10 Must Visit Thailand’s Islands You Can't Miss

List of Best Islands in Thailand

Thailand’s islands are diverse in size, location, and what it offers visitors, so it can be tricky to choose which one(s) to visit. To help narrow your options, here is a list of the 10 best islands in Thailand you won't want to miss. 

Phuket: Thailand's Largest and Most Famous Island

Phuket, Thailand's largest and most popular island, offers a range of activities. From vibrant night markets to pristine beaches, it's a destination that caters to all.

The best time to visit Phuket is from December to April when the air is fresh and wonderful.

Phuket: Thailand's Largest and Most Famous Island

Top places to visit if you're exploring Phuket: 

• Patong Beach: Phuket's most famous beach, known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

• Kata Noi Beach: A secluded beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

• Promthep Cape: A stunning viewpoint to catch the sunset.

• Nai Harn Beach: A beautiful beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming.

• Karon View Point: Experience the island's best views from up high.

• Big Buddha: Climb the 45m tall white marble statue for incredible panoramic views.

Phi Phi Islands: A Snorkeling Paradise 

The Phi Phi Islands, comprising Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh, are famous for their stunning beaches, majestic limestone karsts, and pristine waters ideal for snorkeling.

The perfect time to visit is between November and April when you can experience the beauty of Phi Phi in its full glory.

Phi Phi Islands: A Snorkeling Paradise 

Top places to visit if you're exploring Phi Phi Islands: 

• Phi Phi Don Village: The main town on the island, with restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

• Long Beach: A secluded beach in the bay of Ton Sai village.

• Viking Cave: Explore this fascinating cave filled with bird's nests.

• Loh Samah Bay: An idyllic spot to relax and enjoy stunning scenery.

• Ao Ton Sai: A tranquil beach east of Phi Phi Don.

• Mosquito Island: An uninhabited island with clear blue waters perfect for snorkeling.

• Bida Nok & Bida Nai: Two small islands off Phi Phi Don's north coast, known for coral reefs and vibrant fish life.

Similan Islands: A Diver's Dream

Similan Islands is a diver's paradise, with powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. You'll find an abundance of colorful coral reefs and sea creatures living in these pristine waters.

The best time to visit Similan Islands is from November to April when the weather and visibility are perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Similan Islands: A Diver's Dream

Top places to visit if you're exploring Similan Islands: 

• Donald Duck Bay: A beautiful beach surrounded by granite boulders.

• Ao Lo Baak: A sheltered beach with stunning rainforest views.

• East of Eden: An amazing dive site famous for vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine wildlife.

• Koh Hin Pousar: A small yet picturesque island known for its stunning beaches and snorkeling spots.

• Elephant Head Rock: An iconic rock formation located at the southern end of Similan Island.

• Honeymoon Bay: A secluded beach with calm waters and breathtaking views.

• West of Eden: This dive site is renowned for its pristine coral reefs and tropical fish schools.

Koh Samui: Luxury Resorts and Tranquil Beaches

Koh Samui is an island in the Gulf of Thailand renowned for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, top-notch spas, and vibrant nightlife. It also boasts excellent diving sites among Thailand’s islands.

The right time to visit Koh Samui is from February to April when the air is lovely and crisp.

Koh Samui: Luxury Resorts and Tranquil Beaches

Top places to visit if you're exploring Koh Samui: 

• Chaweng Beach: Koh Samui's famous beach, known for vibrant nightlife and shopping.

• Lamai Beach: A quieter beach than Chaweng, offering stunning views of offshore islands.

• Mae Nam Pier: Gateway to Angthong National Marine Park and other islands.

• Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks: Strange rock formations south of Koh Samui.

• Na Muang Waterfall: Climb to the top for stunning waterfall views.

• Wat Plai Laem: Beautiful temple complex with incredible sculptures, gold-leafed Buddhas, and colorful murals.

• Mummified Monk Shrine: Located in Wat Khunaram, this shrine houses a mummified monk.

Koh Phangan: The Full Moon Party and More

Koh Phangan, an island off the coast of Thailand, offers a perfect blend of relaxation, nature exploration, and vibrant partying. Don't miss the world-famous Full Moon Party, an experience like no other in Southeast Asia.

The best time to visit Koh Phangan is from May to September during the mornings with cool, fresh weather.

Koh Phangan: The Full Moon Party and More

Top places to visit if you're exploring Koh Phangan: 

• Haad Rin Beach: Home of the Full Moon Party, with stunning sunset views.

• Bottle Beach: An idyllic beach on the northwest side of the island.

• Thong Nai Pan Yai & Thong Nai Pan Noi: Two beautiful bays surrounded by lush rainforest.

• Chaloklum Bay: A tranquil bay known for excellent snorkeling and diving spots.

• Than Sadet Waterfall: A must-see waterfall in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

• Ban Tai Beach: A stunning beach on the south side of the island.

