Looking for transport tips once you’re already on Koh Samet?
This guide explains how to get to Koh Samet from Bangkok and Pattaya.
For taxis, songthaews and getting around on the island, see our 👉 Koh Samet Local Taxi Guide
Koh Samet is the closest true island to Bangkok — just 3–4 hours from the capital and under 2 hours from Pattaya. No flights, no long hauls. Getting here is straightforward once you know the route.
The journey has two stages: first get to Ban Phe Pier on the mainland, then take a short boat to the island. This guide covers every option for the first stage — buses, minivans, and private taxis — with current prices and practical advice from people who live here.
We also have a separate complete guide to the Ban Phe to Koh Samet boat options.
| Route | Option | Approx. Cost | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| From Bangkok | |||
| Bangkok → Ban Phe | Bus from Ekkamai Budget | 155–180 THB | 3–4 hrs |
| Bangkok → Ban Phe | Private taxi Comfort | 2,000 THB+ | 2.5–3.5 hrs |
| From Pattaya | |||
| Pattaya → Ban Phe | Shared minivan + ferry Budget | 500 THB+ | ~2 hrs |
| Pattaya → Ban Phe | Private taxi Comfort | 1,000 THB+ | ~1.5 hrs |
| Ban Phe to the Island | |||
| Ban Phe → Koh Samet | Slow ferry Budget | 50–70 THB | ~40 min |
| Ban Phe → Koh Samet | Speedboat Fast | 150–300 THB | ~10 min |
Option 1: Bus or Minivan from Bangkok (Budget Pick)
The most popular option for independent travelers. Buses depart from Ekkamai Bus Terminal (Eastern Bus Terminal), directly connected to Ekkamai BTS station — easy to reach from anywhere in Bangkok.
Regular bus (Cherdchai) Runs every 1.5 hours and drops you directly at Nuan Thip Pier in Ban Phe. Comfortable, reliable, and the cheapest way to make the journey. Prices are around 180-200 THB — check the Cherdchai website or their app for advance booking. Departures at 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, and 11:00 AM are bookable ahead of time.
Minivan Departs every hour from Ekkamai, slightly faster but less comfortable than the full bus. Around 200 THB. Fine for solo travelers light on luggage.
Search buses and minivans from Bangkok to Ban Phe below.
Option 2: Private Taxi from Bangkok (Comfort Pick)
If you’re traveling as a couple or group, a private taxi makes good sense once you split the cost. Door-to-door, no transfers, no waiting at bus terminals.
Prices vary by season and availability — private transfers from Bangkok typically run from around 2,000 THB upwards. Not staying near Ekkamai? Search private transfers from Bangkok to Ban Phe covers pickups across the city. Or prefer to book direct? Samet Transfer offer reliable private transfers from Bangkok to Ban Phe.
Coming from Pattaya?
Pattaya to Ban Phe takes around 1–2 hours. There’s no direct public bus, so most travelers book a private transfer or shared minivan.
12Go has a couple of options worth comparing. The cheaper option is a shared minivan with the ferry ticket included — good value if you’re flexible on timing, with prices currently starting from around 500 THB. Private transfers typically run from 1,000 THB upwards. Both include guaranteed connections to the pier. Prices vary by season and availability — always check 12Go for current rates.
Budget alternative: Take the local bus from near Big C South Pattaya to Rayong Bus Terminal (~100 THB), then a songthaew or minibus from Rayong to Ban Phe (~50 THB). Total around 150 THB but involves two changes and more time.
Search shared minivans and private transfers from Pattaya to Ban Phe below.
Once You’re at Ban Phe
All boats to Koh Samet depart from Ban Phe pier. Slow ferries cost 50–70 THB and take around 40 minutes. Speedboats cost 150–300 THB and take 10 minutes. The fast ferry is a comfortable middle ground at 150 THB and takes 10–15 minutes.
Read our complete guide to Ban Phe ferry and boat options →
From the Pier to The Cocoon Hostel
Na Dan Pier is a 4-minute walk from The Cocoon Hostel — straight down the main street, no taxi needed. We’ll be ready for you when you arrive.
Prices are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current rates before booking.
Ready to make the trip? Check availability at The Cocoon Hostel — Koh Samet’s highest-rated hostel, 4 minutes from the pier.