Islands in Thailand

Thailand is home to some of the world’s most beautiful islands, each with its own unique charm.

But which islands have exactly what you want to experience on a tour to Thailand?

Thailand has more than 1,400 different islands, so it can be a bit of a jungle to find your way around them. Each offers many different experiences, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or want to combine your beach holiday with cultural experiences.

Check out our guide to 10 Thai islands below.

Phuket – Thailand’s largest island

Phuket, in southwestern Thailand, is the country’s largest island and known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

For example, you can relax on the white sand on Phuket’s most famous beach, Kata Beach, or enjoy the tranquillity on the quieter Kamala Beach on Phuket’s west coast.

In addition to some of Thailand’s best beaches, the island offers a wide range of activities from snorkelling and diving to cultural experiences, such as visits to temples and the charming Old Town in Phuket.

You can also look forward to exploring cultural treasures on the island such as Wat Chalong Temple and the impressive Great Buddha, which both offer a glimpse into the island’s spiritual heritage.

The island is for people who:

• Want to explore many different beaches.
• Enjoy swimming and aquatic activities.
• Enjoy cultural excursions.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is the second-largest island in Thailand, and located in the south-east of the country. The island is known for its palm-filled beaches and rainforest-capped mountains.

A trip to Koh Samui is not complete without experiencing Koh Samui’s beautiful beaches, such as Chaweng Beach, which is the most popular beach on the island, and the quieter, paradisiacal beaches Bo Phut and Mae Nam Beach.

Koh Samui also has several well-known landmarks which are well worth exploring. Discover, for example, the Big Buddha Temple, Wat Khunaram and the Na Muang Waterfalls.

Whether you’re looking for tranquillity, culture or excitement, Koh Samui has plenty to offer.

The island is for people who:

• Want a mix of luxury and relaxation by the beach.
• Want to experience beautiful nature.
• Are keen to explore interesting temples.

Koh Pha-ngan

Koh Pha-ngan is known for its beautiful bays and beaches, lush jungles and charming fishing villages. The island is located in the southern part of the Gulf of Thailand in Surat Thani Province in southeastern Thailand.

The island has numerous small bays that you can sail to and experience the most beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by palm trees and cliffs, such as the peaceful oases Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach or Mae Haad Beach, which are both perfect for those looking for some quiet beach team.

The island also has a beautiful jungle that offers many nature experiences. Here, you can, for example, hike up to Phaeng Yai Waterfall, a large waterfall in the middle of the jungle where you can even take a dip in the fresh, rushing water.

Koh Phangan is also home to the popular Full Moon Parties. However, please note that these takes place in the southernmost part of the island, far from where you will be staying when travelling with TourCompass.

The island is for people who:

• Want to explore hidden beaches in the many small bays.
• Are looking for exciting nature experiences.
• Enjoy exploring beaches and hiking trails off the beaten track.

Koh Ngai

Koh Ngai, also known as Koh Hai, is a lesser-known gem located in Krabi Province in the southwestern part of Thailand.

Koh Ngai has no permanent residents. In addition to a few resorts, some restaurants and lounge bars, the island mainly consists of jungle and cliffs. Therefore, the island also offers a tranquil experience, where relaxation and nature experiences are the main focus.

This small island offers pristine beaches and a serene environment, making it ideal for those seeking tranquillity and contemplation. Koh Ngai is also perfect for snorkelling with its clear waters and rich marine life.

The island is for people who:

• Want a quiet experience away from the more popular islands.
• Want to snorkel and explore the ocean below the surface.
• Appreciate beautiful scenery.

Koh Mook

Koh Mook, also known as Pearl Island, is a hidden treasure located in the southern Trang Province in southwestern Thailand.

On Koh Mook you will find Pearl Beach. The beach is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters that sparkle like pearls when it reflects the sun. However, the island is probably most famous for the Emerald Cave. The Emerald Cave is a secret lagoon that can only be reached via an 80-metre-long tunnel which runs from the sea outside.

