Getting to Koh Samet couldn’t be easier. As the closest true island destination to both Bangkok and Pattaya, it offers a genuine Thai island experience without the long journey to the southern islands. Whether you’re starting from Bangkok or Pattaya, the first step is to get to Ban Phe Pier, which is quick and simple from either location.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get to Ban Phe, outlining the various transport options available, from buses to private taxis. Once at Ban Phe, the second part will cover how to hop on a boat to Koh Samet, where a short ride will have you relaxing on the island in no time. We also wrote a complete guide to Koh Samet boat options.
This post goes into detail but if you want bullet points scroll down to the bottom for the TLDR version
Let’s start with the simplest way (Direct Taxi)
The simplest and most convenient way to reach Ban Phe from both Bangkok and Pattaya is by taking a direct taxi. While it’s the most expensive option, it’s ideal for travelers who are not on a tight budget or for groups who can split the cost, making it a more affordable and hassle-free option.
From Bangkok, a taxi to Ban Phe costs between 2,000 and 2,500 baht, depending on the company and whether it’s peak or off-season. If you’re traveling from Pattaya, the price is lower, ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 baht. For those who prioritize comfort and speed, this is the best choice.
We’ll include links below to some reliable taxi services that offer transfers to Ban Phe.
Links to taxi companies
From Bangkok to Ban Phe (Bus)
To get to Ban Phe from Bangkok by bus or minibus, Ekkamai Bus Terminal is the most convenient starting point. Located right outside the Ekkamai BTS station, it’s easily accessible by Bangkok’s public transport, making it a hassle-free option for travelers.
Regular buses from Ekkamai to Ban Phe run every 1.5 hours, costing around 155 baht per person. The buses are spacious and comfortable, and they drop you off directly at Nuan Thip Pier, where you can catch a boat to Koh Samet.
Minibuses are also available, departing every hour. While convenient, the larger regular bus offers more comfort for the journey. Minibuses cost about 200 baht per person. The entire trip from Bangkok to Ban Phe takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
At Ekkamai Bus Terminal, you’ll find multiple booths offering tickets to Ban Phe. Simply look for a booth with a sign indicating buses to Ban Phe, and you’ll have a range of options to choose from. It’s easy to find a departure time that suits your schedule, so no need to worry about availability.
Cherdchai bus company (website and app)
For those who prefer the peace of mind and convenience of purchasing tickets ahead of time, you can book your bus to Ban Phe in advance using the Cherdchai website, or their Android and Apple apps. Tickets cost around 180 baht when booking through Cherdchai. They offer three daily services, departing at 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, and 11:00 AM, providing a reliable option for planning your trip to Koh Samet.
From Pattaya to Ban Phe (via Rayong)
To travel from Pattaya to Ban Phe, the first step is to get to Rayong. Buses from Pattaya don’t go directly to Ban Phe, so passengers need to make this transfer. Once you arrive in Rayong, you can easily catch a minibus or a songthaew (a shared pickup truck) to complete the final leg of the journey to Ban Phe. This two-step process is simple and well-organized, with frequent transport options available.
Pattaya to Rayong
The bus from Pattaya to Rayong departs from the stop near Big C South Pattaya and drops passengers off at the Rayong Bus Terminal 1. From there, you can easily find transport options, such as minibuses or songthaews, to take you to Ban Phe Pier for the boat to Koh Samet. This route is straightforward and well-suited for those traveling on a budget. It should cost around 100 baht.
Rayong to Ban Phe
Once you arrive at Rayong Bus Terminal, it’s easy to find a minibus or songthaew that will take you directly to Ban Phe Pier. Simply look for the signs on the vendor windows and booths indicating transport to Ban Phe. These options are frequent and affordable, making the final leg of your journey to the pier quick and convenient. This leg should cost around 50 baht.
Boat to Samet
Once you arrive at Ban Phe, there are multiple piers and boat options available to get you to Koh Samet, and all of them will get you to the island with ease. You can choose between slow boats, which cost around 50 baht and take 30-40 minutes, the fast ferry, or speedboats, which cost about 200 baht and get you to the island in just 10 minutes.
We have written a detailed guide to the boat options which you can find here.
The Pier to The Cocoon Hostel
Once you step off the boat at Samet Pier, The Cocoon Hostel is just a quick 4-minute walk down the high street. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and the chance to drop your bags and unwind. Enjoy a complimentary coffee, sip on an ice-cold beer from our bar, or head to your cozy bunk for some well-deserved rest. If you’re ready to jump into the island vibe, the beach is just minutes away, perfect for soaking up the sun and catching some waves as soon as you arrive.
The TLDR
From Bangkok to Ban Phe
Option 1: Direct Taxi The simplest and most convenient way to reach Ban Phe is by direct taxi. This option, while more costly, is ideal for those not on a tight budget or traveling in a group.
- Cost: 2,000 – 2,500 baht from Bangkok.
Option 2: By Bus or Minibus from Ekkamai Ekkamai Bus Terminal, located right outside the Ekkamai BTS station, offers regular buses and minibuses to Ban Phe.
- Regular Buses: Run every 1.5 hours, costing around 155 baht. Buses drop you off directly at Nuan Thip Pier.
- Minibuses: Depart every hour, costing around 200 baht. While convenient, regular buses are more comfortable.
- Total Journey Time: 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
Option 3: Advance Booking For those who prefer to book tickets ahead, use the Cherdchai website or app. Tickets cost around 180 baht, with services at 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, and 11:00 AM.
From Pattaya to Ban Phe
Step 1: Travel to Rayong
- Bus to Rayong: Depart from the bus stop near Big C South Pattaya. Buses run frequently.
- Cost: around 100 baht
Step 2: Rayong to Ban Phe via Minibus or Songthaew
- Cost: Approximately 50 baht from Rayong to Ban Phe.
- Look for Signs: Find vendors at Rayong Bus Terminal with signs for Ban Phe transport.
From Ban Phe to Koh Samet
1. Boat Options At Ban Phe, you’ll find several piers with boats heading to Koh Samet. Choose from:
- Slow Boats: Cost around 50 baht and take 30-40 minutes.
- Speedboats: Cost about 200 baht and reach the island in 10 minutes.
- Piers: Any pier will get you to Samet; just choose the closest one to where your bus or songthaew drops you off.
2. Timetables and Prices Check schedules and prices at Koh Samet Ferries for up-to-date information.
Arrival at The Cocoon Hostel
After arriving at Samet Pier, The Cocoon Hostel is just a short 4-minute walk down the high street.