koh phangan thailand travel

Ko Pha-Ngan

In the late 1970s, Ko Pha-Ngan was a pristine paradise that beckoned the intrepid. Its innocent days may be long gone, but don’t let that deter you: this gulf isle offers much more than the Full Moon parties that made it famous.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hat Than Sadet

This lovely beach of leaning coconut trees has the royal seal of approval, literally. Behind the collection of shacks that line the sands and azure waters…

This lovely, secluded cove has a stretch of soft sand overlooked by green hills and is a superb choice for a relaxing day of swimming and snorkelling…

Nam Tok Phaeng

Nam Tok Phaeng is protected by a national park and is a pleasant reward after a short but rough hike. After the waterfall (dry out of season), it's a…

Shrine of Our Lady Guanyin Phangan

This colourful Chinese temple cascades down a serene jungle-covered mountainside overlooking the Island's green canopy. Dedicated to Guanyin, the Buddhist…

Yang Na Yai Tree

Thrusting 54m into the heavens near Wat Pho, Ko Pha-Ngan's tallest Yang Na Yai (dipterocarpus alatus; ยางนา), said to be over 400 years old, is an…

Wat Phu Khao Noi

The oldest temple on the island, Wat Phu Khao Noi or 'temple of small mountain', near the hospital in Thong Sala, is believed to have been founded by…

Wat Khao Tham

With resident female monks, Wat Khao Tham, near Ban Tai, sits in shade among the trees high up on a hill. A bulletin board details meditation retreats at…

Chedi Wat Nai

This beautiful stone pagoda from the 19th century has carvings of monks, Garudas, demons, elephants, nagas and an intriguing man in a Chinese suit, as…

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Wildlife & Nature

Jan 18, 2016 • 5 min read

In the late 1970s, Ko Pha-Ngan was a pristine paradise that beckoned the intrepid. Its innocent days may be long gone, but don’t let that deter you: this…

21 BEST Things to Do in Koh Phangan [2024 Travel Guide]

• Last Updated: April 2, 2024

An epic list of all the best things to do in Koh Phangan, Thailand. Yes, there’s more to the island than just the Full Moon Party! 

Koh Phangan is a relatively small island in the Gulf of Thailand nestled in between Koh Tao and Koh Samui . 

Yet it has everything you could wish for in a tropical island paradise: towering palm trees, white-sand beaches, coral reefs with exotic fish, and lush jungles filled with waterfalls all framed by the idyllic turquoise ocean. 

But when most travellers think of Koh Phangan, they think of wild parties, neon paint and buckets full of alcohol. 

Koh Phangan is home to the famous Full Moon Party. Travellers from all over the globe flock to this island to dance the night away with other tourists. 

If you are a true party animal, you may just have the best night of your life at the Full Moon Party. 

This beach party is absolutely epic and so much fun, but many people focus on this party scene too much and overlook all the other amazing parts of Koh Phangan. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alesha & Jarryd – TRAVEL (@nomadasaurus)

Table of Contents

1. Hike to Bottle Beach

2. stay at indigo coral house and learn about their amazing sustainability and refugee projects, 3. get a thai massage, 4. take a day trip to ang thong national marine park, 5. visit koh ma, 6. hike khao ra mountain, 7. watch the sunset from a rooftop bar, 8. go scuba diving, 9. chill out on thong nai pan beach, 10. visit thong sala’s street markets, 11. watch a movie at an outdoor cinema, 12. seek out some waterfalls, 13. go sea kayaking, 14. take a road trip around the island, 15. dance the night away at the full moon party, 16. or party at the half moon party, 17. enjoy the scenery from the haad rin viewpoint, 18. go snorkelling, 19. visit the temples, 20. watch a muay thai boxing match, 21. rent a motorbike, budget: bodega hostel, mid range: samutra residences, luxury: panviman resort koh phangan, budget – moonsoon’s restaurant, mid-range – restaurant sunshine, luxury – milky bay restaurant, the best things to do in koh phangan.

With this list of the best things to do in Koh Phangan, I hope to shed some light on the other fun activities and natural attractions of the island. 

So even if you don’t drink and don’t like partying, you can still have an incredible time when you explore the island. 

You can snorkel, hike, kayak, scuba dive, and enjoy all the best parts of Thai culture like eating street food, exploring temples, and getting a Thai massage. 

So whether you are interested in the Full Moon Party or not, the beauty around Koh Phangan should not be missed on a trip to Thailand!

With a reputation as one of the best beaches and a top Koh Phangan attraction, Bottle Beach is a true gem of Thailand’s gulf. 

Located in the north of the island, the beach is pretty hard to get to but the one-hour trek through the jungle is a fun adventure. 

Wear good walking shoes and plenty of bug spray, and you’ll feel like you really earned your relaxing beach day once you arrive on the white sands of Bottle Beach. 

The hike begins at Coconut Beach on the north of Koh Phangan and is completely free!

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Thailand with our comprehensive travel guide!

There are so many incredible sustainability and conservation initiatives happening in Thailand right now , and one of the main focuses of my most recent trip to the Land of Smiles was to learn about some of them.

Koh Phangan has always been a hub for alternative thinking and eco-conscious travellers, and I was lucky enough to spend the day at place called Indigo Coral House to discover how they are giving back to their community.

Run by the passionate duo Fatimah and Matteo, the accommodations, living areas and workshops at Indigo Coral House have been built using sustainable bamboo, and the construction methods have been refined to minimise the amount of non-renewable resources needed.

Their goal is to show local builders that bamboo is not only a fantastic construction material, but can be used to make funky, high-quality and beautiful designs too.

That’s not all they do at Indigo Coral House though. It has also become a haven for Burmese refugees who flee over the border to escape the current turmoil.

Not only do Fatimah and Matteo offer a safe space for them to live, but they teach them art techniques such as leaf printing and weaving so they can create their own pieces and sell them at the markets to make an income.

I had the most amazing day at Indigo Coral House and felt so welcome by everybody who calls the place home.

A special thank you to Soemoechit who taught me leaf printing, Phyu Phyu Moe who cooked up the most delectable Burmese vegetarian lunch for me, and of course Fatimah and Matteo who took time out of their day to show me all that they are doing.

You can visit Indigo Coral House yourself to do art and bamboo building workshops, leaf printing, learn how to compost or just stay in some of the stunning bamboo bungalows and villas. Highly recommend if you’re coming to Koh Phangan!

• Location : 8/65 moo 8 Koh Phangan Koh Phangan, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
• WhatsApp: +44 793 165 0719

After spending a big day hiking around, diving and swimming, you might want to treat your body to a Thai massage. 

Let the experienced local masseuses knead, twist, and smooth the kinks out of your muscles and you’ll feel so refreshed afterward. 

Thai massage is a highly revered traditional practice in the country, so you should definitely experience it at least once while travelling through Thailand. 

This is a great way to relax when you visit Koh Phangan.

READ MORE: Extend your Thai adventures by jumping on the ferry and checking out what to do on Koh Tao !

This protected archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand is a stunning oasis of natural beauty. 

Filled with hiking trails, limestone caves, towering cliffs, palm forests, coral reefs, sandy beaches, and much more, Ang Thong National Marine Park is a nature-lovers paradise. 

You can only enter the marine park via a government-approved tour boat.

Luckily there are plenty of great tour companies that offer day trips from Koh Phangan to Ang Thong . 

A trip to Koh Ma should definitely be on your list of Koh Phangan sightseeing. 

This tiny island is actually separate from Koh Phangan, but is connected to the main island by a sand bar that is visible at low tide. 

So head to the northwest of the island at low tide and you can walk along the sand bar to Koh Ma. 

You can also enjoy sunbathing on the sand bar and swimming in the ocean to escape the heat. 

This 627-meter high mountain is one of the best Koh Phangan attractions. 

Hiking to the top will provide you with some amazing views, and the whole journey takes about 2-3 hours round trip. 

You can hike the trail in sturdy sneakers or hiking boots, and be sure to pack lots of water and sunscreen. 

To avoid the mid-day heat, try to hike in the early morning or late afternoon. 

Khao Ra is located near the north of the island and the hike is free. 

READ MORE: Plan your best trip with these Thailand itineraries .

There’s something absolutely magical about watching the sunset from a tropical island. 

Even better is watching an island sunset up high at a rooftop bar so you can enjoy an incredible panoramic view. 

Koh Phangan has lots of rooftop bars and restaurants that make great vantage points for sunset. Here are a few of the best ones:

• Secret Mountain: Open 10 am to 9 pm
• Amsterdam Bar : Open 12 pm to 1 am
• Three Sixty Bar : Open 10 am to 12 am

Scuba diving is definitely one of the best things to do in Koh Phangan, and the last time we visited proved exactly why!

The Gulf of Thailand is packed with gorgeous marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays, coral reefs, and more. 

Among the best diving spots near the island are Samran Pinnacle, Hin Yippon, Koh Ma, and Ang Thong National Marine Park . 

Sail Rock is arguably the best dive site in the entire Gulf of Thailand, so this is a great place to go and explore the waters.

The island has a few dive schools that can hook you up with gear or help you get your divers certification.

Personally however we recommend the absolute legends at H2O Diving in Thong Nai Pan.

Run by the incredible couple Alis and Lee, these guys are a PADI 5-Star Center and have been operating since 2003.

They use a modern and comfortable speed boat to get out to the dive sites, and this means they can actually time their trips to avoid when all the other companies go out.

For example, Sail Rock is quite far from Koh Phangan meaning all the local companies go out in the morning. For H2O however, they go out after lunch.

When I went out for my two dives with Lee, we were the only dive boat there. A pretty magical experience (check out my video below of what it was like) .

The gear they use is new and well-maintained, the staff friendly and the service they provide is some of the most professional I’ve experienced from diving in over a dozen countries.

I highly, HIGHLY recommend scuba diving with Lee, Alis and the team at H2O if going out in Koh Phangan.

Of all the Koh Phangan attractions, the beaches are undoubtedly one of the best reasons to visit/

People travel from far and wide to stretch out on the velvety white sand and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Thai islands, so make sure you squeeze plenty of beach days into your Thailand itinerary. 

While visiting Koh Phangan, head to Thong Nai Pan for the ultimate beach day. 

Soak in the sun or lie in the shade under a coconut palm. Splash in the water and collect seashells.

Take plenty of photos because this beach on Koh Phangan’s northeast coast is truly beautiful. 

As the main hub of Koh Phangan, Thong Sala is a bustling town with plenty of fun things to do. 

The street markets are the town’s best attraction; tourists and locals both come together in the evenings to browse through the local goods and gorge on some delicious Thai food. 

The Phantip Night Market opens every evening and has some of the best street food on the island. 

Every Saturday, the main street of Thong Sala turns into a Walking Street Market , also known as the Thong Sala Night Market.

At Thong Sala Night Market, the streets become pedestrian-only as local vendors fill the road with their own stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and other homemade goods. There is also plenty of Thai food to eat!

For a fun night in Koh Phangan, head to the Moonlight Cinema .

Located near the night market in Thong Sala, this open-air movie theater is full of comfy pillows and plays a wide variety of new and old films. 

You can buy snacks and drinks at the theater as well. It’s a highlight of many who visit Koh Phangan!

• Location : 46 Moo 1, Chaloklum Rd. Thong Sala, Ko Phangan
• Hours : 3 pm to 1 am (opens at 1 pm on weekends)

In addition to all the ocean scenery and white-sand beaches, some of the best things to see in Koh Phangan lie inland within the lush jungle. 

The island is home to lots of waterfalls where you can go have a picnic, take photos, and swim in the fresh flowing water. 

Phaeng Waterfall , Than Sadet Waterfall , and Paradise Waterfall are three of the most picturesque falls on the island. 

If you just hop in a taxi or songtaew and tell the driver the name of the waterfall you want to visit, they’ll know where to go.

READ MORE: Thinking of visiting other places in Thailand? Our new blog post will tell you the best spots to go!

Cruising through the turquoise waters and soaking in all the natural beauty is one of the best things to do in Koh Phangan. 

Many of the island’s beaches have kayak rentals available, with the average price being about 150 Baht per hour.  

Make sure you are reasonably fit and aware of the ocean currents before setting out on the water and don’t kayak alone. 

A popular place to kayak on the island is from Wok Tum to Koh Ma because the waters are generally calm here. 

If you want to see a lot of the island in a short amount of time, your best bet is to book a sightseeing tour. 

There are a few tourism companies that offer either ATV or road trip adventures around the island , which is great if you don’t have your own form of transport. 

Your tour will take you to all the best spots on the island, including beaches, waterfalls, rooftop bars, and other amazing places that you might not be able to see on your own. 

For any party animals out there looking for a classic Thailand backpacker experience, add the Full Moon Party to your bucket list. 

Some travelers come to Koh Phangan solely for the Full Moon Party, as it is a famous phenomenon among young travelers. 

This party includes lots of neon body paint, lots of cheap mixed drinks in plastic buckets, and lots of loud music, flashing lights, and dancing. 

It’s one of the best things to do in Koh Phangan if you like to party.

The party is held every full moon on Haad Rin Beach. There is a Sunrise and Sunset Beach on Haad Rin Beach, and the party is on Sunrise Beach.

Just keep in mind that lots of accommodations completely book up for the party, so book your bed as far in advance as you can!

If you love the idea of the Full Moon Party, but you won’t be in Koh Phangan during the actual full moon, have no fear!

The island also hosts a Half Moon Party at, you guessed it, every half-moon. 

That means this party happens twice a month rather than just once, and it isn’t as famous but it is still super fun. 

The Half Moon Party happens in the jungle instead of on the beach, and there are tons of different stages and dance floors bumping different types of music. 

For a panoramic view on the south of the island, head to the Haad Rin Viewpoint. 

The climb to the top only takes about 15 minutes, but in the humid, tropical heat it can be quite tiring so pack plenty of water. 

The trail starts behind the Fairyland Resort on the southern tip of the island. From the top, you can enjoy views of the nearby beaches and you can even see Koh Samui in the distance. 

READ MORE: Make the most of your trip to Thailand with these travel tips

If you’re not ready to commit to scuba diving, you can still explore Koh Phangan’s flourishing underwater marine life by snorkelling. 

Snorkelling is cheap and easy, so anyone can do it. If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent a snorkel, mask, and flippers for roughly 100 Baht per hour. 

One of the island’s best locations for snorkelling is Mae Haad Beach and Haad Son along the north coast. 

With so much natural beauty to see and partying to be done, it can be easy to forget about all the stunning temples on Koh Phangan!

But the temples are amazing representations of Thai culture and Buddhist architecture, so you should definitely try to see plenty of them. 

Some of the island’s most beautiful temples are Wat Nok , Wat Khao Tham , and Wat Pho (not to be confused with the famous Wat Pho in Bangkok ).

If you haven’t yet been to see a Muay Thai Boxing Match in Thailand, now is your chance!

This fast-paced, mesmerizing sport is super popular in Thailand, and watching a match is a great way for tourists to catch a glimpse of the local Thai culture. 

Koh Phangan is home to 7 Muay Thai Boxing stadiums that host matches every evening. Some of them even have training classes so you can learn the basics of the sport for yourself! 

To explore Koh Phangan on your own schedule, rent a motorbike and enjoy all the mobility you need. 

Before renting a motorbike, make sure you have travel insurance and a copy of your passport to give the rental company. 

Also take lots of photos of the bike before you ride it, so the company can’t blame any scratches or dings on you. 

There are lots of motorbike rental companies around Ko Pha Ngan, and the average cost is around 150 Baht per day.  

The most popular route to explore by motorbike is the west coast of the island. 

Koh Phangan Travel Guide

After taking note of all the best things to do in Koh Phangan, here are some recommendations for where to stay and what to eat. 

Accommodation in Koh Phangan

Whether you’re a budget backpacker who just wants to party, or an upscale traveller looking for the best quality beach resorts, Koh Phangan has it all. 

This hostel is loud, wild, crazy, and perfect for social butterflies and partiers in Koh Phangan. 

It has over 1,000 great reviews on Hostelworld , and it is the best place to stay on the island for the moon parties and just for making friends and taking part in lots of fun, social activities. 

Keep in mind that prices rise during the Full Moon Party, but the hostel is still cheaper than a hotel on Koh Pha Ngan. 

If you want a quieter atmosphere, there are plenty of other hostels on Hostelworld that aren’t party hostels, just do a bit of browsing. 

This new and affordable resort in Koh Phangan is perfect for those who want to experience a bit of luxury on Koh Pha Ngan without spending a ton of money. 

With a super friendly staff, new rooms and private bungalows, a beautiful garden and private pool, and located in a quiet area, this place exudes an aura of comfort and relaxation. 

On my last visit to the island I had the chance to stay in the best luxury resort on Koh Phangan!

Tucked away at the quiet end of Koh Pha Ngan on Thong Nai Pan Beach, and a world away from the hectic Full Moon Party, Panviman Resort is beautiful accommodation is built up on a headland surrounded by jungle with amazing views over the Gulf of Thailand.

The food is next level, they have live music most nights in either their beachside or cliffside restaurant, the hotel staff can organise any tour or activity you want and they even do a floating breakfast!

Want to know the best part? Rooms start at just $110 a night! Proof that you don’t need to kill the budget to enjoy a little bit of luxury in Thailand.

If you’re planning a trip to this part of the country definitely check out Koh Phangan and Panviman Resorts.

What to Eat in Koh Phangan

Don’t miss these amazing restaurants in Koh Phangan for your next visit!

Located on the east coast of Koh Pha Ngan near Bottle Beach, Moonsoon’s Restaurant is a super laid-back local restaurant with delicious, cheap local food.

They have local and western food, all at cheap prices. People also rave about the friendly, English-speaking staff.

Restaurant Sunshine on the west coast of Koh Pha Ngan is a relaxed eatery serving all the classic Thai dishes.

It is moderately priced, the portion sizes are hefty, and the atmosphere is welcoming.

Located on a pristine beach and stocked with fresh and delicious seafood, Milky Bay Restaurant is one of the top-rated places to eat on Koh Phangan. 

The menu is extensive, so you can eat classic Thai food, pizza and pasta, or freshly-caught fish. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Ko Pha Ngan, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is one of the premier backpacking and party destinations in Southeast Asia .

Tourists started traveling to this area in the 1980s, and due to the popularity of its Full Moon Parties, it has been popular ever since.

This is a heavy party destination, especially around the madness that is Haad Rin (location of the Full Moon Party) but, if you head to the northern or eastern beaches on the island, they tend to be a lot more low-key and relaxed.

If you’re not here just to party, there are plenty of yoga and nature resorts here to get away from it all and relax (or recover). So, while the island has become infamous for its chaotic and sprawling Full Moon Party (5,000-25,000 attend the party each month), there is actually a lot more to do here than just binge drink.

This Ko Pha Ngan travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this popular beachy getaway!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ko Pha Ngan

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Ko Pha Ngan

1. Go snorkeling

Snorkeling day trips usually run from 11am-5pm and include transportation, snorkeling, swimming, and lunch, for about 1,600 THB per person. You meet tons of people on these tours so they’re great for solo travelers. There is also a tour called the Munchies Tour and another called the Reggae Tour.

2. Enjoy the famous Full Moon Party

The Full Moon Party is a giant beach rave with a lot of drinking, dancing, and partying. Each bar has its own sound system, and the beach is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers put on shows, and little booths sell glow-in-the-dark face paint.

3. Tour the temples

Thailand is covered with temples and Ko Pha Ngan is no exception. They are beautiful windows into Thai religion and make for great photo opportunities. Wat Phu Khao Noi and especially Wat Samai Kongka are two of the most beautiful temples on the island.

