Thailand is everyone’s go-to destination if they are looking for a tropical paradise. This Southeast Asian country is blessed with a plethora of beautiful islands with stunning beaches and jaw-dropping scenery. Thus, a vacation in Thailand’s islands will make your tropical dream come true. Then, what are the best islands to visit in Thailand for your next summer vacation? We have a list of the 10 best islands in Thailand that will spice up your Thailand trip. So, check it out!
The Best Islands in Thailand – Summary
Phuket
First on the list is every traveler’s dream paradise, Phuket. It is the largest island in Thailand, located at the tip of Thailand’s west coast. Phuket boasts verdant rainforests, thrilling mountains, glimmering beaches, and a perfect turquoise ocean. Besides that, Phuket is home to the most luxurious resorts in Thailand, as well as never-ending party spots. With the splendid blend of exquisite nature and hype manmade attractions, Phuket is at the top of the list of the best islands in Thailand.
For more information about Phuket, you can access Thailand’s official tourism website here.
How to get there:
Direct flights to Phuket International Airport are available from Bangkok and other major cities in Asia. You can also a 12-hour overnight bus from Bangkok to Phuket
Must-see Places in Phuket: Patong Beach, Surin Beach, Phuket Old Town, Phuket Big Buddha Statue, Sirinat National Park, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, and Phang Nga Bay
Things to Do in Phuket: Sunbathing, diving, snorkeling, island hopping, exploring old towns, going to conservation centers, sightseeing, partying
Koh Phi Phi
At a glance, the beauty of Koh Phi Phi looks otherworldly. The green-clad limestone karsts, crystal-clear ocean, outstanding coral scene, and flour-like coastline show us what ‘paradise on Earth’ looks like. The island could be reached in around 45 minutes from Krabi or Phuket, but it features an unbelievable scene that could rival the two popular destinations.
Koh Phi Phi Islands has six islands, including the famous Phi Phi Don and the untouched Phi Phi Leh. These islands are home to the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. It is no surprise that Koh Phi Phi deserves the title of ‘the nicest island in Thailand’. You can say not to traveling there!
How to get there:
Take a public ferry from Krabi or Phuket. Alternatively, join an all-inclusive one day trip
Must-see Places in Koh Phi Phi: Koh Phi Phi Don, Monkey Island, Mosquito Beach, Laem Tong Bay, Long Beach, and Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint
Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi: Sightseeing from Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint, sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, island hopping, shark watching, rock climbing, cliff jumping, and getting a traditional spa
Koh Samui
The ethereal scene of this island will make you understand why Koh Samui is the prettiest place in Thailand. Koh Samui features a vast coastline with sandy beaches, towering hills draped with verdant jungles, and alluring turquoise waters. Besides its natural beauty, the island is home to the best experiences in Thailand.
You can easily find five-star resorts and lavish beach villas scattered all over the island, as well as budget-friendly accommodations and laid-back towns. Not to mention, Koh Samui has a jubilant nightlife that will lead you to the best party of your life. Thus, Koh Samui has become more popular as it is very accessible from different places.
How to get there: Direct flights are available from Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Alternatively, to save money, you can travel by bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani then hop on a ferry for 1.5-3 hours
Must-see Places in Koh Samui: Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, Lipa Noi Beach, Na Muang Waterfall, Hin Ta, and Hin Yai Rocks, Secret Buddha Statue, and Ang Thong Marine Park
Things to Do in Koh Samui: Snorkeling, diving, beach-hopping, sightseeing, exploring towns and villages, partying, and trying out Thai food
Koh Lanta
Off the coast of Krabi, lies an exquisite tropical island with an unbelievable landscape. Koh Lanta is a tranquil island that boasts a long coast of golden-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and impressive hills. Thus, Koh Lanta is also one of the best sunset spots in Thailand, as the coastline and beaches turn magical when the sun goes down. Although Koh Lanta seems underrated, the attractions and charms of this island are just as interesting as other beautiful islands in Thailand.
