Islands

1. Koh Lipe
3. Koh Phi Phi
2. Koh Lanta
8. Koh Samui
16. Koh Lan
15. Koh Samet
14. Koh Chang
13. Koh Mak
12. Koh Kood
11. Koh Ang Thong
9. Koh Phangan
4. Phuket
7. Koh Phayam
5. Similan Islands
6. Koh Surin
10. Koh Tao
17. Koh Si Chang

Gulf of Thailand North

Gulf of Thailand South

West Coast/Andaman Sea

West Coast/Andaman Sea

The Islands of the Andaman Sea off stunning beaches, crystal clear water, and a range of experiences for every travelers desire. The western coast of Thailand is most often visited between the months of November and April to avoid the monsoon season. Some islands, such as the Similan Islands, become completely inaccessible during this time and beaches will experience rough surf, making day trips to smaller islands for day tours difficult.

Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is a diverse and vibrant destination. Known for its bustling beaches like Patong Beach, Phuket offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Old Phuket Town stands out with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture and rich history. Visitors can explore stunning viewpoints such as Karon Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and visit iconic landmarks like the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong, the largest temple on the island. For a quieter experience, Nai Harn Beach and Rawai Village provide a glimpse into local life and traditional Thai culture.

Koh Lanta, located south of Phuket, is a haven for those seeking a more tranquil and natural environment. This island is less commercialized, with pristine beaches like Klong Dao and Long Beach that are perfect for relaxation. Koh Lanta also boasts diverse marine life, making it a favorite spot for snorkeling and diving, especially around the Mu Koh Lanta National Park. The island's unique charm lies in its blend of lush forests, mangroves, and the local Sea Gypsy culture, which visitors can experience firsthand in villages like Ban Sang Ka-U.

Koh Phi Phi, famous for its dramatic cliffs and vibrant nightlife, is one of Thailand’s most famous island groups. Made up of six islands, Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest and only inhabited island, known for its beautiful beaches such as Long Beach and the viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views. Koh Phi Phi Leh, made famous by the movie "The Beach," is renowned for Maya Bay, a must-visit for its breathtaking scenery. The islands are also a hotspot for diving and snorkeling, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

Koh Lipe, located near the Malaysian border, is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park and is celebrated for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is small enough to explore by foot, with Sunrise Beach and Pattaya Beach being the most popular spots. Koh Lipe offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, particularly around the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island. Its laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets make it a perfect destination for a relaxed getaway.

The Similan Islands, a group of nine islands in the Andaman Sea, are renowned for their underwater beauty, making them one of the top diving destinations in the world. The clear waters, diverse marine life, and spectacular coral reefs attract divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Above water, the islands feature white sandy beaches and lush forests. Due to their national park status, the Similan Islands have limited access to preserve their pristine condition, typically open to visitors from November to April.

Koh Phayam, one of Thailand's lesser-known gems, is located near the Myanmar border. This island offers a serene escape with its uncrowded beaches and laid-back vibe. Ao Yai and Ao Kao Kwai are popular beaches known for their stunning sunsets and relaxed atmosphere. Koh Phayam is also famous for its cashew nut plantations and lack of cars, with motorbikes being the primary mode of transportation. The island’s natural beauty and tranquil environment make it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more touristy destinations.

Gulf of Thailand South

Koh Samui, Thailand's second-largest island, is a diverse destination offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and vibrant nightlife. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches, with over 40 to choose from, each offering a unique vibe. Chaweng Beach is known for its lively nightlife, while Lamai Beach is slightly more laid-back but still offers a range of bars and restaurants. For a more tranquil experience, Maenam Beach provides a quieter, more family-friendly atmosphere.

One of Koh Samui's most iconic landmarks is the Big Buddha, a 12-meter-high statue that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The island also boasts numerous waterfalls, such as the Na Mueang Waterfall, which is a popular spot for hiking and swimming. For those interested in local culture, the Fisherman's Village in Bophut offers a charming mix of boutique shops, restaurants, and traditional Thai architecture. The island is also home to unique attractions like the Secret Buddha Garden, a tranquil spot filled with statues and lush greenery.

Koh Phangan is best known for its world-famous Full Moon Party, a monthly event that attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the beachside revelry under the full moon. However, the island offers much more than just its nightlife. The northern part of the island, particularly around Thong Nai Pan, is known for its serene beaches and luxurious resorts, making it a great place to relax and unwind.

For adventure seekers, Koh Phangan provides excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling, especially around the coral reefs near Haad Yuan and Haad Salad beaches. The island's interior is mountainous and covered in lush jungle, offering hiking trails that lead to viewpoints with breathtaking vistas. Additionally, the island hosts various wellness retreats and yoga centers, making it a popular destination for those seeking a more holistic holiday experience.

