“The departure point for the traditional wooden Haad Rin Queen ferry to Koh Samui. The connecting point for longtail boats to Haad Yuan – Haad Thien. And a beautiful sunset viewpoint by the sea.”
Haad Rin Pier (also known as Haad Rin Queen Ferry) is located on Haad Rin Nai (Sunset Beach), on the west side of the Haad Rin peninsula. It's a small pier that plays a crucial role in Koh Phangan's transportation system, especially for tourists traveling from Koh Samui to attend the Full Moon Party, which is just a few minutes away from the pier. It's also surrounded by accommodations, restaurants, and comprehensive tourist services.
Pier Structure and Characteristics
The pier is a concrete bridge extending into the sea, accommodating both medium-sized ferries and longtail boats. The water level in this area is relatively calm and suitable for docking, allowing for continuous operation throughout the day.
Unique Identity – The “Haad Rin Queen” Ferry
A significant highlight is the wooden ferry “Haad Rin Queen”, a traditional passenger ferry that has been in service for a long time. It stands out with its all-wood structure and open-air atmosphere, providing ample sea breeze.
Main Route: Haad Rin – Big Buddha Pier (Koh Samui)
Travel Time: Approximately 50–60 minutes
Traveling by this ferry allows you to experience panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, along with a simple atmosphere that is hard to find these days.
Center for Longtail Boats to Secluded Beaches
Haad Rin Pier is a hub for local longtail boats for travel to beaches inaccessible by road, including:
- Haad Yuan
- Haad Thien
- Haad Wai Nam
These areas are tranquil and highly natural, suitable for relaxation, yoga, and retreats.
Atmosphere and Viewpoint
Haad Rin Nai is a bay with relatively calm waters and gentle waves, making it suitable for docking boats and also one of the
most beautiful sunset viewpoints on Koh Phangan.
In the evening, it is recommended to walk out onto the pier to see the golden sunlight reflecting on the water, along with views of Koh Samui in the distance. It is a very beautiful and peaceful scene.
Atmosphere by Time of Day
- Full Moon Party Period: Lively, crowded with tourists, and traffic is quite busy.
- Normal Days: Quiet and peaceful, suitable for relaxing, taking pictures, and enjoying the view.
With its role as both a major transportation hub + viewpoint + center of local life,
Haad Rin Pier is more than just an ordinary pier, but another important landmark of Koh Phangan that should not be missed.
How to Get There
- Car/Motorcycle: From Thong Sala Pier, drive south through Ban Tai, up the Haad Rin hill (the road is quite steep and has many curves). When you reach the Haad Rin area, follow the signs for “Haad Rin Nai”. The pier is at the end of the road by the beach.
- Boat: Take the Haad Rin Queen ferry from Big Buddha Pier (Koh Samui), which takes approximately 50–60 minutes.
Travel Tips
- It is recommended to book tickets at least 1 day in advance during the Full Moon Party.
- If you want to go to Haad Yuan / Haad Thien, using a longtail boat is the most convenient.
- It is recommended to arrive around 5:30 PM to watch the sunset.
- Check the boat schedule in advance.
- Be careful as the pier floor may be slippery, and take care of your belongings when it's crowded.
Fares:
- Wooden ferry: 200 – 300 baht/trip
- Longtail boat: 200 – 400 baht/trip
Opening Hours:
- Open according to the boat schedule, approximately 08:30 – 19:30.
(May vary depending on the season and weather conditions)