4. Lounge in the sun

Haad Rin is the most developed beach on the island but, with over 30 beaches to choose from, you can have anything from touristy and developed beaches to deserted and secluded beaches. Thong Nai Pan is one of my favorites, with its white sand and calmer waters.

5. Take a boat trip

Boat trips can be arranged through a variety of resorts and companies around the island. Some of the best itineraries include visits to the Than Sadet Waterfall, Thong Nai Pan, and Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat). Usually, lunch is included on these excursions. Day trips cost 1,600-2,200 THB.

Other Things to See and Do in Ko Pha Ngan

1. swim in a natural mountain pool.

Close to Haad Rin in the direction of Baan Tai, take a turn off to the right where you see the sign stating “river on stone” natural pool, and you will find yourself at the Sramanora waterfall. It is a little out of the way to get to, but definitely worth the trek. There is also a resort close by, with a little restaurant if you get hungry. Two days before and two days after the Full Moon Party, Waterfall Party takes place here. Dance the night away as DJs play electronica and jump in the natural pools when you need to cool off. Admission is 600 THB which includes a beer.

The island is home to a growing number of yoga schools where you can go to relax and revitalize your body. There are numerous options depending on how much time you have and how serious you are. You can go for a single lesson, attend a multi-day retreat, or stay there for six months learning to be a yoga instructor. The drop-in price for a single class (60-90 minutes) is generally around 300 THB. If you’re planning on attending more than one class, a 10-class pass is around 2,200-2,500 THB. Wonderland Healing Center, Samma Karuna, and Pyramid Yoga are some of the most popular yoga studios on the island.

3. Rent a kayak

Just like on many of the other islands, it’s possible to rent a sea kayak and get out on the water. Head out for an hour of paddling or be more ambitious and do an organized day tour. You can find kayaks on nearly every beach, with most starting at around 150 THB per hour. The west coast, from Wok Tum to Koh Ma, is the calmest and offers some of the best kayaking waters to beach hop.

4. Watch (or learn) Muay Thai

Muay Thai has gained international fame as Thailand’s martial art and it’s a thrilling and disciplined sport. It is known as “the art of using eight limbs,” as fighters use fists, knees, elbows, and shins to pummel their opponent. You can catch a fight in one of the island’s three stadiums or sign up for a lesson and learn it yourself. You can even attend a Muay Thai camp here! A private Muay Thai lesson starts around 600-700 THB, a 10-lesson pass is 5,000 THB, and a week’s stay at a training camp starts from 5,000 THB, including accommodation and meals. Diamond Muay Thai and Phangan Muay Thai are the two biggest training gyms.

5. Learn to cook

Thai food is one of the best cuisines in the world. Many tourists come here to just eat and eat and eat. But why not take the extra step and sign up for one of the island’s numerous cooking classes so you can bring the cuisine home with you? Classes begin with a visit to the local market (where you’ll learn about local ingredients and how to select them) and end with a tasty meal of the few different dishes you’ve prepared. Classes cost 1,200-1,500 THB depending on how many dishes you want to make. The Phangan Thai Cooking Class is the preeminent cooking school on the island.

6. Visit the waterfalls

Ko Pha Ngan has its share of waterfalls, although some are only seasonal, drying up partway through the year. If you’re up for some hiking, make your way to one of these for a secluded getaway from the beach party scene. Try Wang Sai and Than Prawet, a couple of the lesser-known waterfalls. July-October is the peak time for seeing the waterfalls with the most water, while November-June is the dry season.

7. Learn to dive

It’s not the top place in Thailand for diving, but there are still some good options here if you want to dive (Ko Tao is a better choice though). The most well-known dive site in the area is Sailrock, a rock that pierces the water and creates the opportunity for a great wall dive down to 40 meters (130 feet). Day trips including two dives, gear, and meals cost around 2,650 THB. Many of the diving centers offer PADI courses as well, which cost 8,500 THB for a three-day certification course.

8. Soak in the culture

The C&M Culture Center offers a variety of classes that you can take to learn more about the traditions of the people of Ko Pha Ngan. Learn how to make pad thai in a cooking class, pick up a few words in a language class, try your hand at learning how to give a Thai massage, or strike a pose in a yoga class. Group classes are 700-1,500 THB, while private classes are 3,000-3,500 THB. The center also puts on special events for Thai holidays and national festivals too.

9. Zipline through the canopy

If heights are your thing, Just for Fun Canopy Adventure offers sweeping zip lines and tree bridges 22 meters (72 feet) in the air! The full course takes about 45 minutes, and you can grab a drink afterward at their Fish Spa. It costs 800 THB per person.

10. Eat your way through the Thong Sala Night Market

Night markets are incredibly popular around Thailand, and Ko Pha Ngan is no exception. The island’s version (also called Phantip Night Market) takes place right by Thong Sala pier and is open daily from 4pm-11pm. Prices range from 20-100 THB. Every Saturday, the market expands onto the streets outside and includes vendors selling crafts and clothing.

11. Admire the views

Epic views can be enjoyed all over the island, whether from natural viewpoints or a jungle café. Ko Ma, Haad Rin, and Chaloklum have all-natural viewpoints that you can get to with varying degrees of difficulty. Some require hiking through the jungle, while others are turn-offs from main roads. Khao Ra is the highest point on the entire island and is only accessible via a steep hiking trail — but the views are worth it! Amsterdam Bar, a three-story bar complete with a pool, is a popular spot to watch the sunset over the water.

12. Explore Ang Thong National Marine Park

This national park, located just 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Ko Pha Ngan, is an archipelago of 42 islands, characterized by steep limestone cliffs and mountains, evergreen and mangrove forests, white-sand beaches with hidden coves, and cascading waterfalls. Animals on the islands include monkeys, macaques, leopards, fishing cats, wild boars, otters, kingfishers, sea eagles, and more. You must visit the park with a licensed tour operator that has a permit to access the archipelago and day trips usually cost around 2,000 THB, with most tours stopping at a few of the islands to go snorkeling, hiking, and/or kayaking. The park is closed from October 20th-December 20th.

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Phi Phi Travel Guide
• Phuket Travel Guide

Ko Pha Ngan Travel Costs

Hostel prices – In the high season, bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs 600-700 THB per night while an 8-10-bed dorm costs 500 THB. Large dorm rooms with 12-18 beds cost 120-200 THB. Private rooms that sleep two people are 700-2,000 THB. In the low season, prices can sometimes drop by up to half. Free Wi-Fi and AC are standard, while free breakfast not.

As a party destination, most hostels on Ko Pha Ngan have outdoor pools and bars, offer free drinks, and generally have many extra amenities that center around socializing and partying. Many hostels are also located right on the beach. One of the most unique places to stay on the island is called The Sanctuary , which is a yoga retreat that also rents out beds to people looking for a nice beach view.

Note that many hostels require that you pay your balance in cash when you arrive at the property.

There are no designated private campgrounds on Ko Pha Ngan, though you can camp in the national parks. You can rent a two-person tent for 150 THB per night.

Budget hotel prices – Basic beachside bungalows with a fan cost 700-900 THB per night. For a more luxurious bungalow or villa, expect to spend about 1,200-1,800 THB. Cheap rooms can be found for around 400-600 THB per night.

Bungalows are usually located either right on the beach, or with great views of the beach or mountains. They generally have private bathrooms, AC, and Wi-Fi either in the bungalow or in common areas of the resort. Breakfast is sometimes included, though you can also usually add it for 200 THB per day if it’s not.

During New Year’s and the Full Moon Party, prices increase by upwards of 30%, so be prepared if you plan on attending.

On Airbnb, private rooms cost 800-900 THB per night. They’re not very common though; most Airbnb offerings are private entire villas or bungalows and range wildly in price depending on how luxurious you want to get. Most nice (but not extravagant) villas cost 700-1,600 THB per night.

Average cost of food – Thai cuisine is aromatic and spicy with a variety of curries, salads, soups, and stir-fries. Many dishes are influenced by Thailand’s many neighboring countries, including Malaysia, Laos, and Myanmar. Thai cuisine uses many ingredients to create layers of flavor. Typical spices and fresh herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, shrimp paste, and fish sauce. Coconut milk is commonly used in curries and desserts, especially in central and southern Thailand. Seafood features heavily in Ko Pha Ngan’s island cuisine.

Popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, pad thai (a stir-fried noodle dish), som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

Dessert is usually fruit or various dishes comprised of coconut milk or glutinous rice, with mango sticky rice being a popular dessert.

Eating out in Ko Pha Ngan is quite affordable. Snacks, like a satay skewer or pancake at the night market, cost 10-20 THB. You can find traditional dishes, like curries or fried rice, for around 50-100 THB at a typical street vendor. A meal at most tourist restaurants, especially around Haad Rin, costs about 100-170 THB per meal. Go to Food Stall Park or Little Home Restaurant for some of the best and most affordable Thai cuisine.

Western meals are more expensive, costing 230-350 THB for a meal such as a pasta dish or burger, while a steak is around 450-600 THB. McDonald’s combo meals cost 155 THB. I’d skip the Western food and stick with Thai food, as it’s much cheaper and is much tastier.

When drinking, you can get cheap beers at 7-Eleven and bring them onto the beach to drink. It’s around 50% cheaper this way compared to drinking at the bar. A cappuccino is 110 THB.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay between 1,100-1,400 THB per week for basic groceries like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat. However, eating out is so cheap here, it’s much easier to just get food from street vendors and markets than it is to cook your own food.

Backpacking Ko Pha Ngan Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to spend 1,025 THB per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, a few short-distance songthaews, street food, cheap beers from 7-Eleven, and mostly free activities like hiking and swimming. If you’ve come here to party, I’d probably budget closer to 1,640 THB a day.

On a mid-range budget, expect to pay 2,700 THB per day. On this budget, you can get a private Airbnb or cheap guesthouse, eat street food and the occasional sit-down meal, take some taxis to get around, drink more, and do more paid activities like diving or kayaking or a cooking class.

On a “luxury” budget, expect to spend about 5,500 THB per day. On this budget, you can stay in a villa or resort, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a scooter or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day, it depends on how many of the tips listed below you use). But we want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Ko Pha Ngan can get expensive, especially if you’re here to do a lot of partying or spending time at one of the expensive yoga retreats. That being said, you can still have a budget-friendly trip if you plan ahead. Here are some ways to save money on Ko Pha Ngan:

• Find deals on a room – As a general guide, the further you walk along the beach, the better deal you get (and the quieter your accommodation will be). If you are coming near the Full Moon Party, arrive at least 3-5 days prior to secure a decent place.
• Time your trip wisely – If you come during the Full Moon Party or Half Moon Party, expect prices to skyrocket! You can pay double or triple what you normally would. My favorite time to visit is about a week before the party when there is just the right number of people on the island.
• Drink cheaply – Buckets, the famous alcohol-filled sand pails popular at the Full Moon Party, cost a lot of money. Save them until later (and save yourself from passing out too). You can get cheap beers at 7-Eleven and bring them onto the beach. It’s much cheaper that way!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay. It’s the best way to get insider tips about a place and connect with people who actually live there.
• Bargain hard – When shopping at the markets, use your negotiation skills. The rule of thumb is the more you buy, the cheaper the prices. So shop in groups for the best deals.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink the tap water in Ko Pha Ngan, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Pick up a LifeStraw , which have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Ko Pha Ngan

Looking for accommodation in Ko Pha Ngan? Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Na-Tub Hostel
• Bodega Party Hostel
• Echo Beach Hostel
• The Sanctuary

How to Get Around Ko Pha Ngan

Songthaews – Songthaews (pickup trucks that have been converted to taxis) are the main way to get around. There are no set stops — you just flag one down — though there is usually a sign on the dashboard to let you know the final stop. Expect to pay around 100-400 THB a ride. They have set prices and don’t really offer deals unless there are a lot of people involved.

Motorcycle Rental – You can rent motorcycles around the island for 150-350 THB per day. It’s hilly, so don’t make Ko Pha Ngan the place you learn how to ride a motorbike! There are a lot of accidents on this island because people underestimate the bad road conditions here. Always be sure to wear a helmet, not just for safety but because you can be fined up to 1,000 THB if you’re caught without one!

When to Go to Ko Pha Ngan

The average temperature in Ko Pha Ngan does not change very much throughout the year. The hottest months are from April to June, when temperatures hover between 26-32°C (79-89°F).

November to February are the coolest months and most popular time to visit, with temperatures between 23-30°C (73-86°F). February is the driest month and is the best time to come if you want to soak up the sun or enjoy some water sports. December and January in particular are the busiest months. Expect more crowds and higher prices.

Compared to other parts of Thailand, Ko Pha Ngan has a relatively short rainy season, only lasting from October through the beginning of December. Prices are a little cheaper during this time too.

How to Stay Safe in Ko Pha Ngan

Ko Pha Ngan is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. That said, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur so always keep your valuable secure. When at the beach, don’t leave anything valuable unattended just in case. Always keep your valuables secure when out and about and only bring the cash you need with you when drinking/partying.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

If you’re here to party, be aware that drugs are illegal in Thailand and drug use is punishable by time in some pretty bad prisons. Undercover police might try to sell you drugs, then arrest you. Locals might rat you out for a reward. Bottom line? Don’t do drugs while you’re here.

Also, be careful about your buckets of alcohol. Those things are lethal! I have a hard-and-fast rule that I and other experienced Full Mooners follow: no buckets before midnight. If you want to actually see the sunrise, I’d suggest you follow it too.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, read this post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more information about safety in Southeast Asia, check out this article .

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

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A Complete Travel Guide to Koh Phangan: 24 Best Beaches & Things To Do

An island of spiritual hedonism.

Thailand is one of our favourite countries and we love coming back over and over.

After one and a half months in Koh Samui at the beginning of 2019, we were very excited to go to Koh Phangan.

Back in 2014 we only visited Koh Phangan for a single night and yes, it was for the Full Moon Party .

And while it was a fun and unforgettable experience with our friends, this time we came for the many delicious food options and the relaxed vibe .

During our two weeks on the island this time around, we actively avoided being on the island during the full moon.

And we fell in love with this pristine hippie paradise .

In this travel guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Koh Phangan and share all of our best tips and secrets.

Where to stay in Koh Phangan:

• Luxury : Anantara Rasananda – Koh Phangan’s best and most expensive hotel.
• Value for money : Mangrove Villa – Comfortable rooms with a central location in Thong Sala.
• Budget : Haad Yao Bay View Resort – Direct beach access and where we stayed the longest on the island.

Search for the best value accommodation in Koh Phangan here .

Table of contents

Why visit Koh Phangan

Koh phangan orientation and map, sri thanu beach and zen beach, secret beach, haad yao beach, haad thien beach, haad gruad beach, haad salad beach, mae haad beach, malibu beach, chaloklum beach, bottle beach, thong nai pan beach, eastern beaches, southern beaches, hang out on the beach, visit a temple or shrine, waterfalls in koh phangan, viewpoints in koh phangan, channel your inner yogi and enjoy the hippie vibe, sport activities, diving and snorkelling, ang thong marine national park, join a thai cooking class, get a massage, moon parties, animal entertainment, best food in thong sala, best food in sri thanu, best food on the rest of the island, vegan and vegetarian places, supermarkets and convenience stores, fresh fruits and greens, renting a scooter, taxis and songthaews, from koh samui, from koh tao, from the thai mainland by bus, train and ferry, dry season (december to march), hot season (april to august), rainy season (september to november), our best tips for visiting koh phangan.

Many people come to Koh Phangan (also sometimes spelled Ko Pha-ngan) for the Full Moon Party , the Half Moon Party or even the Black Moon Party.

But there’s so much more to this gorgeous island.

The beaches are stunning and the water so clear.

The palm tree-lined roads curve beautifully through the lush landscapes .

Traffic on most roads is near non-existent, making exploring Koh Phangan on your own two wheels a delight.

The food options are overwhelmingly good, especially if you’re into eating healthily . Fresh fruit is abundant, and so are fully vegan restaurants and cafés.

The weather is perfect for most of the year.

And as always with Thailand, the people will make you smile time and time again.

Koh Phangan is located in the Gulf of Thailand – off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus and a part of Surat Thani Province.

Most visitors will arrive in Koh Phangan by the pier in the main town of Thong Sala . This is the main commercial centre of the island.

Some will turn southeast towards Haad Rin , particularly known for the monthly Full Moon Parties.

The east coast north of Haad Rin is scarcely developed but has some very nice beaches and resorts.

Heading northwest from Thong Sala you’ll reach the island’s spiritual centre Sri Thanu before approaching the beaches of Haad Yao, Salad Beach and Mae Haad Beach.

Chaloklum in the north is very relaxed and popular with divers.

Beaches in Koh Phangan

In general, the beaches on the east coast of Koh Phangan are better suited for swimming as the west coast beaches have bigger tidal variations due to offshore reefs (and are shallower).

The sand is very fine on most beaches and they’re all great for playing and tanning.

Of course, the sunrise can be seen from the beaches on the east coast and the sunset from the west coast beaches.

Heading directly towards the ocean from the south part of Sri Thanu (around Karma Kafe), after crossing a small bridge, Sri Thanu Beach will greet you in all of its glory.

It’s probably the widest beach of the island , though development sits on most of the sand. There’s still plenty of room, though.

And it’s beautiful.

If you’re alright getting wet, you can reach Zen Beach by heading north. Otherwise, get back out to the road and then turn left by the language school by the start of the lake.

Zen Beach is perhaps even prettier than its southern neighbour.

We wouldn’t mind spending a few days on the two… to, you know, really compare them.

Read more about where to stay near Sri Thanu Beach and Zen Beach here or search for the best value accommodation near Sri Thanu and Zen Beach here (adlink) .

Well… If “secret” is in the name, can it truly be secret?

Nonetheless, adding some allure seems to be great for marketing, because Secret Beach is very popular .

When we arrived in the middle of the day, lots of people were sunbathing, swimming and generally having a great time on Secret Beach. It wasn’t crowded, though.

There’s also a nice beach bar serving snacks and drinks.

If you go all the way to the left of the beach towards the rocks, there are almost no people. We found ourselves a perfect little spot.

You can even climb the cliffs or walk around them in the water, and there will be two more small beaches with only a few people – those people might be naked though, as the extra hidden beaches are considered non-official nudist beaches .

Read more about where to stay near Secret Beach here or search for the best value accommodation here (adlink) .

It’s easy to enjoy your vacation on Haad Yao Beach.

As with most places on the island, it’s a chill place to hang out.

The massage ladies wave and smile, a few children run around, the dogs are playing and people seem genuinely happy.

There are lots of restaurants and bars with just enough space between them to make the beach seem pristine and developed at the same time.

At low tide, the water level gets really low. Haad Yao Beach is calmer at its northern end.

Read more about where to stay near Haad Yao Beach here or search for the best value accommodation near Haad Yao Beach here (adlink) .

This beach is very small, but you won’t be sharing it with more than a few other people from the Sense Asia Beach Resort .

You can stroll along a paved boardwalk, but not much happens here. And that’s the point.

Haad Gruad Beach seemed popular with the dedicated yoga crowd, and we also spotted a few people donning their birthday suits.

We went there just before sunset and the vibe was very chill .

There’s a small restaurant or two and a huge swing.

Read more about where to stay near Haad Gruad Beach here or search for the best value accommodation near Haad Gruad Beach here (adlink) .

This northwestern beach is quite long and there are lots of restaurants where you can dine looking at the ocean, admiring the sunset.

Salad Beach will appeal to most people looking for a beach in Thailand.

It’s relaxed , not too crowded and has just enough options to keep you occupied.

The beach is nicely sheltered on both its southern and northern ends.

