket costs, and the best ferry piers.

We also include return information for Koh Samet to Bangkok, plus tips on where to stay and the best time to visit.

🌟 Why Visit Koh Samet: Top Attractions & Highlights

Koh Samet is a small island located just 200 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, in Rayong province.

It’s a favorite weekend escape for Bangkok residents thanks to its:

If you’re looking for a short beach holiday without taking a flight, Koh Samet is one of the best options near Bangkok.

How to Get from Bangkok to Koh Samet (2025 Transport Guide)

There are no direct ferries from Bangkok to Koh Samet, so you’ll first need to reach Ban Phe Pier in Rayong. From there, regular ferries and speedboats take you to the island.

Here are the main ways to travel:

Option	Time	Cost	Convenience
✅ Minivan + Ferry	3.5–4 hrs	★★★★☆	★★★★★
🚕 Private Taxi ＋ Ferry	~3 hrs	★★★☆☆	★★★★★
🚌 Bus + Ferry	4–5 hrs	★★★★★	★★☆☆☆

✅ By Bus or Minivan + Ferry (Most Popular)

• Bookable on 12GO Asia
• Pick-up point: Khao San Road or Ekkamai or Mochit
• Drop-off at Ban Phe Pier, Then transfer to ferry or speedboat to Koh Samet

• 12GO is a trusted booking platform that lets you reserve transportation in Thailand without creating an account.

👉 Recommended for first-time visitors. Simple and cost-effective.

🚕 By Taxi or Private Transfer + Ferry

You can easily book a Grab taxi through the app for a hassle-free ride from Bangkok to the pier. Once you arrive, simply transfer to the ferry to reach Koh Samet.

🚌 By Public Bus + Ferry

• From Ekkamai Bus Terminal to Ban Phe
• Slower and less convenient
• Good for Backpackers

⛴️ Ferry Piers to Koh Samet (Ban Phe, etc.)

All ferries and speedboats to Koh Samet depart from Ban Phe Pier in Rayong.

There are ticket counters at the pier, but booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.

👉 Note: All visitors must pay the National Park entrance fee upon arrival (200 THB for foreigners, 40 THB for Thai citizens).

How to Return: Koh Samet to Bangkok Options

Getting back to Bangkok is easy — simply reverse your route.

• Ferries depart regularly from Koh Samet’s Na Dan Pier to Ban Phe.
• From Ban Phe, you can catch buses, minivans, or taxis back to Bangkok.

🏨 Where to Stay in Koh Samet: Recommended Areas & Hotels

Here are a few popular and photogenic options:

☀️ Best Time to Visit Koh Samet

Koh Samet is known for being one of the driest islands in Thailand, even during the rainy season.

• High Season (Nov–Feb): Best weather, clear skies, and calm seas.
• Shoulder Season (Mar–May): Hot but still good for swimming.
• Rainy Season (Jun–Oct): Fewer crowds, cheaper hotels, but expect occasional heavy showers.

💡 Koh Samet is one of the driest islands in Thailand—even during the rainy season. May and October are great for fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Koh Samet?

Around 3.5–4.5 hours depending on your transport option.

Is there a direct ferry from Bangkok to Koh Samet?

No. You’ll need to travel to Ban Phe Pier first, then take a ferry or speedboat.

What is the cheapest way to get from Bangkok to Koh Samet?

Taking a bus or minivan from Ekkamai Bus Terminal to Ban Phe, then a ferry, is the most budget-friendly option.

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