The 50 best islands in Thailand

Phuket

Phuket · ภูเก็ต

Big, lively island with everything: busy resort towns, quiet bays and a historic old town.

☀️ Season by month

Size

543 km²

Getting there

Fly to Phuket (HKT) or bus/drive over the bridge from the mainland (Bangkok ~12 h, 700-1,000 THB). Grab/taxi from the airport to the beaches 30-60 min, 600-1,000 THB.

Boats by season

Reachable all year (bridge and airport).

Highlights

Old Town, Big Buddha, Promthep Cape, day trips to Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay.

Best beaches

Kata Noi Beach, Freedom Beach, Nai Harn Beach, Kata Beach, Surin Beach, Kamala Beach

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Kata/Karon for beach and food, Nai Harn quieter, Mai Khao/Nai Yang near the airport.

• Beyond Kata €€
  Former Kata Beach Resort, 275 rooms directly on Kata Beach.
• Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort €€
  Former Hilton Arcadia, across the coastal road from Karon Beach.
• Thavorn Palm Beach Resort €€
  Large resort with several pools on Karon.
• Katathani Phuket Beach Resort €€€
  Large resort along most of Kata Noi; the Thani Wing is right on the sea.
• The Nai Harn €€€
  Luxury hotel on the hillside above the north end of Nai Harn.
• The Boathouse Phuket €€€
  39-room boutique hotel with a renowned restaurant at the south end of Kata.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Phi Phi Don

Krabi · เกาะพีพีดอน

Small car-free island with a busy village on a narrow isthmus between two bays.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 200 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

28 km²

Getting there

Ferry from Phuket (Rassada) or Krabi (Klong Jilad) 1.5-2 h, 400-700 THB; speedboat from Phuket ~1 h, 1,000-1,500 THB. Also from Ao Nang and Koh Lanta.

Boats by season

Ferries from Phuket and Krabi run all year; the Koh Lanta and Ao Nang links run less often or stop in low season.

Highlights

Viewpoint, snorkelling at Bamboo Island, nightlife on Loh Dalum, boat trip to Maya Bay.

Best beaches

Long Beach (Hat Yao), Phi Phi, Loh Dalum Bay, Monkey Beach (Phi Phi)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Tonsai/Loh Dalum for nightlife, Long Beach or the northern bays for quiet.

• Baby Shark Hostel Loh Dalum Bay €
  Hostel with air-con dorms just behind the beach.
• Paradise Pearl Bungalow €€
  Spacious bungalows in the middle of Long Beach.
• Phi Phi The Beach Resort €€
  Hillside bungalows at the southern end with sunset views.
• Phi Phi Island Cabana Hotel €€
  Large hotel between Tonsai and Loh Dalum; expect party noise.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Phi Phi Leh

Krabi · เกาะพีพีเล

Uninhabited limestone island with Maya Bay; visit by day trip only.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 400 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

6.6 km²

Getting there

Day trips only (longtail from Phi Phi Don ~20 min, 600-1,000 THB pp incl. snorkel stops; speedboat tour from Phuket or Krabi 1,500-3,000 THB).

Boats by season

Maya Bay closes each year ~1 Aug-30 Sep; fewer tours in rough sea.

Highlights

Maya Bay (no swimming), Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave.

Best beaches

Maya Bay

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Koh Phi Phi Don.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Lanta

Krabi · เกาะลันตา

Laid-back long island with long beaches, a wooden old town and many family resorts.

☀️ Season by month

Size

82 km²

Getting there

Minivan from Krabi (airport/town) via two car ferries 2-3 h, 300-500 THB. Ferry/speedboat from Phi Phi or Ao Nang (1-2 h, 450-900 THB) in high season.

Boats by season

Minivans and car ferry all year; boats to Phi Phi, Ao Nang and Lipe mainly Nov-Apr. Some southern resorts close in low season.

Highlights

Lanta Old Town, Mu Ko Lanta National Park, snorkel trip to Koh Rok and Koh Haa.

Best beaches

Long Beach (Phra Ae), Koh Lanta, Kantiang Bay, Bamboo Bay (Ao Mai Phai), Klong Dao Beach

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Long Beach/Klong Dao for convenience, Kantiang/Ba Kantiang for quiet.

• Relax Bay Resort €€
  Bungalows among the trees on Phra Ae.
• Lanta Sand Resort & Spa €€
  Resort with lagoon pool on Long Beach.
• Kantiang Oasis Resort & Spa €€
  Small seven-room resort close to Kantiang Bay.
• Twin Lotus Resort & Spa €€€
  Quiet adults-only luxury resort on Klong Dao.
• Layana Resort & Spa €€€
  Adults-only luxury resort on Long Beach.
• Pimalai Resort & Spa €€€
  Luxury resort with 900 m of beach on Kantiang Bay.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Yao Noi

Phang Nga · เกาะยาวน้อย

Quiet Muslim island with rice fields, rubber and views of the Phang Nga Bay karsts.