Read more about where to stay near Haad Salad Beach here or search for the best value accommodation near Haad Salad Beach here (adlink) .

Mae Haad Beach is definitely one of Koh Phangan’s more unique beaches.

At low tide, you can walk along the sandbar to the nearby small island of Ko Ma .

The beach itself is long, wide and all in all a very attractive place to worship the sun and the gentle waves.

Read more about where to stay near here or search for the best value accommodation near Mae Haad Beach here (adlink) .

Stretching westward from Chaloklum Bay, Malibu Beach was one of our favourite beaches in Koh Phangan.

The cute looking round trees are a fun addition, but the real star of Malibu Beach is the fine-as-powder sand and incredibly clear water.

There’s also a swing for your ‘gram.

Read more about where to stay near Malibu Beach here or search for the best value accommodation near Malibu Beach here (adlink) .

Chaloklum Beach in the north is primarily a fishing village.

The main village of Chaloklum is located in the middle of the beach and here there’s a local vibe and you can see lots of fishermen with longtail boats .

To avoid the boats, you can swim at the western and eastern ends of the bay. The sand is white, there are plenty of palm trees and it’s pretty quiet.

All the way to the left, you will find the gorgeous Malibu Beach.

Read more about where to stay near Chaloklum Beach here or search for the best value accommodation near Chaloklum Beach here (adlink) .

Bottle Beach can only be reached by boat or by trekking through the jungle, and herein lies some of its appeal.

The reward for getting to this hard-to-reach beach is a pristine stretch of sand with incredible water.

The Thong Nai Pan Beach is divided into two; Thong Nai Pan Noi (north) and Thong Nai Pan Yai (south). You can find them in the northeastern part of Koh Phangan.

Even though it’s a remote part of the island, shops and many great restaurants are available.

We stayed a few days with Buri Rasa Village at Thong Nai Pan Noi and enjoyed the laid back vibe.

Read more about where to stay near Thong Nai Pan Beach here or search for the best value accommodation near Thong Nai Pan Beach here (adlink) .

The east side of Koh Phangan is not as developed as the rest of the island.

However, if you go there you can find some beautiful beaches like Haad Than Sadet Beach (close to Than Sadet Waterfall), Haad Thong Reng , Hat Nam Tok , Hat Yang , Haad Why Nam Beach and Haad Yuan Beach .

There are also a few beaches named the same as on the westside: Hat Yao (east) and Haad Thien (east).

Search for the best value accommodation in Koh Phangan’s northeast here (adlink) .

As previously mentioned, Haad Rin Beach is where the Full Moon Party happens.

If you want to party, this is the place for you.

When we visited this time, we didn’t go to Haad Rin but the beach looks really pretty during the day and when it’s not a full moon.

Leela Beach in the south is worth a visit as well if you are in that area.

If you want to learn more about Haad Rin and Leela Beach, Places of Juma has a great article with the top 12 beaches in Koh Phangan .

Search for the best value accommodation near Haad Rin Beach here (adlink) .

What to do in Koh Phangan

Even if you aren’t the beachgoing type, you have to head to Koh Phangan’s beaches to experience their peacefulness.

Their tranquillity isn’t unmatched in Thailand, but the sense of community, especially on the west coast, is pretty unique.

And the water is beautiful.

There are about 20 temples in Koh Phangan.

Though not as grandiose as the temples in Koh Samui (or in Bangkok, Chiang Mai or other bigger cities), they’re still deeply spiritual places filled with that special religious atmosphere.

Check out Wat Phu Khao Noi , Wat Khao Tam and Wat Pho in the southwest or the Chinese Temple in the northwest.

The temples are free to visit but remember to dress respectfully, i.e. covering your shoulders, chest and knees.

First and foremost: like everywhere else, waterfalls depend on water flow.

If you’re visiting Koh Phangan in the dry season (roughly from December to March) or it simply hasn’t rained much, water won’t be gushing out the falls.

As we were in Koh Phangan in the dry season, we only visited two waterfalls.

There are quite a few more if you’re in the mood for chasing them.

Paradise waterfall

Paradise waterfall is in the northern part of Koh Phangan close to Chaloklum Bay.

The road leading to the falls is short from the main road but steep in sections and bumpy.

Though not material for a documentary on dangerous roads, be careful.

There’s a rope swing plunging you into the water and an option to hike up the falls to get a great view.

The price is 20 baht per person (~ less than 1 USD / 1 EUR), including a water bottle.

Great plastic karma to you if you say no thanks and bring your own water instead. The price is the same though.

Phaeng waterfall

Part of the Thansadej National Park , Phaeng waterfall is a very accessible waterfall in Koh Phangan.

The park is actually home to several different waterfalls, with the two closest to the entrance being Phaeng Noi Waterfall and Phaeng Yai Waterfall .

They run off into pools suitable for swimming.

There are options for both a short and a long hiking route in the park. We just went to the Dom Sila viewpoint .

Flip flops won’t kill you but wearing sturdy shoes will make the trek much more enjoyable.

The ground is basically roots and stones and can potentially become very slippery.

The entrance is free but you have to pay for parking which is around 20 baht for scooters (~ less than 1 USD / 1 EUR) and 50 baht for cars (~ 1.6 USD / 1.4 EUR).

Being a mountainous island , Koh Phangan has some pleasing viewpoints scattered around its hillsides.

Whenever the road gets steep, follow it to its steepest point and you’ll probably get a pretty good view.

One of the more famous ones is the Dom Sila viewpoint located inside the Thansadej National Park.

Not so much into hiking? It’s possible to drive all the way to Secret Mountain .

Alex found a cool and probably very seldom visited viewpoint on one of his runs.

Start at Diamond Muay Thai just north of Thong Sala and continue past the small lakes.

Go right and from there take the steepest road. Once at the top, you’ll have a great view over the southwest of Koh Phangan.

If you love yoga , you will love Koh Phangan.

Even better if you love people who love yoga. Because there are a lot of those people on the island!

You can find several yoga studios, yoga teacher courses and other activities related to a holistic health approach scattered around, though mainly close to Sri Thanu on the west coast.

If yoga is the spiritual gateway “drug”, Koh Phangan is the vortex you might end up in.

Apart from yoga, there are also a lot of other courses offered.

We are going to mention a few: tantric communication, breath of love intensive, Ayurveda juice detox, inner dance, dragon magick, shiatsu massage, aquatic therapy training, blue lotus initiation, crystal vocal alchemy and mandala art expression.

Yeah, we are just listing a bunch of courses we saw on flyers around the island and we don’t know what half of them mean, but it sounds really cool!

You can even learn to become a rebirthing breathwork facilitator.

Okay, we will stop now…

…But not before letting you know that there even is a resort offering a full fruitarian experience .

Luckily there are lots of other ways to stay active in Koh Phangan if meditation music makes you yawn.

Get buff at Evolve in Sri Thanu where you’ll find free weights, gymnastic rings and boxing bags. There are day passes as well as cheaper prices for memberships.

You can also opt to join the locals in the national sport Thai boxing (Muay Thai) at one of the dedicated gyms.

If you want some scenery to go along with your workout, rent a mountain bike and explore the steep dirt roads.

Being an island, there are also lots of wind and water sports available including kite surfing and kayaking .

Dogs can, unfortunately, be a nuisance on some of the smaller roads if you’re running , but stick to the main roads and go in the early morning and you’ll have no problem getting a runner’s high.

The main roads in the northwest and the northeast are especially great for adding some vertical to your routine.

There are a few reefs around the island, most notably at Koh Ma in the northwest and at Koh Tae Tok in the southwest.

The neighbouring island, Koh Tao, is more famous for its diving sites but from Koh Phangan, you can easily reach many of the same sites.

Sail Rock is about an hour’s boat ride from Koh Phangan and here you can meet manta rays, barracudas and sometimes even whale sharks.

Southwest Pinnacles and Koh Nang Yuan are also popular choices.

There are several dive schools in Koh Phangan more than willing to take you out into the Gulf of Thailand.

The archipelago southwest of Koh Phangan consists of 42 smaller islands in different shapes and sizes, famous for their untouched beauty.

The main island Ko Wua Talap contains the national park’s headquarters, a cave, a stunning beach as well as the main draw for most visitors to Ang Thong; the view dubbed the viewpoint of viewpoints – also called the most beautiful sight in Thailand.

So far, we have to agree.

On the other islands, it’s possible to visit an emerald lake , hike to other viewpoints, chill out on the secluded beaches or snorkel in the waters.

There’s an entrance fee of 300 baht per person (~ 9.4 USD / 8.3 EUR) which is sometimes included in the price.

Kayaking, snorkel gear, food and drinks are sometimes included as well, but not always – so make sure to double check with your travel agent.

We booked one of the few bungalows in the national park to be able to spend more time soaking in the beauty of this place.

Ang Thong Marine National Park is usually closed in November and December due to rough ocean conditions.

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If you love Thai food you can learn how to cook delicious meals yourself by signing up for a cooking class.

They’re great fun and you’ll usually walk away with the exact recipes and new knowledge of the cooking concepts.

Sometimes, you’ll also visit a local market to buy fresh produce before getting into the kitchen.

Expect to pay around 1,500 baht (~ 47 USD / 42 EUR) for a three-meal course.

We didn’t try it, but the school by the lake in Sri Thanu is supposed to be pretty good.

Getting a massage is one of our favourite activities in Thailand!

Thai massages are so hardcore but so amazing.

And the prices are more than fair .

Usually, an hour of Thai massage will cost you 300 baht (~ 9.4 USD / 8.3 EUR).

The massage parlours also offer oil massages, deep tissue massages (not for the faint of heart), Swedish massages as well as other types of beauty treatments.

As previously mentioned, you will have lots of opportunities to party hard in Koh Phangan.

The biggest ball is without a doubt the famous Full Moon Party .

Once a month, everything neon clashes at Haad Rin on the southeast of the island for the legendary party, attended by thousands of people.

If you don’t like crowds , this is not the party for you.

Walking through the narrow streets leading down to the beach, you practically get buckets of alcohol thrown at you for a few hundred baht.

With sand under your feet, it’s all about stumbling your way to a scene where you can dance until the sun rises.

Naturally, every bed gets booked up around the full moon in Koh Phangan, so if you plan to attend, it’s wise to secure your accommodation well in advance.

It almost goes without saying, but if you attend the Full Moon Party you have to be extremely aware to hold on to your belongings, keep your drink from getting spiked and worse.

The atmosphere is fun, but there’s unfortunately also a dark side to the festivities.

Be careful and have a good time, but remember moderation!

There are also parties twice monthly at the half moons as well as one at the black moon .

What not to do in Koh Phangan

Or should we say animal exploitation ?

Please, avoid riding elephants , taking selfies with tigers or watching dolphin shows.

There are so many reasons you shouldn’t support this kind of cruelty.

Read all about it in our detailed guide Be a responsible tourist in Thailand: 10 things you need to know .

Where to stay in Koh Phangan

Whether you want to rough it and stay in a wooden bungalow without electricity or a luxurious resort , Koh Phangan will offer a suitable place to rest your head.

Compared to Koh Samui, the top resorts aren’t as high-end, and there aren’t any condo-type places, but the options are still pretty good.

Be sure to book well in advance as the best hotels and guesthouses in Koh Phangan tend to fill fast.

If all you want from a trip to Koh Phangan is yoga , vegan food and beautiful beaches , staying in or near Sri Thanu is a no-brainer.

The western beaches are generally gorgeous, the food here is super health-oriented and there are so many yoga schools offering everything from daily sessions to month-long teacher courses.

Sri Thanu is where most digital nomads and expats tend to stay in Koh Phangan.

The “city” itself can easily be walked, but having your own scooter is advisable for exploring the nearby beaches and areas. Unless you really like hills…

Scroll down for specific hotel recommendations in Sri Thanu or search for the best value accommodation in Sri Thanu here (adlink) .

Beyond The Blue Horizon Villa Resort

With just 9 villas, Beyond The Blue Horizon is one of the more intimate villa resorts near Sri Thanu.

The pool overlooks the beautiful beach , as do some of the rooms, and they all include a balcony/patio, free wifi, air conditioning and a private bathroom.

It’s located right next to a yoga studio, and the delicious eateries of Sri Thanu are just minutes away.

Check prices and availability at Beyond The Blue Horizon Villa Resort (adlink) .

Loyfa Natural Resort

With the heart of Sri Thanu in walking distance , you’ll love the location of Loyfa Resort if you appreciate a wide array of healthy dining options.

The resort itself is situated by a private beach with sunset views and also has two pools .

Each room features a balcony (some with sea views ), free wifi, air condition and a private bathroom.

If you wanna go fancy without totally breaking the bank, consider booking the romantic pool villa .

By the way, rumour says that the breakfast includes vegan pancakes…

Check prices and availability at Loyfa Natural Resort (adlink) .

Benjamin Hut

Benjamin Hut looks like a promising place if you’re looking for a cheap double bed to sleep in near Sri Thanu.

There’s a pool and the ocean (and sunset) is mere steps away.

Each guestroom comes with a small balcony , air conditioning and a private bathroom.

Check prices and availability at Benjamin Hut (adlink) .

Staying north of Sri Thanu on the west coast of Koh Phangan is very popular for both families and independent travellers .

The beaches are nice for tanning and relaxing and there are plenty of good-value accommodations and Thai restaurants.

Scroll down for specific hotel recommendations or search for the best value accommodation in Koh Phangan’s northwest here (adlink) .

Haad Yao Bay View Resort

We spent the majority of our time in Koh Phangan at Haad Yao Bay View Resort and ended up really liking it.

It’s a huge hotel with almost 200 rooms, so you’ll be disappointed if you’re looking for very personalized service.

What we got instead was a low-priced room with a desk , wifi (we asked specifically for a room close to a router as some of them might have weaker connections), air condition and a private bathroom.

We opted out of the breakfast and instead drove around the west coast for morning adventures followed by café and restaurant meals.

Haad Yao Bay View Resort is located in the northernmost part of Haad Yao Beach and you’ll be just steps away from the ocean. The hotel also has a pool , which we didn’t use, but it looked nice.

Check prices and availability at Haad Yao Bay View Resort (adlink) .

Cookies Salad Resort

The 3-starred beachfront resort Cookies Salad overlooks Haad Salad Beach from its southern end.

All the rooms feature ocean views as well as air conditioning and private bathrooms.

There’s a pool, and people seem to really like staying here with friendly staff and good food from the restaurant.

Check prices and availability at Cookies Salad Resort (adlink) .

Thong Sala is a very convenient place to stay in Koh Phangan as it’s pretty much in the middle of everything (you can’t stay at the geographic middle of Koh Phangan as it’s jungle-clad).

This also means that you have to drive to get to most activities and beaches, but as the island isn’t too big, this might not be an issue.

Thong Sala Pier is where the ferries arrive and depart to the mainland as well as to Koh Tao and Koh Samui.

The food options are great , and if you want to be able to walk from place to place, wheels aren’t needed here.

The average price for sleeping in Thong Sala is cheaper than the rest of the island, which could be the main argument for staying here.

Scroll down for specific hotel recommendations or search for the best value accommodation in Thong Sala here (adlink) .

Kupu Kupu Phangan Beach Villas & Spa by L’Occitane

If you want a 5-star luxurious, romantic stay on Phangan staying between Thong Sala and Sri Thanu, this is probably your best bet.

The beach isn’t the island’s best, but with the resort’s pool plus either a room overlooking the ocean (and sunset !) or a room with a private plunge pool , you’ll manage.

Check prices and availability at Kupu Kupu (adlink) .

Haad Rin is the main tourist town of Koh Phangan and where you’ll find the best nightlife.

It’s also where the monthly Full Moon Party is held, so book in advance if you want to stay here in the week leading up to the event!

Scroll down for specific hotel recommendations or search for the best value accommodation in Haad Rin here (adlink) .

Richmond Guesthouse

Richmond Guesthouse isn’t the most classy hotel in town, but it just might be the best value place to sleep in Haad Rin.

The rooms look rather basic, but there’s free wifi, air condition and a private bathroom – all within walking distance of the beach.

Check prices and availability at Richmond Guesthouse (adlink) .

Palita Lodge

If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay close to the Full Moon Party where you’ll actually be able to sleep , consider Palita Lodge at the northern part of Haad Rin.

As there are no DJs in front during the party, it’s definitely one of the lesser noisy places to stay, yet you’ll still be in walking distance to the action.

The rooms look nice, as does the garden, and there’s a pool for you to plunge in.

Check prices and availability at Palita Lodge (adlink) .

When we arrived at Koh Phangan, we stayed in the northeast for a few nights.

This is the most remote part of Koh Phangan, and though there are plenty of restaurants to try, you’ll have to drive to Thong Sala and onwards from there to explore the rest of the island.

If you are simply looking for a chilled vacation in Koh Phangan, this is perfect. If you want to see the whole island in a few days, perhaps it’s less suitable… Though the distances aren’t far by international standards – the longest trip in Koh Phangan isn’t more than an hour or an hour and a half of driving.

Scroll down for specific hotel recommendations or search for the best value accommodation in Koh Phangan’s northeast here (adlink) .

Buri Rasa Village

Buri Rasa Village in Koh Phangan is a great choice for any holidaymaker; young, old or in-between, looking for a relaxing tropical vacation on one of Thailand’s most unique islands.

If you’re looking to unwind and have fun , the natural splendour of the northeastern part of Koh Phangan and the charming setting of Buri Rasa Village offers you the perfect place in which to do so.

You can see lots of pictures and read more about Buri Rasa Village in our review or you can check prices and availability here (adlink) .

Anantara Rasananda

Though comfort beyond what Buri Rasa offers is probably overkill for most travellers, nearby Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas offers a truly luxurious resort experience (for more than double the price, as well).

Reviewers are raving about their experiences here, especially praising the quality of the service and the beautiful rooms.

Check prices and availability at Anantara Rasananda (adlink) .

Suan Sawan Ocean View

If you’re on a smaller budget and still want to stay comfortably in the northeast of Koh Phangan, Suan Sawan Ocean View looks like a solid bet.

It’s not located directly on the beach, but it has a pool and the beach is only a few minutes of walking away.

The sea view rooms have balconies, air condition and private bathrooms, making Suan Sawan Ocean View seem like great value for money .

Check prices and availability at Suan Sawan Ocean View (adlink) .

Where to eat in Koh Phangan

We have rarely eaten as diversely and as well as we did while visiting Koh Phangan.

The restaurant and café scene is bursting with creativity and there’s a lot of soul being put into the food on the island.

If you have dietary restrictions of any kind, you won’t have any problem finding suitable foods.

As vegans, we found that we could eat almost any kind of food we wanted to in a vegan version – all the way from shawarma and Indian foods to pizza and burgers.

There are also a lot of great cafés in Koh Phangan offering organic coffee, smoothie bowls, delectable desserts and nice work environments.

Of course, you won’t have any problem finding delicious Thai food. Also in organic and vegan versions.

Happy eating!

Being the biggest city in Koh Phangan it makes sense that you’ll find many of the island’s best places to have a bite in Thong Sala.

The Pantip Market is a no-brainer if you want to snack the night away and sample all kinds of known and unknown foods – including organic Thai food at Soul Organics .

Pizza Luna , located inside the food market just east of Thong Sala, serves the best pizzas on the island.

Sri Thanu is the epicentre of spiritualism and health in Koh Phangan so this is naturally where you’ll find the highest concentration of restaurants and cafés focusing on whole foods and their healing powers.

Just walking down the main street, you’re spoilt for choice.

