How to Get From Bangkok to Koh Tao Thailand

This blog post is all about how to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao, Thailand and the different options available to backpackers, travellers and first-time visitors.

Thailand’s idyllic islands are a must for any traveller seeking sun-soaked beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back island vibes.

Koh Tao, known as the “Turtle Island,” is a small paradise famous for its world-class diving, scenic beaches, and relaxed lifestyle.

It was our favourite island in all of Thailand, and we’ve now visited twice. And we’ll definitely be back again!

For many travellers, the journey begins in bustling Bangkok, a city full of culture and excitement.

Whether you’re travelling on a budget or looking for a convenient route, here’s everything you need to know about getting from Bangkok to Koh Tao. Including accommodation options and what to expect along the way.

This blog post is about how to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao

Why Tourists Flock to Koh Tao

Koh Tao, though smaller and less crowded than its neighbouring islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, attracts countless tourists each year. For a mix of thrilling activities, stunning scenery, and laid-back island vibes.

Here are some of the key reasons why travellers (like me) are so drawn to Koh Tao:

1. World-Class Diving and Snorkelling

Koh Tao is one of Southeast Asia’s top diving destinations, offering vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.

The island’s crystal-clear waters and warm temperatures make it an ideal spot for both beginner and advanced divers. And it’s famous for affordable PADI certification courses.

Snorkellers also have plenty to explore, with reefs teeming with colourful fish, turtles, and the occasional reef shark close to shore.

2. Beautiful Beaches and Scenic Views

Koh Tao is known for its stunning beaches, each with its unique charm.

Popular spots like Sairee Beach (our favourite) offer a lively atmosphere, while quieter beaches like Ao Leuk and Freedom Beach provide a more tranquil escape.

The island is also home to breathtaking viewpoints, such as the famous John-Suwan Viewpoint, where visitors can hike up for panoramic views over the beautiful island and turquoise waters.

RELATED blog post to read: Koh Tao Travel Guide: 17 Epic Activities on This Island in Thailand

3. A Relaxed Island Vibe and Friendly Community

Despite its popularity, Koh Tao maintains a laid-back vibe that many tourists find refreshing.

The local community, alongside a steady flow of international travellers, creates a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that makes it easy for visitors to feel at home.

Many travellers come to Koh Tao intending to stay a few days but end up extending their visit due to its relaxing ambiance. And if you’re like us, you’ll never want to leave!

4. Affordability for Travellers of All Budgets

Compared to other islands in Thailand, Koh Tao is relatively affordable, making it a fantastic choice for both budget-conscious backpackers and luxury travellers.

Accommodation, food, and activities cater to a wide range of budgets, allowing visitors to enjoy a memorable island experience without breaking the bank.

5. Adventurous Activities Beyond the Beach

Beyond its beaches and underwater wonders, Koh Tao offers various activities that appeal to the adventurous spirit.

Hiking trails lead to scenic viewpoints, yoga retreats and wellness centres provide peaceful escapes, and kayaking, rock climbing, and paddle-boarding are also a few of the island’s popular options.

Koh Tao has something to offer every type of traveller.

Getting to Know Bangkok for First-Time Visitors

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is a sensory overload for first-time visitors.

Known for its magnificent temples, bustling street markets, and eclectic food scene, the city is also a major transportation hub, making it a great starting point for exploring Thailand.

If you’re stopping in Bangkok before heading to Koh Tao, here are some must-see attractions and things to do:

Visit the Grand Palace: This historic palace complex houses some of Thailand’s most sacred structures, including the Emerald Buddha Temple.
Explore the Markets: From Chatuchak Weekend Market to the floating markets along the canals, Bangkok’s markets are colourful and exciting.
Try the Street Food: Bangkok’s street food is legendary. Try local specialties like pad Thai, som tam (green papaya salad), and also mango sticky rice.

RELATED blog post to read: The Best Places To Eat In Bangkok Michelin-Style

For a convenient stay, consider hotels and hostels near the main transportation hubs. Bangkok traffic can be chaotic at any time of the day, so I’d highly advise doing this.

