This is the ultimate guide to the best Thailand islands to visit in 2023! Make your castaway fantasies come true and start planning your Thailand island hopping itinerary now!
Are you dreaming of escaping to a tropical paradise? Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand is known for its stunning islands, amazing Thai cuisine, famous landmarks, and unique experiences. The Thai islands offer the perfect getaway for those seeking breath-taking beauty and an unforgettable island hopping adventure.
Imagine immersing yourself in the turquoise waters, feeling the soft sand between your toes, and basking in the warm sun on pristine beaches. Thailand is widely considered as one of the world’s most idyllic destinations, with its diverse range of islands offering something for every traveller.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which islands to visit, especially for first-timers to Thailand. That’s where we come in! We have been travelling to Thailand for more than 20 years, and in the past 18 months, we have spent 6 months of these further exploring this beautiful country.
In this guide, we will help you uncover the hidden gems of Thailand’s stunning island destinations. From the popular hotspots like Phuket and Koh Samui to lesser-known treasures like Koh Lipe and Koh Tao, we will explore each island’s unique charm and attractions.
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So, Which of Thailand’s Islands Should You Visit?
With an abundance of choices, finding the perfect Thai islands to visit can be an exciting, yet overwhelming task. To help you plan your ultimate island hopping adventure, we have compiled a list of tips and recommendations.
The most important thing to consider when choosing which Thai islands to visit is to consider your preferences and interests. Are you seeking secluded beaches or vibrant nightlife? Do you want to explore untouched nature or immerse yourself in local culture? Or are you looking to enjoy water activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, or fishing?
Another thing to consider when deciding which island in Thailand to visit is whether you prefer nearby islands easily accessible from popular tourist destinations or outer islands that offer tranquillity away from the crowds.
For example, if you stay on Koh Samui, you can easily do day tours or short stays to Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. From Phuket, you have a huge variety of islands to choose from including the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Lanta, and those in the north such as the Similan Islands.
Map of Islands in Thailand
Thailand is known for its stunning islands, each offering unique experiences and attractions. These islands are located in different regions of the country, each with its own distinct characteristics. Here are the regional locations of the islands in Thailand:
Gulf of Thailand – East Coast in Eastern Region: This region is known for its stunning islands and vibrant nightlife. These islands are more convenient to Bangkok (many are accessibly via car / bus and boat). Pattaya, a popular beach resort city, is located in this region and serves as a gateway to nearby islands such as Koh Larn and Koh Samet. These islands offer pristine beaches, water sports activities, and vibrant beach parties.
Gulf of Thailand – East Coast in Southern Region: This region is known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil beaches. The most well-known island in this region is Koh Samui, which offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Other islands in this region include Koh Phangan, famous for its Full Moon Parties, and Koh Tao, a popular diving destination.
Andaman Sea – West Coast in Southern Region: This region is home to some of the most popular and picturesque islands in the country. This region includes the famous Phuket Island, known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. Other islands in this region include Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Yao Noi.
It is also is home to some of the most secluded and untouched islands in the country. Islands such as Koh Tarutao, Koh Lipe, and Koh Ngai are part of the Tarutao National Marine Park and offer a peaceful and serene escape from the crowds. These islands are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life.
Island Hopping in the Gulf of Thailand – East Coast in Eastern Region
The eastern region of the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand is a treasure trove of stunning islands waiting to be explored. Here you will discover lesser-known gems, underwater wonders, laid-back vibes and pristine beaches. With easy access from Bangkok, you can embark on an unforgettable island hopping adventure that will leave you mesmerized.
1. Koh Samet / Koh Samed (Rayong)
Contributed by Saskia at ‘Sas Crossing Countries’
Best Island to Visit in Thailand for: A beach vacation away from the crowds, snorkelling and diving
Koh Samet (aka Koh Samed) lies in the Gulf of Thailand. With its white sandy beaches and lush forests, it ticks off all the boxes! It’s a paradise away from the crowds.
