Koh Samui To Hat Yai Transportation

[nima]

Me and my cousin are going to Koh Samui for 3 nights for the first time and we'll head out to Hat Yai for 2 days.

I wonder what options do we have from Koh Samui to Har Yai?

Thanks.

[PoorSucker]

Minibus.

Goes via Suratthani where you might end up waiting for several hours.

Train, goes from PhunPin outside Suratthani.

You might to have to spend the night there.

Big VIP bus, 24 seats.

The transport company (999) or Sombat tours.

Goes direct.

Recommended.

If you go to a travel agency you will end up in the minibus hell as they gets commission.

Go directly to Transport company or Sombat to order tickets.

[PoorSucker]

Moved to the Samui forum.

[Samuimike1]

Company Phantip is OK. Office in Nathon Tel. 077421221-2

[PoorSucker]

Company Phantip is OK. Office in Nathon Tel. 077421221-2

Are they going direct to Hatyai now?

Seven years ago I went with them, got dropped off in Suratthani.

Had to wait 2 hours before they filled up a minibus to HatYai.

14 people in a 12 seater.

[nima]

Minibus.

Goes via Suratthani where you might end up waiting for several hours.

Train, goes from PhunPin outside Suratthani.

You might to have to spend the night there.

Big VIP bus, 24 seats.

The transport company (999) or Sombat tours.

Goes direct.

Recommended.

If you go to a travel agency you will end up in the minibus hell as they gets commission.

Go directly to Transport company or Sombat to order tickets.

Great info, thanks. I already tried a travel agency which did exactly as you just mentioned.

VIP buses seem to be fine, do they have restroom as well? Any reports regarding stealing that you've heard? I'm asking because I've heard many times someone may check the baggage to see if there are valuable items to steal, that worries me a bit, because I have a guest with me.

Where is the Transport company located to order the tickets?

Thanks again.

[robsamui]

Minibus.

Goes via Suratthani where you might end up waiting for several hours.

Train, goes from PhunPin outside Suratthani.

You might to have to spend the night there.

Big VIP bus, 24 seats.

The transport company (999) or Sombat tours.

Goes direct.

Recommended.

If you go to a travel agency you will end up in the minibus hell as they gets commission.

Go directly to Transport company or Sombat to order tickets.

Great info, thanks. I already tried a travel agency which did exactly as you just mentioned.

VIP buses seem to be fine, do they have restroom as well? Any reports regarding stealing that you've heard? I'm asking because I've heard many times someone may check the baggage to see if there are valuable items to steal, that worries me a bit, because I have a guest with me.

Where is the Transport company located to order the tickets?

Thanks again.

Phantip Travel is in Nathon, almost next to Asia Travel. It's on the RH side, after the ferry parking/waiting area before the police station and more or less just after the beginning of the buildings that mark the edge of Nathon. You can either book your VIP big bus seats in advance there, or simply turn up on the morning,Thai Style, and buy your ticket at the desk by the bus.

The bus is parked waiting on the sea road by the OLD ferry pier - across the road from Chakaoh restaurant. You have a choice of 2 buses - one that leaves at 7.30 am, (catching the 8.00 ferry) getting to Hat Yai at 3.30 (recommended) and the other at 11.30 am. The earlier one allows you time to get to the bus station, find a tuc-tuc and get settled into a hotel before about 5:00 pm.

Panthip is reputable and established and in all the years I've been going to Had Yai with them I've never heard of any cheating or stealing. They seem to have the same set of crews working for them permanently. Unless it's a big holiday there's really no need to book, as coaches usually leave half full, picking up people along the way. Plenty of legroom and a toilet on board (but there's not a room that you can have a rest in) - but there's two stops along the way; one for 20 minutes to eat and another toilet break for 5 mins also.

Sit on the LH side both coming and going, as that's away from the sun. Take care coming back, as there is a Phantip run from Hat Yai bus station leaving at 8:00 am BUT it is sometimes a Thai-sized mini van - you'll need to check. (Another VIP big bus at 10:30.) Do NOT buy tickets for this (or any other bus) from any of the agents and shops outside the bus station as they will load another 100 baht on top (Cost should be 480 baht or less, including ferry.) Simply go into the bus station and when any of the people inside ask you where you are going tell them Samui and they'll guide you to the right ticket window. It's best to buy your return ticket while you are coming inwards, as you're already there on the spot. (But check the date stamped on it - the woman is half asleep most of the time and fully asleep for half of the time, and twice now with me she's used today's date on a ticked meant for three days time.)