Get your favourite foods in vegan versions at Eat.co and at Karma Kafe , go for a Middle Eastern feast at Taboon or head just south of town to dine at Chana Masala where you can munch on dosas and other tasty Indian foods or visit a bit further south Pure Vegan Heaven that .

If you rent your own wheels (this is definitely the best way to explore the island), driving from restaurant to restaurant is a great way to spend the day in Koh Phangan.

Walu Bowls is where to go for perfect açai bowls and a nice cup of coffee to start the day right.

At Organic Vegetarian Food by Mrs Pong, you might have to be patient as Mrs Pong is working solo in the kitchen, but the Thai food coming out of there is so worth it.

If you’re up near the northwest of the island, stop by at Ying Ying’s Kitchen for home cooked rice dishes, noodles and Thai curries.

We got the best cups of coffee at Bubba’s Roastery in Haad Yao.

During our stay in Koh Phangan, we ate 100% vegan fare with delight.

It’s probably one of the easiest places to get vegan food in Southeast Asia.

Koh Phangan is home to astonishingly many vegan-friendly places!

We have written a detailed vegan guide to Koh Phangan with the best restaurants and cafés .

Check out the Koh Phangan map on Happycow for an updated overview of all the animal-friendly places to eat on the island or find some great vegan recipes you can cook yourself .

As in Koh Samui, you will find a Big C , a Tesco Lotus and a Makro in Koh Phangan.

They’re smaller and stock a less diverse range of products than their Samui namesakes, but all offer most anything you’ll realistically need while staying on the island.

In the afternoons, there’s usually a local market in front of Big C where you can shop for low-quality clothes as well as Thai food.

There are lots of 7/11 and Family Mart shops on the island. They’re both open 24 hours a day and are quite well stocked when it comes to snacks and daily necessities.

The strong air conditioning inside them can be a lifesaver in the heat and their prices aren’t outrageous.

For the freshest and cheapest fruits and vegetables in Koh Phangan, you have to visit the local fruit stalls.

They draw you in with their rainbow displays and keep you coming back because everything is so fresh and embarrassingly cheap.

In many of the fruit stalls, it’s also possible to order fruit shakes and fruit platters .

How to get around Koh Phangan

Unfortunately, Koh Phangan hasn’t really prioritized public transportation on the island.

Almost everyone has their own motorbike or car .

It’s possible to rent your own vehicle during your stay in Koh Phangan. Prices vary depending on the model and the place you rent it from.

Apparently, some motorbike shops scam tourists so it’s advisable to check out reviews of the place before you rent the vehicle.

We rented a Honda Click motorbike from Budget Two in Thong Sala at the pier and we can recommend this shop. It was very professional and our motorbike was new and worked perfectly.

Go for a new model with good brakes . Compared to the rest of Southeast Asia, the roads are new and in relatively nice condition in Koh Phangan, but beware that many of them are very curvy and hilly.

Normally, a motorbike costs 250 baht per day (~ 7.8 USD / 7 EUR) but as we rented ours for 9 days, we got it for 200 baht per day (~ 6.3 USD / 5.6 EUR).

You can probably get an even better price if you rent it for longer or bargain harder.

It’s very important to insist on getting a helmet and then to always wear it while driving.

We saw a lot of “ veeeery cool people” not wearing helmets and some even listened to music while driving. Be careful on the roads.

If driving yourself isn’t your prefered mode of transportation, you can also grab a yellow and red taxi or find a seat in an open taxi called songthaew .

The latter is usually the cheapest option, although prices can vary greatly depending on your bargaining skills, the time of day and even the mood of the driver.

How to get to Koh Phangan

As Koh Samui is the best-connected island of Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, many people opt to travel to Koh Phangan from Koh Samui by boat.

Every day, at least three ferries leave from Big Buddha Pier on Koh Samui’s north coast and arrive at the pier in Haad Rin (making it especially convenient for the partygoers).

There are also ferries from Bangrak Pier, Maenam Pier, Lipa Noi Pier and Nathon Pier that instead arrive in Phangan’s main city, Thong Sala .

The boats start running in the morning and keep on making the crossing until it’s almost midnight.

The price for a ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan should be between 300 and 600 baht (between ~ 9.4 USD / 8.5 EUR and ~ 18.8 USD / 17 EUR) depending on the speed of travel and comfort level.

The trip takes between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours.

Koh Tao is further away from Koh Phangan than Koh Samui is, so from here the trip takes from 1 to 2 hours.

There are about 6 ferries doing the trip each day with prices hovering around 500 baht (~ 15.7 USD / 14.1 EUR).

From the Thai mainland, the best way to get to Koh Phangan is by taking a ferry from Surat Thani Pier or Donsak Pier .

To get there from Bangkok , a good choice is to take the sleeper train from Hua Lamphong Station or one of the many buses leaving early in the morning.

Combined bus + ferry tickets are easy to buy from tour operators.

The boats arrive in Koh Phangan between 2 hours and 30 minutes and 6 hours after departing – depending on from where you leave, the boat’s speed and whether or not it stops in Koh Samui before reaching Koh Phangan.

From Surat Thani Town , expect to pay around 350 baht (~ 11 USD / 9.9 EUR) for a 4-hour trip.

Schedules change frequently and vary with the seasons, so be sure to make arrangements prior to travelling if you want to lock down your itinerary.

If you have more leeway, it’s possible to simply arrive on the pier and ask about the next crossing.

The first boat to Koh Phangan usually leaves around 7 am and the last in the afternoon.

If you’re late to the party (both figuratively and literally), consider catching a ferry to Koh Samui and then connect onwards from there.

Tip: Full Moon Party coming up? The ferries and boats will be full of partygoers travelling to Koh Phangan, so make sure to book in advance.

When to visit Koh Phangan

When is the best time to visit Koh Phangan?

Koh Phangan is an all-year-round holiday spot .

The weather is really pleasant most of the time and there are lots of things to do in any kind of weather.

Throughout the year, the average temperature is about 28°C (82ºF).

Generally, there are three seasons in Koh Phangan: the dry season, the hot season and the rainy season.

There’s always a chance it’s gonna rain , but October and November are the wettest months.

February and March are the sunniest and driest months in Koh Phangan.

As with any other place, the weather can change from year to year.

In the dry season, the weather in Koh Phangan is amazing.

Peak season is from mid-December to mid-February .

If you’re planning your vacation during these months it’s recommended to book in advance .

There will always be available accommodation in Koh Phangan, but the best hotels, bungalows and villas might be fully booked.

We visited from March 2 to March 15 in 2019 and the weather was perfect.

The sun is very strong , especially from around 11 am to 3 pm. We recommend that you eat lunch, take a nap or at least stay in the shade at this time.

In the hot season, you can expect hot daytime sunshine followed by cooling afternoon rain showers.

Because of the holidays, July and August are popular months to visit Koh Phangan.

The region is one of the drier ones in Thailand during the summer months.

It rains quite a lot from July to December with October and November being the rainiest months .

Like in most other tropical places, it’s usually heavy rain for a short amount of time.

You will also have many hours of dry and sunny weather even if it’s rainy season.

As always, there are pros and cons to visiting Koh Phangan during the low season.

It’s much less crowded and you can be lucky to find great deals on accommodation .

The landscape will be greener and the waterfalls will flow freely .

You’ll have to deal with the showers, though.

• One of our top tips for a more sustainable stay in Koh Phangan is to fill water into larger containers from one of the “water machines” set up around the island. The water is priced at just 1 baht per litre. It’s totally safe to drink and can heavily reduce the number of plastic bottles you end up using on your trip.
• The electrical outlets in Koh Phangan generally feature two round prongs, fitting both most European and Asian appliances as well as the flat prongs of USA and Japan. The standard voltage is 220 volts.
• How long to stay in Koh Phangan is a difficult question to answer – you can see the highlights in a few adventure-filled days or spend weeks eating your way through all of the delicious food and exploring the nooks and crannies of the island.
• Koh Phangan vs Koh Samui vs Koh Tao … If you have the time, why choose? Each island offers something unique and is just a short ferry ride away. Quickly summarized, Koh Phangan has unique parties and more of an undiscovered vibe + a big yoga community, Koh Samui offers the best value accommodation and has something for everyone and Koh Tao is much smaller and famous for its diving schools.
• Beachwear belongs on the beach . Though the Thai inhabitants of Koh Phangan are used to tourists, it’s considered inappropriate to wear beachwear anywhere else.
• Be sure to book your accommodation well in advance if you’re travelling in the high season (July, August and December to March) or around the full moon . There will always be beds available, but many of the best hotels and resorts get fully booked months ahead.
• Koh Phangan is beautiful . Make sure to bring a good camera! Here’s our guide to lightweight photography gear for high-quality travel content .
• Wifi in Koh Phangan is everywhere in hotels and cafés. It’s usually fast enough. If you need to stay connected while on the road, consider buying a local SIM card with data. It’s rather cheap and the process is simple.
• Koh Phangan is super family-friendly . Thai people love children, and lazing around is hassle-free on the island.
• The sun is strong . Remember your sun protection!
• Credit cards are mostly used at upscale places, so you’ll need to carry cash for most restaurants, shops and services.
• You’ll seldom be far away from an ATM and/or a place to exchange money . Usually, it’s cheapest to withdraw money in baht. Because of fees, try to limit your amount of withdrawals and go for your daily max each time.
• With a few well-respected hospitals, clinics and dentists on the island, help is never too far away should you have any medical issues while visiting Koh Phangan. For really serious stuff, Koh Samui or Surat Thani have better facilities.

Thanks for reading

Thanks for getting all the way to the end!

We hope our guide to Koh Phangan has been useful.

If you’ve visited Koh Phangan, it would be awesome to hear your best tips in the comments.

If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re glad to help.

Currently planning a trip? Check out our article Hand Luggage Only: Our Packing List for Travelling in Southeast Asia for Several Months for what to pack when travelling to Koh Phangan.

Pin for later:

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .
• Where To Stay in Koh Samui: Best Areas, Beaches & Hotels - Everything you need to know about the best places to stay in Koh Samui with specific hotel recommendations
• A Complete Travel Guide to Koh Samui: 32 Best Beaches & Things To Do - Everything you need to know including where to stay, popular activities and where to eat
• Overlap Stone 1 + 2 in Koh Samui Travel Guide: How to Visit & What To Expect - Everything you need to know about the experiences
• Why You Shouldn’t Pick Up Baby Sea Turtles - They’re the cutest. But here’s why you should (probably) leave them alone
• The Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads and Long-Term Travellers (That You Can Buy On the Road) - We review and compare three different travel insurances that you can buy on the go

2 thoughts on “ A Complete Travel Guide to Koh Phangan: 24 Best Beaches & Things To Do ”

Hi, after reading your blog, I felt like I have to visit this place. Me and my wife have planned to visit koh phangan in Feb 2023, although we have decided to skip the full moon party. Thanks for such detailed virtual tour of the place.

Hi Niraj, we’re happy to hear that you found our travel guide useful! We truly hope you will have an awesome time in Koh Phangan in February 🙂

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The Ultimate Koh Phangan Travel Guide

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Exploring Koh Phangan Where to stay How to get around How to get there

What should you expect from Koh Phangan?

You’ve probably already seen the pictures of crazy revellers on Koh Phangan covered in UV paint, dancing and smiling with the legendary bucket in hand.

As most will know, Koh Phangan is the island famous for its full moon parties. Every full moon, 20,000 to 30,000 travellers from all over the world gather on the beach of Haad Rin to party the night away.

However, Koh Phangan is much more than just a party Island. While the south of the island is all about the full moon, the north is centred around meditation, yoga and healthy lifestyles. Vegan cafes and yoga studios are popping up in the northern part and changing the reputation of this well-known island.

Regardless of where you stay, Koh Phangan is an island that is too beautiful not to explore. Whether you plan to visit Koh Phangan for a full moon or a yoga retreat, make sure you plan a few days extra to explore its breathtaking viewpoints, waterfalls, hiking trails, food markets and incredible beaches.

Also read: Top 11 Things To Do in Koh Phangan

Where to stay on Koh Phangan

The contrast in atmosphere between the south and north of Koh Phangan creates the illusion that you’re on two different islands. Whether you’re looking to party hard or carelessly relax, there’s a place on the island that’s perfect for you.

Location #1: Haad Rin -live and breathe the party atmosphere

If the reason for your trip to Koh Phangan is to tick ‘attend a Full Moon party’ off of your bucket list, then Haad Rin is the place for you.

On the southeast of the island, you’ll be at the heart of all the activity and parties, encompassed by numerous bars, restaurants and fellow travellers. Accommodation around here can get booked up well in advance of a Full Moon Party, so make sure to plan ahead.

Tip: Most accommodation in this area require a minimum booking of 3-5 nights around the time of the Full Moon Party, so bear this in mind when you’re planning your itinerary.

Location #2: Baan Tai – the perfect balance between good accommodation and party

Baan Tai is perfect for those looking to be close to the action on Koh Phangan, but not too close!

You’ll have no issue finding that idyllic secluded spot, and it’s still bustling with beachfront restaurants, funky bars and lively nightclubs to occupy your evenings. The only problem you’ll have is trying to fit them all in.

And if you feel like you’re missing out on the action back at Haad Rin, no worries. A short taxi ride of 15-20 minutes, will have you back at the centre of it all in no time.

In Baan Tai there is a large choice of good quality accommodation that is well-spaced along the 8 km long beach. The beach runs largely uninterrupted, apart from the rivers that spring from the surrounding mountains.

Location #3: Sri Thanu -Yoga, co-working and vegan cafe’s galore

If you don’t fancy being at the epicentre of the party, head to the northwest of Koh Phangan and find your perfect accommodation in Sri Thanu .

Beginning to generate an alternative reputation for Koh Phangan. Sri Thanu is home to a 2h coworking space, Beachub , several health conscious cafes, cooking courses and an abundance of yoga classes and retreats.

How to get around Koh Phangan

Getting around Koh Phangan is extremely easy and has been made even easier over the past few years with improvements to roads and new infrastructure connecting more areas of the island.

As with most Thai islands, if you crave freedom and independence then hiring a motorbike is probably your best option. They also tend to work out cheaper than exploring everything by tuk-tuk or taxi, especially if you enjoy exploring every crack and crevice of Koh Phangan. Motorbike rental for the day should cost around 200-300 baht.

Be aware that the roads have a lot of hills and can be quite windy through some areas. We would not suggest driving a motorbike up into the mountains if you are not an experienced driver.

Taxi (songthaew and motorbike)

Taxis in the form of motorbikes and songthaews can be found driving along the main road every few minutes. Both are relatively safe options of getting around the island, and can simply be flagged down from the road.

Motorbike taxis can be recognised by their bright orange vests that clearly say taxi on them. They have no set fees or routes, so make sure to agree on a price before getting on.

Songthaew taxi prices usually start at around 50 baht and increases depending on your destination.

How to get to Koh Phangan

Best places to stay in koh phangan.

Benjamin's Hut - Budget Friendly

Benjamin’s Huts are very far from huts. In fact, they’re not huts at all. They’re spacious and modern rooms that offer a very comfortable night’s sleep. If there’s a group of you, opt for the two-bedroom village with its own private pool!

Staying here you’re seconds from the sea and a 10-minute drive from Thong Sala Pier. This accommodation proves that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to have a paradise beachfront stay.

• Modern and clean rooms
• Option for private pool
• On the beach
• Great value for money

Private rooms start from $29 per person.

Check Available Rooms

Secret Garden - Budget Friendly

You don’t need to splash the cash to go for a splash in a pool on Koh Phangan. Secret Garden has a stunning swimming pool surrounded by greenery, sun loungers and beanbags.

The hotel is located in Thong Sala, putting you close to plenty of restaurants and cafes, but the onsite restaurant is the real hidden gem! Make sure to check it out.

• Beautiful swimming pool
• Comfortable chill spots
• Great location
• Delicious onsite restaurant

Private rooms start from $27 per night. 

CheeVa Beach Resort - Mid Range

Just 500m from Baan Tai Beach, CheeVa Beach Resort offers a stunning place to stay. There’s an onsite restaurant, a beautiful outdoor swimming pool with sea views and a fully-stocked bar. You’ll even find a pool table on the beach.

Each room comes with its own sun terrace, comfortable beds, and air conditioning. Need help with something? The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful.

• Tasty onsite restaurant
• Sea views from private sun terrace

Private rooms start at $35 per night

Baan Manali Resort - Mid Range

Baan Manali Resort is incredible value for money. You can get the beachfront bungalow experience for less than $50 per night. The bungalows are beautiful with a private balcony and hammock.

Enjoy a quiet location on the private Nai Wok Beach. Spend all day lounging on the white sand or swimming in the infinity pool overlooking the beach.

• Beachfront bungalow
• Private balcony and hammock
• On Nai Wok Beach
• Infinity pool

Private rooms start from $43 per night. 

Mangata Boutique Bungalows - Treating Yourself

With an almost perfect rating, Mangata Boutique Bungalows ticks all of the boxes. Want to open your curtains in the morning and be greeted by stunning sea views? You can do that here!

Or do you want to swim in an infinity pool overlooking the beach? You can do that too. The rooms are absolutely stunning boasting unique designs and a balcony. This place feels like your own private oasis.

• Incredible accommodation
• Right on the beach
• Beautiful rooms with balcony

Bungalows start from $140 per night.

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Kate is a writer, (ex)Management Consultant and avid traveller. She recently returned from a 2-year career break exploring the world and decided corporate life wasn’t for her. She’ll soon be testing life as a digital nomad. She’s visited over 40 countries and fell in love with Latin America in particular. Her travelling has inspired a passion for yoga, salsa, hiking and Spanish.

Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

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Koh Phangan – The Ultimate Travel Guide!

Koh Phangan in Thailand is certainly one of the most amazing islands in the country . Today, although no longer an insider tip, it is now a popular destination for backpackers, dropouts and yogis, but also individual travelers and luxury vacationers are increasingly drawn to this dream island. Above all, the offer of paradisiacal beaches is on this island unparalleled in Thailand and makes the heart of sun-hungry beach vacationers beat faster. In addition to the many beautiful picture book beaches , you will find a really impressive offer of unique things to do in Koh Phangan, including visiting tropical waterfalls, picturesque temples, deep jungle and breathtaking viewpoints. Definitely, enough attractions to spend several weeks on Koh Phangan.

In this travel guide, we give you all the important information about Koh Phangan Island in Thailand. In addition, we show you the most beautiful attractions, activities and where to find the best accommodations.

Good to know!

If you are still looking for where to stay on Koh Phangan , we can recommend the lovely Castaway Beach Bungalows . For a special vacation, you should take a look at the ingenious Buri Rasa Koh Phangan .

Koh Phangan is especially known for its impressive, tropical dream beaches . Here we show you the most beautiful beaches in Koh Phangan , which are perfect for a vacation.

The best travel time for Koh Phangan is in January, February, and March. Furthermore, from April to August, there is mostly nice weather. In autumn, you have to expect more rain.

For getting from Bangkok to Koh Phangan there are several options that can be organized relatively easily. Air, bus, train, but also combination tickets can be found most conveniently online at 12goasia .

General information about Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, and is 65 kilometers from the mainland, between the two islands of Koh Samui to the south and Koh Tao to the north. It has a size of about 125 km² and is part of the Samui archipelago, a group of islands that includes another 60 islands and islets. The famous Ang Thong National Park, a popular destination for boat trips, is also located in this region. Koh Phangan is well-known for its countless paradise beaches and the unique dropout flair that can be felt almost everywhere on the island.