Koh Samet has 11 beaches with a different vibe. If you’re here for the nightlife, Sai Kaew Beach is the best option. Ao Wong Duean Beach is great for families. Ao Prao Beach is the luxury option, private and only a handful high end hotels.
There’s lots to do on the island, such as parasailing and fishing. You can also go snorkelling and diving to spot pufferfish, manta rays and black-tipped sharks. While enjoying a beach day go swimming, rent a kayak or get a massage and a cocktail on the side. Kids should be on the lookout for little bubbler crabs.
Top Tip: Get pre-dinner drinks at a seaside restaurant for sunset. When darkness arrives the daily fire shows start all over the island. There’s no better way to start your evening.
Best Months to Visit: The best time to visit is dry season, between November and April, when it’s sunny (27º to 33º Celsius). Peak season is from December to February, meaning peak weather and prices.
How to Get There: Take the bus from Bangkok’s Ekkamai Station to Ban Phe Pier (3.5 hours). A ferry will get you to your beach of choice in 30 to 45 minutes. You can also book full day tours from Pattaya.
Where to Stay in Koh Samet: Lalune Beach Resort, a modern 3 star hotel situated right on Ao Wong Duean Beach with a nice kitchen and private pool. The ideal accommodation when you’re in Koh Samet with kids.
2. Koh Larn / Coral Island (Pattaya)
Contributed by Abbey at ‘Trips On Abbey Road’
Koh Larn is the best island to take a day trip to! You can easily reach Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island, from Bangkok. More specifically you will leave from the Bali High Pier in the city of Pattaya.
The ferry ride over lasts about 30 minutes and will cost you 50 baht. You pay right on the boat, and in cash. There will be speed boats offering rides, and this is a convenient way to get to and from the island if you are planning on staying later, as the regular ferry stops running at 6 p.m.
You can do so many different things on a day trip to Koh Larn. There are 6 separate beaches to explore, all are good for snorkelling. The most popular beach is Tawaen Beach. This is where your ferry will drop you, and you can find anything and everything you want here.
There are paddle board rentals, restaurants on the beach, and anything else you could want. You can also rent a motorbike here to explore the rest of the island. It should cost no more than 300 baht (US$9) for the day! If you aren’t interested in renting a motorbike, you can jump on one of the red trucks / songthaews, or order a car from Grab.
Top Tip: Another amazing beach to check out is Samae Beach. This is less crowded than the main beach, with crystal clear waters and plenty of shade. You will know you are there when you see the sandy stairs lined with colourful flowers. There is a restaurant here, and a few rental chairs, but other than that it is pure beach paradise.
Best Months to Visit: The best month of the year to visit Koh Larn is from November to April, and then it is even better from December to February. You can of course visit the other months of the year, but you may have to deal with some rain.
How to Get There: To get to Koh Larn from Bangkok you can travel on a joint bus and ferry ticket from Ekkamai or Khao San Road. The bus is approximately 4 – 5 hours from Bangkok and a 30 minute ferry journey. You can also book day tours from Pattaya.
Where to Stay in Koh Larn: To extend your stay, the hotel TC Villa on The Beach is one of the best hotels on Koh Larn. It is right on the shore of Samae Beach too!
3. Koh Mak / Koh Maak (Trat)
Contributed by Steffi at ‘Beach Bum Adventure’
Best Island in Thailand for: The Best Bar at the End of the Pier
Koh Mak is a beautiful, small island not far from Koh Chang and the Cambodian border. This island is perfect for relaxing and hanging out or exploring as it is small enough that you can rent bicycles (if you don’t mind some hills!).
You can scuba dive the nearby marine park which is worth doing as well as eat delicious food at various small restaurants around the island. The best beach in my opinion is Ao Kao beach, although you do need to be mindful of sandflies in this area of Thailand.
Top Tip: My top tip is to head to Cocoscape Beach Bar, which is a long jetty with a little wooden bar at the end. It is an ideal place to hang out and watch sunset surrounded by the ocean, and great for photos too!
Best Months to Visit: For Koh Mak, February is probably one of the best months to visit for blue skies and not too hot.
