How to Get to Koh Tao: Every Way to Reach Thailand’s Backpacker Island
Koh Tao is a paradise for ocean lovers, divers, and anyone seeking relaxed beaches. But reaching this small island requires some planning—there are no direct flights, and first-time visitors can easily get overwhelmed by the many (and sometimes confusing) travel options. Here’s a practical breakdown, including pros, cons, and real-world tips.
Getting to Koh Tao by Ferry – The Only Way Onto the Island
Every journey to Koh Tao involves a ferry—there’s no airport on the island. Most travelers take a bus or train to an eastern coastal town, then catch a ferry to Koh Tao. Here are the most popular routes:
From Chumphon: The Classic Gateway
- Most travelers reach Chumphon by overnight train or bus from Bangkok, then continue by direct ferry to Koh Tao.
- There are direct ferries from Chumphon to Koh Tao; the crossing takes about 2–3 hours.
- Several daily departures, mainly in the morning and early afternoon.
Editorial insight:
This route is very reliable—Chumphon is well set up for backpackers, with convenient pick-up/drop-off points, especially if you book a combined ticket (bus/train + ferry) through Bookaway or 12Go. Note: During rainy season (November–December), ferries may be cancelled.
From Koh Samui: Island-Hopping Made Easy
- If you’re already on Koh Samui, it’s simple to get to Koh Tao by ferry.
- The ferry takes about 2–3 hours, with multiple sailings each day.
- Great option for those planning to “hop” between islands (Koh Samui > Koh Phangan > Koh Tao).
Top tip:
Ferries from Koh Samui are typically newer and more comfortable than those from Chumphon, especially in high season. Booking ahead via Direct Ferries or Ferryhopper is recommended during the busy summer months.
From Koh Phangan: Natural Next Step After the Parties
- Koh Phangan is just a short ferry ride from Koh Tao.
- Ferries from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao usually depart in the morning and early afternoon.
- Crossing time: about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Field note:
During Full Moon Party periods and other big events, demand is huge—ferries fill up fast, and prices go up. Don’t count on last-minute tickets.
From Phuket, Krabi, and the West Coast
There are no direct ferries from Phuket or Krabi to Koh Tao, but you can book combined Phuket–Koh Tao packages and Krabi–Koh Tao packages that include bus + ferry (with a transfer in Donsak or Chumphon).
- Total journey time: 7–10 hours, depending on the route.
- Expect to depart early morning and arrive in Koh Tao by late afternoon or evening.
Editorial insight:
This route is less ideal for travelers who dislike long journeys—but if you want to avoid domestic flights, it’s efficient. Use a reliable provider (Bookaway/12Go) to avoid surprises with local transport.
Getting There by Air – Only as Far as the Nearest Mainland Airport
Flying to Koh Samui or Surat Thani
-
No flights go directly to Koh Tao. The closest you can get is Koh Samui, which has a small international airport with flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and more.
-
Another option: fly to Nakhon Si Thammarat or Surat Thani, then take a bus or minivan to the ferry terminal (in Donsak or Chumphon).
-
Bangkok – Koh Samui: Frequent flights, about 1.5 hours.
-
Bangkok – Surat Thani: Cheaper flights, about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Important advice:
The fastest (but not always cheapest) way is to fly to Koh Samui and take a direct ferry to Koh Tao. For a tighter budget, fly to Surat Thani and continue by bus to the ferry—this saves money but adds several hours.
Overland Travel: Train, Bus, and Minivan
Train from Bangkok to Chumphon
- Bangkok – Chumphon: Overnight trains are popular (cheap and comfortable, especially in a sleeper berth).
- From Chumphon, take the ferry to Koh Tao (see above).
- You can book a combined train + ferry ticket via 12Go or Bookaway.
Editorial recommendation:
The night train is perfect for adventurous travelers—save a night’s accommodation and get a classic Thai experience. Book train tickets a few days in advance, especially in high season.
Bus from Bangkok or Other Destinations
- Direct buses run from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani (often as part of a combined bus + ferry package).
- This is a budget-friendly way to travel, but less comfortable than the train (less legroom, fewer amenities).
Field insight:
Most bus/ferry companies organize direct transfers to the pier, making the process fairly smooth. However, expect occasional delays, especially during the rainy season.
Practical Summary: Which Route to Choose?
- Fastest and most convenient: Fly to Koh Samui + direct ferry to Koh Tao. Ideal for those willing to spend a bit more.
- Best value: Overnight train Bangkok–Chumphon + ferry. Classic backpacker experience and affordable.
- Most eco-friendly: Island hopping by ferry—Koh Samui > Koh Phangan > Koh Tao.
- Easiest if you’re already in southern Thailand: Combined bus + ferry packages from Phuket/Krabi.
- For flexibility: Book tickets in advance during peak seasons, especially for Full Moon Party dates, using platforms like Bookaway, 12Go, or Direct Ferries.
There’s always a sea crossing on the way to Koh Tao—but you can tailor the journey to your travel style, budget, and schedule. Be aware of monsoon season (November–early December): many sailings are cancelled, so flexibility and patience are key.
** How to Get to Koh Tao: Ferries, Flights & Best Routes
** Discover how to get to Koh Tao by ferry, train, or flight. Compare routes from Bangkok, Samui, and more. Plan your trip to Koh Tao with our practical guide.