Thailand is a tropical paradise with beautiful islands dotting the blue seas of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The Islands in Thailand from world-renowned locations like Phuket and Koh Phi Phi to hidden gems like Koh Lanta and Koh Chang should be on your list for this captivating country in Southern Asia. If you are a beach lover, adventure seeker, or among those seeking an escape into nature's embrace, these islands can be your playground. Thailand's islands are a destination for amazing experiences and enduring memories, with a combination of busy nightlife, cultural treasures, and tranquil hideaways.
Top 10 Islands in Thailand: A Hypnotic Journey to Paradise
Imagine yourself soaking in the warm embrace of the sun on pristine beaches, surrounded by swaying palm trees and the soothing lapping of blue waves. From the bustling city life of Phuket to the isolated tranquility of Koh Lanta, each island has its distinct flavor. The islands of Thailand urge you to go on an adventure, leisure, and natural beauty journey that will leave an unforgettable impact on your spirit. So, don't delay this fascinating tour more and visit these captivating Islands in Thailand either with your family or your spouse and enter a new realm of tropical fantasy.
Explore These Paradisiacal Islands in Thailand
These are a few of the best Islands in Thailand to explore on your tour:
- Phuket
- Koh Samui
- Koh Chang
- Koh Phi Phi
- Koh Tao
- Koh Phangan
- Koh Lanta
- Koh Similan
- Koh Nang Yuan
- Koh Chang Noi
1. Phuket: Immerse in Beachfront Bliss
Phuket is a beach lover's heaven, with gorgeous beaches such as Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach. There is no shortage of things to do in Phuket, ranging from sunbathing and swimming to adrenaline-water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. If you have an interest in exploring culture and historic marvels, come to Old Phuket Town's cultural marvels, including its attractive Sino-Portuguese architecture and lively street art. Visit the renowned Big Buddha, a 45-meter-tall monument that offers stunning panoramic views of the island one of the best places to visit in Thailand. When the sun goes down, enjoy the dynamic nightlife in Pattaya, which includes bustling bars, nightclubs, and colorful street markets.
Location: Andaman Sea, southern Thailand.
How to reach Phuket: Fly to Phuket International Airport or take a ferry from nearby islands.
Places to visit: Big Buddha, Old Phuket Town, Phi Phi Islands, Cape Phrom Thep, Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong)
Things to do: Island hopping, snorkeling, diving, visit night markets.
Places for shopping: Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Phuket Weekend Market.
Places to stay: Phuket Marriott Resort, The Westin Siray Resort & Spa, Novotel Phuket City Pokeethra, Sri Panwa Phuket Luxury Pool Villa Hotel, Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel
Famous foods: Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles).
Famous beaches: Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach.
Famous adventure activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, zip-lining.
Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in Phuket: Paradise for Beach and Party Lovers
2. Koh Samui: Unwind on Samui's Shores
When you are visiting Koh Samui Thailand, you can spend your days relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Chaweng, Lamai, or Bophut, where you can pamper yourself with beachside treatments, snorkeling, or simply soak up the sun. Discover the island's cultural side at the beautiful Big Buddha Temple and the historic Wat Plai Laem. You can also indulge in a zip-lining excursion through the rainforest or enjoy a thrilling ATV ride for an adrenaline boost. When the sun goes down, visit the colorful Fisherman's Village in Bophut, where you can eat wonderful seafood, shop at local stores for souvenirs, and listen to live music, or simply click the artistic Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations at Lamai Beach for Instagram posts.
Location: Gulf of Thailand, off the east coast.
How to reach Koh Samui: Fly to Samui International Airport or take a ferry from Surat Thani.
Places to visit: Big Buddha Temple, Fisherman's Village, Na Muang Waterfall.
Things to do: Relax on the beaches, snorkel, kayak, and explore Angthong Marine Park.
Places for shopping: Central Festival Samui, Walking Street Market in Bophut (Fridays).
Places to stay: Silavadee Pool Spa Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui, Antara Lawana, Hyatt Regency, Six Senses, Banyan Tree, W Koh Samui, Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort.
Famous foods: Green curry, mango sticky rice.
Famous beaches: Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Bophut Beach.
Famous adventure activities: Jungle safari, elephant trekking, ATV rides, trek to the Secret Buddha Garden, water activities, and crocodile show.
