Koh Phangan is one of Thailand’s most beloved islands – a place where turquoise waters meet lush jungles, laid-back vibes, and legendary Full Moon Parties. Whether you’re planning a wellness retreat, a diving holiday, or a wild beach party, the first step is figuring out how to actually get there.
Since the island doesn’t have its own airport, reaching Koh Phangan involves a combination of flights, buses, and ferries. But don’t worry – it’s easier than it sounds. Here’s your full, updated guide on how to get to Koh Phangan in 2025.
Step 1: Fly to the nearest airport
Koh Phangan does not have an airport, but you’ve got a few great options nearby.
The fastest route: Koh Samui Airport (USM)
The most convenient airport is on the neighboring island of Koh Samui. From there, it’s just a short ferry ride to Koh Phangan.
Airlines that fly to Koh Samui:
- Bangkok Airways (offers the most daily flights)
- Thai Airways (through codeshare)
- Singapore Airlines (with connections)
Flights are available from: Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Kuala Lumpur
Note: Koh Samui flights are more expensive than other domestic options, but they save you time and hassle.
Budget-friendly option: Surat Thani or Nakhon Si Thammarat
If you’re traveling on a budget, consider flying into Surat Thani (URT) or Nakhon Si Thammarat (NST) on the mainland. These airports have lower fares, especially with low-cost carriers like:
From either airport, you’ll transfer by bus or minivan to Donsak Pier to catch a ferry to Koh Phangan.
Step 2: Transfer to a ferry pier
From Koh Samu
Once you land at Koh Samui Airport, take a quick taxi (10–20 minutes) to one of these ferry piers:
- Bangrak Pier (Big Buddha) – closest to the airport, with boats to Haad Rin
- Maenam Pier – ferries to Thong Sala, the island’s main port
- Lomprayah Pier (Pralarn) – high-speed catamarans with air conditioning and snacks
Some resorts on Koh Samui offer direct hotel-to-pier transfers.
From Surat Thani or Nakhon Si Thammarat
From either airport, you’ll travel about 1.5 to 2.5 hours by bus to Donsak Pier, where ferries depart for Koh Phangan. Combo tickets (flight + bus + ferry) are widely available online or at the airport.
Step 3: Choose your ferry to Koh Phangan
There are several ferry operators that run daily routes to the island. Your choice depends on your location, budget, and comfort preferences.
| Ferry Company | Departs From | Duration | Notes |
|---|
| Lomprayah | Koh Samui, Donsak | 30–60 min | High-speed, air-conditioned catamaran |
| Seatran | Koh Samui, Donsak | 1–2 hrs | Comfortable, reliable |
| Raja Ferry | Donsak Pier | 2.5 hrs | Slower but very affordable |
| Haad Rin Queen | Koh Samui | 45 min | Direct to Haad Rin beach (party area) |
Pro tip: Book in advance during high season (December to March & July to August) and around the Full Moon Party.
Travel time examples
Bangkok → Koh Phangan via Samui: ~3–5 hours
Bangkok → Koh Phangan via Surat Thani: ~7–9 hours
Phuket → Koh Phangan: ~6–10 hours (bus + ferry)
Chiang Mai → Koh Phangan: ~8–12 hours (flight + ferry)
Travel tips to make it easier
- Buy combo tickets: Websites like 12Go Asia offer flight + ferry or bus + ferry tickets all in one purchase.
- Pack light: You’ll be getting on and off boats, sometimes in the sand.
- Stay flexible: Weather can cause ferry delays, especially during monsoon season (Nov–Jan).
- Ask your resort: Many hotels in Koh Phangan offer pier pickup or can help arrange transfers.
- Bring motion sickness pills: Some ferry rides can be bumpy.
Arriving in Koh Phangan
Most ferries arrive at Thong Sala Pier, the island’s main port. From there, songthaews (shared taxis) wait to take passengers to all corners of the island — from quiet yoga spots in Sri Thanu to beach clubs in Ban Tai or the famous Haad Rin party zone.
Final thoughts
Getting to Koh Phangan is part of the adventure. Whether you choose speed and convenience via Koh Samui or go the budget route through Surat Thani, the journey is well worth it. Once you step off the ferry and take your first breath of sea air, you’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special.
