21 Best Islands in Thailand to Visit
Thailand’s islands embody a paradise for diverse tastes and travelers. Here, the warmth of sun-kissed beaches meets the welcoming embrace of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. With a portfolio of islands that exemplify the best in tropical getaway experiences,
Thailand serves as a canvas for relaxation and adventure alike. Value and comfort coexist, thanks to visitor-friendly accommodations and an attractive exchange rate, setting the stage for the quintessential holiday.
Each island boasts its own signature charm. Imagine wandering through vibrant markets by day and unwinding under the stars at a beach bar by night. The islands are an eclectic mix, offering everything from tranquil temples to secret swimming spots surrounded by nature’s artistry. Here, you can fill your days with activities like kayaking, snorkeling through coral gardens, or simply unwinding with a cocktail in hand, listening to the gentle ebb and flow of the ocean. The promise of finding your ideal island escape is part of Thailand’s allure, ready to match the rhythm of your preferences.
1. Ko Kradan’s Secluded Escape
Tucked away in the embrace of Trang’s serene shores, Ko Kradan is a gem that offers you the quintessence of tranquility. Here, the absence of bustling villages and the cacophony of cobbled streets welcomes you to a world where the unspoiled beauty holds dominion.
- Beaches: Your feet will find solace in the feathery touch of powdery sand, with views that capture the heart – think limestone karsts standing guard over an underwater kaleidoscope of coral life.
- Relaxation: Serenity is your constant companion as you unravel on beachfronts, cocktail in hand, the melody of the blue ocean orchestrating your rest.
- Exploration: Feel the pull of adventure? Kayak the island’s perimeter, an intimate encounter with nature’s undisturbed splendor.
- Sunsets: As dusk arrives, journey through the verdant woodland pathway to Chonglom Bay Beach. You’re chasing the day’s end, where the sun performs its majestic descent.
Ko Kradan doesn’t distract with an excess of activities; it captivates with its simplicity, making relaxation not just an offer, but a promise.
2. Ko Phayam
Nestled in the tranquil waters of the Andaman Sea, Ko Phayam is a sanctuary of serenity. Far from the crowded tourist hotspots, this second-largest island near Ranong offers a retreat that remains a secret to the masses. Your arrival by speedboat is a swift 45-minute journey, setting the stage for an experience unspoiled by the hustle of modern life.
Upon setting foot on Ko Phayam, intimacy with nature comes first. The permanent dwellers, numbering barely over 500, are your warm hosts to this island gem. In their genuine smiles, you’ll read a quiet pride for the idyllic home they share with visitors.
Beaches here, such as Aow Yai, beckon the active soul with their promise of surf and gentle sways, perfect for boogie boarding. Conversely, Aow Khao Kwai, shrouded by mangroves and sentinel-like rock formations, exudes serenity.
- Activities: Embrace the island’s rhythm through bicycling, hiking, and yoga.
- Marine Adventures: The underwater tableau is yours to explore with diving excursions.
- Gastronomy: The local fare, with its accent on vegetarian delicacies, will delight the health-conscious.
To truly engage with Ko Phayam, traverse its dirt paths by scooter or meander along the island on foot, every step a discovery in this oasis where time seems to rest.
3. Ang Thong
Explore the Ang Thong archipelago where sheer limestone cliffs pierce the skyline above a panorama of coral gardens. Venture through dense jungle and discover hidden slices of paradise—a network of tumbling waterfalls, secluded coves, and secret lakes that beckon the adventurous.
Key Attractions:
- Snorkeling & Diving: Submerge beneath the waves and swim alongside a vibrant array of marine life.
- Kayaking & Hiking: Paddle through the clear waters or hike up the islands’ peaks for breathtaking views.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for a diverse cast of local fauna, including charismatic langurs and shy otters.
Your journey may begin with a day excursion from Ko Samui or Ko Phangan. On Ko Paluay, engage with the sea gypsies’ way of life. On Ko Mae, marvel at the Emerald Lake that nestles like a jewel amidst its lush surroundings.
For a taste of local flavor:
- Ko Phaluai: Savor a meal of freshly caught seafood.
- Ko Sam Sao: Discover underwater splendors at the coral reef.