The island’s capital is Thong Sala, where the ferry also docks. In the city you will find countless bars, backpacker hostels and also the lovely Thong Sala Night Market , which is known for its good street food. Especially famous is the place Haad Rin on the southern tip, where once a month on the full moon the infamous Full Moon Party takes place. However, the other parts of the island are quiet and perfect for a really idyllic vacation.

Things to do in Koh Phangan

Many people know Koh Phangan because of the infamous Full Moon parties. But this beautiful island has much more to offer! Here we have summarized the best things to do in Koh Phangan , the coolest activities and viewpoints at a glance:

Leela Beach

One of the most beautiful places on Koh Phangan is the gorgeous Leela Beach . It is located in the south of the island and impresses with its spectacular beach scenery. Here you can expect a real dream beach with the finest white sand and with almost kitschy turquoise sea colors . Behind it are large coconut palms, where attached sea swings form a really heavenly ambience. Thanks to the great choice of accommodations, it attracts families as well as couples! Especially in the northern part of the beach, there are good hotels, which are ideal for a vacation.

Tip : A true vacation dream directly on Leela Beach is the beautiful Cabin Beach Resort in a stunning prime beach location and with a really charming pool.

Explor e Koh Phangan by scooter

To roar with the scooter over the island to discover the most beautiful places and attractions of Koh Phangan on your own is probably one of the most popular activities during a visit. In doing so, you’ll explore the stunning jungle scenery of the island’s interior, mystical temples, hidden waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints and paradisiacal dream beaches. Keep in mind, however, that riding a scooter on Koh Phangan is not without danger, especially because of the steep roads, so you should pay attention and drive slowly.

Haad Yuan Beach

Another highlight of Koh Phangan is the beautiful Haad Yuan Beach in the southwest of the island. Arriving by taxi boat from Haad Rin, one immediately feels as if stranded in paradise. Tall palm trees, turquoise sea and huge round rocks make this place unique on the island! Many visit this dream beach on a day trip, others, however, spend here in the small, simple bungalows directly at the sea also their vacation. Either way, Haad Yuan is definitely one of the best attractions on Koh Phangan that should not be missed on any visit!

Phaeng Noi Waterfall

The Phaeng Noi Waterfall is the largest and for many visitors the most beautiful waterfall on Koh Phangan. It is part of Than Sadet National Park in the center of the island and a popular destination for nature excursions. From the parking lot, this picturesque waterfall can be easily explored and visited via a short, easy hike through the jungle . Thanks to the brilliant scenery, it is perfect for taking photos or just to refresh yourself in the waterfalls. A beautiful attraction on Koh Phangan that you can even visit without paying an entrance fee.

Haad Rin Beach

In the south of the island is the lively village of Haad Rin , where the world-famous Full Moon Party takes place. Once a month, it gets packed and loud here because party lovers from all over the world make a pilgrimage to this legendary event. At this time, the hotels are fully booked, and the place is bursting at the seams. If you prefer it quiet, come outside this time and then enjoy, amazingly, one of the most beautiful and quiet beaches on the island ! You will also find taxi boats on site that will take you to other fascinating bays. For a relaxing vacation in this area, we would still recommend the nearby Leela Beach.

Koh Ma Viewpoint (Three Sixty Bar)

The Koh Ma Viewpoint is an absolute highlight. Because of the many mountains and hills, you will find plenty of amazing viewpoints on Koh Phangan. Some of them are really spectacular, and so a visit to such a viewpoint is one of the best things to do in Koh Phangan. Really recommendable and already a real attraction is the Koh Ma Viewpoint at the Three Sixty Bar . After a rather steep ascent, you can enjoy a cool drink with chill out music, a breathtaking view of the sea and the offshore islet of Koh Ma. The perfect viewpoint to end a perfect beach day!

The Haad Salad Beach is one of the most beautiful highlights in the west of Koh Phangan. It is one of the ultimate dream beaches of the island and, moreover, a terrific choice for a vacation. The sea shines in the most stunning turquoise-blue sea colors and the fine sand grants optimal entry into the water. Worth seeing and truly unique is especially the iconic palm tree that juts diagonally into the water, which has almost become a landmark of Koh Phangan. But also great are the many cozy beach bars , which place their chairs and lounges partly directly on the sea and thus conjure up a unique vacation ambience.

Tip : Haad Salad is a popular beach for a beach vacation on Koh Phangan. Absolutely fantastic is the Salad Hut , a great accommodation with wooden huts and hammocks.

Chinese Temple Goddess of Mercy

One of the most beautiful attractions is the Chinese Guan Yin Temple , which offers a wonderful view over the island landscape from its impressive pagodas and buildings. It is the largest Chinese temple on the island and was built in a spectacular location on a mountainside. On a tour, you will discover a variety of interesting Chinese Buddha statues, as well as mystical images of Chinese warriors and dragons. A visit to this sacred place is highly recommended and is almost a must on any island tour on Koh Phangan.

Tip : Until today, there are more than 20 temples on the island to discover. The most beautiful temples on Koh Phangan can be found here.

Than Sadet Waterfall

A real natural attraction is the Than Sadet waterfall in the same named national park. It is one of the most fascinating waterfalls that Koh Phangan has to offer and a popular stop on island tours. Even some kings of Thailand are said to have visited this picturesque waterfall. It impresses especially with its location in the dense jungle and with countless cascades in a paradisiacal setting. On a length of 3 kilometers you can find many small natural pools , which inviting for having a swim. Especially beautiful are the spots at Thong Nang, Sampon and Daeng waterfalls. An unforgettable experience that should not be missed on any trip to Koh Phangan.

A real insider tip for a visit to Koh Phangan is the small peninsula Koh Raham in the west of the vacation island. It belongs to the Koh Raham restaurant, but is accessible to everyone and a visit is a very unique experience. The special thing here is above all the extraordinary scenery, which enchants with countless beautiful details, swings, and hammocks directly over the water . In addition, there is access to the sea at the tip, where you can marvel at many colorful fish while snorkeling. If you like, you can spoil yourself with a delicious cocktail and stay until evening to enjoy the sunset there.

Tip : Right next door is the popular Secret Beach . No longer a secret insider tip, but still an absolutely stunning sandy beach that is ideal for swimming and relaxing.

Thong Nai Pan Yai Viewpoint

Another must visit to Koh Phangan Island is the beautiful Thong Nai Pan Yai Viewpoint . It is located in the northeast, on a small peninsula near the resort of the same name, Thong Nai Pan , and thrills with a magnificent view of the palm-lined coastline. The drive or climb to the viewpoint is quite steep, but once at the top, one of the most beautiful viewpoints on Koh Phangan awaits you. From the terrace of the famous 2C bar , visitors experience an indescribably grandiose backdrop of dream beaches, jungle, and mountains while enjoying cool drinks.

Tip : Perfect for a vacation are also the two bays of Thong Nai Pan. Here you will also find plenty of wonderful accommodations, like the dreamlike Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort and Spa .

Bottle Beach

The Bottle Beach is a real paradise in the north of Koh Phangan, and moreover, one of the insider tips of the island. This small, secluded beach paradise can only be reached by taxi boat from Chaloklum , by jeep or via an almost 2-hours hike. Arrived you will find a fine white dream beach with turquoise blue sea , high palm trees and deep jungle in the hinterland. From time to time, even some monkeys can be spotted in the trees. Most visitors come for a day visit, but those who love the peace and quiet can also spend their vacation here! Along the beach there are small, basic bungalow complexes and nice restaurants, which provide the necessary catering.

Tip : A unique Koh Phangan experience is the hike up to Bottle Beach Viewpoint . After a 45-minute walk, you will be rewarded with a magnificent view.

Wat Paa Sang Tham

Wat Paa Sang Tham is located on the island’s interior, very close to the famous Chinese temple, and is another interesting attraction on Koh Phangan. Especially surprising are the countless small statues and the many lovingly designed details of this temple complex. You should not miss the large golden rock , which is a bit hidden in the jungle, and conjures a mystical and impressive atmosphere. Again, admission is free, but a small donation is always welcome.

Haad Sadet & Silver Cliff Resort Viewpoint

If you love it very quiet, it is best to visit Haad Sadet beach on the east coast of the island. Here you will experience the most pristine part of Koh Phangan , including jungle, tall palm trees and extremely quiet flair. The beach is a bit more coarse-grained and forms with the large granite rocks and the original appearance, a real lost place scenery. Until today, there are still no big hotels, but only small family bungalow complexes. In addition, it is still really untouristy here, you can wonderfully relax and switch off.

Tip : The view from the restaurant of the Silver Cliff Resort and also from Plaa`s Thansadet Resort , where you can enjoy a unique panorama with a cool drink, is unique.

Full Moon Party

The island actually became really famous because of the Full Moon Party , which takes place once a month at the time of the full moon. At this period, especially in the south of Koh Phangan everything is crowded and those who prefer it quiet, should then avoid the entire area around the Haad Rin. Up to 30,000 visitors from all over the world make a pilgrimage to the island once a month for Full Moon Party to experience this legendary event. Other cool, smaller events are the Waterfall Party right in the jungle of Koh Phangan and the Eden Party at the dream beach Haad Yuan.

Tip : Also note that for the Full Moon Party, the ferries are booked up early , and you should get tickets in advance. Also, accommodations at Haad Rin are quickly sold out at that period!

Ang Tong Marine National Park

The Ang Thong Marine National Park is a popular destination for excursions from Koh Phangan. This beautiful national park includes 42 islands and islets, where you can admire the most beautiful highlights during a day tour. In addition, at Ang Thong National Marine Park you will find numerous beautiful coral reefs for snorkeling , and there are also tours by kayak to the various lagoons offered. If you like, you can climb the famous Ang Thong Viewpoint on the main island Koh Wua Ta Lap and enjoy the most beautiful view of the archipelago from up here.

Snorkeling & Diving

Koh Phangan is surrounded by some outstanding snorkeling and diving spots . The coral reefs around the island are simply breathtaking, and so you have the opportunity to marvel at a magnificent underwater world. Nice spots for snorkeling can be found, for example at Koh Ma, Haad Tien, Haad Yao, Haad Salad and Secret Beach. Recommended for diving is Sail Rock, also called “Hin Bai” where you can enjoy some of the most spectacular underwater scenery. Therefore, some diving schools have also settled on the island. Really popular and awarded several times is Chaloklum Diving , which offers SCUBA diving, snorkeling & PADI courses on Koh Phangan for now 25 years!

How to get to Koh Phangan

There are several ways on how to get to Koh Phangan :

By plane : Koh Phangan does not have its own airport. The nearest one is on the neighboring island Koh Samui, or then on the mainland at Surat Thani. Thereafter, you will have to take the ferry to the island.

By bus & ferry : In many vacation destinations in Thailand, you can book combination tickets with bus & ferry. There are also numerous offers online at 12go.asia.

By train & ferry : If you want to travel by train from Bangkok, it is best to take the night train to Surat Thani. From there, continue by bus or minibus to the ferry port.

Tip : Cheap tickets for flight, bus, train and ferry to Koh Phangan are best found online at 12goasia .

Where to Stay on Koh Phangan

There is a broad range of accommodation on Koh Phangan. Whether you are a backpacker, a family with children or individual travelers, every vacationer is sure to find a perfect place to stay here. From backpacker hostels, to bungalows by the sea, yoga retreats and luxurious 5-star hotels, everything is available. If you are looking for a accommodation on Koh Phangan, then we can give you these tips along the way… It’s worth a look!

• 4-Star Hotel on the Beach : The Buri Rasa Koh Phangan enchants with super nice bungalows by the sea, with delicious breakfast and a top price / performance ratio!
• Wooden Bungalows on the Beach : The Castaway Beach Bungalows a real insider tip. Directly at the sea, you can experience dreamlike sunsets and a unique scenery.
• Backpacker Hostel : The So Good Haad Rin Hostel  is a nice, quiet hostel in the south of Koh Phangan. Here inspires family atmosphere and cozy vibes among like-minded people.
• Resort in the Jungle : The Kiri Tawan is located in the jungle inland and amazes with lovely bungalows in prime location directly in nature next to deep jungle.

Find the best accommodation on Koh Phangan:

More about koh phangan:, top 12 amazing beaches in koh phangan, where to stay in koh phangan: 8 best areas & hotels, bottle beach: dream beach at koh phangan, secret beach (haad son) | beach guide, haad yuan: a paradise beach on koh phangan, 20 unique things to do in koh samui, keep exploring, more about thailand.

Bangkok | Chiang Mai | Krabi | Koh Lanta | Chiang Rai | Ayutthaya | Sukhotai | Koh Lipe | Khao Sok Nationalpark | Koh Samet | Koh Larn | Koh Similian | Thailand

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand's party island?

Koh pha ngan travel guide.

Koh Pha Ngan is, along with Koh samui and Koh Tao, one of the 3 most famous islands in the Gulf of Thailand , and it is known mainly for the Full Moon Party , a huge and wild party that takes place every full moon night. However, this small and beautiful tropical paradise has much more to show you: white sand beaches lined by palm trees and transparent waters, and a mountainous interior region covered with thick jungle vegetation to explore.

Formerly this island was inhabited by the so-called Chao Le –also known as sea gypsies. Nowadays it is a tourist destination that still retains its charming atmosphere and attracts many tourists, thanks to its beautiful beaches, great sunset and jungles that, all together, make it a wonderful tropical paradise.

ℹ️ Top Things to Do in Koh Pha Ngan

Full moon party.

Ang Thong National Park

Sail Around the island beaches

Relax in a bar with nice view

Climb Khao Ra Mountain

Learn a new hobby

Wellness activities

Pantit night food market

🏨 Where to stay in Koh Pha Ngan

Best areas & beaches in koh pha ngan:.

Almost all of tourist accommodation on Koh Pha Ngan are located in the vicinity of its beaches. The west, south, and western half of the north coast are connected by the main roads of the island, so these areas are the most accessible, developed and busy; besides, they have the largest beaches. On the other hand, the west coast and the eastern half of the north coast are more difficult to access, but they are quiter as well.

South Coast

Accommodation available: Hostels, Cheap Bungalow and 3 to 4 star hotels.

Advantages: ✔️ Thong Sala has the main pier which conect the island with the rest of Thailand. ✔️ Has some beaches: Ao Ban Tai, Ao Ban Kai, Haad Rin Nai (Sunset Beach) and Haad Saikantang. ✔️ Very well conected with the rest of the island. ✔️ Phantip Night Food Market at Thong Sala. ✔️ You can find cheap accomodation.

Haad Rin Nok

Accommodation available: Hostels, Cheap Bungalow and 3 star hotels.

Advantages: ✔️ Full Moon party. ✔️ it is a tranquil beach the rest of the month. ✔️ It is one of the most beautiful beach in the island. ✔️ You can get great sunrise view here.

Accommodation available: Cheap bungalow and 3 to 5 star resort.

Advantages: ✔️ It has beaches like: Haad Rin Nok (Sunrise Beach), Haad Yuan, Haad Thian, Haad Wai Nam, Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai and Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi. ✔️ Calm beaches, good for swimming. ✔️ Nice local food restaurant.

North Coast

Accommodation available: Cheap Bungalow and 3 to 4 star resort

Advantages: ✔️ Beaches you can find here: Haad Kuat (Bottle Beach), Chaloklam, Mae Haad. ✔️ Near Chaloklam there are most of diving related business. ✔️ Chaloklam offers good gastronomic options. ✔️ Haad Kuat is an isolated beach with good and cheap price accomodation. ✔️ Mae haad has one of the best coral area of the island. Very good to practice snorkeling.

Accommodation available: Cheap Bungalow, 3 and 4 star hotels.

Advantages: ✔️ It has beaches like: Haad Salad and Haad Chao Phao. ✔️ Haad Salad is a white sand beach good for family trip. ✔️ Haad Chao Phao is better for backpacker, good for swimming. ✔️ No mass tourism.

🏖️ Best beaches in Koh Pha Ngan

We’ve been to all of them, these are the best:, 1️⃣ haad rin nok (sunrise beach).

Wellknown because of its crazy Full Moon Party, this Beautiful beach has a lot of hotels and restaurants offer. When there is no party, it is a peaceful place where you can enjoy charming sunrises.

2️⃣ Haad Rin Nai (Sunset Beach)

Haad Rin Nai it’s very near Haad Rin Nok, if you decide to stay here you will be in a very good location. In this Beach you will enjoy magnificent sunsets from a beautiful swimming pool, like at The Coast Resort.

3️⃣ Leela Beach

4️⃣ Bantai Beach

5️⃣ Haad Chao Phao

6️⃣ Bottle beach (Haad Kuat)

7️⃣ Haad Salad

8️⃣ Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai & Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi

9️⃣ Mae Haad

🔟 Haad Yuan, Haad Thian & Haad Wai Nam

✈️ Getting to Koh Pha Ngan

From bangkok, you can get there by combining plane, bus or train with boat:, plane + boat.

➡️ Easiest, fastest but more expensive option: Fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui Airport (USM) with Bangkok Airways. Then, take a boat to Koh Pha Ngan. ➡️ Cheaper way, but take more time: Flight from Bangkok to Surat Thani. Then take a bus to the pier and a boat to Koh Pha Ngan. ➡️ Only Bangkok Airways has flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui. If you fly to Surat Thani you will have more airlines available to choose.

Train and boat

➡️ From Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok, to Ban Song Station in Surat Thani takes 12-14 hours. Ticket prices between 300 and 1600 THB. ➡️ Then take a bus to the pier ➡️ At the pier you can get a ferry: you will be in Koh Pha Ngan in about 3 hours.

Bus and boat Station

➡️ From Bangkok, You can take a bus to Surat Thani at Sai Tai Mai bus station or at Khao San Road area, it takes  12-14 hours to get Surat Thani and other 4 hours to get Koh Pha Ngan. ➡️ Bus-ferry combined ticket pricecan cost between 700 and 1.000 THB. ➡️ Better to book your ticket in advance, overall during high season.

🚇 Where to go next?

Most common destinations after koh pha ngan:, koh samui, the largest of the gulf, koh tao, a backpackers paradise, bangkok, back to the capital, let us design your trip to thailand. find out more, ➡️ tailor made holidays to thailand ⬅️.

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How To Get To Koh Phangan: The Quick and No-Fuss Guide!

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Home » How To Get To Koh Phangan: The Quick and No-Fuss Guide!

In the biting summer heat, a cool dip in the turquoise waters of Koh Phangan will drive all your fatigue away. 

If your kids are all up for adventure and can handle the wild, then Koh Phangan is the treasure island worth exploring. From scenic beauty to ancient serenity, you will find everything in this jewel of the Thai Gulf. 

The island is connected to the mainland via ferries, and thus to reach the place, hopping on a ferry is necessary.

So without further delay, let’s start our journey to Koh Phangan!

In this guide, you can find out how to:

• Get from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
• Get from Phuket to Koh Phangan
• Get from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
• Get from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan

How To Get To Koh Phangan From Bangkok

If you’re done exploring the wonders of the Thai capital city, then it’s time to head south now! Koh Phangan is located at a distance of around 770 km from Bangkok . But this distance can be conveniently shortened if you fly to destinations close to Koh Phangan.

To reach Koh Phangan, you can travel by land or air (though a ferry ride is a must in all cases). Based on your convenience, you can choose either of the options. 

Now let’s get you to Koh Phangan from Bangkok!

1. By Air + Ferry

If money is not a question to you and you wish to get to the island as quickly as possible, then traveling by air is the most convenient option. However, you need to know that Koh Phangan doesn’t have an airport. 

Thus, to reach Koh Phangan by air, you must book a flight to Surat Thani or Koh Samui to reach the island sooner.

1a) Fly to Surat Thani + Ferry to Koh Phangan

Surat Thani is located on the western shores of the Gulf of Thailand and lies close to Koh Phangan. You can board a flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to Surat Thani.

