
Getting to Koh Tao
How to Reach Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, accessible only by boat. There is no airport on the island — the closest airports are Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Chumphon, and Bangkok. Once you're in Thailand, there are several great options for getting to the island.
From Bangkok — Night Train + Ferry
~14 hoursTake an overnight train from Bangkok to Chumphon (8–10 hrs), then a high-speed ferry to Koh Tao (1.5 hrs). This is a popular and scenic route.
From Bangkok — Bus + Ferry
~12–16 hoursOvernight buses depart from Bangkok to Chumphon, with ferry connections available. Often the most economical option.
From Koh Samui — Speedboat
~1.5 hoursFerries run regular high-speed services between Koh Samui and Koh Tao via Koh Phangan. Between 1.5 and 3 hours depending on weather and company. The most convenient option if you're already on Samui.
From Koh Samui — Via Flight + Ferry
~3–4 hoursFly into Koh Samui Airport (Bangkok Air or charter), then take the ferry to Koh Tao.
From Surat Thani — Ferry
~6 hoursSpeedboat ferries depart Surat Thani/Donsak each day — a faster, more expensive option. Overnight ferries depart from Surat Thani and arrive in Koh Tao each morning — a budget-friendly option with bunk rooms for sleeping.
From Chumphon — Express Ferry
~1.5 hoursThe fastest route — Lomprayah and Boonsiri and Songserm high-speed catamarans depart from Chumphon multiple times daily. Chumphon is easily reached by plane, train, bus, or minivan from Bangkok.
From the Ferry Pier to Villas Sabai Jai
When you book directly with us, you receive free transfer between the pier and the villa on arrival and departure.