I'd advise staying in the centre near Lee Garden Plaza, as that's where the night market , restaurants, and all the big shops are (Central Department store, etc). Most of the street stalls here close early - some are already shutting at 6:00 pm - which is why it's better to get the earlier bus from Samui. Hotels are not expensive and you'll probably pay 600 - 800 baht for a really nice room with air, mini bar and TV. (I always stay at the Pink Lady Hotel (650 baht) which is right next to Lee Garden Plaza. There is a 'most curious' lower three floors, but the four floors above them are all high quality rooms. Try to avoid weekends, as there are a lot of Malaysians in Had Yai for fun fun fun, hotels have less vacancies and it's a lot noisier altogether.)

Good luck!

R

Edited January 20, 2013 by robsamui

[PoorSucker]

Great info, thanks. I already tried a travel agency which did exactly as you just mentioned.

VIP buses seem to be fine, do they have restroom as well? Any reports regarding stealing that you've heard? I'm asking because I've heard many times someone may check the baggage to see if there are valuable items to steal, that worries me a bit, because I have a guest with me.

Where is the Transport company located to order the tickets?

Thanks again.

When you go with the transport company there's no risk at the frisk your luggage.

You will probably be the only falang on the bus.

If you end up in a bus with 99% falang then you know you are on a scam ride.

Transport company has offices in Chaweng, Lamai and Nathon.

The one in Chaweng that I use is located almost across the street from the PTT station on the ring-road.

The VIP buses have toilets and 3 seats per row.

[samuijimmy]

Actually avoid Surrathannii city all together.... you head about 70 kms west doing that

Head down to Nakon Si Tammerat first which is 95 kms south on the way... There are buses from Donsak... you just have to ask! (or ask at Nathon)

It's been a few years since I done the bus south, but you need to change bus stations there (small motor bike taxi ride or walk less than a kilometer or so) ... there is a public bus that trundles down the east coast... It's not a bad trip... Generally only locals, which is not a problem!

But you need to have a Thai with you, to ask, or have instructions you want the public bus written in Thai... otherwise you end up on one those awful mini buses

[robsamui]

Actually avoid Surrathannii city all together.... you head about 70 kms west doing that

Head down to Nakon Si Tammerat first which is 95 kms south on the way... There are buses from Donsak... you just have to ask! (or ask at Nathon)

It's been a few years since I done the bus south, but you need to change bus stations there (small motor bike taxi ride or walk less than a kilometer or so) ... there is a public bus that trundles down the east coast... It's not a bad trip... Generally only locals, which is not a problem!

But you need to have a Thai with you, to ask, or have instructions you want the public bus written in Thai... otherwise you end up on one those awful mini buses

Jim what are you on about - Samui to Had Yai!

No getting a bus at Donsak, No visit to Surat, no mini bus or motorbike taxis or changing anything!

One VIP bus right to Had Yai, calling in at Nakhorn Sri for a few minutes en route.

Was this an early morning contribution?

R

[samuijimmy]

Actually avoid Surrathannii city all together.... you head about 70 kms west doing that

Head down to Nakon Si Tammerat first which is 95 kms south on the way... There are buses from Donsak... you just have to ask! (or ask at Nathon)

It's been a few years since I done the bus south, but you need to change bus stations there (small motor bike taxi ride or walk less than a kilometer or so) ... there is a public bus that trundles down the east coast... It's not a bad trip... Generally only locals, which is not a problem!

But you need to have a Thai with you, to ask, or have instructions you want the public bus written in Thai... otherwise you end up on one those awful mini buses

Jim what are you on about - Samui to Had Yai!

No getting a bus at Donsak, No visit to Surat, no mini bus or motorbike taxis or changing anything!

One VIP bus right to Had Yai, calling in at Nakhorn Sri for a few minutes en route.