3. Koh Chang: Nature's Playground Beckons
If you want to go for a pure nature tour in Thailand, Koh Chang is your destination as it is unspoiled natural beauty where you can explore many forms of nature this is among the top 10 islands in Thailand. Embark on a tour to the beautiful jungles of Khlong Phlu Waterfall and cool down in its pools. Relax on the quiet shores of Lonely Beach, where you may spend some personal time with your beloved or just spend some me time reading a book or having a beachside massage. If you want more from Koh Chang, take a boat cruise to the adjacent h Rang National Marine Park and indulge in snorkeling and diving opportunities. Hiking to the top of Khao Salak Phet gives panoramic views of the island's craggy shoreline and lush jungles are the other experiences that one can have here.
Location: Gulf of Thailand, near the Cambodian border.
How to reach Koh Chang: Take a ferry from Trat or fly to Trat Airport.
Places to visit: Khlong Phlu Waterfall, Lonely Beach, Salak Phet Bay.
Things to do: Jungle trekking, kayaking, visit Koh Chang National Park.
Places for shopping: White Sand Beach Night Market, Klong Prao Plaza.
Places to stay: Centara Koh Chang Tropicana Resort, Parama Koh Chang, The Chill, Peninsula Beach Resort, The Retreat, Awa Koh Chang
Famous foods: Seafood BBQ, spicy papaya salad.
Famous beaches: White Sand Beach, Lonely Beach, and Klong Kloi Beach.
Famous adventure activities: Elephant trekking, snorkeling, mangrove, hiking
Suggested Read: Thrilling Things to do in Thailand: An Adventure Seeker’s Paradise
4. Koh Phi Phi: Unveiling Natural Splendor
The name talks for itself, Phi Phi Island needs no introduction. The attractiveness of Koh Phi Phi stems from its breathtaking beauty. The Island is your one-go destination for all kinds of experiences whether it's taking a boat excursion to the Phi Phi Islands, where you can swim in the green waters of Maya Bay, snorkel with exotic fish at Bamboo Island, and wonder at the Phi Phi Leh's high cliffs. Do you think this is it, well, it's not. You can go for a Tonsai Village tour to explore the busy streets, which are home to a variety of stores, restaurants, and exciting pubs, or hike up to the landmark overlook for a stunning vista of the twin bays. If you enjoy diving, Koh Phi Phi has amazing diving spots with colorful coral reefs and rich marine life.
Location: the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and Krabi.
How to reach Koh Phi Phi: Take a ferry from Phuket or Krabi.
Places to visit: Maya Bay, Phi Phi Viewpoint, Loh Samah Bay, and Viking Cave.
Things to do: Snorkeling, diving, island hopping, visit Monkey Beach.
Places for shopping: Tonsai Village, Phi Phi Shopping Street.
Places to stay: Saii Phi Phi Island Village Resort, Phi Phi COCo Beach Resort, Villa 360, Zeavola Resort & Spa, Phi Phi Villa Resort
Famous foods: Fresh seafood, Thai curries.
Famous beaches: Maya Bay, Long Beach, and Loh Dalum Bay.
Famous adventure activities: Cliff jumping, rock climbing, and night snorkeling.
5. Koh Tao: Dive into Underwater Wonderland
Are you a diver or fascinated by diving once in a lifetime, come to the diver's paradise, Koh Tao that brimming with undersea marvels. You can learn or simply dive or snorkel with a guide amid the vivid coral reefs filled with colorful marine life even if you don't know swimming. Sairee Beach is the ideal area to relax and enjoy beachside beverages while watching the breathtaking hues of the setting sun. It's not only the day excursion that is famous but also the evenings, so dine on delicious seafood at coastal restaurants and enjoy the island's laid-back nightlife as this is one of the best islands in Thailand.
Location: Gulf of Thailand, near Koh Samui.
How to reach Koh Tao: Take a ferry from Surat Thani or Koh Samui.
Places to visit: Shark Bay, John-Suwan Viewpoint, Sai Nuan Beach.
Things to do: Scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, and visit Nang Yuan Island.
Places for shopping: Sairee Plaza, Mae Haad Village.
Places to stay: Jamahkiri Dive Resort & SPA, Cape Shark Pool Villas, Cabana Resort, Sai Daeng Resort, Luck Boutique Hotel, The Tarna Align Resort
Famous foods: Grilled seafood, coconut curry.
