From Bangkok to Koh Samui
The Best Ways to Get There -

Koh Samui's palm-fringed beaches and lush rainforests attract millions of tourists every year. No other island represents everything Thailand has to offer better than this one–from sandy resorts to massive golden wats (temples) to plenty of water sports, Koh Samui is the ultimate tropical destination.

While most visitors arrive in Koh Samui to enjoy the white-sand beaches, the islands are also home to vibrant coral reefs, the Ang Thong National Marine Park, and some of the best scuba diving in Asia. There's also the 12-meter-high Big Buddha; the stunning Na Muang Waterfalls; a sculpture-filled Secret Buddha garden; and plenty of colorful, ornate temples spread throughout the island.

1. Take a Flight

Flying to Koh Samui is not only faster, but it's also the only way to land directly on the island without changing transportation along the way. Up until a few years ago, Bangkok Air was the only airline that flew directly to the island, making flights inconvenient and expensive. For the past couple of years, however, a number of other airlines (including Thai AIr) also offer daily flights. 

You can lower your cost by flying from Bangkok to Surat Thani instead, then catching a ferry to Koh Samui. Budgets airlines such as Air Asia and Nok Air fly to Surat Thani for much less than any flight you'll find that goes directly to Koh Samui. Taking the ferry will add about two hours of travel time to your journey, more if there's a long waiting time between your flight's arrival and the next ferry. On the positive side, the ferry offers great views of the islands and the emerald waters.