Top 25 Must-Visit Islands in Thailand

Thailand hosts numerous islands, and selecting which islands to visit can be challenging due to their vast number. Fortunately, the islands’ diverse offerings ensure that there exists at least one that aligns perfectly with your preferences. The options range from vibrant party islands to secluded retreats, including islands renowned for their exquisite beaches, as well as those that offer a blend of experiences.

In compiling this assortment, an effort was made to present a variety that accommodates different tastes, so let us delve into the 25 finest islands in Thailand.

1. Ko Chang

Ko Chang stands as the second-largest island in Thailand, encompassing a tropical marine national park. Located to the east in the province of Trat, it now features its own airport, facilitating easier access than ever before. Renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, diverse marine life, coral reefs, lush rainforests, and stunning wildlife, it is evident why this island is a vital destination. The island caters to all preferences, offering accommodations ranging from beachfront bamboo huts to luxurious all-inclusive resorts.

2. Ko Phi Phi Don

Located in the Krabi province, Ko Phi Phi Don is arguably the most recognized of Thailand’s islands, attracting thousands of visitors daily. Access to the island requires a ferry ride from either Phuket or Krabi. The island gained popularity as a tourist hotspot after the film ‘The Beach’ was filmed here in 1999, drastically changing its dynamics. Boasting pristine white sand, towering limestone cliffs rising majestically from the sea, and the interior’s limestone mountains, this island epitomizes a tropical paradise.

3. Phuket

Phuket is the largest of Thailand’s islands and serves as Asia’s most frequented beach destination, home to nearly 400,000 residents and comparable in land area to Singapore. The island features everything necessary for a fulfilling holiday experience. The beaches in Phuket are characterized by their soft white sand and lined with palm trees. Visitors can engage in scuba diving in the Andaman Sea at globally recognized dive sites, enjoy golf at championship-level courses, or explore the favorable tropical rainforest. Given the extensive array of activities available, a mere one or two-day visit would be insufficient.

4. Ko Racha Yai

Situated approximately twelve miles south of Phuket, the Racha Islands comprise Ko Racha Yai and Ko Racha Noi. Primarily inhabited by fishermen and farmers, the best destination upon arrival is Ao Tawan Tok, a U-shaped bay with remarkably soft, white sand. This island has gained popularity among tourists seeking day trips before returning to Phuket in the evening. However, there are several bungalow resorts and dining facilities available. At night, the lack of artificial light allows for spectacular stargazing opportunities.

5. Koh Hae

Just south of Phuket lies Koh Hae, better known as Coral Island, which provides exceptional snorkeling experiences and stunning beaches. The island measures only 2.5km in length and features two fantastic beaches on the northern side, as well as a smaller beach on the southern side. The central part of the island is densely vegetated. Long Beach is the preferred destination for relaxation, sunbathing, and engaging in volleyball due to its expansive space. Several beachfront bars and restaurants complement the available bungalow accommodations for those wishing to stay overnight.

6. Koh Lanta Yai

Located in the Andaman Sea within the Krabi Province, Koh Lanta Yai is a tranquil inhabited island characterized by remarkable beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Many beaches here are often unoccupied, allowing ample space for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle that prevails on many other islands. Visitors can explore a national park and an elephant camp. Renting a scooter is the most convenient way to navigate the island. Long Beach stands out as the most vibrant area, where visitors can relax on the soft sandy shores or enjoy food and beverages at various beachfront bars while watching a fire show. Accommodation options range from basic beach huts to luxurious five-star resorts.

7. Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is situated approximately 60km from the Thai mainland and holds the distinction of being the southernmost among Thailand’s islands. From Koh Lipe, one can spot Langkawi Island in Malaysia, which is, in fact, closer than Thailand. This island is part of a cluster known as the Adang Archipelago and is the sole inhabited island. The established infrastructure includes concrete roads and motorbike taxis for easy transport across the island. It is worthwhile to explore Koh Lipe for a couple of days, owing to its superb snorkeling locations and excellent restaurants offering traditional Thai cuisine.