Koh Lanta features both charming nature and vibrant everyday life. The island is lined with interesting villages and exciting bars. You will also stumble upon smiling locals everywhere you go. The laidback and friendly atmosphere in Koh Lanta makes it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand.
How to get there: Ride a minivan-ferry from Krabi Airport. The trip usually takes around 1.5 hours.
Must-see Places in Koh Lanta: Bamboo Beach, Klong Nin Beach, Kantiang Bay, Nui Bay, Koh Lanta Old Town, and Lanta Animal Welfare
Things to Do in Koh Lanta: Exploring the island with a scooter, watching the sunset, sunbathing, swimming, sightseeing, taking a cooking class, and sampling seafood
Koh Lipe
Swaying palm trees, pristine beaches, and vibrant local towns are what you can find in Koh Lipe. Thus, it is one of the best islands in Thailand if you want to take a break from your routine. Koh Lipe offers an ideal place to relax as it is generally tranquil and has lesser crowds. For that reason, Koh Lipe is dotted with star accommodations, such as beach hotels and luxurious resorts.
Furthermore, you can easily find restaurants, bars, or clubs in Koh Lipe. We recommend going to a beach club during sunset. With delightful drinks and an outstanding orange-dominated sky, watching the sunset at a beach club in Koh Lipe would be perfect. Other than that, Koh Lipe is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in Thailand, which make it perfect for snorkeling.
How to get there: Ferry ride from Pak Bara Pier in Satun province, around 4 hours from Krabi. The ferry ride takes around 90 minutes from the mainland to Koh Lipe.
Must-see Places in Koh Lipe: Bamboo Beach, Klong Nin Beach, Kantiang Bay, Nui Bay, Koh Lanta Old Town, and Lanta Animal Welfare
Things to Do in Koh Lipe: Relaxing at the beach, scuba diving, snorkeling, island hopping, watching the sunset, partying, staying in beach resorts, and exploring local towns
Koh Kradan
Are you looking for a non-touristy, beautiful island in Thailand for your next vacation? Then, head to Koh Kradan! On this Southern Thailand island, you can know what it feels like to have a private island. Koh Kradan is serene and relaxing, with a small number of tourists traveling to the island. Thus, it features untouched beaches, jungle-clad terrains, and a brilliant blue sea that will take your breath away.
Moreover, Koh Kradan is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Thailand. You can find an array of colorful corals and diverse fishes underwater. Although Koh Kradan may seem isolated, it has several gorgeous villas that make sure you get everything you need. So, are you interested stay in this lovely Thailand island?
Must-see Places in Koh Kradan: Kradan Beach, Ao Pai Beach, Ao Niang Beach, and Sunset Beach
Things to Do in Koh Kradan: Relaxing at the beach, swimming, snorkeling, staying in beach resorts, learning to scuba dive, and going for a day trip to nearby islands
Koh Mak
Stunning and pristine, Koh Mak is a hidden gem in Thailand! The small island is located in Eastern Thailand. You might not have heard about this island, but it has a natural beauty and exciting vibes that are worth hyping. The island is home to a series of picturesque beaches with soft golden sand, dangly palm trees, and glimmering turquoise waters.
The main thing about Koh Mak is the serene atmosphere. The island has almost no bars or nightclubs, but it is dotted with beautiful beach resorts and holiday inns. There are also a few gyms, yoga classes, and community spaces for you to mingle with other travelers. Moreover, the main roads of this island are relatively quiet, with only a few vehicles. So, if you want to have a tranquil getaway, Koh Mak is the perfect place!
Click here for more information about Koh Mak.
