Koh Samui (Raja Ferry Lipa Noi Port) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Travelers can reach Koh Samui via ferry connections from the mainland port of Donsak in Surat Thani province, with Raja Ferry operating regular services to Lipa Noi pier on the island's western coast. The journey from Bangkok to Surat Thani takes approximately 12 hours by train or bus, while direct flights to Surat Thani Airport cut travel time to about 80 minutes. From Surat Thani town or airport, shuttle services run regularly to Donsak pier, taking around 1-1.5 hours. For those driving to Donsak pier, ample parking is available for both short and long-term stays, though reserving a spot during peak tourist seasons is recommended.

Koh Samui stands as Thailand's second-largest island, a jewel in the Gulf of Thailand known for its palm-fringed beaches and crystalline waters. This tropical haven balances luxury resorts with authentic Thai charm, offering visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. As a key ferry destination in southern Thailand, Koh Samui serves as both an idyllic retreat and a gateway to exploring the stunning archipelago that surrounds it.

Koh Samui enjoys a tropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons, making timing your visit crucial for the ideal experience. December through April offers the most reliable weather, with sunny days, calm seas, and perfect conditions for beach activities and ferry travel. February to April represents the hottest period, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The island comes alive during April's Songkran (Thai New Year) celebrations, while October and November typically see the heaviest rainfall and occasionally disrupted ferry schedules. May through September offers an excellent compromise with fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, and mostly favorable weather interrupted only by brief afternoon showers.

Koh Samui's strategic position makes it an excellent base for exploring the stunning Gulf of Thailand. Ang Thong Marine National Park, just a 1.5-hour ferry ride away, offers a breathtaking archipelago of 42 islands with limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Neighboring Koh Phangan, reached in just 30 minutes by speedboat or 50 minutes by regular ferry, is famous for its Full Moon Party but also boasts secluded beaches and lush jungle interior. For world-class diving, head to Koh Tao, approximately 1.5-2 hours from Samui, where vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life await. The scenic journey between these islands offers spectacular views of karst formations and the azure waters of the gulf.

Koh Samui offers activities that cater to every type of traveler, from beach enthusiasts to cultural explorers. The iconic Big Buddha temple (Wat Phra Yai) stands 12 meters tall on the island's northern coast, offering panoramic views and cultural insights. Nature lovers shouldn't miss the Na Muang Waterfalls or the Instagram-worthy Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks (Hin Ta and Hin Yai). Fisherman's Village in Bophut transforms into a vibrant walking street market every Friday evening, where you can sample local delicacies like fresh seafood, mango sticky rice, and authentic southern Thai curries. The Chaweng area buzzes with energy, while the quieter Lamai and Maenam beaches offer more relaxed atmospheres just a short drive from the ferry terminal.

Despite its reputation as a tourism hotspot, Koh Samui was virtually unknown to the outside world until the late 1970s, with no roads circling the island until 1973. The island's name has mysterious origins, possibly derived from the native 'mui' tree or a Chinese trader named 'Mui' who discovered it. Koh Samui produces over 2 million coconuts daily from its estimated 4-5 million coconut trees, earning it the nickname 'Coconut Island.' Before tourism became its economic mainstay, the island's inhabitants sustained themselves primarily through coconut farming and fishing, with many traditional practices still observable in the island's interior villages.