• Wat Phu Khao Noi & Wat Phu Khao Yai: Two beautiful temples located on the east side of Koh Phangan.

• Wat Laemthong: A Buddhist temple south of Koh Phangan, known for stunning architecture.

• Mae Haad Pier: The main gateway to Koh Ma Island and other nearby destinations.

Koh Tao: The Turtle Island

Koh Tao, a small island off Thailand's east coast, offers excellent diving and snorkeling. Its warm waters teem with sea turtles, colorful coral gardens, and vibrant fish species.

The best time to visit Koh Tao is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny.

Koh Tao: The Turtle Island

Top places to visit if you're exploring Koh Tao: 

• Hin Wong Bay: A sheltered beach with clear waters.

• Mango Bay: An idyllic beach surrounded by vibrant coral gardens and stunning views.

• Nang Yuan Island: An uninhabited island known for its beautiful beaches and rock formations.

• Mae Haad Pier: The gateway to nearby islands like Koh Samui and Angthong National Marine Park.

• Laem Thien Beach: A small but picturesque beach on the east side of Koh Tao.

• Sairee Beach: The most popular beach on Koh Tao, with many shops and restaurants.

Koh Larn: The Coral Reef Paradise

Koh Larn, a small island near Pattaya, Thailand, is famous for its stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

The best time to visit Koh Larn is from November to March on days with dry, sunny weather.

Koh Larn: The Coral Reef Paradise

Top places to visit if you're exploring Koh Larn: 

• Ta Waen Beach: The most popular beach on Koh Larn, with shops and restaurants.

• Samae Beach: A tranquil beach on the island's east side, perfect for a peaceful day out.

• Tonglang Beach: Located in the south of Koh Larn, known for clear waters and stunning coral reefs.

• Naklua Bay: A beautiful bay with excellent snorkeling spots.

• Wat Yai Phraya Nakhon: An ancient temple on the west side of Koh Larn, renowned for stunning architecture.

• Wat Na Chom Thian: A stunning temple complex north of Koh Larn.

• Coral Island: Off the coast of Pattaya, this uninhabited island is famous for its coral reefs.

Koh Lipe: The Maldives of Thailand

Koh Lipe, an island in the Andaman Sea near Thailand, is a perfect getaway with stunning coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and crystal blue seas. It's an ideal place to unwind and escape.

The best time to visit Koh Lipe is from October to April while it's bright and nice outside.

Koh Lipe: The Maldives of Thailand

Top places to visit if you're exploring Koh Lipe: 

• Sunrise Beach: The island's most popular beach, offering shops and restaurants. 

• Sunset Beach: Located on the north side, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. 

• Adang Sea Gypsies Village: Home to a traditional fishing village west of Koh Lipe. 

• Koh Sarai Island: A small island just off the coast of Koh Lipe, known for secluded beaches and crystal clear waters. 

• Pattaya Beach: A stunning beach on the east side, with great snorkeling spots. 

• Wat Phra Yai: An ancient temple complex near Sunrise Beach.

Koh Chang: The Elephant Island

Koh Chang, an island off Thailand's east coast, is renowned for its lush rainforest, wildlife, secluded beaches, and stunning coral reefs. It's a paradise destination to escape the city's hustle and bustle.

The best time to visit Koh Chang is from November to February while it is cool and beautiful outside.

Koh Chang: The Elephant Island

Top places to visit if you're exploring Koh Chang: 

• Klong Son Bay: A stunning beach on the island's north side, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. 

• Kai Bae Beach: A popular beach in the south of Koh Chang, with many shops and restaurants. 

• White Sands Beach: A beautiful stretch of white sands on the island's east side. 

• Salakphet Bay: A sheltered bay with excellent snorkeling spots. 

• Elephant Island: A small island just off the coast of Koh Chang, known for its abundant wildlife. 

• Wat Salak Phet: An ancient temple complex near Klong Son Bay. 

• Wat Tham Khao Chee: A stunning temple complex west of Koh Chang.

Koh Samet: The Jewel of the Gulf

Koh Samet is a Thai island famous for its pristine beaches and clear waters. It's the perfect place to unwind and escape the city.

The best time to visit Koh Samet is from March to May on days when it's cool and sunshine.

Koh Samet: The Jewel of the Gulf

Top places to visit if you're exploring Koh Samet: 

• Ao Phai Beach: A stunning beach on the island's west side, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.

• Ao Nuan Beach: A picturesque beach in the north of Koh Samet, known for its clear waters and abundant wildlife.

• Sai Kaew Beach: The most popular beach on Koh Samet, with many shops and restaurants.

• Ao Wong Deuan Beach: A secluded beach in the south of Koh Samet, ideal for a peaceful day out.

• Khao Laem Ya National Park: An area of natural beauty on the island's east side.

• Wat HuaKwang: An ancient temple complex near Sai Kaew Beach.