Click here to book your ticket from Bangkok to Surat Thani.

Next, you will have to grab a transfer from the airport to Donsak where you will have to catch a ferry.

The ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan will only take 2 hours. However, you need to allow around 3 hours and 15 min for the whole journey from the airport to the island.

Click here to book your airport transfer plus ferry combo ticket.

1b) Fly to Koh Samui + Ferry to Koh Phangan

Koh Samui is the neighboring island of Koh Phangan and offers the fastest route to your travel destination. Your entire journey will only take a couple of hours as Koh Samui airport is the nearest airport to Koh Phangan.

Traveling via Koh Samui can push your budget a bit higher, but when have convenience and effectiveness been affordable?

So if money isn’t a problem, board a 1-hour flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui and hop on a 30-minute ferry to Koh Phangan.

Click here to book your air ticket from Bangkok to Koh Samui.

Click here to book your ferry ticket.

2. By Land (Bus/Train) + Ferry

Another way to reach Koh Phangan from Bangkok is via bus or train.

Traveling by land is the most affordable and economical for travelers looking for budgeted traveling options. If you’re one of them, here’s how to reach Koh Phangan by land without straining your pocket.

2a) Bus + Ferry

A night’s travel by bus will make your Koh Phangan journey more memorable. It takes about 10-18 hours to reach Koh Phangan if traveling by bus. 

Although a bit uncomfortable, the long journey will end sooner than you think. Countless private and public buses are available, dropping you directly at Donsak, Surat Thani.

From Donsak, your Koh Phangan journey will end at Thong Sala Pier via ferry. 

We recommend grabbing a combo ticket for both your bus and ferry.

Click here to grab your combo bus and ferry ticket.

A train journey is another option to shorten the distance between Bangkok and Koh Phangan. Although most of the journey is on land, the remaining distance is covered by ferries.

To make the most of your budgeted vacation, board a train from Bang Sue Junction at night and relax at Chumphon.

From Chumphon, continue to Tung Makham via taxi and board a ferry from Tung Makham to Thong Sala Pier. The whole journey can take about 11 hours. 

If you’re traveling with family, booking a train ticket with lower berths is recommended beforehand. Lower berths provide more in terms of comfort.

How To Get To Koh Phangan From Phuket

The journey from Thailand’s largest island to the famous party island doesn’t have to be torturous.

There is a list of options if you want to travel from Phuket to Koh Phangan. Traveling by air is faster and more convenient if you don’t want your quality vacation time wasted on commuting. 

However, traveling by bus is best if you are on a budget.  

Here’s how you can reach Koh Phangan from Phuket.

As Koh Phangan doesn’t have an airport, you’ll need to fly to Koh Samui first. You must catch a ferry or speedboat from Koh Samui to reach Koh Phangan.

There are many departures from Phuket airport to Koh Samui; you can board a flight that suits you. After reaching Koh Samui, take a short ride to Bangrak Pier to board a ferry to reach Koh Samui.

Keep in mind that you should probably give yourself some additional time between the flight and the ferry – just in case of a flight delay.

Click here to book your flight ticket from Phuket to Koh Samui.

The ferry will drop you at Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan, and you’ve reached your destination!  

Click here to purchase your ferry ticket.

2. By Land (Bus/Minivan) + Ferry

Traveling through the mainland by bus or minivan is perfect if you are on a budget.

To start, you can board a bus from Phuket Airport or Phuket Bus Terminal 2 to Surat Thani. From Surat Thani, ride a taxi to Donsak Pier and then board a ferry to Thong Sala Koh Phangan.

Depending on the weather and other factors, the journey will take about 10 hours or more. This option isn’t for you if you’re an impatient traveler who despises long travel hours. 

Fortunately, you can make this journey easy by purchasing a combo ticket for both the bus and van.

Click here to grab your combo ticket.

How To Get To Koh Phangan From Koh Samui

Traveling from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan is like going to your neighbor’s house down the street. The 30-minute journey is like hopping between islands, and the cherry on top? The closest ferry port is only 15 min away from the airport.

The Bangrak Pier is close to the airport, and from there, you can board a ferry to Thong Sala Koh Phangan.

How To Get To Koh Phangan From Surat Thani

You can easily reach Koh Phangan from the western shores of Surat Thani by boarding a ferry. There are numerous options, from fastest to cheapest, and you can choose whichever suits you best.

The fastest way to reach Koh Phangan from Surat Thani is by boarding a ferry from Tapee pier Lomprayah. The journey will take less than 3 hours if you choose this route.

For a cheaper alternative, you have to travel via bus for an hour first to reach the Donsak terminal and later board a ferry to Thong Sala pier. The whole journey via this route will take about 4 hours. Based on your convenience, you can choose either of the options.

Use this search function to find the best option for you:

Here in this article, we have highlighted all the convenient options for you to reach Koh Phangan. You can opt for any of these based on your budget and convenience. 

As there are many transfers to Koh Phangan (especially if you’re traveling by bus or train), don’t forget to book combo tickets. There are many options that you can choose from which will make your Koh Phangan journey smooth and fun.

So, book your tickets today and have a blast at Koh Phangan!

Ready to start planning your trip? We have loads of helpful blog posts on our Thailand travel blog hub.

You might also want to know if should you choose Koh Phangan or Koh Samui for your next visit, and why.

Jolene Ejmont

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Best Beach Guide: Top 8 Beaches on Koh Phangan (+ Travel Tips)

Soft white sand, crystal-clear water and perfectly lined with beautifully shaped palmtrees – on Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand the dream of a perfect, paradisiacal beach becomes true.

With over 30 beaches to choose from, it’s up to you whether you want some chilled vibes and music to go with your sunbath or a more secluded spot to recharge your energy.

Fortunately, this tropical island has it all! In this Travel Guide I’ll introduce you to the best beaches on one of my favorite islands in the world: Koh Phangan in Thailand.

If you’d like to visit as many beaches as possible, you’re better off renting your own scooter .

This way you can easily jump from one cool place to the other without having to rely on a more expensive songthaew taxi.

What else to do on Koh Phangan? Find here my Ultimate To-Do List for the time of your life!

BEACH GUIDE KOH PHANGAN: TOP 8 BEACHES (+ TRAVEL TIPS)

Table of Contents (Skip to the section!)

1. Long Beach (Haad Yao)

Haad Yao , better known as Long Beach , lives up to its name and is the longest beach on the island. Due to its length it offers the perfect setting for expanded beach walks in powderlike soft sand as well as a big variety of beach bars to watch an epic sunset.

That’s why it is considered to be a perfect allrounder for every day.

Travel Tip 1: Does the combo of vegan pizza at a stylish Ibiza-like beach bar plus a front-row seat for an unforgettable sunset sound good? Then check out Coco Locco Beach Restaurant & Bar .

Travel Tip 2: Are you a fan of electronic music? Then head to Seaboard Bungalows at Long Beach on a wednesday night. Their weekly design & food market is accompanied by changing DJ’s with a very good sound system, chilled atmosphere & nothing but good vibes.

2. Secret Beach

Not so secret anymore, but worth a visit!

This rather small cove with fine white sand feels more secluded than other beaches on the island while still offering enough possibilities to get a cold coconut or something to eat when needed.

It’s never overly full and I’ve always found a nice spot to enjoy life. But bring enough sunscreen and a hat as spots in the shadow are rare.

Good to know: Because the way down to the beach is pretty steep, I’d highly recommend to park your scooter up on the main road.

You’ll see plenty of others doing the same. Just go down, turn left and you’ll walk straight to Secret Beach .

Travel Tip: Secret Beach is ideal to go snorkeling. If you don’t have any snorkeling equipment, don’t worry! On the far North end of Secret Beach, you’ll find Koh Raham Beach Club , a waterfront restaurant & beach bar with rental gear for only 150 Baht per hour.

3. Salad Beach (Haad Salad)

What can I say? Salad Beach is regarded as one of the best beaches on Koh Phangan and the first beach, where literally my jaw dropped!

This palmtree-lined beach has the finest, silk-soft sand and the water is as clear as it can get.

Although almost the entire bay consists of resorts, it doesn’t feel very crowded but rather laid-back.

In the evenings, you’ll find more than a handful of good & reasonably prized restaurants , some of them with beautiful dinner setups in the sand. If you’re up for live music at night, check out Crystal Day or Jack’s Bar .

Travel Tip: Salad Beach doesn’t have a “public” entrance. But you can park your car or scooter at Haad Salad Resort and walk past the pool area until you’ll see the beach. Normally it’s for free, but sometimes they collect a parking fee (20 Baht/scooter, 100 Baht/car).

4. Thong Nai Pan Beach

Thong Nai Pan is one of the few beaches on the remote eastcoast of Koh Phangan and a peaceful hideaway with an idyllic surrounding.

If you’re after some party & beats: this is not the right place!

Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful setting for long beach walks and romantic dinners at one of the beach restaurants with plenty of illuminated lanterns that create a tranquil atmosphere .

Honeymoon feeling at its best!

Travel Tip: When you’re in this area, make sure to visit Hide on High bar & art jewellery store . This funky bar is a very unique place , offering good plant-based iced coffee, beer or whatever drink you fancy + good reggae music and a fantastic view of Haad Sadet Beach .

5. Haad Rin

“Isn’t that the beach, where usually the Full Moon Party takes place?!”, I hear you wondering. Yes, you’re right. 🙂

But at daytime it’s a totally different story. Clear water & seriously the softest sand make you feel like you’re in heaven.

Fun-filled Haad Rin pleases everybody, from groups of friends, families, couples and those, who want to have quality time by themselves.

There is a good range of restaurants and very cool bars at the beach promenade , so you won’t be looking for a cheeky beer for too long.

6. Haad Chao Phao

Although no beach on Koh Phangan is an insider tip any more, this would be the closest one to get this title.

Haad Chao Phao is situated right between Secret Beach and Zen Beach , but not as crowded as its popular neighbors.

Here you’ll find couples, individuals and yoginis from next door’s yoga center Samma Karuna enjoying the peacefulness .

And how beautiful is this leaning palmtree swaying in the wind ? I really love this place and even celebrated my birthday picknick right underneath it… Only the BEST memories!

Since it doesn’t have a public parking area nor an actual entrance, it’s only accessible by one of the beach resorts.

Travel Tip: Park your scooter at Benjamin’s Hut and combine your beach stroll with a delicious (also vegan) breakfast. Or just park it at Paragon Resort (entrance right behind 7/11) and walk to the beach.

7. Zen Beach

Very chilled and zen (pun intended 😉 ) at daytime, but even more amazing in the evening.

At dawn, you’ll find crowds of expats and hippies gather to watch a cracking sunset , play instruments, dance, chitchat or just enjoy their cold beverage while listening to good electronic music .

Zen Beach is the place to be to get to know new people or just soak up some positive vibes .

8. Bottle Beach

Paradisiacal Bottle Beach is located in the northeast of the island, beautifully secluded with stunning turquoise water and white sand .

Getting there is more difficult than to any other beach, but definetely worth the effort. There are no roads leading to it, so you have different options.

Getting to Bottle Beach

Either take a longtail boat taxi from Chaloklum fishing village or – if you are into a little bit of adventure – take one of the Bottle Beach hikes .

There are two options, the jungle trekking route (slightly shorter!) or the more scenic but longer coastal route. Both starting from Haad Khom in the north.

Travel Tip: There is also a Bottle Beach Viewpoint with magnificent views of the cove. If you’d like to know how to get there, check out my detailed Travel Guide .

When hiking please remember to bring plenty of water as well as sunscreen and wear sneakers .

As you may know, Thailand can get real hot and walking through the jungle is not just a walk in the park! After your strenuous hike you can choose between four resorts for some tasty lunch and a refreshing coconut.

I hope you enjoyed reading it. Feel free to contact me on Instagram (@eat.travel.flow) if you have any travel related questions or simply leave a comment below. 🙂

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How to Get to Koh Phangan In Thailand: Ferry, Speedboat, And Flight

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If you are wondering how to get to Koh Phangan, then you are in the right place. There are only a few destinations in Thailand that boast pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, vibrant nightlife (like the epic full moon party), and an amazing digital nomad community like Koh Phangan.

However, getting to Koh Phangan is not the simplest task. Besides the average public transportation in Thailand, Koh Phangan’s remote location makes arriving there quite challenging.

After having the pleasure to call this Koh Phangan home for several months, we are here to show you how to get to Koh Phangan from various locations in Thailand!

Where Is Koh Phangan In Thailand?

One of the reasons why Koh Phangan is so difficult to get to is its remote location. Koh Phangan is an island situated in the Gulf of Thailand, in Surat Thani Province. It’s part of an archipelago that includes the popular tourist destinations of Koh Samui and Koh Tao .

Koh Phangan does not have its own airport. But rather, the closest airport to Koh Phangan is Samui International Airport (USM) on the neighboring island of Koh Samui. The distance between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan is about 14 km (8.7 mi), and the only way to travel between the two islands is by boat or ferry.

How To Get To Koh Phangan In Thailand?

Because Koh Samui is where you’ll need to go to get the ferry to Koh Phangan, reaching Koh Phangan involves two main steps:

• Getting to the mainland or Koh Samui
• Taking a ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan.

Getting To Koh Samui

Getting to Koh Samui is relatively easy, since the island has its own international airport. For convenience, taking a flight is without a doubt the best option. You can fly to Koh Samui from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, and many international destinations.

However, those traveling on a budget might want to consider getting a transfer to Donsak and then taking the ferry to Koh Samui. Donsak is a mainland port area located about 31 km (19 mi) away from Koh Samui, and it’s the departing point of ferries to the island.

Note: If you are lucky, you might even be able to get a direct ferry or speedboat from Donsak to Koh Phangan. Otherwise, most boats make a stop at Nathon Pier in Koh Samui before heading off to Koh Phangan.

Taking A Ferry From Koh Samui To Koh Phangan

If you are arriving at Koh Samui by flight, then you’ll need to get from Koh Samui Airport to one of the ferry piers. Fortunately, ferries to Koh Phangan are plentiful.

Depending on where you are staying in Koh Phangan, you might want to depart from a different pier.

The main operators for the speedboats are Haad Rin Queen, Seatran Discovery, and Lomprayah. Tickets can be purchased at the pier or online.

Only speedboats depart from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan, so you’ll shorten your journey by a considerable amount.

How To Get From Bangkok To Koh Phangan?

The best way to get from Bangkok to Koh Phangan is by taking a flight to Koh Samui and then a ferry to Koh Phangan. An alternative is to take a train (we recommend the overnight train) or bus to Surat Thani, then get a transfer to Donsak, and finally take a ferry to Koh Phangan. then a ferry. This option tends to be a little bit cheaper, but the duration is much longer and it can be very uncomfortable.

If you are going from Bangkok to Koh Phangan, make sure you check our full guide here .

Note: You can also take a flight to Surat Thani Airport, but if you are taking a flight, you might as well fly to Koh Samui Airport

Read More: Is Koh Phangan Worth Visiting?

How To Get From Koh Samui To Koh Phangan?

If you are already in Koh Samui, getting to Koh Phangan is a piece of cake. There are multiple piers where you can take the ferry to Koh Phangan. The most popular ones are the Haad Rin Queen Ferry Pier, Pralarn Pier, and Nathon Pier.

As we’ve mentioned, the ferries from Haad Rin Queen Ferry Pier will drop you off in Haad Rin in Koh Phangan, and ferries from Pralarn Pier and Nathon Pier will drop you off at Thong Sala Pier.

The duration of the trip is about 20 minutes to 1 hour, depending on which pier you are departing from and your destination in Koh Phangan.

How To Get From Surat Thani To Koh Phangan?

Surat Thani is the closest mainland city to Koh Phangan. Buses from multiple cities in Thailand arrive here. From Surat Thani, you’ll first need to get a transfer or taxi to Donsak Pier, where you can take a ferry to Koh Phangan.

Several companies operate this route, including Raja Ferry and Lomprayah.

How To Get From Phuket To Koh Phangan?

To get from Phuket to Koh Phangan, you have two options. The first one is to fly to Koh Samui and get a speedboat to Koh Phangan.

The more affordable option is to get a direct transfer and ferry combo ticket. This will include a transfer from Phuket to Donsak Pier and the ferry to Koh Phangan.

How To Get From Krabi To Koh Phangan?

Similar to Phuket, you have two ways to get from Krabi to Koh Phangan. The easiest one is taking a flight from Krabi Airport to Samui Airport, and then catching a ferry to Koh Phangan.

Alternatively, you can also get a transfer to Donsak Pier, where you can board the ferry to Koh Phangan. Just like Phuket, this option tends to be a little bit more affordable.

How To Get From Koh Tao To Koh Phangan?

Being part of the same archipelago, Koh Tao is just a short ferry ride away from Koh Phangan.

To get from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan, you’ll need to catch a ferry from the Mae Haad Pier to Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan. The journey is about 1 hour long. Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the pier.

How To Get From Pattaya To Koh Phangan?

Because of Pattaya’s proximity to Bangkok, getting to Koh Phangan from Pattaya is similar to getting there from Bangkok. There are two ways, you can get a flight from one of Bangkok’s airports to Koh Samui, then go with one of the ferry operators to Koh Phangan.

Alternatively, you can take either a train (again, we recommend the overnight train) or bus to Surat Thani, followed by a transfer and ferry combination ticket from Donsak Pier to Koh Phangan.

This is usually a cheaper alternative, but a bus from Pattaya to Surat Thani is already over 10 hours long. This can make your entire journey over 15 hours long.

Note (Again): You can take a flight to Surat Thani Airport if you are coming from Pattaya, but if you are taking a flight, you might as well fly to Koh Samui Airport.

How To Get From Chiang Mai To Koh Phangan?

Since Chiang Mai is in the northern part of Thailand, the best way to get to Koh Phangan from there is by flying from Chiang Mai Airport to Koh Samui. The flight from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui is 1 hour and 45 minutes long. From there, you can take a ferry to Koh Phangan as we discussed above.

Getting To Koh Phangan FAQs

Does koh phangan have an airport.

No, Koh Phangan does not have its own airport. The closest airport to Koh Phangan is Samui Airport, which is located approximately 14 km (8.7 mi) away from Koh Samui.

Is Koh Phangan Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, Koh Phangan is definitely worth visiting. While it’s best known for its monthly Full Moon Party, the island has much more to offer. It boasts beautiful beaches, dense jungles, and national parks that make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Final Thoughts On Getting To Koh Phangan

While reaching Koh Phangan involves some planning, the journey is part of the adventure. Travelers can either decide between getting a flight to Koh Samui and then a ferry to Koh Phangan, or avoiding the flight and taking a bus to Donsak Pier where they can catch a ferry instead.

No matter where you’re coming from, the crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and welcoming atmosphere of Koh Phangan make every minute of travel worth it.

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Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan Weather and Best Time to Travel – 2024 Guide

Joy Intisuk

March 30, 2023

Table of Contents

Navigate Koh Phangan weather and best time to travel , maximizing your visit to this tropical haven with idyllic conditions for your dream island getaway.

February to April is considered the best time to travel to this island. Worried about the weather? Read on to know more.

• The best months to visit Koh Phangan are February, March, and April
• The sea temperature is perfect for swimming throughout the year
• The weather is mostly hot all year round
• The rainy months are September, October, and November.

One of the most common questions travelers have when visiting the Land of Smiles is the best time to travel.

The temperatures in Thailand vary throughout the whole kingdom, but it varies in the kingdom’s region.

The weather and seasons are far different in many countries, but they can be classified into three major seasons.

