Mae Nam Pier

Whether you're flying into or out of Koh Samui, you'll note that there are several piers located on the island. Mae Nam Pier sits on the quiet north coast, an easy taxi ride from the island airport, making it an ideal place to begin and end the adventure. The island presents visitors with one of the most serene experiences on white sandy beaches that look as if they were taken out of a story book.

Although Mae Nam Pier may look smaller, it serves as a sparsely populated portal for the high-speed catamarans heading north through the Gulf. It's ideal for visitors who are excited by the idea of adventurous days exploring the neighbouring islands, but who also want to retreat to a quiet resort at night — there are a number of hospitality options located near the pier, so there can be a seamless transition into solitude after an action-packed day. You'll want to dedicate at least a full day to Mae Nam's own beach, whose calm blue-green waters are perfect for a refreshing swim between sunning sessions.

Ferries from Mae Nam Pier

Mae Nam is a catamaran pier: fast boats cross to Koh Phangan in about twenty minutes and reach Koh Tao in around an hour and a half — the quickest way up the island chain. In the other direction, boat-and-coach through-tickets run via Chumphon to the mainland, connecting onward to Hua Hin and Bangkok in a single booking.

Getting to the pier

The pier stands at the end of the Mae Nam village soi, about twenty minutes by taxi from the airport and Chaweng. Songthaews run the north-coast ring road all day. Check in about 30–45 minutes before departure — the pier is compact and boarding is quick.

Staying near the pier

Mae Nam village keeps a low-key mix of beach resorts and guesthouses within walking distance of the pier — live rates are listed further down this page.