Suratthani to Koh Tao

About the ride from Suratthani to Koh Tao

For many travelers, Suratthani, alo known as Surat Thani, is a gateway to some of Thailand’s greatest islands. Koh Tao is perhaps the best of them. Thailand’s greatest diving destination, Koh Tao is famed for its tropical climate, colorful coral reefs and native wildlife. From turtles to coral to some of Thailand’s best seafood, Koh Tao has it all.

Though you should spend some time in the under-explored and under-appreciated mainland haven of Suratthani, the big attraction in this region is undoubtedly the excitement and adventure of Koh Tao.

With great beaches, fantastic viewpoints and non-stop nightlife, Koh Tao has something for everyone. 

If you’re making the trip to Koh Tao from Suratthani, you have three main options:

• Combined ferry and bus trip from Suratthani Airport to Koh Tao. If you’ve just landed in Suratthani and you’re keen to explore Koh Tao without spending any time in Suratthani, this is the option for you. This journey from Suratthani to Koh Tao typically takes from 6-8 hours.
• Combined ferry and bus trip from the centre of Suratthani to Koh Tao. There are several options for departure points from central Suratthani - various hotels, Suratthani train station and Suratthani bus station. This can be a good option both for those who’ve been exploring Suratthani, and those who’ve just arrived in Suratthani. These journeys typically take around 6-7 hours.
• Ferry from Suratthani to Koh Tao. A simple pier-to-pier journey which takes around 4.5 hours. This is a good option for travelers who’ve already spent time in Suratthani and are now ready to make their way to Koh Tao.

Whichever journey you choose, Koh Tao is an exciting and engaging destination, full of interesting adventures and you’ll be treated to lots of great views along the way.

 

What to see when traveling from Suratthani to Koh Tao

If you choose a combined bus and ferry journey from Suratthani to Koh Tao, the first stretch of your route will carry you through the mesmerising streets of Suratthani, with its roadside seafood restaurants, laid-back charm and friendly locals.

From here, you’ll reach Suratthani Pier (or you’ll perhaps start your journey at Suratthani Pier, if you’ve chosen a simple ferry trip from Suratthani to Koh Tao!). Suratthani Pier is busy and bustling, full of small boats, bigger ferries and the hustle and bustle of coastal life.

After departing from Suratthani Pier, you’ll begin experiencing the best stretch of the journey, as you glide along the sumptuous sea separating Koh Tao from Suratthani. Occasionally, you’ll pass other boats, from imposing ferries to small local fishing vessels. At other points, you’ll be the only boat in sight, surrounded only by the deep blue of Thailand’s inviting ocean.

You’ll also be treated to views of distant shores, local wildlife and the approaching sands of exciting Koh Tao. As you pull into Koh Tao’s pier, you’ll be greeted by one of Thailand’s most friendly, welcoming destinations.

 

How to get from Suratthani to Koh Tao

Taking a ferry 

The ferry ride from Suratthani to Koh Tao is a simple journey, perfect for those who have already spent some time in Suratthani and want to start their journey to Koh Tao from Suratthani Pier.

The journey is basic but very comfortable. The ferry from Suratthani to Koh Tao has AC, onboard toilets and comfortable seats.  You can enjoy the excellent views of the Gulf of Thailand, and its surrounding shores, both from your seat and from the boat’s observation decks.

Taking a combined bus and ferry

If you take a combined bus and ferry from Suratthani to Koh Tao, you experience the same ferry journey described above.

But before this ferry journey, you will spend some time on a bus, which can depart from one of the following four places: Suratthani train station, Suratthani centre, Suratthani Airport or Suratthani bus station, leaving you lots of options depending on your plans.

The bus journeys aren’t as beautiful or enjoyable as the ferry ride, but they’re a great insight into the laid-back life of chilled-out Suratthani. 

Though all ferries have onboard toilets, buses very rarely do.