Was this an early morning contribution?

R

It was suggested the OP go to Surratthannii which is in the wrong direction..., I guess was more my point... PS's suggestion... oh these mods!

Yes there are probably several buses that will take you to Hat Yai.... just avoid the mini buses... unless wanting a ride to hell...

The public bus (not sure if 999 ) there is a change in NST.... I never found that change over to another bus a problem.... and you can get on a bus in Donsak,... you just ask the driver! Been there, done that too

I now just take my motorbike, saves a lot of frigging around, lots of nice places to stop on the way, if you want!!!

[PoorSucker]

The public bus (not sure if 999 ) there is a change in NST.... I never found that change over to another bus a problem.... and you can get on a bus in Donsak,... you just ask the

Correct the Transport Companies buses are marked 999.

[nima]

Minibus.

Goes via Suratthani where you might end up waiting for several hours.

Train, goes from PhunPin outside Suratthani.

You might to have to spend the night there.

Big VIP bus, 24 seats.

The transport company (999) or Sombat tours.

Goes direct.

Recommended.

If you go to a travel agency you will end up in the minibus hell as they gets commission.

Go directly to Transport company or Sombat to order tickets.

Great info, thanks. I already tried a travel agency which did exactly as you just mentioned.

VIP buses seem to be fine, do they have restroom as well? Any reports regarding stealing that you've heard? I'm asking because I've heard many times someone may check the baggage to see if there are valuable items to steal, that worries me a bit, because I have a guest with me.

Where is the Transport company located to order the tickets?

Thanks again.

Phantip Travel is in Nathon, almost next to Asia Travel. It's on the RH side, after the ferry parking/waiting area before the police station and more or less just after the beginning of the buildings that mark the edge of Nathon. You can either book your VIP big bus seats in advance there, or simply turn up on the morning,Thai Style, and buy your ticket at the desk by the bus.

The bus is parked waiting on the sea road by the OLD ferry pier - across the road from Chakaoh restaurant. You have a choice of 2 buses - one that leaves at 7.30 am, (catching the 8.00 ferry) getting to Hat Yai at 3.30 (recommended) and the other at 11.30 am. The earlier one allows you time to get to the bus station, find a tuc-tuc and get settled into a hotel before about 5:00 pm.

Panthip is reputable and established and in all the years I've been going to Had Yai with them I've never heard of any cheating or stealing. They seem to have the same set of crews working for them permanently. Unless it's a big holiday there's really no need to book, as coaches usually leave half full, picking up people along the way. Plenty of legroom and a toilet on board (but there's not a room that you can have a rest in) - but there's two stops along the way; one for 20 minutes to eat and another toilet break for 5 mins also.

Sit on the LH side both coming and going, as that's away from the sun. Take care coming back, as there is a Phantip run from Hat Yai bus station leaving at 8:00 am BUT it is sometimes a Thai-sized mini van - you'll need to check. (Another VIP big bus at 10:30.) Do NOT buy tickets for this (or any other bus) from any of the agents and shops outside the bus station as they will load another 100 baht on top (Cost should be 480 baht or less, including ferry.) Simply go into the bus station and when any of the people inside ask you where you are going tell them Samui and they'll guide you to the right ticket window. It's best to buy your return ticket while you are coming inwards, as you're already there on the spot. (But check the date stamped on it - the woman is half asleep most of the time and fully asleep for half of the time, and twice now with me she's used today's date on a ticked meant for three days time.)

I'd advise staying in the centre near Lee Garden Plaza, as that's where the night market , restaurants, and all the big shops are (Central Department store, etc). Most of the street stalls here close early - some are already shutting at 6:00 pm - which is why it's better to get the earlier bus from Samui. Hotels are not expensive and you'll probably pay 600 - 800 baht for a really nice room with air, mini bar and TV. (I always stay at the Pink Lady Hotel (650 baht) which is right next to Lee Garden Plaza. There is a 'most curious' lower three floors, but the four floors above them are all high quality rooms. Try to avoid weekends, as there are a lot of Malaysians in Had Yai for fun fun fun, hotels have less vacancies and it's a lot noisier altogether.)