Famous beaches: Sairee Beach, Freedom Beach, Shark Bay.
Famous adventure activities: Scuba diving courses, free diving, cliff jumping.
6. Koh Phangan: Experience the Vibrant Party Culture
Have you ever heard of the full moon party in Thailand? Imagine dancing under the shimmering moonlight, feeling the beat and electrifying vibes, well, Koh Phangan's full moon party is world-famous. Apart from that discover the island's beautiful beaches, such as Haad Rin and Thong Nai Pan. Koh Phangan things to do includes swimming, sunbathing, and other activities like water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding, whereas you can explore the Than Sadet National Park which features magnificent forest scenery, hidden waterfalls, and hiking pathways. Koh Phangan is a refuge for nature lovers, partygoers, and people looking for a combination of action and leisure
Location: Gulf of Thailand, near Koh Samui.
How to reach Koh Phangan: Take a ferry from Surat Thani or Koh Samui.
Places to visit: Wat Phu Khao Noi, Than Sadet Waterfall, Koh Ma.
Things to do: Full Moon Party, snorkeling, visit Ang Thong Marine Park.
Places for shopping: Thong Sala Night Market, Haad Rin Walking Street.
Places to stay: Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa, Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas, Peincess Paradise, Buri Rasa Village, Panviman Resort Koh Pangan, Kupu kupu Phangan.
Famous foods: Pad Thai, fresh fruit shakes.
Famous beaches: Haad Rin Beach, Thong Nai Pan Beach, and Bottle Beach.
Famous adventure activities: Jungle trekking, kiteboarding, paddleboarding.
Suggested Read: Honeymoon in Thailand: Two Hearts, One Adventure!
7. Koh Lanta: Create Sun-kissed Moments in Paradise
Plan a trip to Thailand for your next holiday to discover the unspoiled beauty of Koh Lanta Thailand, where blue waters meet golden coasts, and lose yourself in tranquil beaches, dive into vibrant coral reefs, and immerse in the laid-back island vibes. You can unwind on beautiful beaches like Long Beach and Klong Nin Beach, where you may watch sunsets while eating delicious seafood. visit the alluring house of mangroves, caverns, and animals, the Mu Ko Lanta National Park. I guarantee that when you're creating sun-kissed moments on Koh Lanta's sandy beaches, this beautiful island will steal your heart.
Location: Andaman Sea, off the west coast of Thailand.
How to reach Koh Lanta: Take a ferry from Krabi or Phuket.
Places to visit: Lanta Old Town, Mu Ko Lanta National Park, Khlong Chak Waterfall.
Things to do: Snorkeling, diving, visiting Koh Rok Island, exploring Emerald Cave.
Places for shopping: Saladan Night Market, Lanta Mart.
Places to stay: Avani+Koh Lanta Krabi Resort, Layana Resort and Spa, Pimalai Resort and Spa, Nirvana Beach Resort, Rawi Warin Resort & Spa, Chada Lanta Beach.
Famous foods: Massaman curry, grilled seafood.
Famous beaches: Long Beach, Klong Dao Beach, Kantiang Bay.
Famous adventure activities: Kayaking in the mangroves, and hiking to Khao Mai Kaew Cave.
8. Koh Similan: Discover Colorful Aquatic Life
Koh Similan beckons you to experience a paradise unlike any other. Enjoy the natural splendor of its turquoise seas and pure white sandy beaches. You can take Koh Similan Island in Thailand visit to dive into a world brimming with colorful aquatic life and explore the bright coral reefs. The pristine landscape, spectacular vistas, and sense of tranquility that surrounds it will seduce you. Whether you enjoy snorkeling or are a nature lover, Koh Similan provides a perfect hideaway where you can unplug from the world and immerse yourself in the Andaman Sea's beauties.
Location: Andaman Sea, off the west coast of Thailand.
How to reach Koh Similan: Take a speedboat or ferry from Phuket or Khao Lak.
Places to visit: Donald Duck Bay, Honeymoon Bay, Sailing Rock.
Things to do: Snorkeling, diving, beach hopping, visit Sail Rock viewpoint.
Places for shopping: Limited shopping options available.
