There are numerous Koh Samui transportation choices, making traveling around this destination not too tough. You will have some options like open automobiles, normal taxis, or motorbike taxis on set routes; otherwise, car or motorcycle rental to go around the island independently is another great choice. Let’s find out which one is suitable for your planned trip!
Suggested Options for Koh Samui Transportation
Both private leased vehicles and public transportation are available for getting around Koh Samui in a number of methods, including by songthaew, vehicle, bike, foot, or taxi.
Airport Transfer
Upon arriving at Samui International Airport, you will find several options for airport transfers to your desired location.
- Hotel Transfers: Many hotels and resorts in Koh Samui offer complimentary or paid airport transfer services for their guests. It’s advisable to check with your accommodation beforehand to determine if they provide this service and to arrange the details in advance.
- Shared Airport Shuttles: Shared airport shuttles are a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers. These shuttle services operate on fixed schedules and transport multiple passengers to various destinations. Although the journey may take slightly longer due to multiple stops, shared shuttles offer a comfortable and affordable way to reach popular areas on the island.
- Klook’s Services: Known for competitive rates and a wide selection of vehicles, Klook’s airport transfer service ensures a comfortable and reliable journey for passengers. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to book the airport transfer at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled arrival time.

Car Rental
After checking into your accommodation and taking a shower, nap, or both, it’s time to consider visiting Samui. Getting a car is a great way to explore the island. For ultimate freedom, rent a car for the duration of your vacation or only for a few days to go on a great island adventure and see the Koh Samui attractions of your choice.
When renting a car in Samui, you have a number of options, but picking it up at Koh Samui Airport is the most practical option. A decent selection of cars that fit the size of your group and very probably have air conditioning (and seat belts) are also available, unlike at seaside rental shops.
How Much Does It Cost?
Over the course of the year, the average daily rental expenses for a small car (≤ 4 passengers), medium car (≤ 5 passengers), and SUV are around THB 1.190, THB 1.242, and THB 2.412 respectively (that’s around 35-70 USD).
When to Book Koh Samui Car Rental?
If you’re traveling at a busy time of year, such as Christmas or New Year’s, reservations should be made well in advance. Make your rental car reservation at least one week in advance to guarantee the best rates. When making a reservation, keep in mind that most rentals allow free cancellation up to 48 hours in advance.
Which Cars Are Offered for Rent in Koh Samui?
Although there is a good selection of small SUVs, which may accommodate up to seven people (Toyota Fortuner, Nissan Kicks, Nissan Terra, Nissan X-Trail, Honda BR-V, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, and even Nissan Navara pick-up trucks), medium passenger vehicles are still the most popular.
All cars have unlimited mileage and are automated. Additional drivers may or may not be included in the rates (you can add extra for a minimal cost). Child seats, booster seats, and baby seats cost about 500 THB (15 USD) for every rental.
Some Extra Notes
- Can a car be parked in Koh Samui and returned to another location in Thailand?
Is it possible to drive through Thailand and take a ferry ride? Rental companies that offer one-way rentals from Koh Samui to other locations in Thailand can be found by looking for the option to “drop cars at different locations” on your search page. It may cost more to do this, but you’ll have an amazing Grand Tour. Keep in mind that traveling across borders is forbidden.
Please see below the approximate drive times (including ferry sail time but excluding wait time) to the following destinations: Phuket: 6-7 hours, Bangkok: 12-13 hours, Chiang Mai: 22-23 hours.
- When Is the Koh Samui Airport Rental Car Pick-up Time?
Ensure your arrival flight doesn’t interfere with Koh Samui Airport’s rental vehicle office hours, as they vary depending on the supplier. This is especially important for nighttime rentals. If traveling at a later time, simply arrange to pick up your vehicle the following day. Seven days a week are all open.
- Avis: 8:00 – 19:00
- Budget: 8:00 – 18:00
- Drive Car Rental: 8:00 – 21:00
- Keddy By Europcar: 8:00 – 20:00
- Sixt: 7:00 – 19:00.
- Thai Rent A Car: 8:00 – 20:00
Songthaews
Songthaews (pronounced as “song-tao”) can be said as Koh Samui’s equivalent of public transportation. A songthaew is a pickup truck with a modified bed, not a bus. Eight to ten adults can squeeze into the two back benches, with the odd lunatic opting to hang off the back bumper.