☀️ Season by month

Size

47 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Bang Rong (Phuket) ~30 min, 200-250 THB, or longtail ~1 h, 120-150 THB. Also from Krabi/Ao Nang (Tha Len) ~45 min.

Boats by season

Boats from Phuket run all year.

Highlights

Cycling past rice fields, kayaking, island hopping in Phang Nga Bay, sunrise over the karsts.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

East coast (Pasai/Tha Khao) facing the karsts.

• Koyao Bay Pavilions €€
  Nine villas on a quiet beach facing Koh Hong.
• Six Senses Yao Noi €€€
  Private-pool villas overlooking Phang Nga Bay.
• Cape Kudu Hotel €€€
  Boutique hotel (SLH) on the east coast.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Yao Yai

Phang Nga · เกาะยาวใหญ่

Bigger and even quieter than Yao Noi, with empty beaches and a few luxury resorts.

☀️ Season by month

Size

137 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Bang Rong or Tien Sin (Phuket) 20-45 min, 200-300 THB; also from Krabi (Tha Len).

Boats by season

Boats from Phuket run all year.

Highlights

Loh Pared and Laem Haad beaches, village life, views of Phuket.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

North-east coast (Chong Lad/Loh Paret).

• Thiwson Beach Resort €
  Beachfront bungalows at Chong Lad, good value.
• Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa €€€
  Large luxury resort with own speedboat from Phuket.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Lipe

Satun · เกาะหลีเป๊ะ

Small, lively island with white sand and clear water, close to Malaysia.

☀️ Season by month

Size

2.5 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Pak Bara (Satun) 1.5 h, 650-750 THB (plus landing/park fee). In high season also speedboats from Koh Lanta/Mook (4-6 h, 1,500-2,500 THB) and from Langkawi (Malaysia).

Boats by season

Pak Bara boats run all year (fewer departures); the island-hopping boats via Lanta/Mook/Ngai stop ~May-October. Some resorts close then.

Highlights

Walking Street, snorkelling at Koh Adang and Koh Rawi, sunrise and sunset beaches in one day.

Best beaches

Sunrise Beach (Hat Chao Ley), Sunset Beach (Hat Pramong), Pattaya Beach (Koh Lipe)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Pattaya Beach for convenience, Sunrise Beach for swimming.

• Bundhaya Resort €
  Affordable resort with pool on Pattaya Beach, close to Walking Street.
• Z-Touch Lipe Island Resort €
  Quiet sea-view villas on Pattaya Beach, no pool.
• Castaway Resort Koh Lipe €€
  Wooden bungalows with hammocks at the quiet end of Sunrise Beach, no air-con.
• Idyllic Concept Resort €€
  Modern resort with two pools stepping down to Sunrise Beach.
• Akira Lipe Resort €€
  Resort with three pools right on Pattaya Beach.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Adang

Satun · เกาะอาดัง

Mountainous forested park island opposite Lipe with only park camping/bungalows.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 200 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

30 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Koh Lipe ~10 min, ~100-200 THB pp.

Boats by season

Park accommodation closed in low season (~16 May-14 Oct); day trips from Lipe only in good weather.

Highlights

Chado Cliff viewpoint, waterfalls, coral reefs.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Park lodging at Laem Son only, or stay on Koh Lipe.

• Tarutao National Park – bungalows/camping (DNP) €
  Basic park bungalows and camping (Laem Son); park closed approx. 16 May–14 Oct.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Tarutao

Satun · เกาะตะรุเตา

Large, wild national park island with jungle, mangroves and a prison history.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 200 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

152 km²

Getting there

Boat from Pak Bara ~30-60 min, 400-600 THB one way; in high season some Lipe boats stop here.

Boats by season

Park closed ~16 May-14 Oct: no boats or stays.

Highlights

Mangrove trip at Pha To Bu, Ao Taloh Udang (old prison), empty beaches.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Park lodging at Ao Phante Malaka.

• Tarutao National Park – bungalows/camping (DNP) €
  Basic park bungalows and camping (Ao Phante Malaka); park closed approx. 16 May–14 Oct.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Bulon Lae

Satun · เกาะบุโหลนเล

Tiny, quiet island without cars, with a few simple resorts.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park

Size

3 km²

Getting there

Boat from Pak Bara ~1 h, 400-600 THB; in high season the Lanta-Lipe speedboat sometimes stops here.

