Thailand, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful islands. In fact, Thailand has more than 1,400 islands!
When I first visited Thailand in 2024, I was overwhelmed by the volume of Thai islands to visit. While it’s easy to visit a couple of islands; unfortunately, it would be a challenge to visit them all.
The good news is there’s an island for every kind of traveler – from adventure seekers to those seeking relaxation. In addition, there are islands for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families.
My first piece of advice is to pick a few islands that match your vibe. Second, make sure these islands are near each other or at least have transportation from point A to point B.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a wild party weekend, a diving adventure, a cultural exploration, or a tranquil escape, these five Thai islands have something special to offer.
Here’s your guide to the best islands to visit and where to stay on each.
1. Koh Samui: Best Island for Families
Koh Samui at sunset – perfect for the gram!
Why Visit: Koh Samui is the most family-friendly island in Thailand, boasting beautiful beaches, calm waters, and activities for all ages. Families can enjoy safe swimming at beaches like Chaweng and Lamai, followed by a delicious sea-side mango shake.
This island is also perfect for pampering. If you’ve never experienced a Thai massage before, this is your chance. Koh Samui offers many facilities for massage, facials, nails, and more. This makes the island a great start or end to your trip.
For a more adventurous adventure, families can explore Na Muang Waterfall or take a boat trip to the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park. Koh Samui has multiple locations to get fantastic street food, and there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance from any hotel.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Santiburi Koh Samui – A luxurious resort with family villas, a kids’ club, and direct access to a private beach.
- Mid-Tier: Chaweng Regent Beach Resort – Located on the popular Chaweng Beach, this resort offers family suites, a beachfront pool, and easy access to nearby restaurants and shops.
- Budget: Kerton Hostel – A low-key hostel offering privacy and comfort on a budget.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Ang Thong National Marine Park – Take a boat tour to explore this stunning archipelago, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking and spotting wildlife.
- Explore the Secret Buddha Garden – A hidden gem in the hills of Koh Samui, offering beautiful statues, waterfalls, and lush surroundings.
- Spend a Day at Lamai Beach – Enjoy family-friendly activities like paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and swimming.
2. Koh Phangan: Best Island for Partiers
Why Visit: When travelers think of Koh Phangan, most people think of its legendary Full Moon Party. This event attracts partygoers from around the globe. If you like vibrant nightlife with beach parties and music festivals, this is the best Thai island to visit.
While the Full Moon Party is the main attraction, Koh Phangan also hosts Half Moon and Black Moon parties, so the fun never stops. When you’re not dancing the night away, the island offers beautiful beaches like Haad Rin and Thong Nai Pan, both perfect for recovering in the sun.
If you don’t want to stay in Koh Phangan while attending the Full Moon Party, you have the option of staying at the nearby Koh Samui and taking the last ferry at night. However, to make things easier on yourself and ensure you have a place to rest your head, it’s best to stay on the island.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa – Luxurious, eco-friendly resort with a tranquil atmosphere.
- Mid-tier: Explorar Koh Phangan – Adults-only beachfront resort near Haad Rin.
- Budget: Shiralea Backpackers Resort – Combining the tranquility of a resort with great prices, this home-like atmosphere is great for travelers on a budget.
Top Things to Do:
- Experience the Full Moon Party – Dance the night away on Haad Rin Beach during the island’s world-famous Full Moon Party.
- Explore Thong Nai Pan Beaches – Visit the quieter side of the island with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and chill vibes.
- Take a Boat Tour Around the Island – Discover hidden beaches and snorkel spots while enjoying stunning coastal views.
3. Koh Tao: Best Island for Divers
Why Visit: Koh Tao is a diver’s paradise! This Thai island is known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and numerous diving schools that cater to all levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, Koh Tao offers some of the best diving in Thailand. If diving isn’t your thing, there are plenty of great snorkeling opportunities. Kids and adults alike will enjoy admiring the colorful coral and fish.
If you’re interested in learning how to dive, Koh Tao offers many facilities to earn your license. There are a lot of great programs that focus on education and safety when diving.