- Ko Wua Ta Lap: Consider an overnight stay in rustic bungalows for an unparalleled island experience.
4. Ko Chang Noi
Nestled in the Andaman Sea, near Ranong, there lies a quaint isle aptly named Ko Chang Noi, or Elephant Island, a hidden gem distinct from its larger namesake. As a secluded nook of wilderness, the island beckons the intrepid traveler who relishes unspoiled beauty in exchange for the trappings of modern comforts.
Here, your daily rhythm seamlessly blends into the island’s embrace; indulge in simple, rustic repasts, surrender to the silent afternoons, and surrender to leisurely explorations. As you traverse Ko Chang Noi, the simplicity of the island lifestyle unwinds your clock. By scooter or on foot, the island’s veins lead to vast expanses like Ao Yai, where the horizon stretches to infinity.
Accommodations undressed from luxury, give way to thatched roofs against a backdrop of dense jungle whispers. The adventurous heart finds solace in the raw embrace of Ko Chang Noi, where one wakes not to the hum of electricity but to the lyrical call of the Andaman’s azure skies.
5. Ko Jum
Nestled on the quieter side of Thailand, Ko Jum invites you to embrace tranquility amidst its jungle embrace. The island splits personality; its northern counterpart is affectionately dubbed Ko Pu, presenting a rugged Crab Island topped with forested peaks.
- Coconut Beach: A haven lined with palm silhouettes where loungers blend with the sands.
- Ao Si Beach: A serene stretch for immersing in literary escapes by the sea.
- Golden Pearl Beach: Home to Fu Bar, a casual hub for sipping sundowners.
- Magic Beach Bar: Your place to mingle with the amber hues of a setting sun.
Discover Ko Jum’s heart through leisurely bike rides weaving through drowsy hamlets or mount a scooter for an island adventure. Scale the verdant slopes of Pu mountain or join the locals for a sea harvest—fishing adventures await. Within Ko Jum’s fabric is the Muslim village of Baan Ko Pu, offering a window into traditions, while Lubo Beach promises untainted shores for soulful retreats.
From this placid sanctuary, voyages to Ko Ruk, Ko Ha, and Phi Phi Island flourish, expanding your footprints to encompass the archipelago’s splendors.
6. Surin Islands
The Surin Islands serve as the crowning jewels of Mu Ko Surin National Park, showcasing pristine beaches and crystalline waters where commercialism has yet to leave its mark. Amid the two primary isles, Ko Surin Nua and Ko Surin Tai, and their smaller companions, you can embrace the untouched magnificence of nature.
- Beaches: Unspoiled sands invite you to bask in tranquility.
- Waters: Dive into clarity for snorkeling and deep-sea exploration.
- Activities: Engage in hiking or game fishing for a dash of adventure.
In your journey, immerse yourself within a Moken settlement to witness the unique lifestyle of sea nomads. Opt for a night under the stars in a beachside tent on Ko Surin Neua and let the marine splendor of Ao Chak captivate you, where even the elusive whale shark may make an appearance.
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7. Ko Samet
Nestled along the eastern shores of Thailand, Ko Samet serves as an oasis, just a stone’s throw away from the hustle of Bangkok. In the embrace of a national park, this isle takes its name from the Samet trees populating its territories and offers an unexpected twist: a bustling nocturnal scene where the night sky is illuminated by fire dancers and the day’s catch teased on open barbeque grills.
Remarkable for its scarce rainfall, the isle’s beaches invite you to languish in the sunshine. Haad Sai Kaew, also known as Diamond Beach, is the crown jewel, edged with eateries and bars cradling its pristine shoreline. Your feet can follow in the steps of Sunthorn Phu’s legendary characters, memorialized in statuary against the backdrop of sea and sand.
Venture to peaceful coves such as Ao Hin Khok or the hidden Ao Tubtim, and perhaps encounter Mae Ramphueng Beach’s diverse tapestry of wildlife. If your heart is set on exhilaration, embrace the thrill of jet-skiing or the gentle descent into an underwater world while snorkeling.
In between adventures, roam the local bazaar to find a keepsake or yield to the tranquil touch of a beachside massage. On Ko Samet, every choice is a pathway to serenity.
