With over 1,400 islands in Thailand, choosing which one to visit can be challenging, as many are worth exploring. Thailand’s islands rank among the top dream destinations globally, drawing travelers from all corners of the world. These islands are spread across four main regions of the country:
- Andaman Islands: Phi Phi Island, Lipe Island, Racha Island
- East Coast Islands: Koh Larn Pattaya, Koh Samet Rayong, Koh Chang
- Gulf Islands: Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Samui, Koh Madsum (Koh Pig)
- Upper Gulf of Thailand: Cha-Am and Hua Hin Beach (technically, these are not islands, but very popular beaches)
Each location represents a unique masterpiece of Thai paradise, offering the beauty of pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. For those planning a trip to Thailand, we’ve compiled a list of must-visit Thai islands you won’t want to miss.
1. Phi Phi Island (Koh Phi Phi) – Krabi
Phi Phi Island, located in the middle of the Andaman Sea in Phuket, is undoubtedly one of the most famous islands in Thailand. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, breathtaking limestone cliffs, and varied marine life, Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. Its stunning landscapes even caught the eye of Hollywood, as the movie The Beach featuring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed here.
- Best time to visit: November to April.
- How to get there: Take a flight to Phuket or Krabi, then board a ferry or speedboat to the island. The journey takes approximately 2 hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi.
2. Lipe Island (Koh Lipe) – Satun
Lipe Island, located in the Andaman Sea in Satun Province and close to Langkawi Island, is often referred to as the “Maldives of Thailand.” The island boasts incredibly clear waters and white sand beaches. Visitors can snorkel or dive to explore the beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life beneath the sea. One unique feature of Lipe Island is the opportunity to witness both sunrise and sunset from different locations on the island—Sunrise Beach and Sunset Beach.
- Best time to visit: November to April (with temperatures around 25-30°C).
- How to get there: Fly to Hat Yai, then take a taxi to Pak Bara Pier and catch a speedboat to Koh Lipe.
3. Tao Island (Koh Tao) – Surat Thani
Koh Tao, part of the Chumphon Archipelago on the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand, is a haven for diving enthusiasts. The island’s crystal-clear waters are rich with coral reefs, diverse fish species, large turtles, and even giant whale sharks, making it a world-renowned diving paradise.
- Best time to visit: December to February.
- How to get there: Though Koh Tao doesn’t have an airport, you can fly to Koh Samui Airport and catch a Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran ferry. Alternatively, fly to Chumphon or Surat Thani and then connect to a ferry.
4. Phangan Island (Koh Phangan) – Surat Thani
Koh Phangan, one of the most beautiful islands in Surat Thani, is often referred to as “Heaven on Earth.” This island is famous for the Full Moon Party, a monthly event that draws revelers from around the globe. The party’s dates align with the lunar calendar, with festivities centered around Haad Rin on Sunrise Beach. The beach is lined with budget bungalows, where backpackers can stay for a few nights of drinking and partying. For those seeking a quieter experience, the northern side of the island offers peaceful beaches like Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.
- Best time to visit: Early December to March.
- How to get there: Fly to Koh Samui Airport, then take a fast boat to Koh Phangan. The journey from Koh Samui takes 30 minutes, while the trip from Donsak Pier on the mainland takes around 2.5 hours.
5. Madsum Island (Koh Pig) – Surat Thani
Madsum Island, also known as Koh Pig, is a quiet and beautiful island that has gradually gained popularity among travelers. The island is famous for its friendly wild pigs, which have become a unique attraction for visitors. Surrounded by coral reefs, Koh Pig is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with a diverse array of marine life. While there are no accommodations on the island, it’s an excellent destination for a day trip.
- Best time to visit: October to March.
- How to get there: Take a longtail boat or speedboat from Koh Samui to Pig Island, a journey that takes just 15-20 minutes. Booking with a local tour is recommended.
Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world, each offering unique experiences, from the vibrant marine life of Koh Tao to the tranquil beauty of Koh Pig. Whether you’re a nature lover, a diving enthusiast, or simply looking for a place to relax and unwind, Thailand’s islands provide something for everyone. Make sure to explore these top five must-visit islands for an unforgettable tropical adventure.
