Thailand Islands: Guide to Choosing the Best One in 2024

Thailand is a dream destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventurers. This Southeast Asian country has more than 300 islands, some of which are among the most beautiful and pristine in the world. Whether you are looking for relaxing on white sandy beaches, exploring underwater worlds rich in biodiversity, discovering Buddhist temples, or having authentic experiences with the locals, you will surely find your happiness in the Thai islands.
But how to choose among so many possibilities? What is the best time to go? How to get to the islands? In this article, we give you all the tips and information you need to plan your trip to the tropical islands in Thailand. We also present to you our selection of the best islands to visit in this article.

Written by Hung DAO (Local Expert) Updated on 06-04-2024

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1. Map of the islands in Thailand: Which coast to choose?

The south of Thailand is world-renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tropical islands offering stunning natural landscapes. With the Andaman Sea to the west and the Gulf of Thailand to the east, the scenery and monsoon seasons vary from one coast to the other.
Krabi, Phuket, the Phi Phi islands and Koh Lipe are among the most renowned and spectacular destinations in the Andaman Sea, on the west coast of Thailand. If you are looking for peaceful beaches, diverse marine life and a serene atmosphere, the Andaman coast could be the ideal destination for you.

On the other hand, if you want to combine cultural immersion and lively nightlife, the Gulf of Thailand is a perfect choice. Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are names that immediately come to mind when talking about the east coast.

Each island in the south of Thailand has its own personality and promises you sun, sand and sea. You will also be able to enjoy delicious culinary specialties and discover some of the most beautiful seaside resorts you have ever seen, all at attractive prices.

2. When to go according to the season?

In Thailand, the monsoon season varies from one coast to the other. The southwest monsoon, coming from the Indian Ocean, prevails from May to October, bringing constant showers and heavy torrential rains on the Andaman Sea, on the west side. During this period, many resorts on the beautiful Andaman Islands are usually closed.
Thus, to fully enjoy the islands such as Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh He, Koh Lanta and others in the Andaman Sea, it is best to plan your trip between late October (when the rains stop) and May. The ideal period to visit the islands of the west is particularly between October and December, with pleasant temperatures, calm waters conducive to leisure activities and sightseeing.

The islands of the Gulf of Thailand, such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, generally receive less rain than the rest of the country, even during the rainy season, and are dry between January and August. The months of late January to mid-March offer the best conditions. Note that in October and November, it is better to avoid traveling, as these months are often rainy and not conducive to swimming.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, it is recommended to avoid the months of July and August, which are usually very busy by Australians and Europeans who flock to the popular Thai islands during the summer holidays.

Why not treat yourself to a vacation on Thailand's islands, where you can enjoy the best of nature, food, and nightlife with our tailor-made tours?

3. Top of the paradise islands on the West Coast

3.1. Krabi, the tropical paradise between sea and cliffs

Krabi, located on the west coast of the southern peninsula of Thailand, welcomes you with its majestic limestone pillars, its lush mangroves, its expansive waters and its spectacular coastline. This city gives the impression of being on a paradise island. Along its 20 km of coast, Krabi offers many beaches, the most beautiful of which is Railay Beach, a true haven located on a peninsula separated from the rest of the coast by imposing karst cliffs.

This peninsula is divided into three parts. Railay Beach West, surrounded by limestone cliffs, offers swimming opportunities and a stunning view of the sunsets. Railay Beach East is famous and popular with foreign tourists for climbing. Indeed, a limestone cliff suitable for this activity is located at the end of the beach. Phra Nang Bay, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, houses the Phra Nang cave on its coastline, where there is a sanctuary revered by the sailors of the region.

Krabi is easily accessible thanks to its international airport located only 15 km from the city center. It is connected to major Thai cities such as Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket, as well as neighboring countries such as Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

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3.2. Koh Phi Phi, the archipelago with the mythical Maya Bay

Located in the famous Andaman Bay, the Koh Phi Phi archipelago is the pearl of the region. Composed of six different islets - Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Phi Phi Leh, Koh Mai Phai, Koh Yung, Bida Nok and Bida Nail - this archipelago offers landscapes worthy of a postcard. The two main islands are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. Accessible in just 45 minutes by speedboat or 90 minutes by ferry from Phuket or Krabi, these islands are true tropical paradises in Southeast Asia.

Phi Phi Don is the largest and main island of the archipelago, and it is also the only one of the six islands to be inhabited. The waters surrounding the Phi Phi islands are teeming with exotic marine life, including docile leopard sharks. Snorkeling and scuba diving compete with lazing on the beach as the main activities on Koh Phi Phi.