Boats by season

Almost all boats and most resorts stop ~May-October.

Highlights

Snorkelling at White Rock, peace, walking through the village.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The main east-coast beach.

• Pansand Resort €€
  Bungalows on the main east-coast beach.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Mook

Trang · เกาะมุก

Small fishing-village island with the famous Emerald Cave.

☀️ Season by month

Size

10 km²

Getting there

Boat or speedboat from Kuan Tung Ku or Hat Yao (Trang) 30-60 min, 150-400 THB; in high season speedboats to/from Lanta and Lipe.

Boats by season

A limited service from mainland Trang runs all year; island-hopping boats stop ~May-October and many resorts close.

Highlights

Emerald Cave (Morakot), Charlie Beach, Sivalai sandspit.

Best beaches

Charlie Beach / Sivalai (Koh Muk), Emerald Cave (Tham Morakot) beach

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Charlie (Farang) Beach on the west coast.

• Koh Mook Charlie Beach Resort €€
  Bungalows with pool right on Charlie Beach.
• Koh Mook Sivalai Beach Resort €€€
  Villas on the sand spit with beach on both sides.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Ngai (Koh Hai)

Krabi · เกาะไหง

Quiet island with one long beach and shallow water; officially Krabi but reached via Trang.

☀️ Season by month

Size

5 km²

Getting there

Longtail or speedboat from Pak Meng (Trang) 30-45 min, 200-600 THB; in high season speedboats to/from Lanta and Lipe.

Boats by season

Island-hopping boats stop ~May-October; transfers via Pak Meng only with resort booking/good weather. Many resorts close.

Highlights

Snorkelling off the rocks, Four Islands tour.

Best beaches

Koh Ngai (Koh Hai)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The east coast, where all resorts are.

• Koh Ngai KaiMuk Thong Resort €
  Budget bungalows right on the beach.
• Thapwarin Resort €€
  Established beachfront resort with wooden bungalows.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Kradan

Trang · เกาะกระดาน

Idyllic small island with white sand and coral right off the beach.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 200 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

2.5 km²

Getting there

Longtail/speedboat from Kuan Tung Ku or Pak Meng 30-45 min, 300-600 THB; in high season Lanta-Lipe speedboats.

Boats by season

Boats and most resorts stop ~May-October.

Highlights

Snorkelling from the beach, Sunset Beach, underwater wedding (Feb).

Best beaches

Koh Kradan (east beach)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The east-coast beach.

• Kradan Beach Resort €
  Simple bungalows and a longhouse on the main beach.
• The Seven Seas Resort €€€
  Luxury resort with pool on Kradan's east beach.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Libong

Trang · เกาะลิบง

Largest island in Trang, unspoilt, known for dugongs and seagrass.

☀️ Season by month

Size

40 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Hat Yao pier (Trang) 15-20 min, 50-100 THB.

Boats by season

Longtails from Hat Yao run all year; some resorts close in low season.

Highlights

Dugong tours, bird watching, village life.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The west coast near Ban Lan Khao.

• Libong Beach Resort €
  Simple beachfront bungalows.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Sukorn

Trang · เกาะสุกร

Flat farming island with watermelons and rice fields, hardly any tourism.

☀️ Season by month

Size

24 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Tha Tasae (Palian, Trang) ~15-30 min, 50-100 THB.

Boats by season

Local boat runs all year; the few resorts partly close in low season.

Highlights

Cycling between villages, sunset, watermelon season (Mar-Apr).

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Haad Lo Yai on the west coast (sunsets).

• Sukorn Andaman Beach Resort €
  Simple, budget option on Haad Lo Yai.
• Yataa Resort €€
  More modern chalets with pool on Haad Lo Yai.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Jum (Koh Pu)

Krabi · เกาะจำ

Relaxed island between Krabi and Lanta with bamboo huts and fishing villages.

☀️ Season by month

Size

35 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Laem Kruat (Krabi) ~30 min, 100-150 THB; in high season the Krabi-Lanta ferry stops offshore (transfer to longtail).

Boats by season

Laem Kruat longtails run all year; the ferry stop lapses ~May-October and many bungalows close.

Highlights

Hike to Koh Pu peak, long beaches, fishing village.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

West coast (Andaman Beach/Ao Ting Rai).

• Koh Jum Resort €€
  Villas and cottages with pool near Ao Ting Rai.
• Koh Jum Beach Villas €€€
  27 luxury villas on a 700 m west-coast beach.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Phayam

Ranong · เกาะพยาม

Hippie-ish island without cars, with cashew trees, scooter lanes and long beaches.

☀️ Season by month

Size

23 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Ranong ~45 min, 250-350 THB, or slow boat ~2 h, 150-200 THB.