A backpack or bags from the ferry terminal or airport can be carried with ease thanks to the luggage racks located at the top. Songthaews are the least expensive mode of transportation on Koh Samui (apart from walking).
The Songthaew Routes in Koh Samui
The 51 km (just over 31 miles) main ring road on Koh Samui passes past all of the main beach towns, with the exception of Choeng Mon. Songthaews generally follow the ring road and other major secondary roads in a circle. Their itinerary is always subject to change and is primarily determined by driver preference and the passenger’s requirements.
How to Use A Songthaew in Koh Samui?
For the best Songthaew experience, you will need to be confident, own a wide smile, and have the change ready. Place yourself beside a busy roadway and wave one down. Declare where you’re going and strike a price upfront. After that, hop in the rear and meet some new people. To get off, simply ring the bell inside. After he pulls over and you pay (with exact change!), you can go.
Tips: Easily reserve a private chauffeur and vehicle service for four, six, eight, or ten hours. Take a tour of the island or simply have a fun night out with your party. For a group of up to three persons or a couple, select the SUV (Toyota Fortuner) or the minibus (Toyota Commuter) for up to nine passengers. (You have to include the total for infants and kids.)
Taxis
Koh Samui has taxis everywhere. If you want to keep your hair straight and are wearing nice clothing, they’re a great method to go to supper at a restaurant on a different beach. It’s not the case that meters are utilized, therefore establish a rate in advance.

Scooters and Motorbikes
Both locals and visitors favor scooters, yet they are mostly to blame for Samui’s alarmingly high rate of traffic accidents. Make sure a helmet is always on your head.
Motorbike Taxis
Motorbike or scooter taxis are less expensive and more adventurous Koh Samui transportation than traditional taxis. If visitors want to transit independently and don’t mind holding onto a stranger, they’re a quick zoom-zoom choice.

Walking
Is it possible for you to get around Koh Samui on foot? Your closest beach and town may only be a short stroll away, depending on where you’re staying. Walking around with a backpack full of sunscreen and beer may be really chilling. However, there’s so much to do in Koh Samui that you may find your legs too restrictive.
> Read More: How to Travel in Bangkok: Smooth Travel Tips
More Questions about The Transit Issue in Koh Samui
Here are some more questions on the Koh Samui transportation.
- What is Koh Samui’s Best Method of Transportation?
Renting a car will always be advised rather than going on a scooter for general exploration. Please wear a helmet if you have to. You might be able to get by with simple songthaews, ride-sharing, or taxis if you just want to leave your resort occasionally, but you would probably miss out on some of Samui’s greatest. The top restaurants, spas, and tours on the island often provide hotel pickup and drop-off services, too.
- Is There Public Transport in Koh Samui?
In fact, Samui doesn’t actually have any public transportation. Nonetheless, a lot of hotels do provide shuttle services to and from popular sites.
- Is it Possible to Use Uber, Lyft, Grab, or Bolt in Koh Samui?
Grab is Thailand’s version of Uber, Lyft, or Bolt. Although extremely well-liked in Bangkok, its restricted service means it won’t be a quick cure for transportation on Samui. And keep in mind that they are unable to pick you up at the airport; instead, you will need to schedule your own airport transportation, preferably at least 24 hours in advance.
Final Thoughts
We have meticulously put together a comprehensive guide that outlines the unique features of every mode of transportation available in Koh Samui, in addition to some key factors to take into account. Let’s equip yourself with the necessary knowledge to plan your vacation itinerary with ease and enhance your experience on this amazing island by making it more convenient and fully appreciating its natural beauty.