8. Koh Tao

Commonly referred to as ‘Turtle Island’, Koh Tao serves as a diver’s paradise, featuring clear waters adorned with vibrant marine life. Despite its modest size of 21km in length, it attracts over 100,000 visitors annually who come to experience its stunning beaches and relaxed ambiance. Initially, the island was established as a detention center for political prisoners; however, it no longer bears any remnants of that past.

9. Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for its full moon parties, which can last for days and attract around 30,000 attendees, making it a must-visit for backpackers and young couples alike due to the unforgettable experiences offered. However, the island offers more than just a party atmosphere; the quieter side contains several tranquil beaches, one of which is only accessible by boat. Numerous activities await visitors, such as archery, elephant riding, diving, free diving, and Muay Thai.

10. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is one of the more recognized Thai islands, attracting a diverse range of travelers, from budget-conscious backpackers residing in humble beach huts to affluent individuals vacationing in luxurious five-star resorts. The island features postcard-worthy beaches, considered among the best in the world. Moreover, a plethora of attractions are available to keep visitors engaged during their stay. The Big Buddha temple serves as the island’s most prominent tourist draw, featuring a 12-meter tall Buddha statue. Traveling to Koh Samui is straightforward, thanks to a domestic airport with regular flight services.

11. Koh Phi Phi Leh

A mere 1.5 kilometers from Phi Phi Don lies Koh Phi Phi Leh, an uninhabited island characterized by remarkable vertical cliffs and small sandy beaches. The southern area of the island, Loh Sama, offers snorkeling in crystal clear waters, abundant with colorful coral and tropical fish species. An intriguing attraction on the island is Viking Cave, home to swifts’ nests and rock paintings resembling Viking ships, whose origins date back several centuries, though it is speculated that they may be far older.

12. Koh Samet

Koh Samet is a favored destination for weekend getaways among residents of Bangkok. The island is part of the Khao Laem Ya – Koh Samet National Park and is situated just 5 km off the coast of Rayong. The island boasts numerous resorts, bars, and restaurants, as tourists have visited for years to experience the soft white sand and warm inviting waters. With fourteen beaches to explore, Koh Samet has something for everyone, and after just a few hours, you will understand why visitors return time and again. It is important to note that the island lacks its own water source, so users should conserve water while visiting.

13. Koh Mak

Recognized by the Sunday Times as one of the world’s ten top beach locales, Koh Mak remains relatively new to tourism and is considered a well-kept secret. The island holds the title of the largest privately-owned island in Thailand, featuring approximately 10,000 palm trees, a Buddhist temple, a health center, and various resorts. The marine biodiversity in the region is reputed to be among the finest Thailand has to offer. This island is perfect for couples seeking romance, as the party atmosphere is minimal yet there are still charming restaurants and bars available for evening enjoyment.

14. Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Noi rose to prominence shortly after the turn of the millennium when it was awarded the World Legacy Award for Destination Stewardship, an honor given for being eco-friendly. This peaceful island lacks banking facilities, and the local inhabitants prioritize preserving the island’s natural state, necessitating respectful attire, and limiting alcohol consumption to resorts and restaurants. A small road encircles the island, easily navigable by rented scooters or tuk-tuks. While the island lacks notable landmarks, its simplicity provides a tranquil escape, allowing visitors to unwind and slow down.

15. Koh Phra Thong

Commonly referred to as Golden Buddha Island, Koh Phra Thong acquired its name from a local legend claiming that a golden Buddha was once buried on the island by pirates, though it has never been recovered. This tranquil island offers 15 km of white sandy beaches, often void of tourists. From Koh Phra Thong, one can easily travel to the nearby Surin Islands, recognized as one of Thailand’s prime diving regions for viewing tropical fish and diverse coral formations.

16. Khao Phing Kan

Khao Phing Kan is affectionately known as ‘James Bond Island’ due to its appearance in the classic film ‘The Man With The Golden Gun.’ This island is a necessary stop for those visiting Phuket and opting for a tour. Comprised of two islands enveloped in dense forest, visitors can explore several caves that occasionally flood at high tide as well as two sandy beaches. To fully experience this remarkable area, it is recommended to secure a pre-arranged tour package, which tend to book out quickly due to the iconic status the film has provided; a half-day tour usually suffices to see all that is on offer.

