My useful information to Thai islands ought to show you how to discover probably the most lovely island in Thailand throughout your go to to South East Asia.
Making an attempt to plan a visit to Thailand could be a little daunting. There are a staggering 1430 Thai islands, and 50 of these have lodging! However don’t panic. I’ve travelled extensively all through Thailand and have compiled all my prime ideas that will help you select the most effective Thai islands to go to to fit your vacation model. I’ve additionally listed the most effective issues to do in every island and prime ideas that will help you determine probably the most lovely island in Thailand to go to.
Often known as the land of smiles, Thailand is the proper spot for a primary timers vacation to South East Asia, and in addition the most effective place begin to a backpacking journey. From the bustling metropolis of Bangkok to its idyllic islands, Thailand actually has all of it.
Kaitlin x
Southern provinces of Thailand (Changwat)
Phuket
Greatest Months to journey: November – April.
Phuket is taken into account the most effective islands in Thailand to go to, due to having a global airport making it exceptionally simple to succeed in. I extremely suggest Phuket for every type of travellers, together with households and {couples}. The island incorporates a charming previous city, temples, waterparks, and incredible day journeys to close by islands.
My private highlights embrace visiting Huge Buddha and exploring the Sunday Strolling Road Market in Phuket Previous City. For these on the lookout for a vigorous ambiance, Patong Seaside is understood for its vibrant nightlife, so it may be greatest for households to decide on various areas.
High Tip: If you’re planning to only keep in Phuket undoubtedly e book a day journey to Koh Phi Phi whereas your there. Additionally attempt keep in Phuket previous city on a Sunday for the strolling avenue market.
Advisable resorts – Karon, Kata, and Bang Tao.
For younger and vigorous backpackers – Patong seashore.
Eating places to e book – Naughty Nuri’s & Salsa Mexican each in Patong.
Krabi
Greatest Months to go to: November – April
Krabis is a part of the mainland so technically its not an island, however it’s usually thought of one by holidaymakers, and it some of the common resorts in Thailand to go to.
Ao Nang is the principle seashore resort. It’s lined with outlets, bars and eating places and has a brilliant vacation really feel. You are able to do many day journeys from Ao Nang together with Railay Seaside, Mountain climbing, Scorching springs and Krabi previous city.
Greatest resort to remain – Ao Nang Seaside Space
High Tip– There is no such thing as a have to e book a tour to Railay seashore simply bounce on the longtail boat. Get a ticket from the kiosk beside the seashore for €4 return and discover the world your self!
Don’t miss– Ao Nang landmark evening market
Koh Phi Phi
Greatest Months to go to: November- March
Koh Phi Phi is a small island not removed from Phuket, but it surely actually punches above its weight by way of magnificence. It’s probably some of the lovely island in Thailand with fairly winding streets and wonderful blue water. It’s a common selection for day journeys from Phuket and Krabi so count on it to be busy!
No automobiles are allowed on the island so everybody rents bikes or will get round by foot. Additionally it is recognized for some nice seashore events and hearth exhibits. The favored day journeys embrace among the most well-known islands in Thailand to go to, together with Maya bay from the transfer ‘The Seaside’, Monkey seashore and James bond Island.
Please observe if you’re visiting over Christmas / New yr or Easter make certain to e book your lodging nicely upfront to keep away from disappointment – the island is small and it fills up quick.
High Tip – To keep away from the crowds e book a personal boat tour and go away earlier so you may have the principle sights all to your self.
Meals suggestions – Pirate home & Garlic 1992
Koh Lanta
Greatest Months to go to: November- March
Koh Lanta might not be on everybody’s checklist, as its not as simple to succeed in as different islands or as common. Nonetheless, it’s the excellent selection for travellers preferring a quieter extra relaxed island vibe. Discover Koh Lanta Previous City by taking a leisurely stroll by way of its markets and savouring contemporary seafood on the waterfront eating places. Koh Lanta is considered one of Thailand greatest islands for {couples}.
Restaurant suggestion – Yawee Restaurant
Greatest space to remain: Klong Khong Seaside or Lengthy seashore are probably the most handy places.
Koh Lipe
Greatest Months to Go to: November – April
Koh Lipe is definitely nearer to Malaysia, however is a part of Thailand. This beautiful small island is price a go to you probably have time. Identified for its pristine seashores and pleasant locals, everybody I do know who has visited the island beloved it. Actions on the island embrace snorkelling, kayaking and island hopping, so that you wont be caught for issues to do.
High Tip – Please remember that throughout the off-season, reaching Koh Lipe could be difficult. You would possibly want to make use of a number of modes of transportation, and the journey might take a number of hours. It’s a good suggestion to verify boat and bus schedules upfront when planning your journey. Additionally it is price reserving your lodging upfront for journey in excessive season.
Gulf Islands in Thailand
Koh Samui
Greatest Months to go to: April- October
Much like Phuket, the island of Koh Samui may be very common with households, and is likely one of the prime islands in Thailand to go to. particularly throughout the European summer time college holidays, because the climate is often higher – the climate in Koh Samui tends to be dry from June – September.
You possibly can fly right here immediately from Bangkok and Phuket however not internationally such as you as soon as might. There may be a lot to do and see on the island together with the most effective day tour I’ve ever been on to Ang Thong Nationwide park.
Greatest space to remain – Chewang Seaside or Lamai.
High tip: Don’t miss out on the fisherman’s village market and Coco Tams for a hearth present and sundown in your journey to Koh Samui.
