Samui International Airport serves the resorts of Koh Samui, Thailand. The airport is located around 3 kilometres north of the main city on the island, Chaweng. The airport houses two terminals which cater to domestic and international air traffic. In addition to exploring the island of Koh Samui, visitors can fly into this airport when heading for the Full Moon Parties of Koh Phangan.
Although the airport is unlike others, and a fascinating place in which to spend time, the popular resorts of Bang Rak and Chaweng are just a few kilometres away. A short distance from Samui International Airport, visitors can explore the temple of Wat Phra Yai or Big Buddha. The 12-metre tall seated golden Buddha sits majestically on the island of Ko Phan, linked by a causeway. The temple is a wonderful place to explore Buddhism, take in a festival or enjoy exquisite architecture. From Big Buddha Pier in Bang Rak, ferries transport party-goers to the Full Moon Parties on the nearby island of Koh Phangan. Staying close to the airport on Koh Samui, Chaweng Beach is a popular resort for travellers of all ages. Beaches are filled with pristine white sand and vendors offer refreshments as Thai cuisine is cooked on barbeques. The main road of Chaweng offers an abundance of restaurants, bars, tailors and souvenir shops for tourists. It’s the hub of the resort with a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere, especially after dark. Those seeking an alternate adventure can travel a short distance to Bophut Beach. With the bustling Fisherman’s Village and long stretches of unspoilt beaches, it’s the ideal place to unwind.
The resorts of Koh Samui are easily accessible via private taxi, minivan or shared transfer. Car hire is available from the airport for travellers wishing to discover the island at their own pace. The resorts of Chaweng and Bophut Beach are less than a 15-minute drive, and the temple of Wat Phra Yai and Big Buddha Beach and Pier are less than 10 minutes away. Songthaew taxis operate throughout the island and are cheap and frequent. Many larger resort accommodations offer shuttle transfers to and from the airport.
Samui International is the seventh busiest airport in Thailand. Construction began in 1982 when the island first became known as a tourist destination. It officially opened in April 1989. The airport terminals have a unique open-air design with the interior housing ticket offices, VIP lounges and gift shops. The airport offers easy access to Koh Samui’s resorts and outlying islands from the nearby ferry terminal. With flights from Thailand’s mainland and far-flung destinations, it is set to grow even more in the future.