17. Koh Larn

Koh Larn, popularly known as Coral Island, is situated off the coast of Pattaya in the Gulf of Thailand. This small island measures approximately 4km long and 2km wide, with its landscape predominantly featuring dense vegetation as one moves inland; however, the primary allure lies in the six beautiful beaches encompassing the island. Each beach boasts white sand and crystal-clear waters, where visitors can partake in various water sports including parasailing and boating. The Koh Larn Ferry, which operates affordably from the mainland, is the most common method of transportation to the island.

18. Ko Mai Phai

Koh Mai Phai, or ‘Bamboo Island,’ is located approximately 20 kilometers west of Pattaya City. The island is entirely uninhabited, and the only structure present is a lighthouse nestled on the forested hills. Owned by the Thai Navy, the island maintains its pristine beach conditions, which justifies the minimal entrance fee. An afternoon spent on Koh Mai Phai offers relaxation and rejuvenation; snorkeling in its clear waters reveals a vibrant array of tropical fish, or one can venture deeper to explore striking coral reefs.

19. Koh Panyee

Different from the typical island, Koh Panyee showcases a unique environment, predominantly consisting of towering limestone rocks and cliffs. Notably, hundreds of wooden huts, restaurants, and houses are perched on stilts above the body of water. Initially home to fishing villagers, they now sustain themselves through tourism brought by visitors eager to explore this extraordinary location. The island also features a school, souvenir shops, and a mosque, with several bungalows providing budget-friendly accommodations for those wishing to immerse themselves in this island’s culture.

20. Ko Kham

Adjacent to Koh Mak lies this small island, accessible by kayak from Koh Mak or via a walk during low tide. Koh Kham offers a variety of excellent snorkeling spots and features black lava rocks protruding through the white sandy beaches. This island measures no more than 500 meters in length and is privately owned. The sand is among the whitest and softest found anywhere, and remarkably, there are even staff members dedicated to sifting the sand to eliminate any impurities.

21. Koh Wai

As the smallest island in the Koh Chang region, Ko Wai spans only 2 kilometers in length and width. Its interior remains untouched by human development, while the periphery boasts pristine, unspoiled beaches. The island lacks shops, villages, roads, electricity, and vehicles. However, it does provide various accommodation options, each featuring its own pier, connected by a small path. Several restaurants on the island offer a remarkable selection of fresh seafood. Visitors are encouraged to carry a torch for evening strolls, as the paths become nearly pitch black without electricity.

22. Koh Rang Yai

This small island, situated west of Koh Chang, is characterized by tropical rainforests and features the longest beach in the vicinity, attracting many visitors. The sand here is fine and powdery, while the waters are crystal clear. The predominant wildlife includes a variety of birds and reptiles. Camping is permissible on the island, contingent upon prior approval from the ranger office. However, it is essential to note that there are no shops or restaurants, necessitating visitors to plan by bringing their own provisions.

23. Koh Khram Yai

Koh Kram Yai, situated merely a few kilometers off the coast of Pattaya, remains uninhabited, providing an exceptionally secluded escape. The island boasts no shops, bars, or restaurants; instead, it features breathtakingly beautiful beaches for visitors to enjoy in solitude. The steep rocky terrain and cliffs inhibit any potential development. A ferry travels from Sattahip to the island, albeit check the schedule in advance, as access may be restricted during turtle breeding program periods.

24. Koh Kret

Koh Kret is an island carved within a loop of the Chao Phraya River, created through human intervention in the 17th century to enhance the river’s flow. This island has been home to the Mon immigrants for over 200 years. There are no roads or vehicles here, but visitors can explore picturesque wooden houses lining the riverbanks. While on the island, you can purchase traditional earthenware pottery and visit numerous temples and a museum.

25. Koh Bida Nok

Koh Bida Nok translates to ‘outer father’, situated a few kilometers from Koh Phi Phi Leh, and is the southernmost island within the Phi Phi archipelago. In the northern section of the island, divers can partake in excellent wall diving as the limestone cliffs plunge 35 meters into the sea. While the island itself may not offer spectacular sights on land, the underwater life is more than capable of captivating drop; on propitious days, one can witness Giant moray eels, turtles, lionfish, barracudas, and an array of other marine creatures.