Good luck!

R

Thank you for taking the time to go into all the details and recommendations, it helped a lot. Also good advice on getting there earlier.

We're going to Malaysia from Hat Yai by train, so I will need to just buy one-way tickets to Hat Yai. I was planning to buy the tickets from here, in Bangkok, but it seems I'm better off buy them from Koh Samui.

The departure date is on Feb 8th, and the holiday for Chinese Lunar New Year's Day is on Feb 10th. I will buy the tickets once I get to Samui on Feb 5th, do you think if it's likely that the buses may be full 5 days in advance?

Many thanks.

[nima]

Great info, thanks. I already tried a travel agency which did exactly as you just mentioned.

VIP buses seem to be fine, do they have restroom as well? Any reports regarding stealing that you've heard? I'm asking because I've heard many times someone may check the baggage to see if there are valuable items to steal, that worries me a bit, because I have a guest with me.

Where is the Transport company located to order the tickets?

Thanks again.

When you go with the transport company there's no risk at the frisk your luggage.

You will probably be the only falang on the bus.

If you end up in a bus with 99% falang then you know you are on a scam ride.

Transport company has offices in Chaweng, Lamai and Nathon.

The one in Chaweng that I use is located almost across the street from the PTT station on the ring-road.

The VIP buses have toilets and 3 seats per row.

Thanks a lot! Good point, in buses full of local people the chances of scamming and stealing are very low.

Edited January 22, 2013 by nima

[longtom]

Great info, thanks. I already tried a travel agency which did exactly as you just mentioned.

VIP buses seem to be fine, do they have restroom as well? Any reports regarding stealing that you've heard? I'm asking because I've heard many times someone may check the baggage to see if there are valuable items to steal, that worries me a bit, because I have a guest with me.

Where is the Transport company located to order the tickets?

Thanks again.

When you go with the transport company there's no risk at the frisk your luggage.

You will probably be the only falang on the bus.

If you end up in a bus with 99% falang then you know you are on a scam ride.

Transport company has offices in Chaweng, Lamai and Nathon.

The one in Chaweng that I use is located almost across the street from the PTT station on the ring-road.

The VIP buses have toilets and 3 seats per row.

Thanks a lot! Good point, in buses full of local people the chances of scamming and stealing are very low.

Never heard about stealing in Transport company buses. On the other hand, I never was the only Farang on these rides, so don't be bothered if 20-30% of the travellers are not Thai. Still OK.

[robsamui]

Minibus.

Goes via Suratthani where you might end up waiting for several hours.

Train, goes from PhunPin outside Suratthani.

You might to have to spend the night there.

Big VIP bus, 24 seats.

The transport company (999) or Sombat tours.

Goes direct.

Recommended.

If you go to a travel agency you will end up in the minibus hell as they gets commission.

Go directly to Transport company or Sombat to order tickets.

Great info, thanks. I already tried a travel agency which did exactly as you just mentioned.

VIP buses seem to be fine, do they have restroom as well? Any reports regarding stealing that you've heard? I'm asking because I've heard many times someone may check the baggage to see if there are valuable items to steal, that worries me a bit, because I have a guest with me.

Where is the Transport company located to order the tickets?

Thanks again.

Phantip Travel is in Nathon, almost next to Asia Travel. It's on the RH side, after the ferry parking/waiting area before the police station and more or less just after the beginning of the buildings that mark the edge of Nathon. You can either book your VIP big bus seats in advance there, or simply turn up on the morning,Thai Style, and buy your ticket at the desk by the bus.

The bus is parked waiting on the sea road by the OLD ferry pier - across the road from Chakaoh restaurant. You have a choice of 2 buses - one that leaves at 7.30 am, (catching the 8.00 ferry) getting to Hat Yai at 3.30 (recommended) and the other at 11.30 am. The earlier one allows you time to get to the bus station, find a tuc-tuc and get settled into a hotel before about 5:00 pm.

Panthip is reputable and established and in all the years I've been going to Had Yai with them I've never heard of any cheating or stealing. They seem to have the same set of crews working for them permanently. Unless it's a big holiday there's really no need to book, as coaches usually leave half full, picking up people along the way. Plenty of legroom and a toilet on board (but there's not a room that you can have a rest in) - but there's two stops along the way; one for 20 minutes to eat and another toilet break for 5 mins also.

