Distance
~700km
Duration
5–7 days
Difficulty
Easy–Moderate
Start/End
Phuket
Southern Thailand has a different rhythm to the north — the roads hug coastlines instead of climbing mountain passes, the air smells of salt instead of pine, and every other turn reveals a view of the Andaman Sea or the Gulf of Thailand that makes you want to pull over and stay a while. The Beach Run is southern Thailand's finest coastal loop — starting in Phuket, crossing to Koh Samui by ferry, and returning via the spectacular coastline of Krabi before looping back to where it all began.
Phuket to Surat Thani
Route 402 and then Route 44 northeast toward Surat Thani. Fast, well-surfaced and efficient riding that covers the ground quickly. Surat Thani is the gateway to Koh Samui and the departure point for the ferry.
Recommended stop: If arriving late in Surat Thani, guesthouses near the Don Sak ferry pier are convenient for an early morning departure.
The Ferry Crossing to Koh Samui
Two operators run from Don Sak pier:
Seatran Ferry
More comfortable, modern vessels, air-conditioned passenger lounges, reliable schedule. Recommended for comfort.
Raja Ferry
More basic option, older vessels, simpler facilities but generally less busy and with a more local feel.
Bikes are loaded onto the vehicle deck at the pier. Allow extra time before departure. Keep rental documents accessible.
Koh Samui
Arriving by ferry with your own bike is a genuinely different experience — the island opens up immediately. The ring road connecting the main beaches is easy and enjoyable riding.
Safety note — Koh Samui
Koh Samui has one of the highest motorbike accident rates in Thailand. The mountain interior is steep and demanding. Stick to the ring road unless you are a confident, experienced rider with a suitable bike.
Recommended stop: Bophut Fisherman's Village on the north coast — boutique guesthouses, excellent seafood restaurants and a weekly walking street market.
Ferry Back to the Mainland and on to Krabi
Return ferry to Don Sak pier, then southwest via Route 44 and Route 4 toward Krabi. Krabi is one of Thailand's most spectacular destinations — limestone formations, Ao Nang beach, Railay Peninsula and excellent coastal riding.
Recommended stop: Ao Nang has excellent accommodation across all price points.
Krabi back to Phuket
Route 4 north — a comfortable two to three hour ride along the Andaman coast back to Phuket.
Tips for Riding The Beach Run
- Book ferry tickets in advance during Thai public holidays and peak season
- Confirm with your rental shop that the bike is permitted to travel on a ferry
- The ring road on Koh Samui is well surfaced but busy in high season — early mornings are best
- Keep rental documents and passport accessible throughout
Heading to the south and want to know the best time of year to ride?
Check our Weather by Region guide for west coast and gulf coast conditions.