Here are some options:

Places to Stay in Bangkok Near Transportation Hubs

We travelled from Bangkok to Cambodia and also Bangkok to Koh Tao and made sure to stay a few minutes’ walk away from the bus centres the night before.

Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn – This luxury hotel is connected to the BTS Skytrain and offers easy access to both train stations and the bus terminal.
iSanook Bangkok – A more budget-friendly choice, located close to Hua Lamphong Railway Station. It offers modern facilities and a rooftop pool.
Siam Champs Elyseesi Unique Hotel – This is the hotel we stayed in before our travels from Bangkok to Koh Tao by bus and ferry which departed at 6am.
Super OYO 484 Pannee Residence Khaosan – We stayed at this hotel the night before our bus to Siem Reap, Cambodia that was operated by Giant Ibis.

Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Tao

There are multiple ways to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao. Each offers a unique experience, depending on your budget, schedule, and preference for comfort.

When travelling around Asia, we always use 12Go Asia to book all of our transport. Whether that’s ferries, trains, buses, overnight buses or taxis.

It’s the best way to compare different transport options, their reviews, duration and prices. I’d highly recommend booking your transport with 12Go Asia if you aren’t doing so already!

Option 1: Bangkok to Koh Tao by Bus and Ferry Combo

This is a popular and budget-friendly option and one that we chose on our second visit to Koh Tao.

Several companies offer combined bus and ferry tickets, making it easier for travellers to get directly from Bangkok to Koh Tao without much hassle.

Duration: Around 9-12 hours
Cost: Approximately $25-35 USD
How it works: Buses leave from Bangkok’s Khao San Road or the Southern Bus Terminal, heading to Chumphon or Surat Thani, where you’ll transfer to a ferry bound for Koh Tao.

When we made this journey, we booked with Lomprayah. The bus left Khao San Road at 6am, arriving at Chumphon Pier at 12.30pm. From here, a two-hour ferry then took us directly to Koh Tao.

This was all on the same booking and with one ticket taking us all the way to Koh Tao. It was an early start and a long day of travelling, but an affordable way to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao.

Option 2: Bangkok to Koh Tao by Train and Ferry Combo

The train and ferry combo is an excellent option for those wanting a more comfortable journey. You can take an overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani and then catch a ferry to Koh Tao.

Duration: Around 10-12 hours (depending on the train schedule and ferry transfer times)
Cost: Approximately $30-50 USD
How it works: Trains depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok. The overnight sleeper train is a comfortable way to travel, allowing you to rest. Once you reach Chumphon or Surat Thani, you can easily transfer to a ferry for Koh Tao.

On our first visit to Koh Tao, we made our way back to Bangkok from Koh Tao via the overnight sleeper train. We took a ferry from Koh Tao to Surat Thani, then a coach from Surat Thani pier to Surat Thani train station. From here, it was the overnight sleeper train straight to Bangkok, arriving in at 6am.

I wrote all about this experience here if you’d like to read more about the overnight sleeper train to Bangkok.

RELATED blog post to read: Thailand Sleeper Train: Everything You Need To Know

Option 3: Bangkok to Koh Tao by Flight and Ferry Combo

The quickest and most comfortable (but also the most expensive) option is to fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui and then take a ferry to Koh Tao.

Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours
Cost: Around $100-150 USD
How it works: Flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui depart regularly and take about 1 hour. Once in Koh Samui, you can catch a ferry to Koh Tao.

It’s a convenient but pricier route, perfect for travellers short on time.

Arriving in Koh Tao: A Quick Introduction for First-Time Visitors

Once you arrive on the picturesque shores of Koh Tao, you’ll find yourself surrounded by clear waters, coral reefs, and friendly locals.

Here are a few highlights for newcomers to explore:

Explore the Beaches: Head to Sairee Beach for a lively scene, or find a quieter spot like Ao Leuk or Tanote Bay for snorkelling.
Try Diving or Snorkelling: Koh Tao is one of the best places to get a PADI certification, offering incredible underwater views of coral reefs and marine life.
Enjoy the Nightlife: Koh Tao has a laid-back nightlife scene, with beach bars and cozy cafes offering live music and fire shows.