8. Ko Kut
Ko Kut, a gem of tranquility amidst Thailand’s bustling archipelago, beckons you with its serene beaches fringed with coconut palms. Here, the undisturbed jungles teem with life, and the sound of waterfalls, like Klong Chao, underscores nature’s harmony. Your quest for solitude finds reward in Ko Kut, less trodden than its neighbor Ko Chang.
- Accommodations: Pick from homely beach huts to exquisite resorts, each promising an authentic island experience.
- Villages: The eastern shoreline is dotted with two quaint fishing communities brimming with local customs.
- Beaches: Ao Tapao stands out as a coastal sanctuary, where the water whispers tales of the deep.
- Exploration: Glide in a kayak across the glassy sea or venture through the jungle to hidden cascades.
- Transportation: Traverse the island’s secrets on a scooter, the preferred mode with scarcely a vehicle in sight.
As you mingle with the local artisans or watch fishers skillfully cast their nets, you’re not just a visitor but a storyteller, piecing together the vibrant fabric of Ko Kut. This is a haven where the rush of the world fades, leaving you with the purity of paradise.
9. Ko Mak
In the embrace of the Gulf of Thailand lies Ko Mak, a tranquil enclave far from the hum of well-trodden tourist paths. This island eschews the common trappings of commercialization, offering instead a scene of rustic charm and serenity. There’s a notable absence of convenience stores like 7-Elevens, anchoring Ko Mak firmly in its authentic roots.
Your days on Ko Mak might unfold with the rhythmic grace of a yoga session or the adrenaline rush of Muay Thai. The underwater realms invite exploration with dive masks and snorkels, while on land, the history of rubber tree cultivation beckons the curious. Cultural immersion extends to the culinary arts with Thai cooking classes.
Immerse yourself in local lore at the Ko Mak Museum or engage with the idiosyncratic showcase at Ko Mak’s Erotic Art House. For those who adore outdoor pastimes, choices abound from tennis and mountain biking to the simple joy of a beach volleyball match or sea kayaking. And if surrendering to relaxation is more your pace, indulge in a beachfront massage, where the sounds of the waves complement the skilled touch of local masseuses.
10. Ko Yao
Amidst the tranquil azure waters of Phang Nga Bay, the Ko Yao twins sit as unspoiled jewels. Yai and Noi, each with its own rhythm, invite you to immerse in the quintessence of Thai tradition. Picture yourself nestled in a homestay, a wooden haven flanked by coconut groves, and awakening to a landscape where rice paddies sing green and rubber trees stand tall.
Reachable within a brisk ferry journey from the bustling Phuket, you step into a realm scarcely touched by modern haste. The absence of ATMs and the rare sighting of a single convenience store among the natural splendor speak to the islands’ preserved authenticity.
Ko Yao Noi:
- Thrives with a touch more human imprint, not losing charm but gaining slight convenience.
- Activities: Embrace adventure with rock climbing, or find tranquility beneath the Big Tree.
- Accommodations: From welcomed luxury to the backpacker’s retreat.
Ko Yao Yai:
- Retains a more understated profile, a hidden sanctuary.
- Discover: Family-friendly stays and a traditional village life untarnished.
- Beaches: Shores that might just surpass all expectations in their pristine state.
Each island serves as your canvas, whether you’re keen to scuba dive amidst coral gardens, laze on secluded sands, or simply watch the day close in a symphony of sunset hues. Despite the choice between Noi’s gentle buzz and Yai’s whispering calm, each offers a chapter in an enchanting island tale that promises to linger in your memory.
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11. Ko Tarutao
Ko Tarutao emerges as the largest gem in the mosaic of over fifty islands that make up the Tarutao National Marine Park. Encircled by the Andaman Sea’s embrace, it serves as an invitation to nature’s grandeur, offering an opportunity to immerse oneself in landscapes ranging from mangrove swamps to dense jungles and limestone cliffs.
Highlights of Ko Tarutao:
- Historic Trails: Embrace the island’s lore by exploring trails that meander past remnants of its past as a penal colony.
- Biking and Hiking: Traverse its terrain via mountain bike or on foot to delight in the nuances of its wild environment.
