Easy Transfers from Mainland to Island Paradise
Planning your trip to Koh Phangan from Surat Thani? Whether you’re landing at Surat Thani Airport, arriving by train, or staying in the city, this guide covers everything you need to know to get to one of Thailand’s most iconic islands—home of Full Moon Parties and serene beaches.
🧭 Where Is Koh Phangan?
Koh Phangan is located in the Gulf of Thailand, just north of Koh Samui and south of Koh Tao. As there’s no airport on the island, the only way to reach Koh Phangan is by ferry.
🚐 Step 1: Get to Donsak Pier or Tapee Pier
From Surat Thani city, airport, or train station, you’ll need a bus or van transfer to the ferry piers—primarily Donsak Pier (for most ferry services) or Tapee Pier (for some high-speed options).
Travel time:
- Surat Thani City → Donsak Pier: 1.5 hours
- Surat Thani Airport → Donsak Pier: 1.5 hours
- Surat Thani Train Station → Donsak Pier: 2 hours
You can book a joint ticket (bus + ferry) in advance from companies like Lomprayah, Raja Ferry, Seatran, or local travel agents such as Smarten Plus.
🛥️ Step 2: Ferry from Donsak or Tapee Pier to Koh Phangan
Once at the pier, board a ferry to Thong Sala Pier, the main port in Koh Phangan. Several ferry operators provide daily service, with options for speed or comfort:
⛴️ Ferry Options:
| Operator | Ferry Type | Duration | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lomprayah | High-Speed Catamaran | 2.5 hrs | Tapee or Donsak Pier |
| Seatran | Express Ferry | 2.5–3 hrs | Donsak Pier |
| Raja Ferry | Vehicle Ferry | 3–3.5 hrs | Donsak Pier |
💵 Estimated Costs
| Service | Price Range (THB) |
|---|---|
| Bus/Van to Pier | 150–300 |
| Ferry to Koh Phangan | 350–600 |
| Joint Ticket (Bus + Ferry) | 500–800 |
🕓 Sample Timeline from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan
- 07:30 – Depart Surat Thani Airport by minivan
- 09:00 – Arrive at Donsak Pier
- 10:00 – Ferry departs
- 12:30 – Arrive at Thong Sala Pier, Koh Phangan
✅ Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Book joint tickets for convenience (especially from Surat Thani Airport)
- Check ferry times in advance—some operate only a few times a day
- If seas are rough, take motion sickness pills beforehand
- Arrive at the pier at least 30 minutes before departure