Boats by season

Boats run all year (fewer departures); many bungalows close ~May-October.

Highlights

Aow Yai, Aow Khao Kwai, Buffalo Bay, hornbills.

Best beaches

Aow Yai (Koh Phayam), Aow Khao Kwai (Buffalo Bay, Koh Phayam)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Aow Yai for sunsets, Aow Khao Kwai for quiet.

• Bamboo Bungalows €
  Bamboo bungalows and villas right on Aow Yai.
• Aow Yai Bungalows €
  Beachfront bungalows with fan or air-con.
• Buffalo Bay Vacation Club €
  Beach bungalows on Buffalo Bay, also for long stays.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Chang (Ranong)

Ranong · เกาะช้าง (ระนอง)

The "other" Koh Chang: no grid power, simple huts, very quiet.

☀️ Season by month

Size

18 km²

Getting there

Longtail/boat from Ranong ~1 h, 200-350 THB.

Boats by season

Boats rarely run ~May-October; most bungalows close then.

Highlights

Peace and quiet, Aow Yai beach, mangroves.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Ao Yai on the west coast.

• Sunset Bungalows €
  Wooden bungalows on north Ao Yai.
• Crocodile Rock Bungalows €
  Bungalows at the south end of Ao Yai.

📍 Google Maps

Similan Islands

Phang Nga · หมู่เกาะสิมิลัน

Archipelago of nine uninhabited islands with granite boulders and top dive sites.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 500 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

14 km²

Getting there

Speedboat tour from Thap Lamu/Khao Lak 1-1.5 h, 2,500-4,000 THB incl. lunch; liveaboards from Khao Lak/Phuket. Overnight stays on the islands currently not allowed (check).

Boats by season

Park closed 16 May-14 Oct: no boats.

Highlights

Donald Duck Bay, Sail Rock, diving with manta rays, Koh Miang.

Best beaches

Donald Duck Bay (Similan Island 8), Koh Miang (Similan Island 4)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No overnight stays; stay in Khao Lak or book a liveaboard.

📍 Google Maps

Surin Islands

Phang Nga · หมู่เกาะสุรินทร์

Remote park islands with Moken sea nomads and excellent snorkelling.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 500 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

33 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Khura Buri ~1-1.5 h, day tour 3,000-4,000 THB; park camping possible.

Boats by season

Park closed 16 May-14 Oct.

Highlights

Moken village, Ao Mai Ngam, Richelieu Rock.

Best beaches

Ao Mai Ngam (Surin Islands)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Park camp on Koh Surin Nuea (Chong Khad/Mae Ngam).

• Mu Ko Surin National Park – camping/bungalows (DNP) €
  Tents and a few bungalows at Chong Khad and Mae Ngam; open 15 Oct–15 May.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Racha Yai

Phuket · เกาะราชาใหญ่

Small island south of Phuket with clear water and Patok Bay.

☀️ Season by month

Size

4.5 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Chalong (Phuket) ~30-45 min, day tour 1,500-2,500 THB.

Boats by season

Tours run less and are cancelled more often May-October.

Highlights

Patok Bay (Ao Batok), diving, Siam Bay.

Best beaches

Patok Bay / Siam Bay (Koh Racha Yai)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Ao Batok (Bungalow Bay).

• The Racha €€€
  White design resort on Patok Bay.

📍 Google Maps

Coral Island (Koh Hey)

Phuket · เกาะเฮ

Busy day-trip island with water sports, 15 minutes from Phuket.

☀️ Season by month

Size

1.5 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Chalong/Rawai 15 min, day tour 800-1,500 THB.

Boats by season

Boats run all year, sometimes cancelled in rough sea.

Highlights

Banana Beach, parasailing, snorkelling.

Best beaches

Banana Beach (Koh Hey / Coral Island)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Rawai/Chalong (Phuket).

• Coral Island Resort €€
  Note: earlier check found it no longer takes overnight guests.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Lone

Phuket · เกาะโหลน

Quiet islet in Chalong Bay with a handful of resorts.

☀️ Season by month

Size

4.7 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Chalong ~15 min, 300-800 THB per boat.

Boats by season

All year, sheltered in the bay.

Highlights

Peace, kayaking, views of Phuket.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

East coast (Baan Mai).

• Baan Mai Beachfront Lone Island €€
  Bungalows with pool on the beach.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Poda

Krabi · เกาะปอดะ

Small uninhabited island with white sand, popular day trip from Ao Nang.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 400 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

0.6 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Ao Nang ~20 min, 300-500 THB pp (4 Islands tour).

Boats by season

Tours run all year but are cancelled more often May-October.

