Best Islands to Visit and How to Get There

Thailand is renowned for its stunning islands, each offering a unique slice of paradise. From powdery white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to vibrant nightlife and serene hideaways, Thailand’s islands have something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, island hopping is the best way to experience the diversity of Thailand’s coastal gems. This guide explores the top islands to visit, their unique features, and how to get there.

1. Phuket: The Largest and Most Popular Island

Why Visit:

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a major hub for travelers looking to experience beaches, nightlife, and a mix of cultural attractions. It’s also the perfect starting point for island-hopping adventures in the Andaman Sea.

Highlights:

• Patong Beach: Known for its lively nightlife, beach bars, and water sports.
• Old Town Phuket: A charming area with Sino-Portuguese architecture, art galleries, and cafes.
• Big Buddha and Wat Chalong: Iconic cultural and religious sites.
• Island Hopping: Use Phuket as a base to visit nearby islands such as Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, and Koh Yao Yai.

How to Get There:

• By Air: Phuket International Airport (HKT) is well-connected with domestic and international flights.
• By Boat: Phuket serves as a departure point for ferries to nearby islands, including Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and the Similan Islands.

2. Koh Phi Phi: The Iconic Island

Why Visit:

Famed for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most famous island destinations. It gained global fame after being featured in the movie The Beach.

Highlights:

• Maya Bay: Known for its stunning beach, although it’s currently closed for environmental restoration (check before visiting).
• Phi Phi Viewpoint: Hike to the top for panoramic views of the island.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a hotspot for underwater activities.
• Nightlife: Enjoy fire shows, beach parties, and live music at Tonsai Village.

How to Get There:

• From Phuket: Regular ferries (1.5–2 hours) and speedboats (45 minutes) run from Phuket’s Rassada Pier to Phi Phi.
• From Krabi: Ferries (1.5 hours) and speedboats (45 minutes) also depart from Krabi Town or Ao Nang Beach to Phi Phi.

3. Koh Samui: A Tropical Luxury Island

Why Visit:

Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island and offers a combination of luxury resorts, wellness retreats, and vibrant nightlife. Its diverse appeal makes it popular among honeymooners, families, and backpackers alike.

Highlights:

• Chaweng Beach: Known for its buzzing nightlife, restaurants, and luxury hotels.
• Big Buddha Temple: A prominent cultural site with a large Buddha statue overlooking the sea.
• Ang Thong National Marine Park: A stunning archipelago of 42 islands, perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and boat tours.
• Waterfalls and Temples: Explore Na Muang Waterfalls and Wat Plai Laem for a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

How to Get There:

• By Air: Koh Samui has its airport (USM), with frequent flights from Bangkok and other major cities.
• By Boat: Ferries and speedboats connect Koh Samui with Koh Phangan (30 minutes) and Koh Tao (1.5 hours). Ferries also run from Surat Thani on the mainland.

4. Koh Phangan: The Party Island

Why Visit:

Known globally for its Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan also offers serene beaches and yoga retreats for those looking to escape the crowds.

Highlights:

• Full Moon Party: Held every month on Haad Rin Beach, it’s a massive beach party attracting travelers from around the world.
• Secret Beach and Bottle Beach: Quieter beaches with clear waters, perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
• Yoga and Wellness: The northern part of the island is home to several wellness centers offering yoga, meditation, and detox retreats.
• Waterfalls: Explore natural spots like Phaeng Waterfall for a break from the beach.

How to Get There:

• From Koh Samui: Ferries and speedboats depart regularly from Koh Samui’s Big Buddha Pier or Maenam Pier (30 minutes).
• From Surat Thani: Ferries run from Donsak Pier in Surat Thani to Koh Phangan (2.5 hours).

5. Koh Tao: A Diver’s Paradise

Why Visit:

Koh Tao is known as one of the best and most affordable places in the world to learn scuba diving. It’s a small, relaxed island with beautiful beaches and a strong focus on marine conservation.

Highlights:

• Diving: Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, Koh Tao offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and numerous dive schools.
• Snorkeling: Popular spots include Shark Bay, Ao Leuk, and Mango Bay.
• Sairee Beach: The island’s main beach, lined with bars, restaurants, and dive shops.
• Koh Nang Yuan: A nearby island with a sandbar connecting three small islands, perfect for day trips and panoramic views.

How to Get There:

• From Koh Samui: Ferries (1.5 hours) and speedboats depart from Koh Samui’s Maenam Pier to Koh Tao.
• From Chumphon: Ferries and speedboats run from Chumphon to Koh Tao (1.5–2 hours).

