Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most popular islands, known for its beaches, resorts, nightlife, and easy connections to nearby islands. Getting around is simple once you understand the local system: taxis (usually fixed-price), songthaews (shared pickup-truck taxis), ride-hailing apps, and private cars or vans. This guide explains how each option works, where it makes the most sense, and how to travel safely and comfortably wherever you stay on Koh Samui.
Overview of Transport Options on Koh Samui
Main Types of Transport
- Standard taxis – common around tourist areas; pricing is often fixed rather than metered.
- Songthaews – shared pickup trucks with benches; a budget-friendly way to move along main roads.
- Ride-hailing apps – commonly Grab and sometimes inDrive; availability and pickup zones can vary.
- Private cars and vans – pre-booked, air-conditioned, door-to-door transfers (great for families and luggage).
- Airport bus routes – a newer, low-cost option connecting the airport with major areas and Nathon Pier (routes and stops can change).
- Scooter and car rentals – not taxis, but popular for longer stays (best for confident drivers).
Unlike Bangkok, Koh Samui transport is mostly negotiated or app-priced. Many taxis do not use meters, so always confirm the fare before you get in.
Where You Will Use Transport Most
- Transfers from Koh Samui Airport (USM) to your hotel.
- Transfers from Nathon Pier (main ferry pier) to beach areas and resorts.
- Getting between Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut (Fisherman’s Village), Maenam, Bangrak, Choeng Mon.
- Night trips for night markets, beach clubs, bars, and dinner spots.
- Day trips to viewpoints, waterfalls, temples, and quieter areas like Taling Ngam and Lipa Noi.
Taxis in Koh Samui
Meter vs. Fixed Price
Koh Samui has taxis, but it’s common for drivers to offer fixed prices instead of using a meter. In some cases (especially at certain stands), you may find meter taxis, but you should not assume the meter will be used—always clarify before the ride begins.
How to Use Taxis Smoothly
- Tell the driver your area (for example: Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut) and your hotel name.
- Confirm whether the price is total (per car) or per person before you get in.
- For longer rides, ask the price first and keep it friendly—Samui pricing is simply different from mainland cities.
- If you prefer ride-hailing, compare the taxi quote with an app price (when available).
Ride-Hailing Apps
What Works on Koh Samui
Ride-hailing can be very convenient on Samui. Grab is commonly used, and many travelers also use inDrive for price comparisons. Availability can be limited in certain pickup zones (for example, airports or very busy tourist hotspots can be “hit and miss”), so don’t order at the last second when you’re in a rush.
Tips for Better Pickups
- Use a clear pickup point (hotel lobby, a large convenience store, a main road entrance).
- If the app struggles to find drivers, walk 2–5 minutes to a main road and try again.
- Keep your phone ready and answer driver messages quickly to avoid cancellations.
Songthaews – The Budget-Friendly Classic
What Is a Songthaew?
A songthaew is a pickup truck with two benches in the back. On Koh Samui, songthaews act like informal shared transport along main roads. They are especially common around busy areas and can be a practical choice when you don’t need a private car.
How Songthaews Work on Samui
- You can flag one down from the roadside with a raised hand.
- They often wait near tourist hubs like Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, and around markets.
- Tell the driver where you want to go and confirm the price before you hop in.
- They may stop along the way to drop off and pick up passengers.
Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Often cheaper than private taxis for simple point-to-point rides.
- Fun open-air experience and great for short-to-medium distances on main roads.
Limitations:
- Not ideal for heavy luggage or long cross-island trips.
- Less comfortable in heavy rain or strong sun.
- May not go deep into small side roads or steep villa hills.
Airport Transport: Koh Samui Airport (USM) to Your Hotel
Option 1: Airport Taxi Counter
At Koh Samui Airport, you can usually arrange transport immediately after arrival. This is the simplest option when you have luggage or just want to get to your hotel fast.
Option 2: Airport Bus Routes (Budget Option)
Koh Samui has introduced new airport bus routes connecting the airport with major areas and Nathon Pier, with two main routes and a fixed low fare reported at launch. Because routes and schedules can change, treat this as a great budget option and confirm current stops/times at the airport.
- Blue Route: Airport → Choeng Mon → Bophut → Maenam → Nathon
- Red Route: Airport → Chaweng → Lamai → Lipa Noi → Nathon
Option 3: Pre-Booked Private Car or Van
- Best for families, groups, and anyone with lots of luggage.
- Best when arriving late at night or during peak holiday weeks.
- Your driver can meet you and take you door-to-door with no negotiation.
From Nathon Pier (Ferries) to Your Accommodation
What Happens When You Arrive
Nathon Pier is the main ferry pier on Koh Samui. When boats arrive, you’ll usually see drivers offering taxis, vans, and shared rides. The pier area can get busy, especially during holiday seasons and weekend travel peaks.
Step-by-Step: Getting a Ride from Nathon
- Decide if you want shared (cheaper) or private (faster, more comfortable).
- Tell the driver your beach area and your hotel name.
- Confirm the total price before loading bags.
- Keep your hotel map pin ready to avoid confusion with similar names.
Night Transport and Getting Home Safely
Chaweng, Fisherman’s Village, and Late Nights
Koh Samui nightlife is spread out—Chaweng is the biggest hub, while Fisherman’s Village (Bophut) is popular for evening dining and bars. Late at night, fewer songthaews run, so many travelers use taxis, private drivers, or ride-hailing where available.
Night Safety Tips
- Keep valuables in a zipped pocket or a small cross-body bag.
- If you’ve been drinking, avoid driving yourself—use a taxi or private driver instead.
- Before you leave a bar or night market, confirm your route and price so you don’t need to negotiate on the roadside.
Motorbike Taxis and Scooter Rentals
Motorbike Taxis
Motorbike taxis exist in some areas, but they are not as “standardized” everywhere as in Bangkok. If you use one, always ask for a helmet and avoid riding when you’re tired, stressed, or after drinking.
Scooter and Car Rentals
- Samui has steep hills and fast traffic on main roads—only rent a scooter if you are a confident rider.
- Wear a helmet every time, even for short trips.
- Check your driving licence and insurance requirements for scooters before you rely on one.
- Take photos of any existing scratches before you ride away.
Etiquette and Practical Tips
Talking About the Fare
- Confirm the price calmly before you get in (many Samui taxi rides are fixed-price).
- If you negotiate, do it politely—smiles work better than pressure.
- If you don’t like the price, simply say thank you and check another option.
Paying and Tipping
- Cash in Thai baht is the most common payment method.
- Small bills help a lot, especially at night.
- Tipping is optional, but rounding up a little is appreciated when service is helpful.
Common Questions About Getting Around Koh Samui
Is it easy to use Grab on Koh Samui?
Grab is commonly used on Koh Samui, but availability and pickup zones can vary—especially in high-demand areas and at certain times. If you’re in a rush, order early or move to a main-road pickup point.
Do taxis use meters on Koh Samui?
Many Koh Samui taxis run on fixed prices, and it’s widely reported that meters are often not used. Always clarify the fare (or meter) before you start the ride.
What’s the cheapest way to get from the airport to Nathon Pier?
A low-cost airport bus service has been reported with routes connecting the airport to key areas and Nathon. Because schedules and operations can change, confirm the latest details at the airport when you arrive.
Getting around Koh Samui is easy once you match the right transport to your day: use songthaews for budget rides along main roads, taxis or ride-hailing for direct trips, and private vans for comfort with luggage or groups. Confirm prices in advance, keep a map pin ready, and plan ahead for late-night rides.
