Koh Samui Airport

Welcome to Samui Airport (USM) — a gateway that is an attraction in itself. It is one of the most unusual and beautiful airports in the world, designed with a unique open-air concept. Instead of the usual enclosed terminals, you will be greeted by open-air pavilions immersed in the greenery of tropical gardens, instantly immersing you in the atmosphere of a paradise island. The airport is owned by Bangkok Airways and is famous for its "boutique" approach, offering passengers a high level of comfort and unforgettable first impressions of Koh Samui.

One of the main features of Samui Airport is its architecture. The complex consists of two terminals — domestic and international — which resemble elegant pavilions rather than standard buildings. This creates the feeling of being in a tropical park. Instead of buses, passengers are transported to the aircraft on charming open-air trams, adding uniqueness to the journey. For the convenience of travellers, there are shops, restaurants in the Samui Park Avenue zone, and even complimentary snacks and beverages in the waiting lounges, highlighting the hospitality of this air hub.

Below is the main contact information for Samui Airport that travellers may need. We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: www.samuiairport.com
• Help Desk Phone: +66 (0) 7742 8500
• Address: 99, Moo 4, Bo Phut, Ko Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
• Email: info@samuiairport.com (using the contact forms on the website is recommended for a prompt response)
• Social Media: Official airport pages, if active, are usually listed on their website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For inquiries regarding lost or damaged luggage, you must first contact your airline's representative at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and assistance at the airport, you can contact the main help desk number.

Samui Airport (USM) is conveniently located in the northeastern part of Koh Samui island, in close proximity to popular tourist areas such as Chaweng and Bophut. You can reach the terminal from any point on the island in several ways, each with its own features and cost.

Group Transfers and Minivans. The island does not have a traditional public transport system like city buses or a metro. Their function is performed by shared minivans. This is one of the most economical options. You can book a seat in such a minivan at any street travel agency or directly at your hotel reception. The cost of the trip depends on the distance from your beach and usually ranges from 150 to 300 Thai Baht per person. Please note that the minivan will stop to pick up other passengers, so travel time may increase.

Taxi and Private Transfer. A taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the airport. You can use the services of private taxi drivers (be sure to negotiate the price before the trip begins) or book a car via the Grab app. For convenience and to guarantee a fair price, many hotels offer transfers at a fixed rate. A trip from Chaweng Beach will take approximately 10–15 minutes and cost 300–400 Baht, while from the more distant Lamai, it will take about 25–30 minutes for 500–600 Baht.

Car Rental and Parking. If you have rented a car for your stay in Thailand, getting to the airport on your own will not be difficult. The island has a good ring road, and signs to the airport are clear and highly visible. Samui Airport has paid parking where you can leave your car for a short time to drop off passengers or for several days. Most rental companies have offices at the airport, allowing you to return the car right before your flight.

When planning your route, always allow extra travel time, especially if you are travelling during peak hours or high season. Although flying into Samui Airport is the most direct route to the island, some travellers fly into Surat Thani Airport (URT) to save money and then travel to Koh Samui by ferry, which takes significantly more time.

Samui Airport (USM) differs radically from most conventional airports. Its main feature is the open-air, "boutique" concept, resembling a tropical resort rather than a transport hub. There are no massive concrete buildings here; instead, there are elegant pavilions with thatched roofs, surrounded by lush gardens and flower beds.

In fact, the airport consists of two main terminals: Domestic and International. They are located in separate but adjacent pavilion buildings. Moving between them takes just a few minutes on foot along well-maintained paths, so there is no need to worry about complicated transfers or shuttles. The airport layout is extremely simple and intuitive, with clear signs in English and Thai everywhere.

Arrival and departure zones for each destination (domestic and international) are clearly separated. Upon arrival, passengers are met by colourful open-air trams that transport them from the aircraft to the baggage claim area — which is also partially open-air. Departure zones include check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control (for international flights), after which passengers enter cosy waiting lounges with shops and cafes.

A distinct feature of Samui Airport is its atmosphere. Instead of standard waiting halls, comfortable lounge areas are set up here with complimentary snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi in the so-called Courtesy Corner, accessible to all passengers. The shopping area, known as Samui Park Avenue, is a charming street with boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants.

Check-in and security procedures at Samui Airport usually take place significantly faster than in major hubs, thanks to its compact size and good organisation. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one, especially during high season. Navigating here is very easy — simply follow the signs and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this extraordinary place.

The history of Samui Airport (USM) is inextricably linked with the development of tourism on the island of Koh Samui. The construction of the airport was initiated and fully funded by Bangkok Airways. Work began in 1982, and seven years later, in April 1989, the airport officially opened. Its appearance was a real breakthrough, turning a secluded island, popular mainly among backpackers, into one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Thailand.

