Koh Samui New Year 2026: flights and ferries near full

Up to 60 flights a day and almost full ferries brought visitors to Koh Samui for the New Year 2026 holiday.

Koh Samui and its neighbours Koh Phangan and Koh Tao were close to full for the New Year holiday at the end of 2025. Khaosod English reported on 28 December 2025 that both flights and ferries to the islands were running near capacity, helped by good weather.

Up to 60 flights a day

Bangkok Airways added flights to Samui Airport from 26 December. The director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand office on Koh Samui, Nitchatharas Wanitcharoen, said the airline was operating between 58 and 60 flights a day. That brought roughly 5,800 to 6,000 passengers to the island every day. Many were families and tour groups. Private jets were also arriving, according to the report.

The sea route was just as busy. At Nathon Pier, the Lomprayah high-speed ferry company said almost every departure was fully booked on the routes that link Surat Thani, Samui, Phangan and Koh Tao.

Where the visitors came from

Germany and the United Kingdom remained the main markets, the report said. Officials also noticed more travellers from the United States. Another change was the growth of independent Chinese travellers, who plan their own trips instead of joining package tours.

Many younger visitors only passed through Samui. They continued by boat to Koh Phangan for the New Year countdown at Haad Rin, the beach known for the Full Moon Party. Businesses there had decorated and prepared for a busy night.

Checks on taxis and helmets

The authorities used the busy period to act on two old problems. Officers from the Surat Thani land transport office, the police and security units set up checkpoints at Samui Airport and at the Central Samui shopping centre. They focused on taxi drivers who overcharge, refuse to use the meter or behave aggressively. More than 40 drivers had been fined at the time of the report.

A second campaign enforced the helmet law for motorbike riders. It ran during the holiday week that Thailand calls the Seven Dangerous Days, and its aim was to reduce motorbike casualties.

What it means for your stay

The last week of December is a very busy time on Koh Samui. The 2025 experience shows three practical points. First, book flights early, because extra flights still fill up. Second, reserve ferry tickets in advance if you plan to visit Koh Phangan or Koh Tao, and do not count on buying a seat at the pier. Third, agree the taxi fare before you get in, or ask your host to arrange a transfer at a fixed price. If you rent a scooter, wear a helmet, because the police check for them during the holiday. Accommodation for Christmas and New Year is often reserved many months ahead, so it is wise to check villa availability as soon as your dates are known.