Planning a trip from Bangkok to the island paradise of Koh Phangan? Whether you’re heading there for the iconic Full Moon Party or simply to enjoy its peaceful beaches, this guide will show you the best ways to get from Thailand’s capital to this lush island in the Gulf of Thailand.
Koh Phangan doesn’t have its own airport, but it’s easily accessible via a combination of flights, buses, trains, and ferries. Here are your best options in 2025:
✈️ Option 1: Flight + Ferry (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
Step 1: Fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui
- Airlines: Bangkok Airways (exclusive route from Suvarnabhumi Airport – BKK)
- Flight Time: ~1 hour
- Tip: Book early, as this is a popular and premium route.
Step 2: Ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
- Ferry Operators: Lomprayah, Seatran, Raja Ferry
- Duration: ~30–60 minutes
- Departure Piers on Koh Samui: Maenam, Bangrak, or Nathon
- Arrival Pier: Thong Sala Pier, Koh Phangan
Total Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Estimated Cost: 2,000–3,000 THB (flight + ferry)
✅ Best For: Comfort and speed
🚌 Option 2: Bus + Ferry Combo (Budget-Friendly)
This is one of the most popular and budget-friendly ways to get to Koh Phangan.
Step 1: Bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani or Donsak Pier
- Departure Points: Khao San Road, Mo Chit Terminal, or from travel agencies
- Travel Time: 9–10 hours (overnight options available)
Step 2: Ferry to Koh Phangan
- Operators like Raja Ferry and Lomprayah include ferry transfer in the combo ticket.
- Ferry duration: 2.5–3 hours from Donsak Pier
Total Travel Time: 12–14 hours
Estimated Cost: 1200–1,500 THB (bus + ferry included)
✅ Best For: Backpackers and budget travelers
🚆 Option 3: Train + Ferry Combo (Scenic and Relaxed)
Another popular alternative is traveling by train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then hopping on a ferry.
Step 1: Train from Bangkok (Hua Lamphong or Krung Thep Aphiwat) to Surat Thani
- Travel Time: 8–9 hours (overnight sleeper trains available)
- Tip: Book early for 1st or 2nd class sleeper seats
Step 2: Bus/Minivan + Ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan
- Shuttle service will take you from Surat Thani train station to Donsak Pier
- Ferry to Koh Phangan (2.5–3 hours)
Total Travel Time: 13–15 hours
Estimated Cost: 1,300–1,800 THB
✅ Best For: Travelers who enjoy a scenic and restful journey
🚤 Ferry Arrival at Koh Phangan
All ferries arrive at Thong Sala Pier, the main hub of Koh Phangan. From there, you can take a taxi or songthaew to popular areas like:
- Haad Rin (Full Moon Beach) – 20–30 minutes
- Sri Thanu (yoga & wellness hub) – 15 minutes
- Thong Nai Pan (secluded luxury) – 40–50 minutes
🧳 Travel Tips for 2025
- Book in advance during Full Moon Party weeks and holidays
- Travel during dry season (Dec–Aug) for smoother sea conditions
- Bring motion sickness pills for the ferry if you’re sensitive to waves
- Consider combo tickets from agencies like Lomprayah or 12Go Asia for convenience