How to Get There: To get to Koh Mak from Bangkok you can travel on a joint bus and ferry ticket from Ekkamai or Khao San Road. The bus is approximately 4-5 hours and an hour ferry journey. Alternatively there is a ferry that goes from Koh Chang and Koh Kood if you are keen for some island hopping.
Where to Stay in Koh Mak: The best accommodation on the island is By The Sea, with a beautiful swimming pool and tastefully done rooms.
4. Koh Kood / Koh Kut (Trang)
Contributed by Lauren at ‘Never Ending Footsteps’
Best island in Thailand for: Beautiful Beaches
Koh Kood (also known as Koh Kut) is home to some of the best beaches in Thailand. Even better: it’s not yet suffering from the effects of over-tourism.
No, on Koh Kood, you can kick back and relax on a pristine stretch of sand with few other people to share it with.
If you prefer more of an active holiday, you can hike through lush jungles, kayak along gentle rivers, and explore the island by bicycle or scooter. The traditional fishing villages provide a great opportunity to get to know the locals and sample some of the best food on the island.
But really, it’s all about those beaches. Klong Chao Beach is the most popular spot on the island and for good reason. With powder-soft sand and calm, warm waters, it meets the definition of paradise. Bangbao Beach is another popular spot; its great visibility makes it fantastic for snorkelling.
If you prefer to escape the crowds, head to Klong Hin Beach or Ao Noi Beach, where you’ll likely only run into a couple of tourists over the entire day. Both are clean and calm, and give a great insight into what the Thai islands were like thirty years ago.
Top Tip/s: While you’re on Koh Kood, take the time to hike the 15 minutes up to picturesque Khlong Chao Waterfall – it has a laidback vibe and is great for a refreshing swim in the pool below. If you’re on the island for a special occasion, book a dinner at the high-end Benz. Gwyneth Paltrow labels it her favourite restaurant in the world!
Best Months to Visit: The best time of year to visit Koh Kood is during Thailand’s dry season: between November and March. During this period, you’ll encounter pleasant temperatures and little rain.
How to Get There: Getting to Koh Kood requires a little work, but it’s so worth the time and effort. The fastest way to get there is to fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport then transfer to a 40-minute speedboat to Koh Kood. Alternatively, if you’re on a budget, you can take a bus to Trat town (4.5 hours) instead of flying and take the slower boat, which reaches Koh Kood in three hours.
Where to Stay in Koh Mak: The best accommodation on Koh Kood is The Canale, a peaceful property that offers up wooden rooms on stilts in a traditional fishing village. The bedrooms are clean, stylish, and spacious, with a beautiful beach a couple of minutes away. It’s the owners, though, that make this accommodation so wonderful: rustling up delicious breakfasts, sharing insider secrets about the island, and offering kayaks and scooters to guests to help them explore the island.
Gulf of Thailand Island Hopping – East Coast in Southern Region
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise to explore, the Gulf of Thailand’s East Coast in the Southern Region is a must-visit. This region offers a diverse range of experiences, from popular tourist hotspots and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, to endless activities.
5. Koh Samui (Surat Thani)
Contributed by Anoushka at ‘Anoushka’s Adventures’
Best Island in Thailand for: Activities and Culture
Thailand’s second largest island, Koh Samui, offers a uniquely varied experience for travellers, from budget stays to luxury escapes, blissful beach days to activity-filled adventures. If you’re looking for the former, it more than holds its own.
Two of the most popular beaches, Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach, are well connected with plenty of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife in the area. Add to that the quieter but equally idyllic Maenam and Silver beaches in the North and East respectively, and you’re spoilt for choice. But there’s also so much more.
Koh Samui’s main draw is it’s island charms, but it’s also got plenty for culture aficionados and thrill seekers. The main sight is the Big Buddha Temple, Wat Phra Yai, an imposing gold Buddha statue in the North of the island. Nearby temple complex Wat Plai Laem is also well worth a visit.