Places to stay: Camping on the island or liveaboard diving boats and nearby hotels and resorts like Ramada Resort by Wyndham Khao Lak, La Flora Khao Lak - SHA Extra Plus, JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa, The Briza Beach Resort, Khao Lak SHA Extra Plus
Famous foods: Picnic-style meals, fresh seafood.
Famous beaches: Donald Duck Bay, Princess Bay, Island No. 4 Beach.
Famous adventure activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling with turtles, and rock climbing.
9. Koh Nang Yuan: Indulge in Tranquil Retreat
Discover Koh Nang Yuan's unrivaled beauty and peacefulness. This magnificent island, located near Koh Tao is among the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, providing a one-of-a-kind and stunning experience. The crystal-clear turquoise seas and immaculate white sand beaches will fascinate you as you tread upon its shores. Take a snorkeling or diving experience and see the bright coral reefs and abundant aquatic life. Hike up to the island's viewpoint for a breathtaking panoramic view. Whether you're looking for relaxation or fun-filled activities, Koh Nang Yuan provides a memorable getaway where you may make lifetime memories.
Location: Andaman Sea, near Koh Tao.
How to reach Koh Nang Yuan: Take a boat or ferry from Koh Tao.
Places to visit: Viewpoint, Japanese Garden, Nang Yuan Beach.
Things to do: Snorkeling, diving, hiking to the viewpoint, relaxing on the beach
Places for shopping: Limited shopping options available.
Places to stay: Limited accommodation options are available on the island but you can stay at Koh Tao (3 km) in Jamahkiri Dive Resort & SPA, Cape Shark Pool Villas, Cabana Resort, Sai Daeng Resort, Luck Boutique Hotel, The Tarna Align Resort
Famous foods: Fresh seafood, Thai curries.
Famous beaches: Nang Yuan Beach, Twin Beach, Paradise Beach.
Famous adventure activities: Snorkeling with sharks, and hiking to the viewpoint.
Suggested Read: Incredible Places to Visit in Pattaya: A Scintillating Affair of Calm & Chaos
10. Koh Chang Noi: Secluded Serenity on Hidden Gems
Koh Chang Noi is one of the best islands in Thailand for couples, a serene and isolated Thai paradise that will undoubtedly enchant you. You'll be met with unspoiled beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear seas as soon as you step foot on this beautiful island. You may accept a slower pace of life and immerse yourself in nature's peacefulness here. Relax on the peaceful beaches, dine on wonderful Thai food, and go island hopping. Explore secluded coves, trek through lush forests, and take in beautiful sunsets that paint the sky in bright colors.
Location: Andaman Sea, off the west coast of Thailand.
How to reach Koh Chang Noi: Take a long-tail boat or private charter from Krabi or Koh Lanta.
Places to visit: Koh Chang Noi Viewpoint, Koh Laoliang, Koh Rok.
Things to do: Snorkeling, kayaking, rock climbing, exploring hidden beaches.
Places for shopping: Limited shopping options available.
Places to stay: Eco-friendly bungalows and resorts on the island like The Chill, Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort, KC Grande Resort & Spa, Paradise Resort & Spa
Famous foods: Fresh seafood, Thai curries.
Famous beaches: Koh Chang Noi Beach, Paradise Beach, Sunset Beach.
Famous adventure activities: Deep water soloing, cliff jumping, island hopping.
A Glimpse of Thailand: Additional Information about Thailand
I hope this blog has tempted you to travel to Thailand to explore these wonderful places, so, here’s some quick information to make your Thailand tour trouble-free.
Location: Southeast Asia
Language: Siamese, and English is widely spoken
Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Visa Requirement: Visa on Arrival is available for tourists
How to Reach Thailand
By Air: Thailand is connected from almost all the countries through Bangkok and Phuket International Airport. While Krabi, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai are other international airports connected by Southeast Asian countries.
By Road: One can easily reach Thailand by Road via Cambodia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
- Cambodia Border: Friendship Bridge (Laos to Mekong)
- Singapore Border: Singapore to Hat Yai
- Malaysia Border: Padang Besar and Sadao in Songkhla
By Train: One can reach Thailand by train from Butterworth and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Singapore.
By Water: One can reach Thailand by water from Indonesia (November to May), Hongkong, Singapore, Australia, and Europe regularly.
