Bangkok Airways Round Up
- Samui International Airport serves as a convenient gateway to Koh Samui, offering easy access via domestic and selected international flights. The airport also provides onward connections to nearby islands in the Gulf of Thailand, including Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
- Samui International Airport is Thailand’s first privately owned airport and an award-winning gateway recognized across Asia. It stands out with its open-air, resort-style design that blends harmoniously with nature and reflects an environmentally friendly approach.
Experience the charm of Samui International Airport, seamlessly completing your relaxing journey. Bangkok Airways invites you to discover 7 unique highlights of Thailand’s first privately owned airport and award-winning gateway in Asia, loved by travelers from around the world.
The Vibrant Pulse of the Islands as One of Thailand’s Busiest Aviation Hubs
Samui International Airport covers an area of more than 500 rai and plays an important role as Thailand’s seventh-busiest airport by passenger traffic.
In 2025, the airport welcomed more than 3.02 million passengers across 33,823 flights, reflecting its significance as a key gateway to Koh Samui and nearby destinations in the Gulf of Thailand. The airport is also recognized for its operational excellence, having been ranked the world’s most punctual small airport in 2019, reflecting its commitment to high service standards and efficient management.
With travel demand to Koh Samui continuing to grow, the airport is expected to further expand its direct international connections, strengthening the island’s position as one of Thailand’s premier tourism destinations. Bangkok Airways continues to provide seamless connectivity through its extensive network, complemented by its distinctive boutique service.
7 Things to Explore at Samui International Airport
1. An Award-Winning Gateway to Asia
Samui International Airport stands out as an award-winning gateway to Koh Samui, recognized across Asia for its role in connecting travelers to the island and nearby destinations in the Gulf of Thailand, including Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Mu Koh Ang Thong. With its convenience, efficiency, and distinctive travel experience, the airport offers a seamless journey to some of Thailand’s most remarkable island destinations.
Samui International Airport’s excellence has been recognized at the regional level. At the Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia, Hong Kong & Macau Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, Samui International Airport was ranked No. 2 among the Best Airports in the Asia-Pacific region.
This achievement marks a continuation of its success from 2024, when Samui International Airport was ranked No. 4 in the Best Airports category at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024.
2. The History of Thailand’s First Private Airport
Samui International Airport is Thailand’s first privately owned airport, welcoming its first flight on April 25, 1989. It was also the first airport in Thailand to receive the Carbon Footprint certification from the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO), with certifications granted consecutively in 2016 and 2017.
3. Unique Open-Air Design and Tropical Vibe
Samui International Airport was designed under an open-air concept that seamlessly integrates with Koh Samui’s natural beauty. Surrounded by tropical landscapes, the terminal combines contemporary Thai architecture with Polynesian-inspired elements, set amid landscaped gardens and lush tropical greenery that reflect the island’s unique character.
The airport’s architectural excellence was recognized with the Outstanding Architecture Award from the Association of Siamese Architects in 1998, as well as the Green Airport Award from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) for four consecutive years from 2022 to 2025.
4. Plane Spotting Around Samui International Airport
With Samui International Airport’s distinctive open-air design and island atmosphere, aviation enthusiasts can enjoy views of aircraft taking off and landing from two popular spots free of charge.
- Khao Hua Jook Pagoda Viewpoint, Chaweng: Part of Wat Sawang Arom, located on Khao Hua Jook hill.
- Runway Head Viewpoint, Bang Rak: Situated near the end of the runway, close to the lane behind Khao Hom Restaurant.
5. Taste Local Kalamae: Samui’s Famous Traditional Sweet
One of the highlights available to passengers is Kalamae Koh Samui, a traditional Thai sweet celebrated for its smooth texture and delicate sweetness from authentic coconut sugar, enriched by the fragrant blend of coconut milk and glutinous rice flour.
Served at the Blue Ribbon Club Lounge at Samui International Airport, Kalamae Koh Samui offers passengers an authentic taste of the island’s culinary heritage.
6. Shopping and Dining at Samui Park Avenue
Samui International Airport also features a lifestyle area known as Samui Park Avenue, located between the departure and arrival terminals. The shopping area brings together more than 20 shops, including retail outlets, restaurants, cafés, spa and massage services, and a pharmacy, providing passengers with a seamless travel experience.
7. Relaxing Airport Spa and Massage Services
For passengers looking to relax before their flight, Samui International Airport offers massage services at Oriental Massage, including Thai massage, foot massage, and oil massage provided by professional massage therapists.
Open Hours: Daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Q&A About Samui International Airport
Can Economy Class passengers access the lounges at Samui International Airport for free?
No. Complimentary access to the Blue Ribbon Lounge at Samui International Airport is reserved for Business Class passengers and eligible members or cardholders. However, Economy Class passengers can still enjoy complimentary light refreshments at the Courtesy Corner.
Does Samui International Airport have any souvenir shops?
Yes. Samui International Airport has several souvenir shops, mainly located at Samui Park Avenue, where travelers can find gifts, local products, dining options, and the Jim Thompson Thai silk boutique.
Can I buy a local SIM card at the airport?
Yes. Local SIM cards are available for purchase at Samui International Airport, mainly in the arrival hall. Major service providers include True and AIS.
How do I get from the airport to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao?
From Samui International Airport, you can travel to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao by taking a road transfer to the pier, followed by a ferry. Ferries to Koh Phangan take approximately 30 minutes from Pralarn Pier or around 45 minutes from Bang Rak Pier. For Koh Tao, the ferry from Pralarn Pier takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Arrive at Samui International Airport and Step Into Tropical Beauty
- Koh Samui Travel Guide: Things to Do & Must-See Attractions
- Koh Samui Nightlife Guide: Best Bars, Clubs, and Beach Parties
- Best Beaches in Koh Samui: A Tropical Paradise Awaits
- Top Snorkeling and Diving in Koh Samui: Best Spots & Tips
- Top Things to Do Around Lamai Beach, Koh Samui
- Overlap Stone 1 & 2: Samui’s Million-Dollar Viewpoints
- Silver Beach Koh Samui: A Seaside Paradise for Ultimate Relaxation
- Chaweng Beach: Experience the Best of Your Koh Samui Adventure
- Wat Phra Yai, Koh Samui: The Iconic Big Buddha Temple of Thailand
- Fisherman’s Village & Bo Phut Beach: The Essential Guide
- Ang Thong National Marine Park: A Must-Visit Near Koh Samui
From the Charm of Samui International Airport to an Island Paradise, Fly with Bangkok Airways
Discover Samui International Airport, a charming gateway filled with warmth, relaxation, and a unique atmosphere loved by travelers. Begin your journey to this island paradise with full-service flights that offer exceptional comfort, convenience, and a truly memorable travel experience.
Bangkok Airways: Experience Unparalleled Comfort and Convenience.
Embark on seamless travel adventures with Bangkok Airways’ extensive network of flights connecting you to Singapore, Laos, Cambodia, and Hong Kong. Additionally, enjoy our domestic flights to Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Koh Samui, Sukhothai, and Trat.
- Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat on your flight to ensure a comfortable journey.
- Baggage Allowance Included: Enjoy up to 20 kg of checked baggage, allowing you to bring along your essentials without worry.
- In-flight Meals: Savor delicious and satisfying meals on board, tailored to your taste preferences.
- Airport Lounge Access: Relax and unwind in our exclusive airport lounges before your flight.
