Don Sak

Don Sak (ดอนสัก) is a district and port town on the eastern coast of Surat Thani Province, approximately 65 km from Surat Thani city. It serves as the main mainland ferry gateway to the islands of Ko Samui and Ko Pha-ngan, with Raja Ferry, Seatran Ferry, and Lomprayah operating from its piers. The town itself is a quiet, functional transport hub with limited tourist infrastructure — most visitors pass through on their way to or from the islands.

The district covers a coastal area along the Gulf of Thailand, with mangrove forests, fishing villages, and several pier complexes: Seatran Ferry Pier, Raja Ferry Pier, Bang Num Jerd Pier, and Laem Thuat Pier. The best time to visit is December to April (dry season); ferry schedules are reliable year-round but can be disrupted during heavy monsoon rains (October–November).

By Plane

Surat Thani International Airport (URT IATA) is about 75 km west of Don Sak (90 min drive). From the airport, Phantip Travel runs minibuses directly to the Don Sak piers (250 baht, 2 hr). An alternative is to first reach Surat Thani city by airport bus, then take a minivan to Don Sak.

By Train

By Car / Road

Don Sak is at the eastern end of Highway 4014, about 65 km east of Surat Thani city. From Surat Thani, follow Route 401 east towards Kanchanadit, then turn onto Route 4014 to Don Sak. Phantip Travel minivans run from Surat Thani town and the train station to the Don Sak piers (150 baht, 1.3 hr). Self-drive visitors can park at the secured lots near the piers (about 100 baht/day).

Don Sak is a small town — walking is sufficient for the immediate port area. Songthaews and motorcycle taxis connect the piers (which are a few km apart) for 30-50 baht. Most visitors simply transfer directly from their minibus/van onto the ferry without exploring the town.

• Seatran Ferry Pier — The largest pier complex, offering views of the ferry operations and the Gulf. The pier area has basic shops and a small market.

• Raja Ferry Pier — South of Seatran, operates car ferries to Ko Samui (Lipa Noi) and Ko Pha-ngan.

• Bang Num Jerd Pier — Used by P&T Samui Group for additional car ferry services.

• Coastal mangrove forest — Small patches of mangrove lining the coast near the piers, with birdlife and local fishing boats.

• Local fishing villages — Traditional stilt houses and fishing boats dot the shoreline around Don Sak Bay.

• Ferry crossing to Ko Samui — 1.5 hr journey with Seatran or Raja to Nathon or Lipa Noi. The ferry ride offers Gulf views and occasional dolphin sightings.

• Ferry crossing to Ko Pha-ngan — 2.5 hr by ferry from the Don Sak piers to Thong Sala.

• Fishing day trips — Local fishermen sometimes offer day trips; inquire at the pier.

• Seafood restaurants near Seatran Pier — A handful of casual restaurants serving grilled fish, tom yam, and fried rice, 60-150 baht.
• Market stalls (morning) — Fresh fruit, grilled meats, and sticky rice from the small local market.
• Ferry food service — Raja and Seatran ferries sell basic snacks and drinks on board.

Small shops at the pier sell cold drinks, beer, and water. Fresh coconut water is available from vendors when ferries dock. Bring bottled water for the ferry journey.

• Budget: Sleepy Bay Resort — basic bungalows near the piers from 400 baht.
• Mid-range: Don Sak Grand Hotel — simple air-conditioned rooms from 600 baht, a short walk from Seatran Pier.
• Upscale: Limited in Don Sak proper; most travellers continue straight to the islands.

The pier area has small souvenir stalls selling snacks, drinks, and basic toiletries for the ferry journey. Local products include dried seafood and fish sauce. For serious shopping, Surat Thani city or the destination islands are better options.

• Ko Samui — 1.5 hr by ferry from Seatran or Raja pier. Thailand's second-largest island with extensive beaches, dining, and nightlife.
• Ko Pha-ngan — 2.5 hr by ferry. Famous for the Full Moon Party and quieter northern beaches.
• Surat Thani city — 1.3 hr by minibus. Provincial capital with markets, temples, and onward transport.
• Khao Sok National Park — 2-3 hr by bus via Surat Thani. Ancient rainforest with Cheow Lan Lake and wildlife.
• Chaiya — 1.5 hr by minibus via Surat Thani. Srivijaya-era temples and Suan Mokkh meditation monastery.