Koh Phagan is a beautiful tourist destination located in the Surat Thani province, and the island has loads to offer in any season you visit.

Read on to gain more insight into Thailand’s weather and find which weather conditions work best for you.

The Hot Season

Koh Phagan has a dry season on average throughout the year, and March to June is considered the hottest of them all.

If you want to travel to this island during this time, make sure that you pack your swimsuits, as it is a perfect time to bask under the sun.

March is considered the driest month as the average temperature often lies between 25°C to 30°C. During this time, you will 100% appreciate accommodation with air conditioning and possibly those that have swimming pools.

As April approaches, you won’t notice any significant temperature change, but the temperatures can rise up to 33°C.

April also marks the celebration of the Songkran Festival, where you basically have a water fight with one another. While the tradition does symbolize a process of purification and getting rid of bad luck, it is a one-of-a-kind experience for all tourists.

If you are visiting the Surat Thani province for the first time, use this guide to plan your perfect itinerary.

May is an ideal time for families to visit Koh Phangan as it offers clear and calm waters so that you can participate in several outdoor activities during this month.

June is when the rainy season starts making its way, and the weather conditions begin to improve slightly.

You can easily anticipate rain showers during the month; the nights are relatively cooler than the day.

June is also considered off-season, so it is perfect for those traveling with a tight budget who would like to explore the island easily.

The Rainy Season

Before you enter the wet season of Koh Phangan, July to September is considered a kind of in-between season where there is still a lot of humidity, but you will also encounter occasional showers.

For some people, this weather report will work ideally for their plans as they enjoy a bit of both season.

The climate from October to November is wet, and a fantastic time to visit the island.

During your time here, you will witness the tropical monsoon climate of Thailand and also allow you to appreciate the lush green jungles to their fullest.

One of the best things you can do is explore the waterfalls in Koh Phangan during the wet season. It will definitely be the highlight of your trip when visiting the island.

This season is also perfect for those on a short budget as hotel prices drop significantly, and very few tourists visit during this time.

The temperature in October drops as low as 23-24°C, and at the same time, it will be warm during the day. Because it marks the rainy season, you may also witness some beautiful thunderstorms throughout the month.

November is the wettest month of the year and receives over 550mm of rainfall yearly. As I’m writing this article, the current weather conditions of Koh Phangan are 27°C, with a 69% probability of precipitation expected.

Traveling during November, you will have a fantastic time and even get excellent deals on activities and accommodation.

The Cold Season

The months of December to February are high season, and it is the best time to visit this beautiful island.

During this season, the island expects many visitors compared to any other season because of the cool weather. The rain finally reduces towards the start of December, but it still receives around 300mm of average rainfall.

While the high season is appealing to many people planning their trip to the island, it is the most expensive time of the year.

Everything costs go up, whether hotels, flight tickets, shopping , tours, etc. If you are looking for outdoor activities, you won’t find any cheap deals during these crowded months.

If you plan to travel during the peak season, book your travel and stay in advance to get some reasonable prices. Find some of the best Airbnb on the island to enhance your travel experience further.

People on a strict budget should avoid this season and visit the land when the prices are much more affordable.

More About Koh Phangan

Experience the best of Koh Phangan weather and plan your ideal holiday in Thailand during the dry season, which generally runs from late December to April.

With temperatures averaging 85.8°F (29.9°C), the island’s most popular travel season is between December and March, offering idyllic conditions for outdoor activities and beachside relaxation.

During the high season, particularly in March and April, the island bustles with visitors seeking to make the most of their holidays.

Choose the perfect time to explore Koh Phangan by visiting between mid-December and April, when the dry season promises sunny skies and unforgettable memories.

Koh Phangan is the fifth largest island in Thailand, located in the Surat Thani province.

Visiting Koh Phangan is a one-of-a-kind experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

The island has gorgeous sandy beaches, waterfalls, farms, mountains, and luscious green forests.

Furthermore, the full moon party is one of the most renowned activities on the island, where tourists can enjoy a wild beach party at Haad Rin.

If you love to party, this is one activity you want to attend!

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• Travel Guide To Koh Phangan
• General Information
• Attractions
• Kosher & Religion

• Country: Thailand
• City: Koh Phangan
• Area: 125 km²
• Local time: GMT+7
• Currency: Thai Baht
• Language: Thai

Koh Phangan, a small island and a great experience.

Two main shopping areas on the island are:

• Laem Hat Rin

There is also shopping in Koh Phangan!

Attractions in Koh Phangan for adults and children alike.

Beaches in koh phangan.

In Koh Phangan you can also eat kosher and pray in a minyan.

Kosher restaurants in koh phangan.

We would be more than happy to help you. Our team advisor during working hours at your service to help you.

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Travel Information

Koh Phangan is most easily accessed via Koh Samui Airport though it is slightly cheaper to fly to the regional transport hub of Suratthani. From Koh Samui a fast boat takes only 30 minutes whereas the journey from the mainland takes around eight times longer. If you come overland, the overnight train is the best option with a first class sleeper carriage ideal for families. Buses are the most economic choice with a trip from Bangkok costing only about 650 Baht, all the way to Koh Phangan. Ferry services are more or less hourly throughout the day from Koh Samui and every couple of hours from the mainland; several boats also go regularly from Koh Tao.

Thailand Map

Private Speedboat

Pumpui Private Speedboat

Most travel agencies will be able to sell an all-in-one ticket from Bangkok to Koh Phangan which includes the bus and ferry ticket for about 650 Baht per person. The price is low because the journey takes all night and is the least comfortable way to travel. Buses depart from Bangkok at around 7pm, arriving early morning in Suratthani in time for the first ferry to the islands. Coming back, there are numerous ferries, but for the bus you will need to depart no later than 1pm. Usually a shuttle bus will drop passengers off in Suratthani to wait until about 7pm at which time the bus will depart to Bangkok. As a more convenient option consider buying a ticket on the well-organised Government Bus which actually goes on the Raja Ferry and saves time and discomfort changing modes of transport – although it is more expensive and will set you back up to 1000 Baht.

There are also several other bus routes linking Suratthani with other major destinations.

Ferry & Speedboat

If you are coming to Koh Phangan from the mainland, buses, trains and planes all stop around Suratthani where you will be transferred to either a Suratthani jetty for the Songserm Ferry Service (3½ hours to Koh Phangan) or to Donsak which is a 50 minute bus ride away. If you stay overnight in Suratthani, the hotel can book you a ferry, or alternatively head for Phangan Tour as they are the main agent for bus transfers to Koh Phangan. From Donsak, Raja (3 hours) car ferry has five services a day or hop on the Lomprayah Catamaran (1½ hours) to arrive in half the time.

From Koh Samui the shortest crossing point is from the Bophut and Mae Nam area where several services run to Koh Tao via the main Thongsala pier on Koh Phangan:

Lomprayah Catamaran (30 mins) Seatran Discovery (30 mins)

The only service direct to Haad Rin is the Haad Rin Queen (50 mins) which also runs the most frequent service and also has a last boat at 6:30pm if you fly in late.

Songserm Express (45 mins) also runs to/from the main port of Nathon on Koh Samui.

If you are in a hurry or arriving too late for any of the regular ferry services then a speedboat may be a good option from Koh Samui, arriving in only 15 minutes (weather permitting) it is the fastest way to travel between the two islands; contact the Pumpui Speedboat or Kittimon Private Speedboat for the cheapest price. While coming from Suratthani the Night Boat departs at 10.00pm which may be able to help out if you don’t want to spend the night in a hotel there.

Departing Phangan at 10.00pm, the Night Boat arrives at 04.00am and is a popular choice for quick VISA trips to Ranong (Burma) as you can return the same day. On arrival at Suratthani you’ll find travel agents offering the return minibus service at a cost of around 1,500 Baht per person which will include boat transfer to and from the border.This service should have you back at the pier by around 4pm at the latest.

Lomprayah Timetable

Haad Rin Queen Timetable

Songserm Express Timetable

Raja Ferry Timetable

Seatran Discovery Timetable

Second Class (Air Con or Fan) Sleeper trains are the best as you get a table and sofa that turns into fairly spacious beds; the lower bunk is bigger so best. The best of course is First Class with a sink and double bunks in each room, good if you are travelling with a lot of stuff. It is worth booking ahead with a travel agent as the train is a popular choice of transport and fills up quickly during peak periods.

All trains for Phangan stop at Suratthani railway station which is a few miles out of town, so if you have to stay in Suratthani, it is cheapest to lodge near the station otherwise you must rent a Songtaew taxi. Most trains arrive in the morning and guides take you to buses which transport to the ferry port, approximately a 1 hour drive away.

If you arrive at the train station without an onward ferry ticket there are plenty of travel offices opposite the railway station, any of which can arrange the transfer to the pier. Check the current timetable and prices online at www.railway.co.th.

Koh Samui Airport is the most convenient airport, with Bangkok Airways (www.bangkokair.com) flying in over 40 times in a day from Bangkok, Krabi, Phuket, Pattaya, Singapore, Penang, Kuala Lumpur or Hong Kong. The last boat leaves for Koh Phangan from Big Buddha Pier at 6:30pm, so for flights arriving later than 5pm you may have to hire a private speedboat or stay in Koh Samui; during FMP there are boats all night from Samui from 300 Baht per person.

It is cheaper to fly from Bangkok to the government airports at Suratthani and Nakhon Si Thammarat where a couple of budget airlines are now operating from, especially as Air Asia (www.airasia.com) and Nok Air (www.nokair.com) often run special promotions making flights available at much cheaper rates, though taxi fares and journey time tend to negate savings. It takes a minimum of 5 hours to get to Koh Phangan from Suratthani Airport at a cost of around 500 Baht which includes bus transfer and boat ticket, while the journey is just a minimum of 1 hour from Koh Samui Airport, where you can also buy a convenient mini-bus and boat joint ticket from around 300 Baht up. In order to make the slower route more competitive, Nok Air have teamed up with the faster Lomprayah Catamaran (www.lomprayah.com) to offer an all-in-one ticket between Koh Phangan and Bangkok completing the enitre journey in just over 5 hours. You can book online through www.nokair.com.

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How to travel from koh phangan to krabi (ao nang) – 2024.

Table of Contents

Welcome to this super helpful guide on the journey from Koh Phangan to Krabi. If you’re traveling between these two wonderful destinations, you really are seeing some of the best destinations in Thailand. BUT how do you make this journey? How much should it cost? What scams do you need to avoid? What can you expect of this journey? And of course, how do you prepare for your trip?

Traveling across a foreign country can feel pretty daunting, especially if you need to rely on several types of transport. There are some very important things that you need to know before you undertake this journey. We have done this journey several times and we are using our own first-hand experience to write this super helpful article.

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know. We will try and answer all of your questions and we will also give you plenty of practical details and information, including prices, booking info, and much, much more. If you’re traveling the other way from Krabi to Koh Phangan, this article may also be helpful to you. The prices and timings may differ a little, but the general info is the same.

FIND A PLACE TO STAY – Don’t miss these Amazing Ao Nang Hotels

FIND THE BEST THINGS TO DO – Check out these EPIC things to do in Krabi

Koh Phangan to Krabi in Brief

All of the companies that we review and recommend in this article offer inclusive tickets that enable you to travel all the way from Koh Phangan to Krabi. The ticket covers the entire journey and includes all of the transportation from the ferry port in Koh Phangan (Thong Sala) to the Krabi bus station. The connections are relatively easy, and you don’t need to find your way around; the local staff at every stop will show you where to go. To learn more about the journey, keep reading for our step-by-step guide.

Only staying in Krabi for 3 days? Don’t worry. This is enough time to see ALL of the best bits and even visit a hidden gem or two. You just need to know how. Don’t miss this Fantastic 3 day itinerary for Krabi .

How much does it cost to travel from Koh Phangan to Krabi?

Cost of the journey from Koh Phangan to Krabi ranges in price from 670 – 1,200 baht. This is the price if you book with a local agent independently.

The exact price of this journey depends on your preferred method of transport, how you choose to book, and what company you book with. The cheapest way to travel from Koh Phangan to Krabi is to book your journey independently and go with Raja or Seatran. We also recommend that you barter for the best price, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

It is important to recognize that many companies will be entirely unwilling to barter. If a tour operator is willing to barter, they are only likely to reduce the ticket cost by a small amount.

Ferry Schedule and prices Koh Phangan to Krabi

Koh phangan to krabi – which ferry company is the best, 1 raja (slow and cheap).

If you’re traveling on a low budget, the best company is Raja. This company offers the cheapest transfer options. The Raja ferry is big, dirty, and ugly (sorry if that’s a bit harsh). Not only is this monstrosity the cheapest ferry, but it is also the slowest option; there is one advantage here. The Raja ferry allows you to take cars and bikes. They have AC seating and a small shop selling drinks and snacks.

2 Lomprayah (Fast but expensive)

If you prefer fast, efficient, and stylish travel, then we highly recommend the Lomprayah Ferry Company. They offer a speedy and efficient transfer on their catamarans. It is worth noting that the overland journey is very similar for every company, so even though you’re paying more with this company, you will still end up on the mini-bus with some waiting time on land. These guys are particularly expensive for families with kids 2 and up paying 600baht!

3 Seatran (Great prices & facilities)

In our opinion, the Seatran company offers a very nice balance of comfort, efficiency, speed, and a great price. We also found this to be an excellent option as a family because they have kid-friendly ticketing policies (more on this in a moment). Oh yeah, and the Seatran boat also has a nice shop and cafe on board selling a small selection of local food and hot coffee.

How much does it cost for kids to travel from Koh Phangan to Krabi?

Top tip if you are booking this journey with kids: you will need to book your tickets directly at the ticket office, which is situated at the very terminal in Thong Sala. Many of the companies are not able to facilitate child ticket bookings online or through tour agents, so you will need to go directly to the ticket office in Thong Sala.

Here are the ferry prices for the full journey from Koh Phangan to Krabi, including the prices for kids. If you try to book your journey through a local tour operator, the price may be slightly different due to their commission.

• Adult: 1,200 baht
• Child: 600 baht (2 – 11 years old)
• Kids under 2 FREE
• Adult: 670 baht
• Child: 550 baht (3 – 12 years old or over 120cm)
• Kids under 3 FREE
• Adult: 750 baht
• Child: 375 – 450 baht 
• kids under 100cm or under 3 should be FREE)

How do you book tickets from Koh Phangan to Krabi?

There are several different ways to book your tickets for the journey from Koh Phangan to Krabi. One option is to go directly onto the ferry company website and book your transfer; however, if you do this, it is very important to make sure you are selecting a complete transfer all the way from Koh Phangan to Krabi. If you do not make this selection, you may only end up with a ferry ticket.

OFFICIAL RAJA WEBSITE – Raja Ferry Port

OFFICIAL SEATRAN WEBSITE – Seatran Ferry

OFFICIAL LOMPRAYAH WEBSITE – Lomprayah.com

Another way to book your transfer from Koh Phangan to Krabi is to visit a local tour operator in Koh Phangan. There are many small tour offices located in all of the main towns in Koh Phangan; these tour offices can often help you book your tickets. They may charge a small additional commission. If you want to know how much commission they are charging, then just ask.

Alternatively, you can book your ticket at the ticket hall situated at the ferry terminal in Thong Sala. We do recommend booking your tickets a day or two in advance if possible; this is especially true if you’re planning to travel before or after the full moon festival.

You can reserve tickets by messaging Ann (Friendly Tour) on WhatsApp: +66 6510 64 609. They will let you reserve your tickets in advance and then pay on collection at their office in the corner of the Koh Phangan Ferry Port ticket hall (near the entrance of the port).

How long does it take to travel from Koh Phangan to Krabi?

If you travel with Raja or Seatran, the advertised journey time from Koh Phangan to Krabi is normally around 7 hours; however, in reality, this journey is more likely to take around 9 hours. If you are planning to take the 8:30 a.m. boat from Koh Phangan, you will probably arrive in Krabi around 5:30 pm.

Lomprayah advertises 5-hour transfers. As speedy as their boat is, this is probably a little optimistic too. Expect the transfer to take 6 – 7 hours. Also, remember you also need to consider transfer time to the port in Koh Phangan and then to your hotel in Krabi or Ao Nang (this is not included in the ticket cost!).

Koh Phangan to Krabi – Step by Step

1 get your tickets.

The first step in this journey is sorting out your ticket. Remember that you can purchase a ticket that covers the entire journey. We recommend getting hold of your ticket a few days in advance. You can either book your tickets with a local tour operator, or you can book online. If you put your tickets with a local tour operator, it may feel a little unnerving to pay lots of money and just be given a scribbled receipt; however, this is very normal, so don’t be unnerved.

Just make sure that all of the information on the receipt is correct, including the number of people and your starting destination and location. We recommend taking a photo of your receipt and keeping it safely. When you arrive at the ferry terminal, your receipt can be exchanged for a ferry ticket and bus tickets. You do not need to use your passport or any special identification to book your tickets.

2 Go to the ferry terminal in Koh Phangan

On the day of your departure, make sure that you arrive at the ferry terminal at least 45 minutes in advance. If you are taking an early morning boat, we also recommend that you plan breakfast beforehand; there is a Seven-Eleven situated close to the ferry terminal in Koh Phangan. There are also several cafes and restaurants in the area. If you are unable to buy breakfast before you get on the boat, you can buy snacks and drinks on the boat.

When you arrive at the ferry terminal, you will need to pick up your tickets from the ticket hall. They will normally give you a sticker which indicates where you are going and which company you are traveling with. It is important to wear the sticker so that it is visible to staff along the journey. Once you have your tickets, walk a few hundred meters to the jetty; there should be staff in this area to direct you to the correct boat and tell you when to board. This area can get pretty busy, so look after your bags and belongings carefully.

3 Board your ferry

You will normally be directed to board your ferry around 20 minutes before departure; all of your bags and belongings need to stay with you. There is space to put large bags and belongings when you get onto the boat. All of the ferry companies include both indoor and outdoor seating with air conditioning, and they all have facilities such as toilets on board.

4 Enjoy the journey to Donsak Pier (Surat Thani)

The ferry journey generally takes a few hours; this is a lovely time to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. All of the ferries have decks where you can walk around and take in the view. This is probably the nicest part of the journey, so enjoy it while it lasts. Remember to keep your valuables close to you at all times.

5 Get off the ferry and find your driver

When you arrive at the ferry port, you will need to disembark the ferry and walk towards the port buildings. This can feel a little chaotic and unnerving, and you may not know where to go at this point, so we recommend just following the crowd towards the main buildings; even though it is chaotic, it always seems to work. When you arrive at the port buildings, there will be a local minibus driver who will recognize your sticker and will direct you where to go. You are likely to be shown to a minibus or you can load up your bags and take a ride to Surat Thani. If possible, keep small valuables bags with you on the minibus (rather than in the back).

6 Take the minibus to Surat Thani

This part of the journey is pretty fast and furious. Once you have found your minibus driver, they will probably depart quite quickly, taking you to an office in Surat Thani. The minibus is generally pretty crowded, and they tend to drive quite fast; the journey normally takes around one hour.

7 Wait for a little while and grab some lunch

When you arrive at the office in Surat Thani, you will need to change to a different minibus; there will normally be some waiting time at this point. This is a great opportunity to use a bathroom, buy snacks and drinks, or even find some local food for lunch. You can generally leave your large travel bags at the office, but don’t leave any valuables in your bag. The staff will tell you how long you are likely to have before you need to take your minibus; remember to keep your valuables bag with you and don’t go too far from the office.

8 Get on the minibus from Surat Thani to Krabi

The waiting time in Surat Thani generally ranges between 10 minutes and around 1.5 hours. Once your minibus arrives, make sure that you load all of your bags and then jump on the minibus. From here, the journey is likely to take 3 – 4 hours depending on traffic and also on your driver.