If you’re looking for a little more excitement, there’s plenty of day trips from Koh Samui around the Samui archipelago. The standout is Ang Thong Marine Park, a collection of 42 islands made up of jungles, pristine beaches, mountains and secret coves. There’s also opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and dive.
For the animal lovers, taking a longtail boat out to Koh Madsum aka Pig Island is a must do, to hang out with, you guessed it, wild pigs. The pigs are friendly and gentle, and there’s a small snack bar on the beach to grab a cold beer.
Koh Samui offers a little something for every agenda, making it one of the best islands in Thailand for couples, families, and solo travellers alike.
Top Tip: Head to the North of the island for a prime spot to watch an incredible sunset from the aptly named “The Sunset” bar.
Best Months to Visit: Between December and March is the most temperate, driest period to visit the Island.
How to Get There: Koh Samui has a small international airport with decent domestic links, or there are a number of bus and ferry combo shuttle operators.
Where to Stay in Koh Samui: Garrya Tongsai Bay is a secluded hideaway in the North of the island, with luxurious private villas overlooking the endless blues of the Gulf of Thailand.
6. Koh Madsum and Koh Tan
Contributed by Us
Best Islands of Thailand for: Swimming with Pigs
If you’re seeking a tranquil getaway away from the crowds, look no further than the unspoiled islands of Koh Madsum and Koh Tan. Nestled near the popular destination of Koh Samui, these idyllic islands offer a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, and stunning sunsets.
Visiting both Koh Madsum and Koh Tan can easily be done as a day trip from nearby Koh Samui. Hop on a boat and embark on an adventure to these neighbouring islands. As you cruise through the turquoise waters, soak in panoramic views of limestone karsts dotting the horizon.
Once you arrive at Koh Madsum and Koh Tan, take your time to explore their hidden treasures. Whether it’s lounging on secluded beaches, snorkelling in pristine waters, or simply basking in the serenity of nature, these islands offer a peaceful retreat away from the tourist crowds.
Koh Madsum, also known as Pig Island, is a hidden gem with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. This island offers a serene environment that is ideal for relaxation. As you step foot on its shores, you’ll be greeted by soft white sand that invites you to unwind under the shade of swaying palm trees. However, the biggest drawcard to Koh Madsum is your chance to feed and swim with pigs.
Just a short distance from Koh Madsum lies another paradise waiting to be discovered – Koh Tan. This island is renowned for its exceptional snorkelling opportunities, thanks to its clear waters teeming with marine biodiversity. Dive into this underwater wonderland and witness first-hand the abundance of tropical fish darting through vibrant coral gardens.
Koh Tan’s coastline boasts secluded bays where you can relax undisturbed by crowds. Spread out your towel on the powdery sand, soak up some sun rays, or take leisurely strolls along the shore as gentle waves kiss your feet. The tranquillity of this island makes it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude amidst nature’s beauty.
Top Tip: There are a couple of tours from Koh Samui that combine a visit to both Koh Madsum and Koh Tan, however, we highly recommend The Pig Island Trip from Koh Samui by Speedboat tour.
Best Months to Visit: December to April is the perfect time to visit when the days are sunny with clear blue skies.
How to Get There: The best ways to see the islands is on a day tour from Koh Samui or by renting a private long-tail boat.
Where to Stay in Koh Madsum / Koh Tan: There are no accommodation options available on either island so Koh Samui is the best option. One of our favourite places to stay is Aumpai Luxury Resort in Lamai due to its close proximity to the beach and central location.
7. Koh Phangan / Koh Pha Ngan (Surat Thani)
Contributed by Victoria at ‘Guide Your Travel’
Best Island in Thailand for: Beaches, Nightlife and Activities
Koh Phangan is a great choice if you only have a few weeks in Thailand and don’t have time to explore a lot of places. The island is very versatile with beautiful beaches, but also waterfalls, nightlife and plenty of things to do and see. If you want a little bit of everything, Koh Phangan is the perfect choice.
If you happen to be there during the full moon party or black moon parties, you should definitely experience Koh Phangan’s legendary party at least once. There are also half moon parties, jungle raves and plenty more nightlife.
