Comparison: which route to choose
| Option | Approximate duration | Indicative price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Night train to Chumphon + catamaran | one night by train + 3h30 to 4h by catamaran to Phangan | €€ | Koh Tao first, train fans |
| Night bus to Chumphon + catamaran | one night by bus + catamaran | € to €€ | Small budgets |
| Bus (or train) to Surat Thani + ferry | one night + ferry (duration to check) | € to €€ | Koh Phangan first |
| Flight to Koh Samui + boat | flight + boat (durations to check) | €€€ | Short on time |
| Combined train/bus + boat ticket from a platform | one night and a morning | €€ | One-ticket convenience |
Levels: € = a few hundred baht, €€ = one to two thousand baht, €€€ = more. One source consulted gives about 700 to 800 baht for the Chumphon–Koh Phangan catamaran via Koh Tao (half fare for children aged 3 to 11); confirm the fare on the company's website.
From Koh Phangan, the Koh Tao and Nang Yuan day tour with snorkelling and lunch saves you arranging the boat yourself.
Via Chumphon: the Koh Tao route
Chumphon is the Gulf town where the catamarans leave for Koh Tao, then Koh Phangan. A night train leaves Bangkok in the evening and arrives early in the morning, before the first boats; night buses do the same. From the station or bus terminal, a shuttle links to Thung Makham pier. With this plan you are on the island by early afternoon. Since 2023, most long-distance trains leave from Krung Thep Aphiwat station: check the departure station for your train number. Book ahead in high season.
Via Surat Thani: the Koh Phangan route
Surat Thani is the big hub of the south. A night bus or train arrives there early in the morning, then a transfer goes to the Don Sak pier, where the ferry leaves for Koh Samui and then Koh Phangan. This is the route described on our page about Bangkok to Koh Samui; it suits Koh Phangan better than Koh Tao. Several platforms sell a single bus + boat ticket: it is convenient, but check what is included.
The sea and the seasons
The islands of the Gulf of Thailand have their own season: the sea is often rough and visibility poorer at the end of the year, around November, and crossings can be cancelled in bad weather. February to September is generally calmer. Check the ferry page before booking a tight connection, and leave a margin before a return flight. See also the best time to go.
Koh Phangan or Koh Tao?
Koh Tao is known for diving and snorkelling: many schools offer an introductory dive, with no certification needed. Koh Phangan is larger, with quiet beaches in the north and the famous full moon party at Haad Rin. The two islands combine in one trip, because the catamaran stops at Koh Tao and then Koh Phangan. For a place to sleep, compare Koh Tao on Booking and Koh Phangan on Booking.
Before you go
Put valuables in a waterproof bag and keep your passport on you. For cash payments on the islands, see money and payments; for the budget, our travel budget guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can you fly directly to Koh Tao or Koh Phangan?
No. You have to go through Koh Samui, Chumphon or Surat Thani.
What is the simplest route to Koh Tao?
The night train or bus to Chumphon, then the catamaran.
How long does the trip take?
About one night and a morning overland.
Is it better to book in advance?
Yes in high season and around the full moon; keep tickets that can be changed.
