Samui Guide
Getting around Ko Samui
A songthaew — a converted pickup with benches — is the cheapest way to travel along the main ring road, and you flag one down and pay when you get off. Taxis exist but rarely use the meter, so agree the fare first. Grab works on the island. Scooters are everywhere and are also how most visitors get hurt; hire a car if you are not an experienced rider. The ring road loops the whole island in about an hour and a half.
One road loops the island. Once you understand that, Samui is simple.
Songthaews are the red pickups with benches in the back. Flag one down, say where you are going, pay when you get off. Cheap, frequent in daylight, rarer after dark.
Taxis are plentiful and the meter is largely decorative. Agree the price before you get in and it is a perfectly pleasant way to travel.
Grab works, and takes the negotiation out of it.
Scooters. Half the visitors on Samui rent one and a depressing number end up at the hospital on Chaweng Beach Road. If you have never ridden one, this is not the place to learn. You need an international licence with a motorcycle endorsement, or your travel insurance will not pay.
Car hire is the sensible option for a family, and the ring road is easy.
We can arrange any of it at reception, including a driver for the day.
Quick answers
How much is a songthaew on Ko Samui?
Typically 50–100 baht for a short hop along the ring road, more at night. Agree it before you get in.
Should I rent a scooter on Ko Samui?
Only if you are an experienced rider with the right licence and insurance. Scooter accidents are the most common injury among visitors.
Does Grab work on Ko Samui?
Yes.
Last checked 28 August 2026.
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