Songthaews are Koh Samui's main form of public transport. They are small pickup trucks with a covered body, fitted with bench seats along each side. The name comes from the Thai words 'song' (two) and 'thaew' (row, bench). They are often called 'tuk-tuks' locally, though that's not strictly accurate.

Routes

Songthaews follow three main routes along the island's ring road: 1. Nathon to Chaweng (north coast route). 2. Nathon to Lamai (south coast route, touching the end of Chaweng). 3. Nathon to Big Buddha to Chaweng. They do not complete a full circle: each route runs one way, so you must change vehicles if you want to reverse direction. Stops are not fixed: the truck pulls over wherever a passenger signals from the roadside. To get off, press the buzzer button under the roof of the cab.

Hours and Fares

During the day (roughly until 17–18:00) songthaews run fixed routes at fixed prices: 20 THB for a short hop within one beach area, up to 60 THB for the longest distance (e.g. Nathon to Chaweng or Nathon to Lamai). After 18:00 they switch to taxi mode: they will take you wherever you want, but the fare is negotiated in advance. Always agree the price before you climb in after dark.

Avoiding Overcharging

Drivers sometimes try to convince tourists that the fixed daytime rate only applies to Thais. This is not true — the daytime fare is the same for everyone. When you exit, simply hand over the correct amount without hesitation and without starting an argument. If the driver pushes for more, stay calm, pay and walk away with a smile.

Evening Songthaews

After sunset, many songthaews are decorated with strings of colourful lights — a fun spectacle and easy to spot. A typical evening fare in taxi mode runs around 100 THB per person. For a group of three or four people, a regular taxi often works out cheaper.

Practical Tips

Check the approximate distance on a map before you board and have exact change ready. To reach Lamai from Maenam you must change songthaews at the traffic lights at the far end of Chaweng beach. Check the windshield — the destination is written there. Remember that Thailand drives on the left, so make sure your truck is heading in the right direction before you climb in.