Koh Phi Phi Leh, with its famous Maya Bay, is the place where the popular movie "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed in 2000. The bay is surrounded by karst rocks covered with trees on three sides and is accessible by a narrow strait. Maya Bay is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world and has attracted many tourists who have left their mark.

In order to preserve this fragile ecosystem from the effects of over-tourism that have damaged the nature and marine ecosystems in recent years, the famous Maya Bay has been closed to visitors since 2018 to allow the recovery of the environment. It reopened in October 2022.

3.3. Phuket, an oasis of natural and cultural diversity

As the largest island in Thailand, with an area of up to 540 km², Phuket is a must-see destination located in the south of the country. This island offers an incredible diversity, with its large and small islands, its mountain ranges, its caves, its waterfalls, its cliffs and its virgin forests.

The beaches of Patong, Surin, Kamala, Kata and Karon, located on the west of the island, are very popular with tourists and offer idyllic settings, perfect for memorable photos.

If you are looking for a more relaxed and authentic experience, head south to Cape Panwa. For those who prefer high-end experiences, head north to Laguna, where you will find a resort complex offering restaurants and entertainment venues suitable for families. No trip to Phuket would be complete without a visit to the magnificent Phang Nga Bay, famous for its spectacular limestone formations and azure waters.

The old town of Phuket, with its heritage architecture and Thai, Chinese, Indian and Malaysian communities living in harmony, offers a unique cultural experience. It is an interesting place to eat and discover a different atmosphere from that of the lively beaches.

Phuket has an international airport, the second busiest in Thailand after Bangkok. Direct flights are available from India, Australia, Malaysia and other countries, as well as domestic flights to facilitate your arrival and departure.

3.4 Koh Lanta, an island paradise with multiple faces

When we talk about Koh Lanta, we refer to a vast archipelago composed of 52 islands off the Andaman Sea. The name "Lanta" is supposed to derive from the Thai words "koh lan daa", which mean "island with millions of eyes".

The main islands of the archipelago are Koh Lanta Yai (the big island) and Koh Lanta Noi (the small island), connected by a bridge. Koh Lanta Yai is the center of tourism in the region, while Koh Lanta Noi offers a peaceful retreat with its rubber plantations, palm trees, deserted beaches and local Muslim fishing villages. Although we recommend you to base yourself on Koh Lanta Yai for more convenience while Koh Lanta Noi offers a peaceful retreat with its rubber plantations, palm trees, deserted beaches and local Muslim fishing villages. Although we recommend you to base yourself on Koh Lanta Yai for more convenience, exploring the small island will offer you a totally different experience of life in the south of Thailand.

Be sure to visit the famous Mu Koh Lanta National Park and the National Marine Institute of Thailand, which offer unforgettable experiences and allow visitors to deepen their knowledge of marine biodiversity.
If you have enough time to stay in Koh Lanta, you can also visit the lighthouse located in the south of the island and explore the surrounding islets such as Koh Ngai, Koh Muk, Rai Koh, and many others. Do not forget to enjoy water sports such as swimming, boating, windsurfing, scuba diving and coral watching, to live unforgettable experiences.

3.5 Koh Lipe, ideal spot for snorkeling

Located at the southern end of Thailand, Koh Lipe is a small island that is part of the Koh Tarutao National Marine Park archipelago and located at the border with Malaysia. Nicknamed the "Thai Maldives", Koh Lipe is a true gem for beach lovers. Its fine sandy beaches, turquoise waters, coconut trees and diverse marine life offer a paradisiacal holiday experience.  
Koh Lipe has three main beaches. The island's main activities include snorkeling, scuba diving and excursions to the surrounding islands on day trips. 

The calm and crystal clear waters make Koh Lipe an ideal place for snorkeling, with 25% of the world's tropical fish species present in the area. You will be able to enjoy relaxing holidays, away from the crowds of tourists. The classic tours will take you to different islands, such as Koh Tarutao, Koh Adang, Koh Rawi and Koh Yang
You can reach Koh Lipe by ferry from Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Krabi, as well as from Langkawi. 

3.6 The Secret Islands of Trang to discover 

Located along the magnificent Andaman coast, the sparkling islands of Trang offer a quiet retreat, away from the more well-known tourist destinations such as Ko Lanta, Ko Phi-Phi and Phuket. Thanks to improved transport links and short distances between the islands, these sunny gems promise you a unique seaside experience. 
With nearly 46 islands spread over 200 kilometers of coastline, you will still find vast preserved areas, protected by three national parks and an ecological approach to tourism. Among them, the island of Koh Muk is the main attraction of the region. Renowned for its emerald cave, you will have to swim through a dark tunnel to access it. Once outside, you will be amazed by a beautiful beach, once a hideout for pirates. This unique experience will remain etched in your memory. 

