Getting Abot

Car Rentals Renting your own vehicle is a good way of getting around since it allows you to explore the many small roads and tracks that lead off into the interior jungles or down to one of the many deserted beaches. Prices vary from 800-2000 baht according to the type and condition of the car. Local businesses generally rent manual shift Japanese jeeps, while international car rentals have recently begun offering sedans and air conditioned cars on the island. You will usually be asked to leave your passport as collateral on the car, so plan trips to the money exchange accordingly. If you do not purchase insurance you will be held responsible for any damage to the car. 

Taxis Koh Samui now has dozens of yellow-coloured Taxi-Meter vehicles for those who prefer travelling in air-conditioned comfort. During the day there are usually several at the Nathon pier, or they can be flagged down on the main road. Ask the driver to use the meter, or agree on a price before you hop in. 

Bicycles You can now find very high quality bikes to rent around the island. Mountain bikes are the best way to navigate some of the small tracks behind Lamai and Nathon. But remember to bring plenty of water and mosquito repellant. If you are worried about the island’s steep hills you can even rent an electric bike from the Spa in Lamai to give you that extra little push.

The Law Thai law requires car drivers and front seat passengers to wear seat belts. Motorcyclists are also required to use crash helmets, though you will notice most Samui residents openly flout this law. We recommend using them at all times. The penalty for non-use of seat belts or helmets is several hours of lost time while waiting to pay a 500 baht fine. Samui police often enforce the helmet law in Nathon. An International Driving Permit, or a license from your home country, is required for all car and big bike rentals. Remember to drive on the left. 

Morterbike rentals Most visitors to Samui rent motorbikes, since they are relatively inexpensive (120-250 baht/day), but there are several hazards to take into consideration. The most frequent injuries visitors sustain come from burning their right calves on very hot exhaust pipes, or from losing control of the bike around corners or on loose sand. Samui has the highest rate of driving fatalities in the Kingdom, and motorbike drivers are much more vulnerable than car or truck drivers. Needless to say drinking and driving should never be mixed, especially on a motorbike. Fuel is available around the island at several modern gas stations, or from roadside stands. You can spot these by the pumps attached to 55 gallon oil drums, the prices are usually the same as the stations’. If you happen to get a flat tire, don’t panic, you are usually no more than a hundred meters from someone who can, or knows a neighbor who can repair your tire. This usually takes about thirty minutes and costs about 50 - 100 baht, more if your whole innertube needs to be replaced, or if you had to wake someone in the middle of the night to do the repair. Large off road worthy motorbikes can also be rented around the island. Prices are in the range of 500 baht per day.