Highlights

Four Islands tour, Tup Island sandbar, Chicken Island.

Best beaches

Koh Poda, Koh Tup & Koh Kai sandbar (Talay Waek)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Ao Nang/Railay.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Hong (Krabi)

Krabi · เกาะห้อง

Limestone island with a hidden lagoon, visited by day trip.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park

Size

1 km²

Getting there

Speedboat tour from Ao Nang ~40 min, 1,200-2,000 THB.

Boats by season

Fewer tours, more cancellations May-October.

Highlights

Lagoon, viewpoint, snorkelling.

Best beaches

Koh Hong (Krabi) lagoon beach

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Ao Nang/Railay.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Kho Khao

Phang Nga · เกาะคอเขา

Quiet island north of Khao Lak with long empty beaches and a few resorts.

☀️ Season by month

Size

40 km²

Getting there

Car ferry from Nam Khem/Takua Pa ~10 min, 20-100 THB.

Boats by season

Ferry all year; some resorts close in low season.

Highlights

Empty beaches, sunsets, cycling.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The west coast.

• Pranee Beach Bungalows €
  Ten bungalows right on the beach.
• The Sunset Beach Resort Koh Kho Khao €€
  Beach resort with two pools.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Samui

Surat Thani · เกาะสมุย

Popular, developed Gulf island with its own airport, luxury resorts and busy beaches.

☀️ Season by month

Size

229 km²

Getting there

Fly to Samui (USM) from Bangkok ~1 h (pricey, 3,000-6,000 THB). Or bus/train to Surat Thani + ferry from Donsak 1.5 h (combo 900-1,500 THB from Bangkok).

Boats by season

Flights and ferries all year; some sailings cancelled in storms (Nov).

Highlights

Big Buddha, Fisherman's Village, Ang Thong day trip, waterfalls.

Best beaches

Silver Beach (Crystal Bay / Thong Ta Khian), Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, Maenam Beach, Bophut Beach (Fisherman's Village), Choeng Mon Beach

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Chaweng for nightlife, Lamai calmer, Bophut/Fisherman's Village or Choeng Mon for families.

• Lamai Coconut Beach Resort €
  Simple bungalows right on Lamai Beach.
• Crystal Bay Beach Resort €€
  Small 25-room resort right on Silver Beach.
• Crystal Bay Yacht Club €€
  Hillside villas above Silver Beach, a short walk to the sand.
• Chaweng Regent Beach Resort €€
  Modern all-inclusive resort in central Chaweng.
• Centara Reserve Samui €€€
  Former Centara Grand, five-star resort on the quieter part of Chaweng.
• W Koh Samui €€€
  Design resort with pool villas on Maenam.
• Hansar Samui Resort & Spa €€€
  Resort with infinity pool next to Fisherman's Village.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Phangan

Surat Thani · เกาะพะงัน

Famous for the Full Moon Party, but also quiet bays and yoga.

☀️ Season by month

Size

125 km²

Getting there

Ferry/speedboat from Samui 30-60 min, 200-400 THB; from Surat Thani (Donsak) ~2.5 h; Lomprayah from Chumphon via Tao.

Boats by season

All year.

Highlights

Full Moon Party, Bottle Beach, Thong Nai Pan, Haad Rin.

Best beaches

Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat), Thong Nai Pan Noi, Haad Rin Nok (Sunrise Beach), Thong Nai Pan Yai, Haad Yuan, Haad Salad

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Haad Rin for parties, Thong Nai Pan or Haad Yuan for quiet, Srithanu for yoga.

• Smile Bungalows €
  Basic bungalows with hammocks; reach it by boat or 4x4.
• Paradise Bungalows €
  The bungalows where the Full Moon Party began, on Haad Rin Nok.
• Barcelona Resort Haad Yuan €
  Small nine-room resort near the beach.
• The Hideaway Pariya Haad Yuan €€
  Secluded villas with pool, reachable by boat or 4x4.
• Salad Hut €€
  Bungalows with pool right on Haad Salad.
• Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas €€€
  Private-pool villas on Thong Nai Pan Noi.
• Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa €€€
  Teak luxury resort on the hillside of Thong Nai Pan Noi.
• Panviman Resort Koh Phangan €€€
  Hilltop resort between both bays, overlooking Thong Nai Pan Yai.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Tao

Surat Thani · เกาะเต่า

Small hilly diving island; one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to dive.

☀️ Season by month

Size

21 km²

Getting there

Lomprayah/speedboat from Chumphon 1.5-2 h, 600-750 THB; from Samui/Phangan 1-2 h, 500-700 THB. Bus+boat combo from Bangkok ~1,100-1,400 THB.

