Asia > Thailand > Koh Samui (USM)
The Car or no Car advice for Koh Samui can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Koh Samui ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Koh Samui ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Koh Samui?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
Koh Samui without a car 🚶♂️🚕
You can get around Koh Samui without renting a car. Songthaews (shared pickup trucks), taxis, and hotel transfers cover most tourist areas. If you stay near Chaweng, Lamai, or Bophut, many restaurants, beaches, and shops are within walking distance.
Boat tours also reduce the need for driving. Island-hopping trips to Koh Phangan, Ang Thong Marine Park, and snorkelling sites usually include transfers. For short stays focused on beaches and organised excursions, a car is not essential.
That said, public transport is informal and not always reliable. Prices vary, and negotiating fares is common.
Why a rental car can be useful 🚗🌴
Koh Samui is larger than it first appears, and the ring road makes driving straightforward. A rental car gives you freedom to explore quieter beaches, hilltop viewpoints, waterfalls, and inland temples without relying on taxis.
Distances are short, but heat and humidity make walking impractical for longer journeys. With a car, you can mix beaches, sightseeing, and meals in different parts of the island in one day. Rental prices are generally reasonable, especially outside peak season.
Many visitors choose scooters instead, but cars offer shade, air-conditioning, and greater safety, particularly in wet conditions.
Driving considerations ⚠️
Roads are mostly good, but traffic can be busy around Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village. Driving standards are mixed, so caution is essential. An international driving permit is required.
Conclusion: should you rent a car in Koh Samui?
For short stays with tours and taxis, no. For flexibility, comfort, and seeing more of the island independently, yes. Renting a car is not mandatory, but it makes Koh Samui far easier to explore fully.