Between palm trees and pearly white beaches: island life in Thailand
AsiaThailand is known for its idyllic islands and is therefore one of the most popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. The names of the islands often begin with 'Koh' or 'Ko', which means 'island'. If you're traveling through Thailand, it's recommended to visit at least one island, although several islands are, of course, even better. In this blog post, I'll share my five favorite Thai islands to make your choice easier.
Koh Tao: the paradise for divers and adventurers
Koh Tao is my favorite island because it offers excellent snorkeling, shopping, beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. You can reach Koh Tao from the mainland via Surat Thani and Chumphon, as well as from neighboring islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan by boat.
Things to do on Koh Tao
Koh Tao is especially known for its beautiful underwater world. Many people come to Koh Tao to get their PADI diving certification relatively inexpensively. But even if you're not a diver, you can explore the stunning underwater world by snorkeling, for example at Ao Hin Wong and Lighthouse Bay. At Shark Bay, you even get the chance to snorkel among sharks and turtles.
Don't miss the beautiful Koh Nang Yuang when visiting Koh Tao. This archipelago, connected by sandbars, is accessible by local boat taxi. A visit to the island costs 250 baht. Please note: bringing plastic onto the islands is prohibited. This will be checked upon arrival.
In the evening, Sairee Beach is very lively. You'll find many restaurants here where you can enjoy the sunset. At some bars, you can enjoy an after-dinner cocktail while enjoying a spectacular fire show.
My tips for Koh Tao:
VegetaBowl
At VegetaBowl, you'll find the most delicious vegetarian and vegan bowls. They also have delicious smoothies on the menu. VegetaBowl is located on a quiet street near Sairee Beach.
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Coconut Monkey
Here you can enjoy delicious dishes with a view over the harbour, such as a Rainbow Buddha Bowl or the delicious Chilli con Veggie.
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The AVA Resort
At the AVA resort, you'll sleep in a beautiful cottage perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The pool also offers stunning views.
View on Google MapsKoh Phi Phi Don: a tropical island with world-famous beaches
Koh Phi Phi Don is part of the Koh Phi Phi archipelago, which comprises six islands. This island is the best known and is often simply referred to as "Koh Phi Phi."
From Phuket, it takes about two hours to reach Koh Phi Phi, while from Krabi or Koh Lanta, you'll arrive a little faster, in about 90 minutes. A day trip to this island is also possible, for example, from Phuket. You'll travel to Koh Phi Phi by speedboat, often stopping at other surrounding islands along the way. If you're staying overnight on Koh Phi Phi, be aware that the popular Lo Dalum Bay beach gets really party-going in the evenings!
Things to do on Koh Phi Phi
The surrounding area is stunning, with white beaches surrounded by green mountains. The turquoise waters surrounding Koh Phi Phi are perfect for snorkeling. Boat trips allow you to explore the surrounding islands. Many people know Koh Phi Phi for its iconic Maya Bay beach, made famous by the film The Beach. Maya Bay was closed for a while to allow the natural environment to recover, but reopened to the public in October 2024.
Koh Phi Phi viewpoint
This viewpoint can be reached in half an hour via the somewhat steep stairs from Ton Sai Village. It offers a magnificent view of the island.
View on Google MapsKoh Phangan: from tranquility to partying
Koh Phangan is accessible by boat from Surat Thani, and there's also a connection from Chumphon. The island is also easily accessible from surrounding islands.
Things to do on Koh Phangan
The island is best known for its Full Moon Party, which is the main reason many people travel to Koh Phangan. What once started as a small party has now grown into the largest and most famous backpacker party in Southeast Asia. The Full Moon Party takes place on Haad Rin beach in the southeast of the island. Besides the Full Moon Party, there's also the Half Moon Party, which, unlike the Full Moon Party, is held in the island's jungle.
But even if you're not a party fan or just want to do something different, Koh Phangan has plenty to offer. Explore the island by scooter and discover the beautiful waterfalls, or hike to the peninsula of Koh Ma, where you can also enjoy excellent snorkeling. The beaches of Haad Yuan, Haad Thong Nai Pan and Haad Chao Phao are perfect if you are looking for peace and a relaxing atmosphere, far away from the hustle and bustle.
Thong Sala Night market
On Saturdays, visit the Thong Sala Night Market. Here you can enjoy tasty snacks like delicious filled pastries.
Beautiful temples and beaches on Koh Samui
While Koh Samui might not initially be considered "unspoiled," the island certainly offers a place to unwind. Koh Samui is easily accessible, both by boat from Surat Thani and by plane from Bangkok.
Things to do on Koh Samui
Koh Samui boasts charming fishing villages, such as the picturesque Bo Phut in the north. This is the ideal spot for lunch or souvenir shopping in the local shops. On Mondays and Fridays, you can also visit the lively evening market. For a relaxing day at the beach, you can choose from several beaches, including the lively Chaweng Beach and the tranquil Mae Nam Beach.
Another recommendation is a visit to the colorful temples at Wat Pleiadeam. The adjacent iconic Wat Phra Yai, better known as the "Big Buddha," is also well worth admiring. The fifteen-meter-high Buddha statue is impressive and offers stunning views of the island.
My tips for restaurants and accommodation on Koh Samui:
Nova Samui Resort
This resort has a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by nice rooms with air conditioning.
View on Google MapsCharm Samui Restaurant
This restaurant serves delicious Thai curries and fish. The menu also includes several vegan-friendly dishes.
View on Google MapsBeach Coconuts Bowls
For delicious fruit and vegetable bowls or pancakes, Beach Coconuts is the place to be. This restaurant is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
View on Google MapsWhite beaches and crystal clear water on Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is only accessible by boat. You can reach it from Thailand (via Hat Yai to Pak Bara pier) or from Malaysia (Langkawi). This way, you can easily combine Thailand and Malaysia as travel destinations. If you're planning this, you can read more about Malaysia in the blogpost about Malaysia.
Things to do on Koh Lipe
There are no cars or buses on Koh Lipe, which creates a true island feel. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for snorkelers. You can also enjoy kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the clear water.
The island has three beaches: Sunset Beach, Sunrise Beach, and Pattaya Beach. If you prefer lively, bustling beaches, visit Pattaya Beach. For a more peaceful atmosphere, visit the other two beaches. If you've always dreamed of seeing bioluminescent plankton, a visit to Sunrise Beach in the evening is highly recommended. Here you have the chance to experience this unique natural phenomenon.
Whether you come to snorkel in crystal-clear water, party under the stars, or enjoy nature: you'll always find something to suit you on the islands of Thailand!
Useful information
Official language: Thai
Currency: Thai baht
Area: 513,120 km²
Best time to travel: Thailand is an ideal destination year-round. Although dry periods vary by region, the islands are also good to visit during the rainy season. The dry season for Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui is between mid-December and September. For the islands around Phuket, it's between November and April.