- Sea Kayaking: Navigate the serene waters to dissect the intricate coastline.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot a variety of creatures, including wild boars and over a hundred bird species.
Commanding the national park, Ko Tarutao’s park headquarters signal the start of adventures amid this serene sanctuary. Despite its austere amenities, the tranquility during the tourist season, stretching from October to April, guarantees an escape unmarred by crowds. Here, you’re beckoned to unwind beneath the dense canopies and unveil the untamed spirit of Ko Tarutao.
12. Ko Muk
Nestled in southern Thailand’s tranquil waters, Ko Muk is a serene oasis, boasting vast swathes of national parkland intertwined with charming fishing hamlets where homes rise elegantly on stilts from the sea’s embrace. A gem hidden away from the bustle of tourism, this Pearl Island is accessible via a brief ferry journey from Trang, unwrapping its quieter existence.
The island embraces you with a duo of beaches: Sivalai Beach, a picture of serenity on ‘the Wing’ peninsula, and the more frequented Farang Beach, which gazes out towards Ko Kradan, revealing the island’s soul through its sandy contours and crystal waters.
As you wander, the island’s cultural tapestry unfolds, blending Thai and Muslim influences. You’re invited to meander through lush jungles and discover the storied village of Baan Ko Muk. Furthermore, the Emerald Cave, known locally as Tham Morakot, beckons—a natural wonder leading to the hidden Sabai Beach, accessible only by boat or kayak at the mercy of the tides. Here, encapsulated by the song of the ocean and the whisper of the jungle, the island narrative comes alive within your grasp.
13. Ko Lanta
Emerge from the mangrove forests to discover Ko Lanta’s harmonious balance of development and seclusion. Amid the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, the landscape transforms from vibrant coral beaches to rainforest intrigue.
Key Highlights:
- Pristine Beaches: Wander along Pra Ae Beach, where the serene tides brush the shore. For an escape to solitude, venture southward to encounter unspoiled sands hidden along the western coast.
- Sunset Havens: Khlong Dao and Khlong Nin Beach offer nature’s most magnificent finales, painting the sky with hues only sunsets can render.
- Yoga and Wellness: Engage in the island’s wellness culture, whether through calming yoga sessions by the sea or nature walks with a local canine companion.
- Caving Adventures: A spelunker’s delight, discover the hidden world of Ko Lanta through the Khao Mai Kaew cave network.
- Trail Explorations: Traverse footpaths in the National Park that snake towards secluded beaches or to the emblematic lighthouse.
- Illuminated Shores: When dusk falls, the bioluminescent plankton illuminates the shoreline, casting an ethereal glow upon the beach.
Cultural Beats:
- Old Town Lanta: Amble through the quaint streets, interacting with island history and testament of times past.
- Waterfall Wonders: Feel the forest’s fresh breath at Khlong Chak Waterfall.
- Marine Splendors: Beneath the surface, join in on some of Thailand’s superior diving and snorkeling experiences.
On this isle, every grain of sand tells a story and each wave echoes a local legend. Ko Lanta Yai stands as the pulsing heart of this island group, beckoning travelers with its blend of community warmth and natural splendor. Here, you carve your path, be it through lush trails or beneath tides, while the island’s spirit gently guides you.
14. Similan Islands
Nestled in the Andaman Sea, the Similan Islands beckon with their serene environment and striking geological formations. Mu Koh Similan National Park encapsulates these islands, bestowing a sanctuary for vibrant ecosystems.
Nature’s Artistry in Stone and Sand:
- Sculpted Boulders: Marvel at the islands’ signature, peculiarly-shaped boulders both inland and beneath the waves.
- Beaches: Sunbathe on fine, ivory sands, fringed by dense jungles rich with wildlife.
Aquatic Adventures Aplenty:
- Known for pristine diving sites due to the underwater boulder formations and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
- Offers snorkeling, enriching hikes, and opportunities for avian enthusiasts to indulge in birdwatching.
Ko Similan: The archipelago’s largest island, it serves as a hub for visitors. Explore natural marvels like Sail Rock and the panoramic Similan Viewpoint. Accommodation remains eco-friendly, with charming wooden bungalows and tented camps, immersing you in the island’s tranquil embrace.
15. Ko Samui
Ko Samui, Thailand’s jewel of an island, invites you to bask in its tropical allure. Imagine yourself traversing the landscape dotted with towering palms and coconut groves, as you breathe in the life of lush rainforests that sing with exotic birdsong.
As you wander, tranquil retreats beckon, nestled amidst the natural splendor. Luxuriate in a spa, unwinding with ancestral Thai massages, or align your spirit at a tai-chi camp, each promising rejuvenation for body and soul.
Your curiosity will be piqued by the majestic Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai, a serene sanctuary perched upon its own tiny islet, connected by a slender causeway. Rent a scooter to navigate the sandy beaches and crystal waters, with Chaweng Beach’s vibrancy and Fisherman’s Village Bophut’s rustic charm waiting to be discovered. Seek out the enigmatic Grandfather’s Rock, and let the soothing sounds of Tan Rua and Hin Lat Waterfalls envelop you. Ko Samui, a harmonious blend of the serene and the sublime, awaits your footprints on its shores.
16. Phuket
As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket presents itself as a vibrant mosaic of experiences, seamlessly intertwining modern luxuries with natural splendor. Catering to a bustling crowd, Phuket isn’t the haven of seclusion but rather a hub of exuberant energy, particularly in Patong, where the nightlife throbs with vibrancy. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Patong: Dive into the heart of Phuket’s resort life, where neon lights set the stage for an unforgettable night.
- Chalong Bay: Steer away from the shoreline and venture into the realm of serene Buddhist sites.
- Luxe Accommodations: Indulge in opulence at an array of high-end resorts dotting the island’s coast.
- Coral Reefs & Marine Life: Discover an underwater kaleidoscope with some of Thailand’s finest snorkeling and diving.
- Onshore Activities: From pedaling through local vistas to savoring the traditional cuisine, your days can be as laid-back or adventurous as desired.
Each shore is fringed with casuarina trees as a prelude to the diverse adventures that await both on land and in the turquoise depths. Imagine yourself moving between worlds, engaging with islanders whose traditions breathe life into the landscape, and pinpointing those fleeting moments that define the essence of Phuket.
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17. Ko Phangan
Unveiling the allure of Thailand’s fifth-biggest isle, Ko Phangan tempts you not solely with its legendary lunar celebrations. While it boasts no runways for aircraft, the journey here rewards with verdant canopies, looming boulders, and shores kissed with the finest sand.
Social Festivities:
- Full Moon Party: A monthly nocturnal beach festivity adorned with vibrant neon and fire dancing exhibitions.
- Half Moon & Black Moon Gatherings: Continue the revelry under the celestial canvas.
Daytime Pursuits:
- Beach Exploration:
- Sunrise Beach: Vibrant and lively.
- Hat Khuat & Hat Thian: Serene sanctuaries of white sand.
- Watersports: Revel in snorkeling, diving, or jet-skiing across the crystalline waters.
- On Land: Hiking through nature’s bounty or challenging yourself at Challenge Phangan Park.
Your cultural escapade spans further, mingle with local craftsmen, and fishers with stories to tell, and savor the culinary delights at Thong Sala Night Market. Each moment on Ko Phangan is an invitation to discover its layered identity, far beyond the pulsating beats of its famed parties.
18. Ko Chang
Nestled close to Cambodia’s shared boundary, Ko Chang stands as Thailand’s eminent monolith in marine splendor, ranking as the third in magnitude across the country’s extensive list of islands. This elevated terrain takes pride in its array of cascading waterfalls, luxuriant rainforests, vibrant coral gardens, and stretches of pristine white beaches.
In the span of less than a decade, your quest for a tranquil escape could well land you in Ko Chang, which, despite its growing fame, retains a serene atmosphere unlike its busy counterparts, Phuket or Ko Samui. One can find solace along White Sand Beach, a bustling strand crowned on the northwestern edge, notable for being Ko Chang’s longest ribbon of sand. Here, between the cocoon of resorts and the embrace of the sea, the beach unfolds like a swath of fine, sugared coastline.
Amidst this natural haven lies whispers of history, echoing the Battle of Ko Chang from 1941, when naval prowess was tested in the face of French warships. Although the annual commemoration is the only overt reminder of its martial past, the island’s designation as a Maritime Nature Reserve protects the waters that were once a battleground, ensuring that Ko Chang’s stories are preserved beneath the tranquil surface.
19. Ko Lipe
Nestled near Thailand’s southern frontier, Ko Lipe is a gem within the Adang-Rawi Archipelago, celebrated for its verdant islets and marine-rich realms that form the protective embrace of Tarutao National Marine Park.
In times past, sea-dwelling nomads sought refuge on its shores, and today, it has emerged as a destination of choice. The trifecta of beaches—Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, and Pattaya Beach—paints a quintessential paradise with their silky sands and serene waters.
Venture beneath the waves at renowned sites like 8 Mile Rock and Sting Ray City, where coral gardens thrive, or marvel at the aquatic formations near Stonehenge. Above water, ascend to vistas on Ko Adang or indulge in the soul-soothing practices of yoga. For the more spirited, there’s the call of the wild with trails to traverse, fishing exploits to embark on, and the artistry of bamboo tattoos to appreciate.
20. Ko Tao
Ko Tao welcomes adventurers and ocean enthusiasts alike. Dubbed the diver’s sanctuary, this island boasts a thriving marine life that lends itself easily to your underwater expeditions.
- Scuba Diving: Dip beneath the waves to discover a marine wonderland, where the famed HTMS Sattakut wreck and the serene Japanese Gardens await.
- Wildlife: Embrace the presence of nature’s seasoned mariners, the hawksbill and green turtles, which find sanctuary on the island’s shores.
- Snorkeling: At Shark Bay, glide alongside the sleek black-tip reef sharks in clear, turquoise waters.
- Adventure Sports: For the adrenaline-seekers, Ko Tao’s blue expanses offer kayaking, wakeboarding, and sailing.
- Tranquility Pursuits: Align your mind and body with yoga and tai chi sessions as the gentle sea breeze soothes you.
- Hiking: Traverse to John-Suwan Viewpoint or Mango Viewpoint and let your gaze sweep across the island’s lush terrain from Two Views, the pinnacle of Ko Tao’s heights.
With approximately 7000 learners earning their diving credentials annually, Ko Tao stands at the forefront of aquatic exploration. Whether it’s the thrill of adventure or the peace of being at one with nature, your experiences on this vibrant isle are bound to be cherished.
21. Ko Phi Phi
Welcome to the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, Thailand’s emblematic string of islands, where nature’s craft has expertly chiseled a locale that is, perhaps, postcard-perfect in your musings of a tropical escape. In this cluster of islands, Ko Phi Phi Don emerges as the epicenter of vibrancy, offering a bustling confluence of the day’s azure waves and the night’s revelries.
In these island gems, your adventurous spirit finds solace and excitement. Amidst Ko Phi Phi Don, you are beckoned by a treasure trove of locally-run inns, the siren call of the beaches, and the sway of palms in gentle sea breezes. As sunlight dances across the water’s surface, take the chance to immerse yourself in a world beneath waves, a diver’s and snorkeler’s haven of wonder.
Venture beyond to Phi Phi Leh, where Maya Bay anchors itself in your memory, framed by sheer limestone cliffs. Although bustling with fellow explorers, the bay retains an essence of untamed beauty. Should you seek respite from the lively throngs, charter a longtail boat. Such a vessel is your key to unlock the secluded splendors of neighboring isles—Bamboo Island, Mosquito Island, and more quaintly, Monkey Beach, each lending its unique narrative to your journey.
To acquaint yourself with the island’s quirkier characters, a retreat to Monkey Beach beckons, where playful primates frolic. Alternatively, Hin Khao Beach whispers of solitude and uninterrupted horizon views, while the vistas from Phi Phi Viewpoint render the observer speechless.
Your exploration may also guide you to the historical narrative etched within Phaya Naak Cave, or perhaps to the thrill of gravity-defying antics above Ton Sai Bay. Each step on these islands is a stride through a tableau vivant of nature’s splendor and human touch.
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