Koh Phangan
Greatest Months to go to: April – October
Famend for its world well-known Full Moon Occasion, Koh Phangan is likely one of the most lovely islands in Thailand – this underrated gem shouldn’t be missed!
For an excellent keep, think about Baan Tai, the place you will discover seashore bungalows for as little as €10 per evening. Thong Sala is one other common space, centrally positioned close to the pier with a bustling meals market and quite a few buying stalls.
I recommend you lease a scooter to discover the island’s sights, together with waterfalls, Zen seashore, the Koh Ma sandbar island and scenic viewpoints – however be sure you have ample insurance coverage! Though considered the most effective social gathering islands in Thailand, Koh Pangan gives a lot extra.
Greatest space to remain – Baan Tai or Thong Sala.
Koh Tao
Greatest Months to go to: April – October
Seeking to scuba dive? Look no additional than Koh Tao. It is likely one of the most cost-effective locations on this planet to dive and has wonderful marine life. Koh Tao that means Turtle Island is a small island close to Koh Samui with tonnes to see and do.
Don’t miss a day journey over to Koh Nang Yuan. It has very related vibes to Koh Phi Phi, however not as busy. You’ll actually take pleasure in this Thai island for those who select to go to.
Greatest space to remain – Sairee seashore
Thailand Q&A
What’s the nicest island in Thailand?
This completely relies on the kind of journey particular person you’re. Personally I beloved Koh Phangan. It has so many hidden gems and the whitest sand I’ve ever seen. The island is understood for the total moon social gathering, however I imagine it’s the most lovely island in Thailand.
I beloved renting a scooter right here and visiting all of the hidden seashores, waterfalls and viewpoints. Koh Phi Phi can be very particular. The island is tiny and doesn’t enable any automobiles or motorbikes so everybody will get round by bike or on foot.
What number of islands are there in Thailand?
Positively greater than you’d assume! There are over 1400 islands in Thailand, though solely 50 of those have lodging. These islands provide a various vary of experiences, from bustling vacationer spots to lush getaways, it’s no marvel island hopping in Thailand is only a common vacation expertise.
Is Thailand costly?
Typically talking Thailand not costly, however not all islands have related costs – some are extra pricey than others. Typically, the extra common the island, the upper the costs. As an illustration, Phuket, with its worldwide airport, attracts numerous vacationers yearly, and its common resorts are usually pricier in comparison with these on less-known islands.
High Tip: Native dishes at all times provide the most effective worth.
A neighborhood meal ought to price between €1 – €5 relying on location.
Western meals (Burgers, Pizzas and so forth) €5- €15.
Cocktails €2.50- €10 relying on location
Excursions roughly €7 – €40.
Which Thai island is the most affordable?
Personally, I discovered Koh Lanta to supply the most effective worth. In contrast to Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, it doesn’t appeal to as many vacationers, which could contribute to its affordability. The island is extra unfold out, and native companies are likely to hold their costs low and aggressive. For instance, I paid simply €7 for a full-day boat tour in Koh Lanta, however you would possibly pay double this in Koh Phi Phi.
What’s the greatest time of yr to go to the Thai islands?
The perfect island to go to in Thailand actually relies on the time of yr you’re visiting and your private vacation model. Nonetheless, if you wish to attempt to keep away from the wet seasons, it’s best to go to the islands within the Gulf of Thailand, akin to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao from April to October.
In distinction, Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Phi Phi are greatest loved from November to April. Total, the optimum time to go to Thailand is probably going between December and April.
High Suggestions for visiting Thailand
- Pack Mild: Because of the warmth and humidity, carry solely your lightest and most snug summer time garments.
- Communication Tip: Thai individuals are very variety and well mannered, however converse slowly to make sure they’ll perceive you.
- Foreign money: The native forex is baht. It may be complicated at first, however keep in mind that roughly 40 baht equals €1, and 400 baht equals €10. This conversion may also help you get accustomed to the costs.
- Transport: Getting round is simple, as choices like tuk-tuks and ferries are plentiful. All the time e book domestically or use on-line reserving companies like 12GoAsia.
- Meals: When you’re not a fan of Thai meals, Western choices could be pricy, particularly in eating places. Nonetheless, it’s price making an attempt native dishes—you would possibly find yourself liking them! My favourites are Koh Soi, Pad Thai, Yellow Noodles and Mango sticky rice.
- Tipping: Tipping isn’t obligatory in Thailand, so employees don’t count on it. Nonetheless, it’s a pleasant gesture since all the pieces is sort of inexpensive.
- ATM Charges: Remember that ATM charges could be excessive. It’s higher to withdraw bigger quantities of money without delay and hold it safe.
- Full Moon Occasion: When you’re backpacking, plan your journey across the Full Moon Occasion in Koh Phangan. Even for those who’re not into partying, the island’s vibrant ambiance is price experiencing.
- Cut price: Don’t hesitate to barter costs for all the pieces, together with excursions, garments, and tuk-tuks.
I’ve been to Thailand 3 instances now and might actually say its the most effective locations I’ve ever travelled to. Thailand was my first cease throughout my tour South East Asia and it was the proper place to begin. I hope you take pleasure in Thailand as a lot as I did.
Kaitlin x
Whereas each effort is made to make sure accuracy, descriptions and costs are topic to vary. A few of the hyperlinks on this submit include affiliate hyperlinks, the place I obtain a small fee if a reserving is made, however at no extra price to you.
