When there’s so many islands to choose from in Thailand, how do you know where to go? I’ve done the very hard work for you (tough life, visiting islands) and here is my list of the top ones to visit, two well known, and three under the radar. All are easy to reach from Bangkok or Pattaya.
Koh Samui (for snorkelling)
One of the most well known islands, Koh Samui really has something for everyone. There is a lush interior to explore, coconut trees everywhere, beautiful beaches and the best snorkelling. Pig island nearby is also a highlight. For an affordable but lovely place to stay, try Baan Had Ngam, right on a very nice beach.
Koh Samet (for relaxation)
My favourite island! Come for quiet, unspoilt beaches, clear water and a really laidback vibe. There’s not much to do so make use of those perfect white beaches and relax. Vongdeuan Resort and Ao Prao are both nice hotels. The former is very affordable and right on a quiet peaceful beach, the later more expensive and on a good surfing beach. The jungle backdropping the beaches make this island super photogenic.
Koh Larn (for an easy day trip)
My favourite day trip from Pattaya, but also doable from Bangkok. Koh Larn is full of pretty beaches, warm water, and a really chill vibe that forces you to relax. Stay the night and enjoy the sunset from the sea once all the daytrippers are gone, and stay at Riviera Resort for really good service and rooms with huge bath tubs. The downside? There are no hotels here right on the beach. Monkey beach and Tien beach are my favorites here.
Phuket (for lots to do)
This list wouldn’t be complete without Thailand’s largest island and arguably the most well known. Phuket has some crowded areas, but choose carefully and you can have a peaceful vacation on an island that knows how to host tourists. The airport even has international flights. Plus there is lots to do, from playing with elephants to visiting Phuket Town. 6th avenue Surin Beach is a great hotel with infinity pool and in a quiet area.
Koh Si Chang (for off the beaten track)
The wildcard! An island no one has heard about, for the bragging rights. It’s a bit of an adventure to get here, including taking an old ferry from Sriracha north of Pattaya, but it’s a fun place for a day trip. The beaches are wild and the roads are primitive, but if you want the ultimate island adventure, this is the one. Visit the cave temple, the Royal Family’s old summer palace, and some of the view points and then chill on the only beach which has a few rudimentary umbrellas perched up above the cliffs. There are simple places to stay the night, though I’ve never tried them.
Practical stuff
Bangkok is the gateway to all of these, either with anonward flight or taking a taxi to the nearest port for a boat ride across. I mention some of my favourite places to stay above, too, and things to do. All are best visited in the dry season from November to May.
There you are, my round up of the best. Have you been to any? What did you think? Any others I should add?
Photos from Koh Larn 🙂