A Guide to Island Hopping in Thailand

Best Time to Visit Thailand’s Islands

When planning your island hopping trip to Thailand's islands, the best time to visit is November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with less rainfall, ideal for sunbathing and island exploration. The average temperature ranges from 25 to 35°C. This season also has fewer crowds, maximizing your experience.

Best Time to Visit Thailand’s Islands

During peak season from December to February (average temperature: 25-35°C, perfect for sunbathing), prices for accommodation and transport may be higher. For better deals, consider visiting from March to May (average temperature: 25-35°C) or June to August (average temperature: 28-30°C) when the weather is warm and dry with fewer tourists.

Recommended Routes

The most popular island hopping routes in Thailand offer a diverse range of experiences and activities.

Here are some of the recommended routes for exploring the islands: 

• Gulf of Thailand Route: Starting from Koh Samui, this route takes you around Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and other small islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Perfect for a beach holiday with water activities.

• Andaman Sea Route: From Krabi, this route leads to picturesque islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Yao Noi. Ideal for exploring rainforests and stunning beaches in Thailand's south.

• Similan Islands Route: Starting from Phuket, this route leads to breathtaking Similan and Surin islands. Great for exploring coral reefs and discovering underwater life.

• Koh Chang Route: From Bangkok, this route encompasses Thailand's eastern islands, including Koh Mak, Koh Kood, and Koh Chang. Ideal for off-the-beaten-path experiences with wildlife encounters.

Recommended Routes

Thai Island Cuisine

Thai cuisine is famous for its flavorful and fragrant dishes. With each region of Thailand boasting its unique recipes, island hopping in the country can be a delicious adventure.

Seafood is a must-try when exploring Thailand’s islands, and there's no shortage of delicious dishes to try. 

Seafood Delights of the Islands

Here are some tasty treats you can indulge in: 

• Freshly caught fish such as sea bass or snapper are served with local herbs and spices. 

• Salty prawns cooked in coconut milk and flavored with garlic, lemongrass, and green chili. 

• Grilled squid served with a sweet and sour dip made from tamarind, fish sauce, and lime juice. 

• Succulent mussels cooked in coconut cream and turmeric for an aromatic experience. 

• Fried clams marinated in soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. 

• Sweet and spicy fried shrimp with Thai basil and ginger. 

• Stir-fried crabs in a delicious black bean sauce. 

The islands of Thailand are home to abundant tropical fruits, which make a great addition to any meal. 

Tropical Fruits and Local Dishes to Try

Here are some local dishes you should try: 

• Mango sticky rice: A classic Thai dessert made from sweet mangoes and sticky rice.

• Rambutan: An exotic fruit with a sweet taste, often enjoyed fresh or in smoothies.

• Durian: A spiky tropical fruit known for its intense flavor and aroma, perfect in ice cream or custard.

• Jackfruit: The largest tree-borne fruit, sweet and delicious.

• Pad Thai: A popular street food dish of stir-fried rice noodles and vegetables.

• Tom Yum Soup: A spicy soup with prawns or chicken, flavored with lemongrass, galangal, and lime juice.

• Fresh coconut water: Perfect for staying hydrated and cooling off in the tropical heat.

• Khao Pad: A fragrant fried rice dish with vegetables, egg, and shrimp or pork.

• Papaya salad: A spicy and refreshing salad made from shredded green papaya, tomato, garlic, chili, and lime juice.

Practical Tips

Are you planning a Thailand island hopping adventure? Here are some practical tips to help you make the most out of your trip. 

Visa and Travel Information

• US and most European citizens don't need a visa to enter Thailand.

• Check entry requirements for your country before traveling, as some may require a visa, even for short stays.

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before entering the country.

• Thailand has two international airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport and Chiang Mai International Airport.

• Domestic airports like Koh Samui, Phuket, and Krabi offer direct flights to the main islands.

• The fastest and most convenient way to travel between the islands is by ferry or speedboat.

Safety Tips and Health Considerations

• Visit recommended beaches and tourist areas, as some places may be unsafe. 

• Be cautious when swimming in the ocean, as strong currents are common in certain areas. 

• Always wear a life jacket and check the boat's safety registration before heading out. 

• Apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn and dehydration from hot temperatures. 

• Carry water to stay hydrated throughout the day. 

• Stay aware of your surroundings and follow local safety guidelines. 

• Get travel insurance to protect yourself in case of unexpected incidents. 

• Seek immediate medical attention if you feel unwell during your stay.

Thailand’s islands are a paradise for beach lovers, offering a fantastic variety of islands to explore. Whether looking for stunning sandy beaches, breathtaking coral reefs, or unique local cuisine, Thailand's many islands have something for everyone.

New Asia Tours can help you plan an unforgettable island-hopping experience in Thailand. Get in touch now to start planning your dream Thailand package tour vacation!