How to get there: Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport then continue with a ferry to Koh Mak. Ferry usually embarks from Laem Ngop Pier
Must-see Places in Koh Mak: Koh Kham, Iaem Son Beach, Koh Kham Museum, and Ao Suan Yai Beach
Things to Do in Koh Mak: Relaxing at the beach, diving, snorkeling, going for boat tours, cycling, kayaking, staying at beach resorts, and visiting museums
Koh Mook
If you are dreaming of amazing island life, Koh Mook is for you! Koh Mook is a small island located in the Andaman Sea on the Southern coast of Thailand. It boasts an extraordinary natural beauty, which comprises gigantic limestone cliffs, fine beaches, and enticing rainforests. Like other southern Thailand islands, Koh Mook boasts a perfect turquoise ocean. For that reason, Koh Mook is one of the best islands in Thailand.
Besides enjoying its alluring nature, you can also immerse yourself in Koh Mook’s everyday life. There are several bars, restaurants, and shops run by locals. You can also see lovely local villages and meet friendly faces. Furthermore, Koh Mook is relatively uncrowded and serene. That’s why travelers are heading to the island for the perfect tropical vacation!
Must-see Places in Koh Mook: Emerald Cave, Sivalai Beach, Farang Beach, Sabay Beach, and Koh Mook Viewpoint
Things to Do in Koh Mook: Beach hopping, snorkeling, swimming in the Emerald Cave, canoeing, kayaking, bar hopping, trying out local cafes, and seeing local villages
Koh Tao
Looking for an awesome place for scuba diving in Thailand? Koh Tao is for you! In Thai, Koh Tao means ‘Turtle Island.’ This name represents Koh Tao’s renowned underwater wonders, where sea turtles and other marine creatures roam the waters. Moreover, Koh Tao has one of the most diverse coral reefs in Thailand. You can see vibrant marine life as you dip inside the waters.
Other than underwater scenery, Koh Tao has an exquisite coastline and beautiful landscape. The beaches in Koh Tao call you for a great sunbathing session. Besides that, Koh Tao has a feisty nightlife and luxurious vacation options. In a nutshell, Koh Tao is the dream destination for those who love tropical islands!
For more information about Koh Tao, you can access the official website here.
Must-see Places in Koh Tao: Ao Tanot Bay, Koh Nang Yuan, Sai Nuan Beach, John Suwan View Point, and Sairee Beach
Things to Do in Koh Tao: Diving, snorkeling, trekking, beach-hopping, exploring the island with a scooter, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding
Koh Chang
This unique island in Thailand is calling you for an adventure! Shrouded in lush rainforest, Koh Chang is home to diverse wildlife species. From colorful birds to gentle deer, many animals call this island home. Thus, there are a handful number of elephants living on this island. It’s the reason behind the name of this island, because ‘Koh Chang’ means ‘Island of Elephants’! Koh Chang is recognized as one of the best islands in Thailand for its magnificent wildlife and extravagant nature.
The beaches in Koh Chang are also wonderful. They feature fine golden sand, glimmering waters, and a hint of green from the surrounding jungles. Besides that, the turquoise waters also keep beautiful marine life. Furthermore, Koh Chang is a lively island. It has an unforgettable scene of beach resorts, bars, and restaurants.
How to get there: Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport then continue with a ferry to Koh Chang. There are four daily flights from Bangkok which the ferries are scheduled on.
Must-see Places in Koh Chang: Klong Prao Beach, Khong Phlu Waterfall, Koh Rang Diving Spot, White Sand Beach, and Koh Chang Night Market
Things to Do in Koh Chang: Snorkeling, diving, going to wildlife sanctuaries, visiting waterfalls, enjoying beach clubs and bars, relaxing at the beach, going for street food-hunt, and hiking
Explore the Best Islands in Thailand
All these beautiful islands in Thailand look wonderful, right? Are you thinking about traveling to Thailand and visiting one of the islands? Then, JoinMyTrip has extraordinary trips to Thailand for you. Hosted by experienced travelers, you will get the best out of the gorgeous country. Moreover, you will travel with like-minded travel buddies and create lasting memories together. Sounds amazing, right?
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