The island’s vibrant coral reefs and diverse underwater ecosystems make it a top destination for underwater exploration. Popular dive sites include Chumphon Pinnacle and Shark Bay, where you might even spot a shark if you’re lucky.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: The Place Luxury Boutique Villas – Private villas with stunning views, close to diving sites.
- Mid-tier: Ban’s Diving Resort – Ideal for divers, offering dive packages and comfortable accommodation.
- Budget: Taco Shack Diving Hostel – This one-stop shop offers budget accommodation and an on-site restaurant.
Top Things to Do:
- Dive at Chumphon Pinnacle – Explore one of Koh Tao’s most famous dive sites, known for its diverse marine life and whale shark sightings.
- Snorkel at Shark Bay – Spot blacktip reef sharks and enjoy the clear waters and colorful coral reefs.
- Hike to John-Suwan Viewpoint – Enjoy a rewarding hike with panoramic views of the island’s southern coast.
4. Phuket: Best Island for Culture
Why Visit: Phuket is one of the best Thai islands to visit for culture. From rich heritage to stunning beaches, there’s no shortage of things to do here.
Explore the island’s cultural side with a visit to the iconic Big Buddha, perched atop Nakkerd Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the island. Old Town Phuket is another must-visit, with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, bustling markets, and charming cafes.
After soaking in the culture, relax on one of Phuket’s famous beaches like Patong or Kata, where you can swim, sunbathe, or try out water sports.
This large island has it all: parties, beaches, and relaxation. Pick your adventure!
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: The Shore at Katathani – Luxurious beachfront resort on Kata Noi Beach.
- Mid-tier: Sino House Phuket Hotel – Boutique hotel in Old Town Phuket, close to historical sites.
- Budget: Lub D Patong – This chain offers a variety of different room types for all travelers on a budget.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit the Big Buddha – Explore this iconic 45-meter-tall statue on Nakkerd Hill, offering panoramic views of Phuket.
- Stroll Through Old Town Phuket – Discover Sino-Portuguese architecture, local shopping and tasty food.
- Relax on Patong Beach – Enjoy water sports, sunbathing, or just unwind on one of Phuket’s most famous beaches.
5. Koh Lanta: Best Island for Relaxation
Why Visit: For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Koh Lanta is the perfect island for a laid-back retreat. This quiet island is ideal for chill time.
With its serene beaches and unspoiled natural beauty, it’s perfect to enjoy with either friends, family or even solo.
One of the best things to do in Koh Lanta is to rent a scooter and take a leisurely ride around the island, stopping at secluded beaches like Klong Nin or Bamboo Bay to soak up the sun.
If you don’t know how to drive a scooter, no problem! There are plenty of other ways to get around Thailand islands, like TukTuks and taxis.
Koh Lanta’s tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for unwinding, with plenty of opportunities for tanning, beachcombing, and trying local foods.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Pimalai Resort & Spa – Luxurious resort nestled in the jungle with a private beach.
- Mid-tier: Lanta Casa Blanca – Modern beachfront resort with a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
- Budget: Hub of Joys – This modern hostel is within walking distance from the beach.
Top Things to Do:
- Explore the Island by Scooter – Rent a scooter and discover Koh Lanta’s secluded beaches, lush landscapes and local villages.
- Relax on Klong Nin Beach – Spend a day sunbathing, swimming or enjoying a beachfront massage in a serene and uncrowded setting.
- Visit Mu Ko Lanta National Park – Hike through the park’s trails, explore the lighthouse, and enjoy stunning views and pristine beaches.
No matter which islands you choose to visit, you’ll want to make sure to bring a few bathing suits and potentially some dry bags. Check out this Southeast Asia packing list for a list of other items you’ll want to pack.
Even though there are so many Thai islands to visit, each one offers something unique, making Thailand a dream destination for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re traveling with family, looking to party, eager to dive, interested in culture or in need of some chill time, you’ll find your paradise in Thailand’s islands.
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Bri runs Bri Abroad