6. Koh Lanta: The Laid-Back Island

Why Visit:

Koh Lanta is a quieter, less commercialized island perfect for those seeking relaxation. Its long, sandy beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and eco-tourism focus make it ideal for families and nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Long Beach: A 4-kilometer stretch of sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sunsets.
• Mu Koh Lanta National Park: Explore rainforests, limestone cliffs, and deserted beaches in this pristine national park.
• Diving and Snorkeling: Koh Lanta is close to world-class dive sites like Hin Daeng and Hin Muang.
• Old Town: A charming village with wooden stilt houses and seafood restaurants.

How to Get There:

• From Krabi: Ferries (2 hours) and speedboats connect Krabi Town or Ao Nang to Koh Lanta. Alternatively, take a minivan and ferry combination (3 hours).
• From Phi Phi Islands: Ferries (1.5 hours) operate between Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.

7. Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi: The Untouched Islands

Why Visit:

For travelers seeking a more peaceful and authentic island experience, Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi are perfect. Located between Phuket and Krabi, these islands offer untouched beaches, local culture, and eco-friendly tourism.

Highlights:

• Secluded Beaches: Enjoy quiet, pristine beaches like Loh Paret Beach and Pasai Beach.
• Cycling and Kayaking: Explore the islands by bicycle or kayak through the mangroves and coastline.
• Traditional Villages: Experience the island’s local Muslim culture and laid-back way of life.
• Island-Hopping: Take boat trips to nearby islands, including Phang Nga Bay with its famous limestone karsts.

How to Get There:

• From Phuket: Longtail boats and speedboats depart from Bang Rong Pier to Koh Yao Yai (30–45 minutes) or Koh Yao Noi.
• From Krabi: Speedboats and ferries run from Ao Nang or Thalane Pier to the islands (45 minutes).

8. Similan Islands: A Diver’s Dream

Why Visit:

The Similan Islands are a group of 11 islands located in the Andaman Sea, known for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and marine life. The islands are a protected national park and a premier destination for diving and snorkeling.

Highlights:

• Scuba Diving: The islands offer some of the best diving in Thailand, with stunning coral reefs, underwater rock formations, and diverse marine species.
• Snorkeling: Ideal for spotting colorful fish, sea turtles, and manta rays.
• Beaches: Enjoy powdery white-sand beaches, especially on Island No. 8 (Similan) and Island No. 4 (Koh Miang).

How to Get There:

• From Phuket or Khao Lak: Book day trips or overnight tours that include transportation by speedboat (1.5–2 hours). Note that the islands are closed from May to October due to the monsoon season.

9. Koh Chang: The Adventurous Island

Why Visit:

Located near the Cambodian border, Koh Chang is Thailand’s third-largest island, offering a mix of adventure, stunning beaches, and lush jungles. It’s less developed than Phuket or Samui but offers a more rugged, natural experience.

Highlights:

• Waterfalls: Explore beautiful waterfalls like Klong Plu and Than Mayom, ideal for hiking and swimming.
• Beaches: White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach are popular spots for relaxing by the water.
• Jungle Trekking: Koh Chang’s interior is filled with tropical rainforests, perfect for adventure seekers.
• Diving: Nearby marine parks offer great diving and snorkeling opportunities.

How to Get There:

• From Bangkok: Take a bus or minivan (5–6 hours) to Trat, followed by a ferry (45 minutes) to Koh Chang.
• By Air: Fly from Bangkok to Trat (1 hour), then take a short ferry to the island.

Conclusion

Island hopping in Thailand is a magical experience that allows you to discover the unique charm of each island, from the party vibes of Koh Phangan to the tranquil shores of Koh Lanta. Whether you’re diving in the Similan Islands, exploring cultural landmarks in Phuket, or relaxing on Koh Yao Noi’s pristine beaches, there’s an island for every type of traveler. With easy access by ferry, speedboat, or domestic flights, getting around Thailand’s islands is straightforward and adds an exciting dimension to your adventure.

Final Tips:

• Check Ferry Schedules: Ferry services vary by season, especially during the monsoon period (May to October).
• Pack Light: When island hopping, it’s best to travel with minimal luggage, especially if you’re transferring between small boats and piers.
• Stay Hydrated: The tropical heat can be intense, so always carry water and stay hydrated while exploring the islands.

Enjoy your island-hopping adventure in Thailand!