If you’re more interested in nature, you need to see Khao Ra lookout point, or visit the Ang Thong National Park on a day trip tour. Koh Phangan is also great for snorkelling, kayaking or just relaxing at the beach.
Koh Phangan has beautiful beaches including Leela Beach, Thong Nai Pan Noi and the legendary Haad Rin Beach where the full moon party takes place once a month.
Top Tip: If you want to enjoy authentic Thai food you should head to the night market in Thong Sala, which has a fantastic selection of snacks and meals to try.
Best Months to Visit: December to March when the weather is warm but dry.
How to Get There: Take a bus or plane to Surat Thani and then jump on a fast boat or slow ferry which will take you directly to Koh Phangan.
Where to Stay in Koh Phangan: Seaboard Bungalows are a great choice in Koh Phangan for good service and all the amenities you might need during your stay.
8. Koh Nang Yuan (Surat Thani)
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Best Island in Thailand for: Scenic Views
With crystal clear seas, powdery white sandbars, stunning views and ample snorkelling and diving options, Koh Nag Yuan is a must-visit Thai island.
The coral reefs just off the island are teeming with marine life. Dive sites like the Japanese Garden are perfect for beginners and experienced divers.
The viewpoint atop the island offers the most spectacular panorama. It’s a brief hike, but the reward – an unobstructed view of the entire archipelago – is well worth the effort.
If you want to spend some time at the beach, Koh Nang Yuan Beach is the place to head. It has the famous sandbar that connects the islands, and the waters are pristine clear – the perfect place to practice your snorkelling.
In the evening, head to Sunset Beach, where you can watch the sunset over a serene backdrop of limestone cliffs.
The entrance fee for the island is 250 Baht for an adult and 120 Baht for a child. At 17:00, the island shuts to the many visitors that visit each day and only resort guests are permitted to stay.
Top Tip: Koh Nang Yuan is best visited on a day trip from Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, or Koh Samui.
Best Months to Visit: The ideal months to visit Koh Nang Yuan are from November to April, avoiding the monsoon season in the area, which lasts from May to October.
How to Get There: The best way to reach Koh Nang Yuan is by a ferry or speedboat from Koh Tao, accessible by flights to Chumphon or Surat Thani, followed by a ferry.
Where to Stay in Koh Nang Yuan: The Koh Nang Yuan Island Dive Resort is the only accommodation option on the island, ensuring an exclusive experience, and offers amazing beachfront views with excellent amenities.
Andaman Sea Island Hopping – West Coast in Southern Region
The Andaman Sea on the west coast of Thailand’s southern region is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers. With its crystal-clear blue waters and pristine white sand beaches, this area offers a plethora of stunning islands to explore. From the world-famous destinations of Phuket, Krabi, and Phi Phi Islands and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, to the vibrant nightlife and luxury resorts, there is something for everyone in this coastal wonderland.
9. Koh Phayam (Ranong)
Contributed by Catherine at ‘Nomadicated’
Best Island in Thailand for: A Secluded Getaway
The island of Koh Phayam may very well be one of the few tranquil tropical paradises still mostly untouched by Thailand’s mass tourism. A haven for hippies and travellers searching for serenity, this small island off the Andaman coast is a refuge with pristine beaches and a blissfully laid-back vibe.
As with many Thai islands, Koh Phayam’s beaches are picture-perfect, filled with fine white sand and swaying palm trees. Surf at Long Beach and stay for the sunset, or go to Buffalo Bay for its calm, clear waters and rock arch formations.
When you’re not lounging on a beach, hike the jungle trails or explore the island by scooter.
While the underwater life around the island may not be exceptional, take a boat trip to nearby dive sites, such as Koh Khang Kao and Koh Surin (Surin National Park). And lastly, don’t miss the only temple on the island, as it’s built over the sea by the main pier.
Top Tip: Experience Buffalo Bay’s Hippy Bar, a wild labyrinth of a bar with a pirate ship-themed facade.
