Passing through Samui Airport? A layover in Ko Samui is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Before You Step Outside USM
A few things to sort out before you leave USM:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Thailand. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Ko Samui takes about 60 minutes by Taxi / Shared Minivan. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is THB. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Exploring Ko Samui on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Ko Samui, two standouts are:
- City Center Walk — Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
- Local Market — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at USM, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Getting from USM to Ko Samui
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Shared Minivan | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Shared Minivan is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food & Dining Options
In Ko Samui
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside USM
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
What to Budget for Your Ko Samui Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Ko Samui might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$7 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$22 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ko Samui, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at USM, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Ko Samui itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Thailand that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
What to Do With Your Bags
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At USM, you’ll find bag storage at Not readily available for public; inquire with airlines for special cases..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Taking a Break at USM
Long overnight layover? Your options at USM include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Thailand also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ko Samui with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Ko Samui may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.