Boats by season

All year; sailings sometimes cancelled in strong wind (Nov-Dec).

Highlights

Diving, Koh Nang Yuan, John-Suwan Viewpoint, Shark Bay.

Best beaches

Sairee Beach, Sai Nuan Beach, Tanote Bay (Ao Tanot), Shark Bay (Ao Thian Og), Ao Leuk, Freedom Beach (Koh Tao)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Sairee for dive schools and food, Tanote/Haad Tien for quiet.

• Sairee Cottage Resort €
  Bungalows from basic to air-con, central Sairee with two pools.
• Poseidon Resort €
  Simple bungalows on snorkelling beach Tanote.
• Koh Tao Relax Freedom Beach Resort €€
  Bungalows on a steep slope above Freedom Beach; many stairs.
• Haad Tien Beach Resort €€€
  Design resort with private beach on Shark Bay.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Nang Yuan

Surat Thani · เกาะนางยวน

Three islets joined by a sandbar; privately owned with an entry fee.

☀️ Season by month

Size

0.4 km²

Getting there

Taxi boat from Sairee (Koh Tao) ~10 min, 150-300 THB return; also a Lomprayah stop.

Boats by season

All year.

Highlights

Sandbar, viewpoint, snorkelling (no plastic bottles allowed).

Best beaches

Koh Nang Yuan

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Only the island resort; otherwise Sairee on Koh Tao.

• Nangyuan Island Dive Resort €€€
  The island's only resort; after 3 pm you nearly have the sandbar to yourself.

📍 Google Maps

Ang Thong Marine Park

Surat Thani · อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะอ่างทอง

Archipelago of 42 limestone islands with an emerald lake and viewpoints; day trip.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 300 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

18 km²

Getting there

Day tour by boat from Samui or Phangan, 1.5-2 h (speedboat ~1 h), 1,500-2,800 THB incl. lunch.

Boats by season

Park usually closed ~1 Nov-15 Dec.

Highlights

Mae Ko viewpoint, Emerald Lake, kayaking.

Best beaches

Koh Wua Talab (Ang Thong Marine Park), Koh Mae Ko viewpoint beach (Ang Thong)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Park bungalows on Koh Wua Talab, or stay on Samui.

• Ang Thong National Park – bungalows Koh Wua Talab (DNP) €
  A few basic park bungalows; book well ahead.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Tan

Surat Thani · เกาะแตน

Quiet islet south of Samui with coral and a few bungalows.

☀️ Season by month

Size

5 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Thong Krut (Samui) ~20 min, day tour 500-1,500 THB.

Boats by season

All year in calm weather.

Highlights

Snorkelling, peace, combine with Koh Madsum.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Koh Samui (zuidkust).

📍 Google Maps

Koh Madsum (Pig Island)

Surat Thani · เกาะมัดสุม

Small island famous for the pigs on the beach.

☀️ Season by month

Size

1 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Thong Krut (Samui) ~20 min, day tour 500-1,500 THB; entry ~100 THB.

Boats by season

All year in calm weather.

Highlights

Pigs on the beach, shallow water.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Koh Samui (zuidkust).

📍 Google Maps

Koh Talu

Prachuap Khiri Khan · เกาะทะลุ

Private island off Bang Saphan with coral and a sea turtle project.

☀️ Season by month

Size

1 km²

Getting there

Boat from Bang Saphan Noi ~30 min; day trip or stay via the island resort (prices on request).

Boats by season

All year in calm weather.

Highlights

Snorkelling, turtles, rock arch.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The island's only resort.

• Koh Talu Island Resort €€
  The only resort on the island, meals and speedboat included.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Chang

Trat · เกาะช้าง

Thailand's second-largest island, green and mountainous with jungle and waterfalls.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 200 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

217 km²

Getting there

Bus/minivan Bangkok-Trat ~5-6 h (250-400 THB) + car ferry Ao Thammachat/Centrepoint 30-45 min, 80-150 THB. Or fly to Trat.

Boats by season

Car ferry all year; speedboats to Koh Mak/Kood/Wai mainly Nov-May.

Highlights

Klong Plu waterfall, Bang Bao pier, jungle trekking, Lonely Beach.

Best beaches

White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao), Lonely Beach (Hat Tha Nam), Klong Prao Beach, Kai Bae Beach, Long Beach (Hat Sai Yao), Koh Chang

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

White Sand Beach for convenience, Klong Prao/Kai Bae for families, Lonely Beach for backpackers.