Koh mook offers a traditional, local experience with a relaxed atmosphere that you don’t get on the MOST popular islands.

The island is for people who:

• Want to experience unique nature experiences such as the Emerald Cave.
• Dream of experiencing a local and traditional island atmosphere.
• Enjoying snorkelling and beautiful cliffs along the coast.

Koh Lanta Yai

Koh Lanta Yai is known for its long beaches, local restaurants and relaxing atmosphere. The island is located in Krabi Province in the southwestern part of Thailand.

Relax Beach in particular is one of the beaches you should visit when you are on Koh Lanta Yai. The beach lives up to its name, and it’s ideal for those who want to take it easy in beautiful surroundings.

The island attracts families because of its calm, shallow waters, and it is known for its beautiful fauna and flora both above and below the surface.

On the island, you can, for example, experience Lanta Old Town, a fishing village on the east coast, where you can talk to and meet the locals.

The island is for people who:

• Are looking for a family-friendly destination.
• Want to meet the locals.
• Are looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and easily accessible activities.

Koh Yao Yai

Koh Yao Yai is located in Phang Nga Bay between Phuket and Krabi in southwestern Thailand.

The island is known for its laid-back vibe, traditional way of life and beautiful landscapes.

It is ideal for those who are looking for a more authentic Thai experience, as here you really have a chance to meet the locals. The island is not as visited as many other islands in Thailand.

The island is for people who:

• Want to delve into local life and culture.
• Prefer quiet surroundings.
• Love to explore picturesque landscapes by bike or on foot.

Koh Kood

Koh Kood, also known as Ko Kut, is an island in eastern Thailand which is known for its quiet beaches and pristine rainforests.

On Koh Kood, you can, among other things, experience stunning waterfalls such as Klong Chao and Ao Salad, where you can swim and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Unlike other Thai islands of the same size, Koh Kood does not have as many hotels and towns. This means that nature and calmer experiences are the main appeal, as the island has larger areas of unspoilt landscape than other similar islands.

The island is for people who:

• Want to experience unspoilt nature.
• Want to visit a less inhabited island.
• Enjoy kayaking, snorkelling and exploring waterfalls.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang, located close to the border with Cambodia in eastern Thailand, is the third-largest island in the country and known for its wild, untouched nature.

The island has rainforests, waterfalls and a wide variety of wildlife. The beaches vary from busy to remote, so there is something for everyone.

Koh Chang is also home to beautiful waterfalls such as Khlong Phlu and Than Mayom, where visitors can swim and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. Many of the nature experiences can be combined with trekking and hiking if you want to experience Thailand’s natural environment close up.

The island is for people who:

• Are nature lovers, and who enjoy experiencing the great outdoors on foot.
• Are looking for varied experiences with everything from relaxed beaches to adventure trips.
• Prefer a more down-to-earth island destination.

Koh Samet

Koh Samet is located in Rayong Province in eastern Thailand. The island is located about a four-hour drive from Bangkok, making it a popular weekend destination or getaway from the capital.

No wild activities take place on Koh Samet, but if you want a few quiet days in beautiful surroundings, then it’s just the place to be!

The island offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. One of the finest beaches on the island is Ao Prao Beach. Here, you will find a beach with shallow, warm water and numerous fish, which makes it ideal if you want to go snorkelling and explore the marine life.

The island is for people who:

• Are looking for a break from Bangkok.
• Will enjoy fine sandy beaches.
• Prefer a choice of both quiet and lively beach areas.

Want to explore Thailand’s islands?

No matter what type of island adventure you’re dreaming of, Thailand undoubtedly has an island or two that you’ll love.

It may even be difficult to choose between all the fantastic paradise-like islands.

Fortunately, with an island hop in Thailand, you can visit several of Thailand’s unique islands on one and the same trip and experience everything from local culture to tropical nature.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller