The 22 Most Beautiful Islands in Thailand — With Hotel Tips

Islands for a First Trip to Thailand

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is the ideal starting point for anyone visiting Thailand for the first time. As the largest island in the Gulf of Thailand, it’s extremely well set up for tourists.

Here you’ll find miles of dream beaches and water temperatures of a pleasant 27°C (80°F).

If you’d like to explore the traditional side of Thailand, we highly recommend the twelve-meter-tall golden Buddha statue on the northern coast — it’s the island’s most iconic landmark.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Villa Labaron – 5-star hotel with an outdoor infinity pool

Good value: Riviera Beach Hotel – ocean views and panoramic windows

How to Get to Koh Samui

The best way to reach the island is by direct flight from Bangkok, Pattaya (Utapao), Phuket, Krabi, and Chiang Mai. Alternatively, you can fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani, where a connecting bus takes you to the ferry to Donsak.

Koh Phangan

If you’re into parties, you should definitely check out Koh Phangan. Just 15 kilometers from Koh Samui, the island draws party lovers with its monthly Full Moon Party, which traditionally takes place on the beach at Haad Rin.

If, like us, you prefer to skip the wild celebrations, you can experience the complete opposite in the north of Koh Phangan: at the beautiful Bottle Beach you can relax to your heart’s content and unwind beneath the palm trees. For us, it’s honestly one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand!

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Mangata Boutique Bungalows – beachfront location

Good value: Le Divine Comedie – cheerful décor, pool, and garden

How to Get to Koh Phangan

Construction is currently underway on an airport on Koh Phangan, but it isn’t finished yet. You have two options for getting there.

From Surat Thani to Koh Phangan

Ferries to Koh Phangan depart from the pier in Surat Thani on the mainland. From there, you can either fly in from Bangkok or take the train.

Since domestic flights in Thailand are very affordable, we recommend flying. On the Air Asia website, you can even book a flight that includes a transfer to the port.

Alternatively, you can buy your ferry ticket at the airport — the transfer to the pier is then included in the ticket price of around 500 Baht.

From the airport to the pier takes about half an hour, and the ferry then takes another 2.5 hours to reach Koh Phangan. Plan for roughly four hours from Surat Thani Airport.

From Koh Samui to Koh Phangan

You can also fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui. However, flights to Koh Samui are often considerably more expensive than to Surat Thani.

You can buy tickets either directly at the pier or at a travel agency, which has the advantage of including a transfer from your hotel to the pier. The latter costs around 300 Baht, or about $8.50.

You have the choice between a speedboat and a regular ferry. We generally recommend the regular ferry, as speedboat maintenance in Thailand often leaves something to be desired.

The regular ferry takes about one hour, and the speedboat takes 20 minutes.

The best way to get to Koh Phangan is by ferry from Koh Samui — the crossing takes just 20 minutes!

Phuket

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. It’s home to one of the country’s two international airports and is the most visited Thai island by far. It’s very well set up for tourism and can get quite crowded, attracting both families and party-goers.

Of course, it also offers a wide variety of restaurants, hotels, and clubs catered to Western tastes. Away from the crowds, though, there are still opportunities to discover genuine Thai life — you just have to look for it.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: The Shore – luxury hotel right on the beach

Good value: My Beach Resort Phuket – beautiful beachfront hotel in Phuket with great value for money

How to Get to Phuket

You can reach Phuket by plane either via a direct flight or with a stopover in Bangkok.

If you decide to stop over, check out our hotel tips for Bangkok. Since Phuket is connected to the mainland by a bridge, you can also reach it easily by bus.

Koh Phi Phi

The Koh Phi Phi island group consists of six islands — including the main island of Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh, home to the famous Maya Bay.

Koh Phi Phi Don has a small selection of hotels, bars, and restaurants and is completely car-free. Koh Phi Phi Leh, on the other hand, is uninhabited and can be reached by boat for day trips.

A stay on Koh Phi Phi is worth it if you want to relax and recharge on a small island and are looking for a good mix of entertainment and peace and quiet.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Zeavola Resort – wellness hotel with a treehouse vibe

Good value: Dee Dee Sea Front – accommodation right on the beach
Read all our tips for Koh Phi Phi:

How to Get to Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi can only be reached by boat or ferry. Plan for about two hours for the crossing from Phuket; from Koh Lanta, the crossing takes about one hour.

Beautiful Beaches

Koh Samet

Koh Samet is surprisingly expensive compared to the rest of Thailand, but it boasts stunning coves and nearly deserted beaches perfect for relaxing — and all just 70 kilometers from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya.

If you’re after exciting nightlife and extensive shopping, Koh Samet will disappoint you. It’s also not ideal if you’re on a tight budget — but if none of that bothers you, you’ll find a real standout here.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Ao Prao Resort – spacious rooms with ocean views

Good value: Baan Ploy Sea – quiet location and private beach

How to Get to Koh Samet

Koh Samet is just a few kilometers from the coast and can be easily reached from the mainland by bus and then by ferry.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta couldn’t be left off any list of the best islands in Thailand. In addition to gorgeous beaches and stunning sunsets, Koh Lanta offers a great mix of entertainment and solitude.

In the northern part — the tourist hub — you’ll find most of the hotels on Koh Lanta, restaurants, small shops, and beach bars, along with a growing number of inland excursions and diving courses. The southern part of the island, by contrast, is very laid-back, with half-empty beaches and only the occasional hotel.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Layana Resort – 5-star hotel in Asian style

Good value: Green Pepper – family-run resort with yoga classes

How to Get to Koh Lanta

The best way to get to Koh Lanta is by bus, which crosses to the island by car ferry twice a day. You can start either from Krabi or from Trang, both on the mainland.

For more information on getting there and tips for the island, check out our article Koh Lanta Tips – one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe has a unique charm, but — let’s be upfront about this — it’s no longer an under-the-radar pick. Tourists from all over the world flock here, especially during peak season. That said, the island doesn’t suffer for it, even if accommodations can be a bit pricier than on other islands.

The Sunrise Beach at the northern end of the island is seriously worth a visit. It’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Akira Lipe Resort – pool area and kids’ club

Good value: Castaway Koh Lipe – beach massages and diving equipment

How to Get to Koh Lipe

The best way to get to Koh Lipe is from Trang or Hat Yai — both are on the mainland and can be reached by flying from Bangkok. From Trang or Hat Yai, plan for about an hour and a half by bus to reach Pakbara Pier, where boats depart for Koh Lipe.

Koh Kood

Koh Kood is actually the fourth-largest island in Thailand, but unlike Phuket or Koh Samui, there is no trace of mass tourism here.

Instead, Ko Kood offers plenty of secluded beaches — each one more beautiful than the last. We also recommend taking a trip into the rainforest. There are several great waterfalls to discover, such as Klong Chao, as well as the so-called Big Tree, which is said to be over 500 years old.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: The Beach Natural Resort – private terrace on the beach

Good value: Suan Maprao Resort – stay overnight surrounded by nature

How to Get to Koh Kood

From Bangkok, you fly for about an hour to the nearest airport in Trat, and from there you’ll need to arrange a transfer to Laem Sok Pier. From there, a boat takes you to the island in about 90 minutes.

Koh Kradan

Koh Kradan is still a genuine off-the-beaten-path find, and mass tourism hasn’t reached it yet. In its place, you’ll find true dream beaches with white sand and azure water. The main beach is fittingly called Paradise Beach. For the most beautiful sunset, head to Sunset Beach.

Make sure to bring enough cash and snacks to Koh Kradan — there’s no ATM and no supermarket on the island. Also be sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as options are very limited.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Mali Kradan – luxurious beachfront bungalows

Good value: Kalume – eco boutique resort with a tropical garden

How to Get to Koh Kradan

From the mainland, the best way to reach Koh Kradan is from Trang. Take a minibus — about 45 minutes — to Pak Meng Pier, then hop on a speedboat to Koh Kradan in 60 to 90 minutes. You can also reach Koh Kradan from Phuket.

Islands for Snorkeling

Koh Tao

If you love diving and want to experience unspoiled nature, Koh Tao is your place. Beyond affordable opportunities to explore the diverse underwater world of the Gulf of Thailand, the island offers a wide range of outdoor activities.

If you enjoy climbing, snorkeling, and hiking, you’ll absolutely love Koh Tao. In the evenings, you can kick back at one of the many beach bars that keep the fun going.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: The Place – small luxury villas with a treehouse feel

Good value: Big Tree Boutique Hotel – very green, sustainable, and charming

How to Get to Koh Tao

You can get to Koh Tao by plane or by ferry from Koh Samui. A flight from Bangkok is a bit more expensive but also more convenient.

Koh Talu

The diverse and colorful reefs surrounding Koh Talu make the island a true snorkeling paradise. It’s also one of the few Thai islands where sea turtles lay their eggs twice a year. The island is very small and quiet — perfect for switching off.

On the western side you’ll find impressive cliffs, and on the eastern side long sandy beaches. Koh Talu, by the way, means “Island with a Hole” — because the tides in the north of the island have literally eroded a hole through the rock face.

Our Hotel Pick: Koh Talu Island Resort – the only hotel, but a very nice one

How to Get to Koh Talu

The best way to reach Koh Talu is from Hua Hin on the mainland, which has an airport. From there, it’s about a two-hour drive to Bang Saphan, where you catch a boat to Koh Talu. The boat ride takes about 40 minutes.

Similian Islands

The Similan Islands are a group of nine islands in total, widely considered one of the best diving destinations in the world. The islands are largely uninhabited and part of a protected nature and marine park — as a result, there are virtually no large hotels with Western-style amenities.

The Similan Islands are best suited for a day trip, for example from Khao Lak on the mainland.

How to Get to the Similian Islands

The best way to reach the Similan Islands is from Phuket or Khao Lak. Buses run from both places to Tap Lamu Pier, from where you can easily reach the islands by boat.

Koh Hae

Koh Hae is also known as Coral Island, and the name says it all — the island is a snorkeling paradise. Colorful reefs, plenty of fish, and even entire schools can be spotted in the bays here — so mask on, fins on, and dive in!

Most visitors come only for a day trip. During peak season, the two largest beaches, Banana Beach and Long Beach, can get a little crowded. But since the excursion is easy to organize, a visit to Koh Hae is absolutely worth it.

Our Tour Tip: Day trip to Koh Hae from Phuket

How to Get to Koh Hae

The quickest way to reach Koh Hae is from Phuket. Our tour tip includes a transfer from many locations on Phuket, bringing you to Chalong Pier. From there, it’s another 20 minutes by speedboat to Koh Hae.

Koh Yao Yai

Although only a short distance from Phuket, Koh Yao Yai remains a secluded paradise that hasn’t yet been overrun by tourists. In addition to stunning beaches and mangrove forests, you’ll find the Duck Ventura Park, where you can let loose on a jet ski.

Otherwise, the island is very much a quiet retreat — and after 9 PM, the whole place is pretty much shut down.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Koh Yao Yai Village – outdoor rain shower, private beach, and infinity pool

Good value: Green Mountain Resort – small beach bungalows surrounded by nature

How to Get to Koh Yao Yai

The easiest way to reach Koh Yao Yai is from Phuket. There is a car ferry that heads to the island several times a day.

Koh Yum

Just a stone’s throw from Koh Phi Phi lies Koh Jum, which has just one paved road. Compared to Koh Phi Phi, it’s much quieter here, and Koh Jum is the ideal place to unwind.

Nature lovers in particular will be delighted — in addition to various species of crabs, you can also spot other island wildlife in their natural habitat.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Koh Jum Beach Villas – beachfront hotel with pool

Good value: Oon Lee Bungalows – modern, stylish rooms

How to Get to Koh Yum

Koh Yum can be reached by ferry or by traditional longtail boat from Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lanta.

Koh Kho Khao

Just a short hop from the mainland lies Koh Kho Khao. It’s still considered a local favorite and is far less crowded than other islands in the country — making it the ideal place to switch off and recharge.

Miles of stunning sandy beaches, lush interior, a handful of hotels, and a few restaurants. That’s about it! So if you’re not in the mood for parties and crowds, this is the place for you.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: C’n’N Beach Resort – panoramic windows and whirlpool

Good value: Hapla Beach Cottage – small beach bungalows with a terrace

How to Get to Koh Kho Khao

The best way to reach Koh Kho Khao is via Phuket. From there, you can get to Koh Kho Khao comfortably by taxi or bus and ferry. It’s worth arranging the transfer from Phuket in advance to avoid inflated prices on-site.

For Nature Lovers

Koh Chang

Although Koh Chang is the third-largest island in Thailand, it’s far less touristy than, say, Koh Samui, and the eastern side in particular offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.

The island is part of the Mu Ko Chang National Park and impresses with expansive rainforests, palm-fringed beaches, and a number of waterfalls well worth a side trip.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Paradise Hill – family-friendly hotel with pool

Good value: Bhu Tarn Resort – a mix of modern and Asian style

How to Get to Ko Chang

Bangkok Airways offers a direct flight from Bangkok to Trat Airport on Koh Chang, though it’s not particularly cheap. If you don’t mind a five-hour bus ride, you can also reach Koh Chang by bus followed by a ferry.

Koh Mook

Koh Mook (meaning “Pearl Island” in Thai) should in some ways be approached with a degree of caution — hotels can be quite overpriced, and if you’re nervous around stray dogs, Koh Mook might not be for you.

With a little planning, though, tourist traps can be avoided, and then nothing stands in the way of discovering Koh Mook’s breathtaking flora and fauna.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Rinna Resort – bungalows with large panoramic windows

Good value: Nurse House – friendly family resort with a grill and vegetable garden

How to Get to Koh Mook

Koh Mook is best reached by speedboat or longtail boat (e.g., from Phuket). There is also regular boat service between Koh Mook and Koh Lanta.

Koh Phayam

Koh Phayam is the second-largest island in the Andaman Sea and is home to just around 600 residents.

For adventurers, the island is an absolute paradise — electricity and Wi-Fi are in short supply here. In return, you get to experience breathtaking nature, take surfing lessons, and enjoy a surprisingly diverse selection of vegetarian and vegan food!

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Phayamas Beach Resort – treehouse bungalows

Good value: Flower Power Farm Village – bungalows in hippie style

How to Get to Koh Phayam

Koh Phayam is best reached (surprise!) by boat. By speedboat, the island is just 45 minutes from the port city of Ranong.

Authentic Thailand

Koh Mak

If you want to experience authentic Thailand, Koh Mak is worth considering. The island is something of a lesser-known spot, as it remains largely undeveloped for tourism.

The downside is that aside from activities like diving, surfing, and kayaking, there isn’t a whole lot to do. That makes Koh Mak most worthwhile if you want to completely disconnect for a few days.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Seavana Beach Resort – water sports on a private beach

Good value: By the Sea Guesthouse – beach house with a nautical vibe

How to Get to Koh Mak

Koh Mak can be reached from Koh Chang in about two hours by ferry. Alternatively, the speedboat journey takes around 45 minutes.

Koh Ngai

Koh Ngai lies about 50 kilometers south of Koh Phi Phi. The island is a secluded paradise — so secluded that outside of peak season, you should plan a little more carefully when it comes to transportation.

Koh Ngai isn’t a typical tourist destination, but it makes up for it by offering the chance to experience Thailand and its people away from the crowds and the noise.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Thanya Beach Resort – outdoor pool and Thai massages

Good value: Koh Ngai Seafood – small hotel between the sea and the jungle

How to Get to Koh Ngai

Koh Ngai is best reached from the provincial capital of Trang (about one hour by plane from Bangkok). From Trang, you can reach the island by boat. The crossing takes about 45 minutes.

Koh Sukorn

Koh Sukorn is a bit sleepy. There are definitely more locals here than tourists — and that’s saying something, given that only 3,000 people actually live on the island.

You can get a real feel for traditional life in Thailand here. The island revolves around fishing, and in the interior you can explore rice paddies and rubber plantations. Traffic is minimal — there are only a handful of cars on the whole island.

Our Deluxe Hotel Pick: Yataa Resort – air conditioning, pool, and bike rental

Good value: Dugong Koh Sukorn – very affordable beachfront accommodation

How to Get to Koh Sukorn

The nearest city with an airport is Trang. From there, Laem Tase Pier is about an hour’s drive away, and you can take a longtail boat that gets you to Koh Sukorn in 20 minutes. You can also reach Koh Sukorn by boat from other islands such as Koh Libong or Koh Mook.

When to Go Where?

For us, Thailand is a great destination in December — you’ll get less rainfall and pleasant temperatures, even though peak season is just beginning and hotel prices are rising. But you can fully enjoy Thailand in other months too.

The Gulf of Thailand offers an ideal travel climate almost year-round, reaching peak temperatures from March through June. Between October and November, however, there can be short but intense monsoon rainstorms, and temperatures drop to an average of 26°C (79°F).

The peak tourist season runs from July through September. In August especially, the most popular islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan can get very crowded. For the Gulf, we recommend the months of April and June — after the European Easter holidays and before the busy summer season.

The rainy season in the Andaman Sea, on the other hand, lasts from late April through late October, with the warmest temperatures between February and April. The water is almost always pleasantly warm, so you can swim even during the rainy season and, with a bit of luck, catch some sunshine too. The driest period runs from November through April.

For the Andaman Sea, we recommend the best travel window as mid-January through April.