• White Sand Beach Resort €
  Simple bungalows at the north end of the beach.
• Siam Beach Resort €
  Beach rooms on the sandy north end of Lonely Beach; lively.
• Kai Bae Beach Resort €
  Beach bungalows with pool on Kai Bae.
• KC Grande Resort €€
  Large resort at the quiet north end of White Sand Beach.
• Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort €€
  Family resort right on Klong Prao.
• Koh Chang Paradise Resort €€
  Relaxed bungalows and villas on Klong Prao.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Kood (Koh Kut)

Trat · เกาะกูด

Unspoilt green island with clear water and waterfalls; quieter than Koh Chang.

☀️ Season by month

Size

105 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Laem Sok (Trat) 1-1.5 h, 400-600 THB; in high season also from Koh Chang/Mak.

Boats by season

Laem Sok boats run all year (fewer); island-hopping boats stop ~May-October and some resorts close.

Highlights

Klong Chao waterfall, Bang Bao Beach, old fishing villages Ao Yai and Ao Salad.

Best beaches

Ao Bang Bao (Koh Kood), Klong Chao Beach, Ao Tapao (Koh Kood)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Klong Chao and Bang Bao on the west coast.

• The Beach Natural Resort €€
  Nature-style resort on Bang Bao Bay.
• Sea Far Resort €€
  Small resort right on Ao Tapao.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Mak

Trat · เกาะหมาก

Flat, relaxed island with coconut palms and bike paths; no mass tourism.

☀️ Season by month

Size

16 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Laem Sok (Trat) ~45-60 min, 450-600 THB; in high season from Koh Chang and Kood.

Boats by season

Laem Sok boats limited in low season; island hopping stopped ~May-October and many resorts close.

Highlights

Ao Kao, Ao Suan Yai, Koh Kham offshore, cycling.

Best beaches

Ao Kao (Koh Mak), Ao Suan Yai (Koh Mak)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai.

• Makathanee Resort €€
  Resort with own pier and two pools on Ao Kao.
• Koh Mak Resort €€
  Bungalows on the white sand of Ao Suan Yai.
• Koh Mak Cococape Resort €€
  Huts to suites on the headland next to Ao Suan Yai.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Wai

Trat · เกาะหวาย

Small islet with limited electricity, coral and a few simple resorts.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park

Size

2 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Koh Chang (Bang Bao) ~20-30 min, 300-400 THB; or from Laem Ngop.

Boats by season

Boats and most resorts stop ~May-October.

Highlights

Snorkelling from the beach, peace.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The north coast (basic huts).

• Good Feeling Bungalows €
  Very basic, power evenings only.
• Paradise Resort Koh Wai €
  Basic north-coast huts, shared bathrooms.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Kham (Trat)

Trat · เกาะขาม

Tiny islet near Koh Mak with fine sand and clear water.

☀️ Season by month

Size

0.2 km²

Getting there

Kayak or longtail from Koh Mak 10-20 min; entry ~200 THB (private).

Boats by season

Not reachable in rough sea (May-Oct).

Highlights

Snorkelling, white sand.

Best beaches

Koh Kham (Trat)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Ban Phe/Mae Ramphueng.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Rang

Trat · เกาะรัง

Uninhabited park islands with the best coral on the East Coast; snorkel trip.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 200 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

1 km²

Getting there

Snorkel tour from Koh Chang, Mak or Kood, 1,000-1,800 THB.

Boats by season

Tours almost only Nov-May.

Highlights

Snorkelling and diving.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Koh Kood of Koh Mak.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Samet

Rayong · เกาะเสม็ด

The closest true beach island to Bangkok, with white sand and a relatively dry climate.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 200 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

13 km²

Getting there

Bus Bangkok-Ban Phe ~3-4 h (200-300 THB) + ferry 30-45 min (70-100 THB) or speedboat 15 min (200-300 THB). Park fee on arrival.

Boats by season

All year.

Highlights

Sai Kaew, Ao Phrao sunset, fire shows.

Best beaches

Hat Sai Kaew (Koh Samet), Ao Phrao (Koh Samet), Ao Wong Duean, Ao Wai (Koh Samet), Ao Kiu Na Nok (Koh Samet), Ao Noi Na (Koh Samet)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Sai Kaew/Ao Phai for convenience, Ao Prao (west coast) for quiet.

• Sai Kaew Beach Resort €€
  Beachfront resort with beach club on Hat Sai Kaew.
• Ao Prao Resort €€
  Family-friendly resort on Ao Phrao.
• Samet Ville Resort €€
  The only resort on Ao Wai.
• Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa €€€
  Romantic cottages on the sunset coast.
• Paradee Resort €€€
  Adults-only villa resort in the remote south.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Larn

Chonburi · เกาะล้าน

Day-trip island off Pattaya with six beaches and many Thai visitors.

☀️ Season by month

Size

4.7 km²

Getting there

Ferry from Bali Hai (Pattaya) 30-45 min, 30 THB; speedboat 15 min, 150-300 THB.

Boats by season

All year.

Highlights

Tawaen, Samae, viewpoint, scooter tour.

Best beaches

Tawaen Beach (Koh Larn), Samae Beach (Koh Larn)

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Tawaen or Samae; most visit as a day trip.

• Tawaen Beach Resort €
  Simple hotel right on Tawaen; the beach is quiet after the day boats.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Si Chang

Chonburi · เกาะสีชัง

Historic Thai island with a royal summer palace and temples, few foreigners.

☀️ Season by month

Size

17 km²

Getting there

Ferry from Si Racha 45 min, 50-70 THB.

Boats by season

All year.

Highlights

Phra Chudadhuj Palace, Chinese shrine, Hat Tham Phang.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Around Thewawong pier and the village.

• Charlie's Bungalows €
  Garden bungalows near Thewawong pier, not on a beach.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Kham (Sattahip)

Chonburi · เกาะขาม (สัตหีบ)

Navy-managed islet with white sand and coral; day trip.

☀️ Season by month

Size

0.2 km²

Getting there

Boat from the navy pier in Sattahip ~10-15 min; book ahead; entry/boat ~100-500 THB (uncertain).

Boats by season

May close temporarily for reef recovery (check).

Highlights

Snorkelling, quiet beach.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Sattahip/Pattaya.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Man Nai

Rayong · เกาะมันใน

Small island with a sea turtle conservation centre.

☀️ Season by month

Size

0.3 km²

Getting there

Boat from Pak Nam Prasae (Rayong) ~30-45 min; usually by tour (prices vary).

Boats by season

All year in calm weather.

Highlights

Sea turtle breeding centre.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Ban Phe/Rayong.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Kret

Nonthaburi · เกาะเกร็ด

River island in the Chao Phraya near Bangkok, with Mon pottery and a weekend market. No beach.

☀️ Season by month

Size

4.2 km²

Getting there

Crossing boat from Wat Sanam Nuea (Pak Kret) 2 min, ~2-5 THB; from Bangkok taxi/Grab ~45-60 min.

Boats by season

All year.

Highlights

Pottery, weekend market, cycling round the island.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

In the riverside village, or stay in Bangkok.

• Baanya Homestay Ko Kret €
  Small riverside homestay.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Rok

Krabi · เกาะรอก

Two uninhabited park islands with white sand and great snorkelling, south of Lanta.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park · 400 THB (park fee for foreigners)

Size

4 km²

Getting there

Speedboat snorkel tour from Koh Lanta ~1 h, 2,000-3,000 THB.

Boats by season

Park closed ~16 May-14 Oct.

Highlights

Snorkelling, white sandbar, monitor lizards.

Best beaches

Koh Rok

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Park camp on Koh Rok Nai; otherwise Koh Lanta.

• Mu Ko Lanta National Park – camping/bungalows (DNP) €
  Camping on Koh Rok Nai only with permission from Mu Ko Lanta park HQ; tents are rented on site, and the island is closed mid-May to November.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Phra Thong

Phang Nga · เกาะพระทอง

Remote island with savanna, mangroves and almost empty beaches.

☀️ Season by month

Size

100 km²

Getting there

Longtail from Kuraburi or Tha Kerk ~1 h; usually arranged via your accommodation (price on request).

Boats by season

Little transport and most stays closed ~May-October.

Highlights

Savanna with deer, birds, empty beaches.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

Golden Buddha Beach on the west coast.

• Golden Buddha Beach Resort €€
  Eco resort with 29 houses on an empty beach.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Lao Liang

Trang · เกาะเหลาเหลียง

Two steep limestone islands with only a tent camp; climbing and snorkelling.

☀️ Season by month

🎟️ National park

Size

1 km²

Getting there

Speedboat from Hat Yao (Trang) ~1 h, usually via the camp (package).

Boats by season

Camp and boats only ~Nov-May.

Highlights

Rock climbing, snorkelling, kayaking.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

No verified lodging; day trip, stay in Trang/Koh Sukorn.

📍 Google Maps

Koh Maiton

Phuket · เกาะไม้ท่อน

Private islet south-east of Phuket with dolphins around; day trip.

☀️ Season by month

Size

1 km²

Getting there

Speedboat tour from Chalong ~20-30 min, 1,200-2,500 THB.

Boats by season

Fewer tours May-October.

Highlights

Snorkelling, dolphin spotting.

▶️ Videos

🛏️ Where to stay

The island's only resort.

• Maiton Island Resort €€€
  A few villas, full board with boat transfer; mixed reviews.

📍 Google Maps