Thailand’s many islands are a staple on the backpacker, flashpacker, gap year, sabbatical, long break, beach holiday, and any other circuit you can think of. And there’s a reason – they’re bloody brilliant.
But the sheer number of versions of paradise to choose from, and hassle of wading through millions of blog posts, articles, reddit threads and Instagram pictures, can leave you in an agony of indecision about which to choose. No more.
Check out our guide to the best Thai Islands to travel to which is perfect for those who want less time researching, more time sunbathing.
Getting Around
You could go backpacking and explore the beautiful Thai islands independently booking all your transport, accommodation and activities. Thailand is very touristy with a very established tourist trail with locals who can converse in English which makes getting around easier. Another option which we highly recommend is booking a tour. Several international travel companies offer amazing trips all year round where you discover the highlights of Thailand and the islands, meet new people and have a lot of fun. Companies we recommend include Contiki and G Adventures.
Most Popular Islands to Visit in Thailand
Now let’s get started.
Koh Samui
Come here if you like: Home away from home.
Not so good for: The traditional Thai experience. There are quieter spots (the south and west) but Chaweng, Lamai and other popular beaches could almost be in Ibiza, Spain. Nothing wrong with that of course, if you fancy Ibiza.
Don’t miss: Big Buddha Temple. Opulent, audacious, majestic.
Hidden gem: Village visit. If you’re craving some home cooked Thai cuisine and a little local culture check out one of the villages such as Thong Krut, Bang-Kao and Hua Thanon.
Koh Phangan
Come here if you like: Hedonism.
Not so good for: Sleeping.
Don’t miss: The Full Moon party. Obviously. Thailand’s internationally renowned gathering of those who would proudly claim, “we like to party” along with The Vengaboys.
Hidden gem: Thong Sala’s night market. Authentic Thai seafood and fruit dishes served for a steal.
Koh Tao
Come here if you like: Small and perfectly formed islands.
Not so good for: Those who can’t handle the strength of the sun.
Don’t miss: Diving. One of the best, if not the best, island in Thailand to go scuba diving
Hidden gem: Rent a motorbike and explore the island for some amazing views. The roads can be a bit suspect though so go with a group trip if you’re not sure. Also be sure to do day trips to nearby islands like Koh Nang Yuan (pictured above).
Koh Chang
Come here if you like: Islands with a bit of everything. Plus it’s a great beach stop on your way to Cambodia.
Not so good for: Relaxing – too many jungle hikes to get stuck into.
Don’t miss: The backpacker hub of Lonely Beach.
Hidden gem: Long Beach. Remote, underdeveloped, hard to get to, it’s an “off the beaten track” lover’s dream.
Ko Phi Phi Don
Come here if you like: Oh look at it. Everyone should come here. Although Phi Phi tourism has boomed in the last decade, this island is still well worth visiting.
Not so good for: The well-being of your friends and family back home. They’ll be well jealous.
Don’t miss: Phi Phi Viewpoint. Hundreds of steps will take you up to the viewing point where you’ll be rewarded with views of the double-fronted beach, and seemingly endless ocean in its emerald colour.
Hidden gem: If you’re into climbing don’t miss Hin Tak Climbing Area in Tonsai Bay.
Ko Phi Phi Lee
Come here if you like: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Beach, Moby’s 2000 classic Porcelain and Pure Shores (filmed in Norfolk but you get the picture).
Not so good for: Those who can’t keep a secret. We’re looking at you, Leonardo.
Don’t miss: The actual Beach itself, Maya Bay, this is one of the best places to see on a gap year in Southeast Asia.
Hidden gem: Snorkelling and scuba diving. With amazing visibility, the coral is waiting for you.
Koh Lanta
Come here if you like: French, German and Swedish travellers. Some peace and quiet (relative to Thai standards).
Not so good for: Nightlife.
Don’t miss: Ko Lanta National Marine Park. Wildlife galore. Over 100 species of fauna call this national park home. Trek through the park and if you’re lucky you might even come across a monitor lizards.
Hidden gem: Tham Khao Maikaeo. To the surprise of many that venture out to the islands of Koh Lanta, they play host to a vast network of caves dating back millions of years. Local Thai guides will take you through them for a small fee.
Off the Beaten Track Islands
These islands are more local, less touristy and away from the crowds but if you do venture here you will be rewarded.
Koh Lipe
Come here if you like: Relaxation and party rolled in one (the best of both worlds).
Not so good for: The whiteness of the sand might blind you.
Don’t miss: Boom Boom Bar on Sunrise Beach. Your quintessential ‘beach shack’, it’s about as laid-back as you can in our fast-paced world.
Hidden gem: Koh Adang View Point. A relatively easy one hour hike to the viewpoint and you’ll be rewarded with more beautiful Thai island views.
Khao Phing Kan (James Bond Island)
Come here if you like: James Bond. More specifically, The Man with the Golden Gun.
Not so good for: Avoiding Bond villains.
Don’t miss: Ko Tapu. The limestone rock is one of Thailand’s natural wonders. Reaching 20m in height and having its diameter increase from bottom to top, it’s a sight to behold.
Hidden gem: Caving on a kayak.
Koh Mak
Come here if you like: Cool ship wrecks and palm trees, Koh Mak’s got over 10,000 of them. Palm trees not ship wrecks.
Not so good for: People who don’t like palm trees.
Don’t miss: Biking. The best way to see this island is on two wheels. Ride through coconut plantations and who knows, you might even discover a lost, deserted beach.
Hidden gem: As one of Thailand’s least developed islands, it’s all a hidden gem!
Koh Panyi
Come here if you like: Seeing things you’ve probably never seen before – like a fishing village built on stilts which houses over 1,500 people.
Not so good for: Those allergic to seafood.
Don’t miss: The floating football pitch. Arguably the most scenic and simultaneously bizarre football ground in the world.
Hidden gem: The school. See how education is done over water.
Plan a gap year to Thailand today and discover these beautiful islands for yourself!