9 Arrive at the bus station (or not!)

And finally, when you arrive in Krabi, you should be taken to the central bus station; however, some drivers drop passengers off in a random location on the outskirts of Krabi. In a location like this, there are not many taxis or transfer options; they will then conveniently introduce a friend who happens to be available to take you to your hotel. This is a low-level scam. Strictly speaking, they meant to take you all the way to the central bus station, at which point you can find your transport to your hotel. However, if they drop you off at another more remote destination, they can make a little extra money for a friend. At this point, you can either use the 

Grab Taxi app and book your taxi to your accommodation; alternatively, barter to make sure you are getting a fair price to your hotel. 100 baht is a reasonable price for a shared taxi transfer to a hotel in Ao Nang. Check that the driver will drop you off at your hotel and make sure that the price is clearly agreed, and make sure it is clear whether you are paying per person or for your group (we paid 100 baht for our family).

A Few Challenges – Traveling from Koh Phangan to Krabi

In summary, the journey from Koh Phangan to Krabi seems pretty chaotic and disorganized, but somehow seems to work every time once you have your ticket. It should include all methods of transport, and there are plenty of lovely Thai people to help you along the way. This journey is pretty long and tiring, especially if you are traveling with kids. We highly recommend that you have plenty of drinks and snacks to keep you going; there are a few opportunities to buy food along the way.

The minibuses can be quite crowded with people and luggage and not particularly comfortable. Drivers may go quite fast; this can be nauseating (especially if you struggle with travel sickness), and at times, the land journey can feel unsafe. If you do have a long wait in Surat Thani, this can be frustrating. We recommend making the most of your time. Find some tasty food and take a rest.

Avoiding Scams

In recent years, Thailand has really made an effort to clean up its act despite the reputation for travel scams. This is actually a very pleasant and safe area to travel, and scams are becoming increasingly uncommon and unacceptable in Thailand. However, there are still a few scams you need to be aware of. We met one Traveler who had been sold a very expensive ticket for the journey which turned out to be a scam. He was approached by someone claiming to sell bus ticket and tried to purchase a ticket from them he lost around $50.

Avoiding a scam like this is pretty straight forward. Don’t hand money to anyone who approaches you. Scammers don’t generally have offices! They generally walk around looking to exploit an opportunity. So if you visit a tour operator in Koh Phangan they will sell you legit tickets. Check their commission and make sure you are happy with the price (we have included prices in this article to help you). The other thing is to remember to keep your valuable bag on you at all times. Avoid putting valuables bags at the back of mini buses or leaving them anywhere out of sight during this journey. Overall this is a relatively smooth and safe journey and we hope that the information and tips in this guide help you plan your trip.

Don’t forget to sort out your accommodation in Krabi

Loma Place – simple stylish accommodation for backpackers on a budget – Find Loma Place Agoda or find them Loma Place on Booking.com

Aonang Glory Resort – surprisingly luxurious accommodation for the price – Find Aonang Glory Resort Agoda . You can also find Aonang Glory Resort on Booking.com

Groovy Bungalows – trendy property for mid-range backpackers – nice rooms & pool, great price – Find Groovy Bungalows on Agoda or find Groovy Bungalows on Booking.com

Baannai Lake View Resort – stunning lakeside resort with bungalows and villas, very beautiful! – Book Baannai on Agoda or on Reserve a bungalow on Booking.com

Baan Pinya Balinese Style Pool Villa (in the picture above) – very impressive 3 bedroom villa with private pool – Reserve you place at Baan Pinya on Agoda or on reserve Baan Pinya on Booking.com

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Illegal British tour guide arrested in Koh Phangan

Briton offered tour package priced at 70,000 baht per head

PUBLISHED : 31 May 2024 at 12:24

WRITER: Supapong Chaolan

SURAT THANI: A British man has been arrested for allegedly working as a tour guide on Koh Phangan and other locations.

Tourist police and local officials arrested 25-year-old Jabran Elahi at a hotel in tambon Ban Tai on Thursday afternoon, the arresting team said on Friday. The team was led by tourist police inspector Pol Lt Col Winit Boonchit and Koh Phangan district chief Noppadol Khaomali.

The suspect has been charged with working illegally as a tour guide and being a foreign national working without a work permit.

The arrest came after authorities received a complaint requesting an investigation into a foreigner who allegedly worked as a tour guide, taking tourist groups to various sites on the southern island. He had hired two vans for his business.

During questioning, the man said he took groups of foreign tourists to different attractions in Thailand. He also offered an 18-day tour package covering many sites in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai, priced at 1,499 pounds sterling, or about 70,000 baht, per person.

The arresting team handed him over to Koh Phangan police station for further legal action.

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Best Things to do in Krabi, Thailand

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 22, 2023

Krabi Province is our favorite destination in Thailand. With so many things to do in Krabi, it has taken us several visits to see it all! This beautiful southern province of Thailand packs a huge punch with beautiful natural limestone cliffs, mangrove forests, and more than 150 islands in the Andaman Sea.

No trip to Thailand would be complete without adding Krabi to your itinerary. Once you see everything that Krabi has to offer, you’ll be itching to go to Thailand .

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Krabi Thailand

The first half of this post of the best things to do in Krabi post will start in the islands and then we will head to the mainland to showcase all the top sights around Krabi Town. So let’s get started.

1. Rock Climbing in Railay

Rock climbing tops our list of the best things to do in Krabi. When we first visited Thailand in 2000, we made a beeline to Railay to go rock climbing in Krabi. It is one of the best places in the world to learn how to rock climb.

Rock climbers of all levels are drawn to the more than 300 climbing routes up its limestone cliffs. Whenever we go back we make a point to go rock climbing in Railay. We’ve climbed with King Climbers and Hot Rocks and both are professional and affordable. Take a top rope rock climbing excursion with them for a day or learn how to lead climb on a multiday rock climbing course.

A lot of companies offer climbing course to Railay, but book with the companies that have been there forever there are a few on the island.

Where to Stay in Railay – We have stayed at many different hotels in Railay. It is a small destination that is easy to walk to most places, so it really doesn’t matter where you choose. It all depends on your budget. Railay Bay Resort & Spa is a personal favourite for an upscale stay and Diamond Cave is a good mid-range.

2. Railay Beach

Railay houses some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand . After you have had an adventure rock climbing, chill out on Railay Beach for a few nights. Railay Beach East is the most beautiful to catch some rays or rent a kayak. Railay Beach West is where all the nightlife happens and then you can head over to Phra Nang Beach for some caving.

There are plenty of things to keep you occupied at Railay Beach. Restaurants line the beach for the ultimate chill-out experience and the nightlife goes wild on Railay.

3. Phra Nang Beach

Phra Nang Beach is Thailand’s most famous and beautiful beach. With sea caves, warm waters and white sand bookended by two limestone cliffs and sea caves. It attracts day trippers by the hundreds. But when staying on Railay, you have it all to yourself as you go for a walk early in the morning.

When you see it deserted, you’ll understand why it became one of the most popular beaches in Thailand. Looking out from the beach to see the towering rock formations is one of the most beautiful views in the islands.

Phra Nang Cave is a beautiful cave to take in the view as its stalactites frame the scene. At the other end of the beach, you can hike through a massive cave to emerge at the incredible viewpoints of Ralaiy Bay.

Getting to Railay

Railay Beach and Phra Nang Beach can easily be reached by longtail boat from Ao Nang. They are just a 20 minute boat ride away. Boats also run regularly from Krabi Town. The trip is approximately 45 minutes.

4. Ao Nang Beach

When visiting Railay, chances are you will go through the beach town of Ao Nang. We actually stayed once in Ao Nang and commuted to Railay by long-tail boat and it was good fun.

Ao Nang Beach is not as beautiful as Railay Beach but it is a fun place to stay with so many hotels, restaurants, and bars to keep you busy. Plus, there are plenty of excursions from Ao Nang Beach that will take you out on an island tour of Krabi every day.

5. Sea Kayaking 0 Koh Hong Island

One of the best things to do in Krabi is to go kayaking. Take a day trip to Koh Hong Island in Than Bok Khorani National Park. Hong means, room in the center of the island and that is exactly what you’ll see at  Koh Hong. It has a hidden lagoon in its center which is the coolest thing to see.

Paddle through a cave at low tide and come out inside surrounded by limestone cliffs. Phang Nga Bay.

6. Island Hopping

If kayaking isn’t your speed, you can hire a longtail boat to go island hopping for the day to see the beautiful islands that have been featured in Jame Bond and The Beach. There are several day trips that leave from Ao Nang, Railay or Krabi town that will take you out to see the stunning islands of Krabi.

• Check out these top-rated island hopping tours to see Rope Island and Emerald Cave. Details here.
• Visit James Bond Island on this speed boat tour around Krabi. Details here.

You can book a four island tour to go island hopping in Krabi which we highly recommend. Islands include Chicken Island, Railay Beach, Tub Island, and Poda Island which stand proud in the turquoise water of the Andaman Sea. Book this highly rated tour here.

7. Ao Thalane Bay Among the Mangroves

One of the more off the beaten path things to do in Krabi is to go kayaking at Ao Thalane Bay. This beautiful day trip leaves from Krabi Town, Ao Nang or Railay Beach and takes you to a mangrove forest where you’ll paddle into dark caves and hidden pools. Like the islands of Krabi Ao Thalane Bay has karst islands jutting into the air.

8. Phi Phi Islands

It is hard to believe that one province can have so many beautiful places. Phi Phi is an island paradise and is certainly one of the top attractions in Krabi. Phi Phi Don is the main tourist island with five-star resorts, beach bungalows, and nightlife. This is where you’ll find many hotels and beaches and where you can book day tours via longtail boat to surrounding islands.

The main beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don are Tonsai, Long Beach, and Nui Beach. Tonsai is where you’ll also find dive centers, travel agents, and beach bars. If you are looking for a great place to stay on Phi Phi Don, The PP Princess Resort is located on a stretch of white sand beach along oh Dalum Bay.

9. Island Tour to Maya Bay

Phi Phi Leh is part of the Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and is about 30 minutes from Koh Phi Phi Don by boat. It is also where you’ll find the famous Maya Bay.

Maya Bay is one of the best beaches in Thailand that was used as the setting for the Beach. No trip to the Phi Phi islands would be complete without seeing this pristine beach. It is closed to tourists but you can hire a bot to take you to see the limestone cliffs surrounding its white sand beaches. Access to Maya Bay is limited to a few daily visitors so check with your hotel for details.

How to Get There

Ferries and speed boats run regularly from Phuket, Krabi Town, or Koh Lanta. You can book day tours to the Phi Phi Islands from Krabi by speed boat. Details here.

9. Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a great places to unwind and chill out. Another paradise island in Krabi, it has beautiful beaches to relax and enjoy some pad that with a cold Chang Beer. Long Beach is exactly that. A long beach filled with beach bungalows and restaurants.

10. Scuba Diving

While the best scuba diving in Thailand is on Koh Tao or Koh Samui , Koh Lanta is one of the best places to go scuba diving on the west coast of Thailand. Marine Life to see in these waters are Blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, seahorses, manta rays and if you time it correctly, whale sharks.

11. Skull Island – Koh Talabeng

One of the coolest things to do in Krabi is to take a kayaking trip to Skull Island. Located about 20 minutes by boat from Koh Lanta, Skull Island is a karst island that looks like a skull. It’s an adventurous day trip involving climbing ropes and tire ladders to explore inside the cave where you get to look out from the eyes of the skull.

You can book tours from your guesthouse or at the beach.

12. Koh Klang

One of the most interesting things to do in Krabi is to take a long tail boat to the island of Koh Klang. It just a few minutes from the town of Krabi but it feels worlds away. The local villagers live a simple life fishing and harvesting rice.

13. Thai Massage

I think every single article I’ve written about Thailand includes getting a traditional Thai Massage. It is one of the best things to do in Thailand because they are so cheap and amazing. Where else on earth can you get a daily massage if you like? In Krabi, get a massage on a beach and feel like a millionaire as you relax under palm trees getting those aching muscles worked out.

14. Krabi Town

Krabi Town is the main hub and chances are if you are flying or taking the train from Bangkok to Krabi, you will be entering here. It’s worth sticking around for a couple of days to take in the vibe and it makes a great base to explore all the attractions around Krabi before moving on to the islands.

15. Krabi Town Night Market

Like every city in Thailand, Krabi has a fantastic night market. One of the best things to do in Krabi Town is to go out at night and do some shopping at the Weekend Night market. This is your chance to try some street food at the many food stalls, munch on pad thai or pick up your Thailand souvenirs.

The  Chao Fah Night Market is the largest market. Other markets to visit include Klong Muang Market, and Ao Nang Market.

16. Khao Khanab Nam Mountains 

The most striking landmarks of Krabi are The Khao Khanab Nam Mountains. Known as the gateway to Krabi Town these two mountains stand on either side of the river. Hire a boat to take you on a trip to climb the mountains or explore its caves. Longtail boats can be hired from the Chaofa Pier in Krabi.

17. Thai Cooking Class

While in Krabi make sure to take a Thai Cooking class. One of our favorite things to spark memories of Thailand, when we are back in Canada, is to whip up some Thai Food. Go to the local markets to find fresh ingredients and learn to make your favorite Thai food from Thai Curries to spring rolls. We took a cooking class years ago and it was one of the best investments we made during our travels in Thailand.

18. Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple)

Krabi isn’t all about natural beauty and outdoor adventures, you can also enjoy cultural experiences in Krabi. Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) is just 3km from Krabi Town and is one of the not to miss things to do in Krabi.

Sitting atop a high cliff, Tiger Cave Temple is a working temple with monks living within a maze of caves. Make sure to climb its 1,272 to see the massive golden Buddha statue and don’t miss the footprint of the Buddha. Tours can be combined with Hot Springs and Emerald Pool on this Jungle Tour.

19. Wat Kaew Ko Wararam

Another temple to visit in Krabi is the White Temple or Wat Keaw Ko Wararam. It is an easy visit located downtown Krabi, so when you are doing your shopping, be sure to stop by for a photo.

It is one of the most beautiful temples in Krabi Province.

20. Emerald Pool – Thung Teao Forest Natural Park

One of the most popular activities in Krabi is a visit to the Emerald Pool in Thung Teao Forest Natural Park. Another great day trip in Krabi, Thung Teao Forest Natural Park is about an hour from Ao Nang. Take the 2.7 km nature trail to the Emerald Pool, (Aka Crystal Pool) to swim in its crystal clear waters, enjoy the water fall and explore the flora and fauna.

21. Klong Thom Hot Springs – Krabi Hot Springs

It’s not normally at the top of my list of things to do in hot destinations, but the Klong Thom Hot Springs are worth the drive from Krabi Town. Usually combined on a day trip with the Emerald Pool, the Krabi Hot Springs are therapeutic pools that reach 35-40 degrees Celcius. The smooth stone pools are located in the heart of the jungle. Soothe those aching travel muscles with a bit of thermal mineral therapy.

You can book tours to the hot springs with a spa package at GetYourGuide. Full refunds within 24 hours of cancellation.

22. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park 

Another jungle escape from Krabi is a visit to Khao Phanom Bencha located 30 minutes from Krabi Town. What draws people here? Hiking trails, limestone caves and waterfalls. No trip to Thailand would be complete without visiting a waterfalls. This is less touristy than other locations since it’s a little farther away from it all, so it’s good for people looking for a quiet escape.

23. Shell Cemetery at Susan Hoi

Certainly one of the most unique things to do in Krabi is to visit the Shell Cemetery at Susan Hoi. Dating back 40 million years, this fish cemetery is one of only three of its kind in the world. Located just 17 km from Krabi Town, it contains fossilized shellfish and snails preserved in its rocks.

When to Visit Krabi

• The best time to visit Krabi is between December and March. The weather is dry and warm, but it is also the high season.
• You can visit Krabi in November and April and still have great weather and may encounter fewer crowds.
• During the high season, hotels are often booked in advance, so make sure to book accommodation ahead of time.

Getting Around Krabi

Thailand has a great tourism infrastructure and getting around Krabi is easy. There are regular song-taews (local buses, between Ao Nang and Krabi Town.

• From Ao Nang, you can catch regular longtail boast to Ton Sai and Railay Beach.
• Longtail boats will also take you from the Chao Fah pier in Krabi Town to Railay Beach on a regular basis. They take about 25 minutes.
• Ferries leave regularly from Krabi Town to Koh Lanta and Phi Phi Islands. You can also take ferries from Phuket to Koh Lanta and Phi Phi.

How to Get to Krabi

• There are several flights a day from Bangkok to Krabi Town. You can check Skyscanner for details.
• There are regular ferries from Phuket to Krabi Town and to Koh Lanta and Phi Phi.
• Air conditioned tourist buses leave Bangkok daily to Krabi Town and take approximately 10 hours.

And these are all the amazing things to do in Krabi Thailand. We have gone back again and again, and we can’t wait to visit Thailand again. Have you been to Krabi? What did we miss?

• Thailand Travel Tips – 32 Things to Know Before you Go
• Things to do in Pai Thailand
• Best Things to do in Phuket
• 35 of the Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand
• The Best Things to do in Koh Samui

Enjoy all these things to do in Krabi? Save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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Digital Nomads Can Now Work in Thailand for Up to Five Years

By Jessica Puckett

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the glittering temples of Chiang Mai and the tropical island paradise of Phuket, Thailand has always had something for every type of traveler.

Now, it extends that wide-ranging appeal to remote workers, who can live and work in the country for up to five years thanks to a recent extension of the Thailand digital nomad visa.

Previously, qualified digital nomads could only work in the Southeast Asian nation for a total of 60 days, so the new validity period is a significant jump. Thailand’s government announced on May 28 that the new visa policy will go into effect on June 1, per Reuters .

However, remote workers won’t be able to stay in Thailand for five uninterrupted years. The new visa will cover multiple entries into the country, with digital nomads able to stay for 180 consecutive days—about six months—at a time for up to five years. Visa holders will need to leave and reenter the country at the end of each 180-day period in order to meet the legal requirements.

Thai officials haven’t yet announced the new qualifications for the multiple entry Thailand digital nomad visa, but in order to apply, travelers will need to either make a visa appointment at a Thai Embassy or apply online through the official Thai e-visa website . (Only certain nationalities are able to apply for visas online; US citizens are typically eligible.)

Thailand is popular with digital nomads for its powder-soft beaches and tropical climate, vibrant nightlife and street food culture, striking national parks, and relatively low cost of living (1 Thai Baht equals about .02 US dollars). Along with the capital city of Bangkok and the popular mountain city of Chiang Mai, popular bases for digital nomads include the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui—which are known for their pristine beaches —as well as Hua Hin, a resort town just a few hours south of Bangkok.

The new visa policy is part of a larger push from Thai officials to stimulate tourism as the country faces a contracting economy . In addition to extending the validity of the digital nomad visa, the government has also increased the number of countries eligible for visa-free entry to Thailand from 57 to 93 countries and extended the stay limit for eligible tourists from 30 to 60 days. Thailand has also introduced more lenient visa regulations for retirees and graduate students.

The five-year digital nomad visa puts Thailand among countries with some of the longest validity periods for digital nomad visas. Other nations that allow lengthy remote-worker stays include Spain , which allows digital nomads to stay for one year and then reapply for up to four additional years, and Montenegro, where the visas are valid for two years with an option to extend for another two years.

Recently, remote worker visas have become more popular around the world, with countries like Japan , Italy , and Turkey launching digital nomad visas in 2024.

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