Chumphon is the principal town of the province and is a major jumping off point for travelers in transit from Bangkok to Koh Tao. It is very much a Thai town but is slowly having more western influences. It now even boasts Kentucky Fried Chicken!

Chumphon has a train station and offices for Lomprayah, Songserm, Ekawin and Koh Tao Cruiser, who can all arrange pick-ups and transit to Koh Tao.

Please note
Currently all fast transfers to Koh Tao depart between 6am and 8am (times vary during the year), arriving in Koh Tao between 10.00 and 10.30am. Most of these companies depart from the river which is 8km outside the town centre.

For anyone who misses the morning boat, there is a night boat which departs at midnight arriving at Koh Tao at 6am, leaving from Thayang Seaport. For anyone who wishes to stay the night in Chumphon there are several cheap guest houses with guides waiting at the pier or bus station who can help you.

If you would like a moderately priced, clean hotel with air con we recommend Chumphon Palace Hotel.
If you get stuck in Chumphon for the day you can visit temples, beach or caves.