From the very beginning, the airport stood out for its unique concept. Instead of standard concrete terminals, open-air pavilions with palm-leaf roofs were built here, harmoniously integrated into the tropical landscape. This feature has been preserved to this day, creating a sensation for passengers of arriving at a resort immediately upon disembarking the plane. The airport is often called one of the most beautiful in the world precisely because of its design and atmosphere.

A key stage in development was 2007, when a large-scale reconstruction and expansion was completed. A new international terminal was built, and the domestic one was modernised. This allowed for direct flights from other countries, such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, which significantly increased the tourist flow. Capacity increased, yet the signature "boutique" style and cosy atmosphere were successfully preserved.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that Samui is one of the few private airports in the country, fully owned by an airline. Another of its famous features is the complimentary snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi for all passengers in the waiting lounges, which is part of Bangkok Airways' hospitality philosophy. These details make spending time at Samui Airport not just a wait for a flight, but a pleasant part of the journey.

Samui Airport, despite its compact size and unique open-air concept, offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Its infrastructure is thought out to the smallest detail so that your journey begins and ends with pleasant impressions.

For those who are hungry, various cafes and restaurants operate on the premises. Here you can quickly grab a coffee with fresh pastries or have a full lunch, choosing Thai or international cuisine. After eating, it is pleasant to stroll through the Samui Park Avenue shopping area, where souvenir shops, boutiques with clothing, jewellery, and travel goods are located.

One of the pleasant features of the airport is the availability of free relaxation zones (Courtesy Corner), accessible to all passengers. They offer light snacks, refreshing beverages, and tea/coffee. For travellers who value enhanced comfort, premium VIP lounges operate with an expanded menu and a more secluded atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting lounges.

To handle financial matters, there are several bank branches and currency exchange points at the airport. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the medical centre for first aid. Families with children will appreciate the presence of a special playground, where young travellers can have fun before the flight. The airport is also fully equipped for the comfortable movement of passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport terminal, many accommodation options — from luxury resorts to cosy guest houses — are located just a few minutes' drive away. For business travellers, conditions for work are created in premium waiting lounges: a quiet space and access to necessary office equipment, allowing work issues to be resolved right up until boarding the flight.

Samui Airport (USM) offers passengers a unique experience, and dining arrangements here are no exception. Instead of the usual food courts in enclosed terminals, most establishments are located in the charming open-air shopping zone Samui Park Avenue, which is situated between the domestic and international terminals before security control (landside). This creates a relaxed atmosphere, more like a walk along a resort street than waiting for a flight.

In the Samui Park Avenue zone, you will find several restaurants and cafes offering both Thai cuisine and international options. Here you can have a full meal before departure by ordering Pad Thai, Tom Yum, or curry. For those who prefer something more familiar, there are places with sandwiches, pastries, pizza, and excellent coffee. Prices here, as in most airports, are slightly higher than in the city but remain within reason.

After passing security control (airside), the selection becomes more modest but sufficient for a snack. Small cafes and kiosks operate here, where you can buy beverages, light snacks, sandwiches, and sweets. Also, lounges with complimentary drinks and food are available for passengers of certain airlines. If you are short on time, it is better to have a snack in this zone.

Regarding special dietary needs, many Thai restaurants offer vegetarian dishes or can prepare them without meat upon request. Finding specific gluten-free or Halal options might be more challenging, so it is best to verify their availability with the specific establishment in advance. Most cafes and restaurants at Samui Airport operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through the airport on the island of Koh Samui goes smoothly, use these tips. Samui Airport is one of the most beautiful and unusual in the world, with open pavilions and tropical gardens, making waiting for a flight part of your holiday.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Despite its compact size, it can get crowded during high season. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. To save time, complete online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security control zone.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When flying out of or into the island, try to choose a window seat. The views of the Gulf of Thailand and neighbouring islands on approach are simply mesmerising! As everywhere, liquids over 100ml, sharp objects, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. A specific feature for Thailand is that durian is often not allowed on board due to its pungent smell. Ensure that your power banks comply with airline requirements regarding capacity.

Customs Control and Transfers. When entering or leaving, follow the signs for the "Green" (nothing to declare) or "Red" channel. Standard allowances for the import of alcohol and tobacco products apply here. If you have a connecting flight in Samui, clarify at check-in whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. The airport itself is very convenient for transit thanks to its pleasant atmosphere and the presence of cafes and shops.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book a transfer from the airport to your hotel online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Bring an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline's counter for information and possible food vouchers. Fortunately, waiting at Samui Airport is comfortable: there is plenty of greenery, comfortable rest areas, and even complimentary snacks and beverages in some waiting zones.