Places to Stay in Koh Tao

We’ve stayed in two different hotels in Koh Tao, our first time for three nights and second time for six nights.

I would recommend choosing a hotel near to Sairee Beach as this is the most popular and (in our opinion) best part of the island.

The Tarna Align Resort – A stylish mid-range hotel with ocean views and a pool. It’s known for its serene setting and spacious rooms.
Sunrise Koh Tao – A budget-friendly option with a great location near Sairee Beach, also offering comfortable rooms and a pool.
Sai Daeng Resort – A more secluded option, located on Sai Daeng Beach with fantastic snorkelling right off the coast.
Koh Tao Heritage – Where we stayed on our second visit to Koh Tao. A little further south than we’d prefer, but nice and private off of the main roads.
Living Chilled – This is more amongst the main hub of Sairee Beach and closer to restaurants and Sairee Beach also.

Onward Travel Options After Koh Tao

For those looking to continue their adventure after exploring Koh Tao, Thailand offers a wealth of nearby destinations that complement the Koh Tao island experience.

Whether you’re seeking more beaches, lively nightlife, or lush jungles. Here’s a guide to popular onward travel options from Koh Tao.

1. Koh Samui

Koh Samui, the largest of the three islands, is a great next stop for those looking to experience more developed amenities and a wider range of activities.

Known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and also diverse attractions. Koh Samui offers a little bit of everything, from bustling night markets to wellness retreats.

How to Get There: Ferries from Koh Tao to Koh Samui take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Making it a convenient and quick island hop.
What to Do: Visit the famous Big Buddha Temple, explore the Na Muang Waterfalls, or unwind on popular beaches like Chaweng and also Lamai. Koh Samui also offers vibrant nightlife, especially around Chaweng Beach.
Where to Stay: During our time in Koh Samui we stayed at Lamai Buri Resort, which was near Lamai Beach.

2. Koh Phangan

Known for its world-famous Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan is ideal for those wanting a lively nightlife scene.

But there’s more to Koh Phangan than its parties; the island also boasts secluded beaches, yoga retreats, and stunning landscapes that are perfect for relaxation.

How to Get There: Koh Phangan is about a 1-hour ferry ride from Koh Tao.
What to Do: Join the Full Moon Party if your trip coincides with it. Or explore Haad Yuan and Haad Salad beaches for a quieter experience. For wellness enthusiasts, Koh Phangan is also known for its yoga and wellness retreats, especially in the north around Srithanu.
Where to Stay: During our time in Koh Phangan we stayed at Amara Beach Resort. It was a little out of the way, so best to stay here if you plan to rent a motorbike.

3. Khao Sok National Park

For a change of scenery from island life, Khao Sok National Park on the mainland offers an incredible escape into Thailand’s jungle-covered mountains and lakes.

The park is famous for its biodiversity, limestone karsts, and also Cheow Lan Lake. Where floating bungalows offer an unforgettable experience amidst pristine nature.

RELATED blog post to read: How to Book A Floating Bungalow in Khao Sok National Park

How to Get There: From Koh Tao, take a ferry to Surat Thani. And from there, travel by bus or private transfer to Khao Sok (about a 2-3 hour drive).
What to Do: Stay in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake, hike through the park’s lush trails, explore hidden caves, or also take a boat tour to see the iconic limestone cliffs. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking adventure.

Each of these destinations offers its unique attractions, ensuring your Thailand journey remains diverse and also memorable.

Whether you’re moving on to explore more islands or heading inland for a jungle escape, travelling onward from Koh Tao is easy and full of possibilities.

The Best Way to Get from Bangkok to Koh Tao

Travelling from Bangkok to Koh Tao is straightforward and offers options for every type of traveller.

Whether you’re budget-conscious or looking for a quick, comfortable route, you can choose between bus, train, and flight options to suit your needs.

Bangkok and Koh Tao are both beautiful destinations with their unique charms. And you’re also sure to find amazing experiences and memories in both places.

This blog post can also of course be used in the reverse. If you’re travelling from Koh Tao to Bangkok, you can also use all of the above travel options. Just in the reverse order.

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This blog post is about how to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao