For most tourists and those living in Thailand, knowing where our wonderful island is or how to get to Koh Phayam can be one of the biggest challenges. Naturally, the first objective is to get to Ranong Province. It is possible to fly to Ranong directly from Bangkok, although the flights are only run by one operator, so often people fly to another location such as Phuket or Surat Thani and take a short break and then a minivan from there. Fortunately, Ranong, the same-named capital of the province, is easily accessible by bus from across the Kingdom.
How to get to Koh Phayam from Bangkok
There are four ways that you can get to Koh Phayam from Bangkok, which are by plane, train, bus or to drive. Flying is the recommended option with flights currently operated by Nok Air from Don Mueang direct to Ranong. Alternatively, you could fly to Surat Thani as more flights are available, but the transfer time to Ranong is around three hours by minivan.
The second option of travelling by train is the most scenic and cheapest option. To get here, you need to get the Surat Thani train from Hua Lamphong station or at Bang Sue Junction in Bangkok and disembark at Lang Suan. The journey should take around seven hours, although this can vary and then from the station, you would need to get a taxi to Ranong.
The final option is by bus with Bangkok Tara Travel operating a daily bus service direct to Ranong. It is convenient for those concerned about transfers although it takes in the region of 14 hours.
Whichever means of travel you select, you will then need to get from Ranong to Koh Phayam.
How to get to Koh Phayam from Ranong
The bus station and the airport are situated on the outskirts of the main city, and Ranong Pier is approximately 15-30 minutes. A songthaew service frequently runs from the bus station and is an inexpensive way of getting to the pier. From the airport, it is best to get an airport taxi directly to the pier with the prices fixed and non-negotiable. If you are brave, don’t have much luggage, and want to save time and money, you could get a motorbike taxi, although this is not something that we would recommend!
Once you arrive at Ranong Pier, you have two options for getting to the island. The first is by taking the larger ferry, often referred to as the slow boat, with two crossings at 9.30 am and 2.00 pm. The journey takes approximately two hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions and is the cheaper option. It is a relaxing trip, although you may wish to bring something soft to sit on as well as applying plenty of sun cream if you sit on the outer sides of the boat.
The second option and the one that is often preferred if you have been travelling all day is to take a speedboat. The speedboats leave once they are full, with crossings starting around 8.00 am. The journey time is reduced to a much more comfortable 40 minutes. It is worth noting that speedboats only operate during the high season, typically running between November and early May.
Once you have reached the Pier in Koh Phayam, it is possible to get a taxi to our bungalows where a team member will be waiting for you.