Sit on the LH side both coming and going, as that's away from the sun. Take care coming back, as there is a Phantip run from Hat Yai bus station leaving at 8:00 am BUT it is sometimes a Thai-sized mini van - you'll need to check. (Another VIP big bus at 10:30.) Do NOT buy tickets for this (or any other bus) from any of the agents and shops outside the bus station as they will load another 100 baht on top (Cost should be 480 baht or less, including ferry.) Simply go into the bus station and when any of the people inside ask you where you are going tell them Samui and they'll guide you to the right ticket window. It's best to buy your return ticket while you are coming inwards, as you're already there on the spot. (But check the date stamped on it - the woman is half asleep most of the time and fully asleep for half of the time, and twice now with me she's used today's date on a ticked meant for three days time.)

I'd advise staying in the centre near Lee Garden Plaza, as that's where the night market , restaurants, and all the big shops are (Central Department store, etc). Most of the street stalls here close early - some are already shutting at 6:00 pm - which is why it's better to get the earlier bus from Samui. Hotels are not expensive and you'll probably pay 600 - 800 baht for a really nice room with air, mini bar and TV. (I always stay at the Pink Lady Hotel (650 baht) which is right next to Lee Garden Plaza. There is a 'most curious' lower three floors, but the four floors above them are all high quality rooms. Try to avoid weekends, as there are a lot of Malaysians in Had Yai for fun fun fun, hotels have less vacancies and it's a lot noisier altogether.)

Good luck!

R

Thank you for taking the time to go into all the details and recommendations, it helped a lot. Also good advice on getting there earlier.

We're going to Malaysia from Hat Yai by train, so I will need to just buy one-way tickets to Hat Yai. I was planning to buy the tickets from here, in Bangkok, but it seems I'm better off buy them from Koh Samui.

The departure date is on Feb 8th, and the holiday for Chinese Lunar New Year's Day is on Feb 10th. I will buy the tickets once I get to Samui on Feb 5th, do you think if it's likely that the buses may be full 5 days in advance?

Many thanks.

Double tricky, as the Chinese NY lasts for around 10 days and there will be people on the move on either side of the two main days of 10th and 11th. Friday 8th will be lunatic with public transport packed. Try to book as soon as you get here!

The other thing is that every hotel in Had Yai will be full - HUGE Chinese community and festivities there. Imperative you book right now!

Can't think of a worse time of year to be traveling! The very best of luck to you!

R

[robsamui]

Actually avoid Surrathannii city all together.... you head about 70 kms west doing that

Head down to Nakon Si Tammerat first which is 95 kms south on the way... There are buses from Donsak... you just have to ask! (or ask at Nathon)

It's been a few years since I done the bus south, but you need to change bus stations there (small motor bike taxi ride or walk less than a kilometer or so) ... there is a public bus that trundles down the east coast... It's not a bad trip... Generally only locals, which is not a problem!

But you need to have a Thai with you, to ask, or have instructions you want the public bus written in Thai... otherwise you end up on one those awful mini buses

Jim what are you on about - Samui to Had Yai!

No getting a bus at Donsak, No visit to Surat, no mini bus or motorbike taxis or changing anything!

One VIP bus right to Had Yai, calling in at Nakhorn Sri for a few minutes en route.

Was this an early morning contribution?

R

It was suggested the OP go to Surratthannii which is in the wrong direction..., I guess was more my point... PS's suggestion... oh these mods!

Yes there are probably several buses that will take you to Hat Yai.... just avoid the mini buses... unless wanting a ride to hell...

The public bus (not sure if 999 ) there is a change in NST.... I never found that change over to another bus a problem.... and you can get on a bus in Donsak,... you just ask the driver! Been there, done that too

I now just take my motorbike, saves a lot of frigging around, lots of nice places to stop on the way, if you want!!!

Or simply take the big Phantip bus direct from Nathon to Had Yai - saves a lot of frigging about!!!

R

[samuijimmy]

Just don't use this bus!