But the island of Koh Muk is not limited to its cave. Part of the Chao Mai National Park, it offers a lush and preserved nature, with vast stretches of jungle to explore. The snorkeling sites around Koh Muk are also spectacular, offering the opportunity to observe clownfish and giant starfish. 

4. The must-sees of the East coast 

4.1 Koh Tao, the turtle island with stunning reefs

Koh Tao, nicknamed the turtle island, is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand, north of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Nestled on the east coast of Surat Thani, in Thailand, this island is surrounded by two other neighboring islands, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Koh Tao gets its name from its link with the sea turtles that live there. Although their population is not as abundant as it used to be, it is still possible to observe green turtles and hawksbill turtles in some areas, such as Shark Bay. In addition, the shape of the island resembles a turtle seen from Koh Phangan. 

The natural beauty of Koh Tao, both on land and underwater, attracts thousands of visitors every year. Its superb coral reefs and abundant marine life in clear and warm waters make it an unforgettable destination for divers, adventurers, and travelers. 

4.2. Koh Phangan, the party capital and the paradise beaches

The island of Koh Phangan, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand between Koh Samui and Koh Tao, is an emerging destination that does not lack charm. Although it is not as famous as some other tourist islands, Koh Phangan has its own unique appeal. 
Popular among backpackers, the island offers a multitude of beaches and tropical forests to explore. Among them, Haad Rin is considered the most beautiful beach of Koh Phangan. Every year, it hosts the famous Full Moon Party, a lively festival of music and dance. Haad Rin is also ideal for sunbathing and scuba diving. Visitors also enjoy the magnificent temples present on the island.

Getting to Koh Phangan can be slightly complex, but you will find that every mile traveled was worth it. Located about 400 miles south of Bangkok, the island is accessible by taking a bus or train from Bangkok to Koh Samui, then boarding a boat for a 45-minute ride to Koh Phangan. Once there, you will be rewarded by the natural beauty and the enchanting atmosphere of the island.

4.3. Koh Samui, the privileged island for luxury holidays

Koh Samui, one of the most famous islands in Thailand for holidays, attracts about one and a half million visitors every year. Renowned for its upscale resorts, it is ideal for romantic getaways and family vacations. Despite the boom in tourism, the island maintains a lively economic activity focused on the production of coconut and rubber.
As the second largest island in Thailand, Koh Samui offers much more than beaches and fishing villages. Its landscape is marked by a dense tropical jungle, notably the Khao Pom mountain that rises in the heart of the island.

The intrepid adventurers will be able to embark on the exploration of this almost impenetrable jungle, while the relaxation lovers will be able to enjoy the pleasures of island life. Jeep safaris and mini-treks are also offered to discover the hidden treasures of Samui. It is good to note that the rates on this island are slightly higher than on other destinations, but the experience is worth it.

4.4. Koh Chang, a wild jewel nicknamed the Elephant Island

The island of Koh Chang, also nicknamed the elephant island because of its shape that reminds of this majestic animal, is the third largest island in Thailand, surpassed only by Phuket and Samui. Located about 300 kilometers east of Bangkok, in the province of Trat, in the Gulf of Thailand near the Cambodian border, it offers a naturally splendid setting.

From its jungle-covered peaks to its panoramic bays, from its impressive waterfalls to its teeming coral reefs, from its beach huts to its luxury resorts, Ko Chang offers a unique experience to all visitors. The island is integrated into the Mu Ko Chang National Park and, despite its growing tourist development over the last decade, it has preserved its secluded character and natural beauty.
Here, you can indulge in various water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing, fishing, and scuba diving. Flights connect Bangkok to Trat, from where you can take a ferry to reach the island. 

5. How to access the islands?

When visiting the islands of Thailand, you will have many travel options. However, it is important to consider your Thailand itinerary, as there is plenty to see and do both on the mainland and on the different islands.

You can choose to fly from Bangkok or from airports serving the main Thai islands, such as Phuket and Koh Samui, to begin your island exploration by taking a ferry.

Some travelers choose to start their journey from Bangkok by heading to the south of the country by different means of transport.

Our last words, 

Located along the majestic Andaman coast and the Gulf of Thailand, it is no wonder that Thailand is a true island paradise with hundreds of islands, large and small. The islands of Thailand are truly the ultimate jewel of this magnificent tourist destination.
If you have not yet had the opportunity to explore Thailand, consider planning a vacation in this country and choose one of the islands mentioned above for an incredible experience. Whatever your choice, you will not be disappointed by the islands you will visit.

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