Koh Tao, which translates to "Turtle Island," is renowned as one of the top diving destinations in Southeast Asia. The island's crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers. Popular dive sites include Chumphon Pinnacle and Shark Bay, where divers can spot everything from colorful reef fish to larger species like whale sharks.

Beyond its underwater attractions, Koh Tao offers a laid-back atmosphere with beautiful beaches such as Sairee Beach, known for its vibrant nightlife and sunset views. For those looking to explore further, hiking trails lead to secluded bays and scenic viewpoints, providing stunning panoramas of the island and its surroundings. The island also has a growing reputation for eco-tourism, with several conservation projects aimed at protecting its natural beauty and marine environment.

Koh Kood is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand offering crystal clear water, healthy coral reefs, amazing seafood, and a dense tropical jungle with waterfalls and protected species of endangered wildlife. There is snorkeling, scuba, fishing, boating, waterfalls, and trekking to keep you busy but the beach is the main attraction here, take advantage of the Happy Hour sunsets, they are stunning. The waterfall Klong Chao is worth a visit and the giant Maca tree is beautiful. If you are up for a bit of a hike you can go further up to two additional waterfalls Thap Kwang and Nam Khiao deep in the jungle, keep an eye out for wildlife during your hike.

There are no cars allowed on the island except for the transport trucks and some local taxis. Motorbikes are available for rent on the island, I have personally used R&T motorbike rental and found them to be very friendly and engaged. Most resorts will offer motorbike rental or have information for a rental or taxi service. If you do rent a bike, or get a taxi, a trip to Ao Yai fisherman village and some fresh seafood at Noochy restaurant should be on your list of things to do.

You can get to Koh Kood by taking a van/bus/private car from Bangkok direct to the ferry or a flight to Trat airport then a shuttle to the ferry. There are speedboats and ferries that also run between Koh Kood and Koh Chang/Koh Mak.

Koh Kood

Koh Mak is a small, multi family-owned island located near Koh Chang, distinguished by its tranquil environment and absence of mass tourism. The island is mostly flat and covered by coconut groves and rubber plantations, providing a unique landscape compared to its neighbors. With quiet roads shaded by trees, Koh Mak is perfect for exploring by bicycle. The island offers a variety of pristine beaches, such as Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai, and features several diving and snorkeling spots. Koh Mak’s laid-back atmosphere is complemented by activities like Thai cooking classes, sunset views from Banana Sunset Bar, and visits to the local Koh Mak Museum, which showcases the island's history. You can rent a small boat or take a kayak out to Koh Kham to visit a pristine reef and a half built eco resort being consumed by the small island jungle. Make sure to get your fill of the freshest local seafood caught by the islands fisherman year round. Golf carts are a big thing on the island and can be rented from many resorts along with motorbikes. Kayaking, stand up paddle boards, and fishing/squid are popular activities as well. Check out our blog and map of Koh Mak here

Koh Mak

Koh Chang

the largest island in the northern Gulf of Thailand, is known for its mountainous terrain, dense rainforests, and vibrant marine life. The island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking to Klong Plu Waterfall, diving around the coral reefs, and exploring the Mu Ko Chang National Park. White Sand Beach and Klong Prao Beach have enough to keep you busy while providing fantastic views. Despite its growing popularity, Koh Chang retains a balance between development and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for both adventure and relaxation. Keep an eye out for monkeys raiding the local shops, and giant hornbill birds flying between the giant coconut and palm trees. For more info on Koh Chang, see our blog here

Gulf of Thailand North

Koh Samet, located in the Rayong province, is famous for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is a favorite weekend getaway for both locals and tourists due to its proximity to Bangkok. Popular beaches like Sai Kaew and Ao Prao offer a mix of vibrant nightlife and quiet retreats. The island is also part of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park, which ensures the preservation of its natural beauty. Activities on Koh Samet include snorkeling, sailing, and enjoying the various beachfront restaurants and bars.

Koh Lan, situated off the coast of Pattaya, is renowned for its clear turquoise waters and coral reefs, making it a haven for water activities such as snorkeling and parasailing. The island features several beaches, with Tawaen Beach being the most popular due to its vibrant atmosphere and variety of water sports. For those seeking a quieter experience, Samae Beach offers a more relaxed setting. Koh Lan is easily accessible from Pattaya, making it a convenient day trip destination for tourists looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle.

Koh Si Chang, located near Bangkok, is steeped in history and culture, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The island was once a royal retreat, and visitors can explore the remnants of King Rama V's summer palace. Koh Si Chang is less commercialized compared to other islands, providing a more authentic Thai experience. The island's attractions include the Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine, a revered Buddhist site, and the picturesque Chong Khao Khad viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. The island's laid-back vibe and cultural heritage make it a perfect getaway for those looking to explore Thailand's rich history and natural beauty.

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