Getting around Koh Samui by Motorbike, Car and Taxi

Getting Around Koh Samui

Many of the tourists who come to Samui Island prefer to rent motor bikes to get around the island, go to the beach and go out for the evening. Since it is an inexpensive option, it is the most popular option by far. Please beware that Many local drivers have not received proper instruction in traffic safety and there were accidents happened around the island and some even lost their lives. Moreover, most of the tourists are often riding these motor bikes for the first times in their lives. However careful riders are not necessary to be panic. These accidents are almost always due to a serious lapse in judgment. Please do not forget to grab TAKS Guide Booklet for the safe driving tips.

Renting a car is easily available from many family-owned shops, famous International car rental companies, and the tour counters at most of the resorts and hotels. Renting Jeep is more common on the island. The rental of a 4-wheel drive vehicle will allow you to freely explore the whole island. You can visit many hillside natural and attractions which are easily accessible from the ring road. You can stop at all these places. Other kinds of vehicles are available from some shops and major car rental companies. If you are especially adventurous and have experience in off-road driving, you may head up unto the mountains. There, if you can negotiate the ruts and sometimes seemingly impossibly steep inclines, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding islands, as well as flora and fauna that is overwhelmingly beautiful. If Samui is paradise, its mountains are its Shangrilah.

Some of these vehicles come with insurance, but the coverage is limited and some even don't have insurance. Basically, major car rental companies arrange the rent with full insurance coverage. It is better to ask for the details before you rent the vehicle from any place.

Going by taxi is the last option for the exploration around the island. However, it is the safest and most convenient to get from one place to another if you don't know where the exact place is. Air-conditioned Taxis are available in the major public areas and the price is negotiable and not according to distance even though there is the "Taxi Meter" sign on the roof of taxi. Song Taews (local red taxis) are another type of transportation and they are basically high price during high and peak seasons. The fare is higher at night and is negotiable. During the day time, it is below 100 Thai Baht per person according to the distance. It is sorry to say that many people complain them for the service. These have included rudeness, overcharging, and bad service. Koh Samui officials are putting their efforts to address all these problems.