Best Months to Visit: Dry season (November to April)
How to Get There: Fly or take a bus to Ranong. From there, head to Tai Kak Pier for the ferry or Koh Phayam Pier for the speedboats. There are frequent daily rides, with a slow ferry departing once daily or speedboats available almost every hour to the island.
Where to Stay in Koh Phayam: One highly recommended hotel on the island is Bamboo Bungalows, with cozy rooms, friendly staff, and a beachfront location on Long Beach.
10. Similan Islands (Phang-nga)
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Best Islands in Thailand for: Those seeking sun-kissed beaches and pristine turquoise waters. In addition, the destination is renowned for its exceptional scuba diving and snorkelling experiences, with an abundance of vibrant marine life to discover.
Certainly, one might wonder, “Are the Similan Islands worth visiting?”, and they are definitely worth visiting.
The answer lies in the untouched beauty of the islands that makes them a paradise. The islands are part of the Similan Islands National Park protected area, ensuring that their natural charm remains unspoiled. Visitors often feel as if they’ve ended up in a dream, surrounded by stunning landscapes, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life.
If you’re seeking a getaway that brings you closer to nature and offers a sense of serenity, then the Similan Islands are your ultimate destination.
Visiting the Similan Islands involves embarking on this guided tour that takes you on an exploration of the islands’ main attractions. One of the key highlights is the Sailing Rock, a favourite among tourists for the panoramic views it offers of the archipelago.
Snorkelling is another activity you won’t want to miss. The islands house several notable snorkelling spots at Koh Bangu and Koh Meang.
During your visit to Koh Meang, you’ll have the opportunity to pause and savour a delectable traditional Thai meal for lunch. Afterward, you can unwind and take a refreshing dip in the pristine, crystal-clear waters.
Best Months to Visit: The Similan Islands are open for visitors from October 15th to May 15th, making it the best time to visit. That said, snorkelling and diving here is most optimal during the dry season from November to April when the waters are clearer.
How to Get There: The Similan Islands are only accessible by boat. Only certain travel agencies have been granted permission by the Thai government to operate tours to this island paradise, ensuring that the delicate ecosystem remains undisturbed.
Where to Stay on Similan Islands: Sleeping in a tent or in a bungalow on the Similan Islands is no longer possible. The closest area to stay is Khao Lak, and we loved out stay at the Khao Lak Beach Front Hotel due its central location, and of course, beach access.
11. Raya / Racha Island (Phuket)
Contributed by Noel at ‘Visit Spain and Mediterranean’
Best of Thailand Islands for: Snorkelling and relaxing on Racha Island and enjoying a day on the beach. This is a wonderful full day or even half day excursion visiting the island and enjoying a fun beach day.
Racha Island in Southern Thailand is an easy day boat trip from Phuket at the main port area. Book a trip through the many tour operators that typically offer these high speed boats. Tours will include two islands and lunch included in the tour price. The trip is fast and takes about 45 minutes to get to your first island and snorkelling adventure.
Since this is an easy day tour event to arrange through a local tour agency, you just show up with your swimsuit and camera gear for the water fun. Racha Island is fun stop with snorkelling in crystal clear water just off the coastline and then the boat takes you to the main island which feels like a resort set up with restaurants, bars and adventure experiences that you can do with kayaking, SUP boards and parasailing adventure. Depending on the type of tour, lunch can be a simple buffet style to more elaborate seafood presentations.
After lunch it’s beach time fun with more snorkelling, swimming or water sport activities. Or if you just like laying out on the beach, have some drinks from the bar delivered to your spot and enjoy a nice soak every now and then. You can also go out for short walks along the beach or trail areas that skirt the jungle and different coastline areas for nice viewpoints.
Depending on where you are staying in Phuket, you’ll see a lot of people selling these boat tours along with a variety of other tours you can take from Phuket. But definitely consider doing the Racha Island experience since it is easy and fun to do without taking too much effort to participate in especially when everything is arranged including pick up from your hotel.
Top Tip: Book your trip in advance so all the arrangements can be done for you including pickup and drop off.