Best Time to Go Thailand: October to March
Thailand is divided into 3 parts and each of them has different seasons to travel according to the kind of experiences one wants to have.
- The North and Central region: October to January
- The Gulf of Thailand: December to March
- Andaman Sea coast: November to March
Ideal Duration for Thailand: 7 to 15 days
Festivals in Thailand: Songkran- Thai New Year, Loy Krathong (Thailand's light festival)
Famous Food in Thailand: Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Kaeng Lueang, Gaeng Daeng, Gaeng Keow Wan Gai, Khao Soi, Khao Pad
Things to Do in Thailand: Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Paragliding, Kiteboarding, Wakeboarding, Skydiving, Parasailing, Surfing, Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Hiking, Caving, Mountain Biking, Elephant Nature Park
Shopping Places in Thailand: Khao San Night Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Pratunam, Phuket Weekend Market
Floating Markets in Thailand: Amphawa, Damnoen Saduak
Famous Beaches in Thailand: Nail Harn Beach- Rawai, PhraNang Cave Beach- Ao Nang, Kata Noi Beach- Karon, Freedom Beach- Patong, Railay Beach- Thong Nair Pan Noi- Koh Phangan, Kata Beach, Thong Nair Pan Yai- Koh Phangan, Bottle Beach- Koh Phangan, Sunrise Beach- Koh Lipe
Nightlife in Thailand: Walking Street- Pattaya, Go-Go Bars- Phuket, Khao San Road- Bangkok, Patpong- Bangkok, Full Moon Party- Koh Phangan, Cabaret Shows- Chiang Mai, Koh Phi Phi Party Island, The Koh Tao Pub Crawl- Koh Tao, Cicada Night Market- Hua Hin, Chaweng Island- Koh Samui
Wildlife Sanctuary in Thailand: Bang Lang in Yala, Doe Inthanan in Chiang Mai, Kaeng Krung in SuratThani, Mae Ngao in Mae Hong Son, San kalaKhiri in Songkhla
Travel Tips to Visit Thailand:
- Carry your visa and passport
- Carry some cash on you as the card is not accepted everywhere
- Respect the Monarchy
- Respect the National Religion
- Stay careful towards Buddha Images (Never step on them), and ask before clicking
- Don't touch the Buddhist Monks
- Remove Shoes outside the temple
- Avoid Touching Other People's Heads
- Dress Respectfully
- Ask Before Photographing People
- Dropping litter in the street is illegal
- Respect the national anthem that is usually played between 8 am and 6 pm
The islands in Thailand attest to the world's great beauty and attractiveness on the Andaman Sea. Whether you're looking for a busy nightlife, a tranquil vacation, or exhilarating water sports, these islands will not let you down. Immerse yourself in the warmness of Thai people, delectable local cuisine, various bustling festivals, and breathtaking scenery that make Thailand's islands truly enchanting. The Islands of Thailand are eager to enchant you with open arms and create experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. So, whether you're looking for adventure, leisure, or a combination of both, take advantage of the top Thailand tour packages and make the most of your trip.
Best Islands in Thailand - FAQs
Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao are the best islands in Thailand where one can visit to explore the tropical beauty of the Andaman sea.
The dry season from November to April is generally considered the best time to visit Thailand. These months are most ideal to indulge in water sports activities
Some islands, like Koh Phi Phi, have cultural attractions such as temples and traditional villages to learn about the culture and tradition of Thailand.
Of course, Thailand is one of the most exotic and vibrant country in the world and there are several islands like Phuket and Koh Phangan, which are known for their exciting nightlife, specially the famous Full Moon Parties.
You can find a wide range of water sports activities, including kayaking, jet skiing, and paddleboarding, scuba, snorkeling on the islands in Thailand.
Some islands like Koh Samui and Koh Lanta offer scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views that one can indulge in while there Thailand tour.
Islands like Railay Beach in Krabi are famous for rock climbing opportunities with stunning limestone cliffs. People come from around the world to experience this amazing excursion
Phang Nga Bay offers kayak tours that take you through beautiful caves and hidden lagoons. One can take kayak on their own or take a guided tour.
You can visit floating markets like Amphawa Floating Market near the islands to explore local culture and cuisine of Thailand on your vacation.
Islands like Koh Chang and Koh Phangan have wildlife sanctuaries and national parks where you can embark on a thrilling safari adventure in Thailand.