Best Months to Visit: Racha Island is perfect in the wintertime from November to early February when the weather is pleasant and not as humid comparted to the hotter season which follows.
How to Get There: To get to Racha Island, you need to book with a tour operator that will make all the necessary arrangements. You can easily find a tout/seller on the beach, any tour agencies or even your hotel can make the booking arrangements for you in advance.
Where to Stay in Racha Island: There are plenty of accommodation options available in Phuket, but if you are staying closer to Phuket City, consider the Novotel in Phuket city which is new, modern and very comfortable to stay in.
12. Phuket (Phuket)
Contributed by Lavina at ‘Continent Hop’
Best Thailand Resort Islands for: Scuba Diving, Parasailing and Delectable Seafood
There are so many things to see and do in Phuket, making it a very popular island for tourists. Phuket has gorgeous pristine blue beaches, where you can relax and sunbathe and some of the best natural landscapes. You can indulge in local Thai food which is full of flavours. Phuket also has excellent nightlife and you can also explore the night markets.
Visit the most famous Patong Beach to enjoy some soothing views. You can relax on the beach under an umbrella, try various water sports, and eat delicious Thai food at Patong restaurants. No trip to Phuket would be complete without a visit to Bangla Road to witness Phuket’s vibrant nightlife and lively street performances.
Another popular attraction is Wat Chalong, the largest Buddhist shrine in Phuket, and it has some wonderful architecture. Also, a visit to the Big Budhha is definitely worthwhile for some stunning panoramic views and its iconic 45-metre-tall statue.
Stroll around the Old Phuket Town to explore Phuket’s legacy. Adore the bright houses, murals, and museums. You will find amazing Thai restaurants and cute cafes here.
If you looking at exploring beaches, Bang Tao is one of the longest beaches in Phuket and has some of the most luxurious restaurants and resorts. Freedom Beach and Kata Beach are some of the best beaches in terms of beautiful surroundings and calmer waters. Ya Nui Beach and Nai Harn Beach are lovely white sand beaches.
If you are looking for the ideal snorkelling day trip, book this day trip to Phi Phi Islands.
Top Tips for visiting Phuket:
- Get a relaxing Thai massage to unwind after a busy day.
- ATMs are available all around Phuket but you should still carry cash.
- Get the ‘grab’ taxi app for an easy commute.
- Do try the Pad Thai and Massaman Curry.
Best Months to Visit: November to March is a good time to visit Phuket as the days are warm and sunny. Although it is monsoon season in Phuket in June, you will find less crowd, great conditions for lots of watersports, plus the accommodations and flight expenses are a lot more affordable.
this month offers the Phuket Baba Wedding which is a traditional Peranakan wedding ceremony that celebrates the cultural heritage of the Baba-Nyonya community. This wedding typically involves various customs and rituals that are deeply rooted in Peranakan traditions and beliefs. It is a vibrant and colourful affair, with symbolic decorations, cultural performances.
It is better to visit in June aside from it is
How to Get There: You can reach Phuket via flight. The nearest airport is Phuket International Airport. You can also fly into Bangkok, and from there travel to Phuket by bus.
Where to Stay in Phuket: Amari Phuket is 9 minutes away from Patong Beach. It offers stunning beach views and is favourable for snorkelling.
13. Koh Naka Yai (Phuket)
Contributed by Shweta at ‘Zest In A Tote’
Best Island in Thailand for: Luxury Resort, Proximity to Phuket
Koh Naka Yai is considered ne of the luxury islands in Thailand, and makes a great getaway for a quick trip from Phuket. Mariott has a luxury resort, The Naka Island Resort, spread across a large part of the Naka Yai island. Part of the resort area faces Phuket and there are sea view villas that face the serene Phang Nga Bay.
The resort has its own private beach that you can use without the crowds at public beaches. There is also a large pool area that faces the ocean. A walk to the other side of the island will take you to the public beach where there are shacks and water sports available, including parasailing. The Naka Island Resort has its own kayaks and paddle
