Thailand hosts hundreds of islands scattered through the glittering Andaman Sea and the gorgeous Gulf of Thailand. Choosing the best islands to visit in Thailand could be one of the hardest things!
These 16 travel bloggers from around the world recommended top Thailand islands to visit. Pick the one you like most and start planning your trip.
PS: you can rate the top Thai islands at the end of the post! Enjoy!
01 | Koh Kood
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Koh Kood is the ideal island paradise in Thailand. Turquoise blue waters and fine white sand backed by lush palm trees, the beaches on Koh Kood will surely capture your heart. The best part? The beaches there are a lot quieter than most Thai islands.
Among the many stunning beaches on Koh Kood, Bang Bao Bay is probably the best choice. This crescent-shaped bay is lined with several picturesque wooden piers and shaded by palm trees. The scene there is truly captivating, especially on a clear sunny day when the palm trees cast their shadows upon the water.
Picture by Mismatched Passports.
02 | Koh Lipe
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Koh Lipe is located in the Koh Tarutao National Park in Southwest Thailand. It is very popular and receives a large amount of tourism (particularly during Chinese New Year), but despite this, it’s still an incredible destination. Our main tip is to base yourself on Sunrise Beach.
You’re surrounded by coral and will see Nemo all the time when out snorkeling. You’re also a 5 minutes tail boat ride from the more remote Koh Adang island where people go to camp and more snorkelling.
Picture by Nomadic Boys.
03 | Koh Phangan
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
You may associate the Thai island of Koh Phangan with the all-night, high energy full moon parties it’s so well known for. However, that is not the main reason to get here. If drinking till dawn is not your thing then visit Koh Phangan outside of full moon and you will find a beautiful, peaceful paradise.
With white sand beaches to relax on, lush green mountains to hike, charming little towns to explore and yoga retreats to balance you, the island of Koh Phangan is a perfect tropical escape. The best way to get around is on moped: many idyllic coves, beaches, and markets are waiting for you to be explored.
Picture by Live, Dream, Discover.
04 | Hong island
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Hong Island is a small island close to Phuket and Krabi in the Andaman Sea and the only way to get there is by a private longtail boat or speedboat.
Definitely look into renting a private boat if you have another person you can split it with it. It’s actually inexpensive and you’re guaranteed some peace and quiet that’s missing on some of the other popular islands in the area like Ko Phi Phi. There’s not a lot to do on this island but relax – so bring a picnic (there’s no restaurant or store!), a book, lots of sunscreens, and enjoy!
TIP: You will probably travel to this island via Krabi. It would be a pity not to pay a visit. Many useful tips and things to see are in this Krabi Itinerary.
Picture by Ethernal Arrival.
05 | Ko Phi Phi
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
There are lots of reasons to love the Ko Phi Phi islands, but, sadly, there are also many reasons to hate them. In the last 10-15 years, this small archipelago of islands in Southern Thailand has gone from an idyllic beach paradise to being overpriced and overrun by tourists.
If you are looking for a place to relax and unwind, this isn’t a place for you, but if there is one thing that you should come to Ko Phi Phi for, it’s a good party! 2 for 1 bucket, beach parties, nightly fire shows, and other entertainment turns every night on Ko Phi Phi into a full moon party experience.
Picture by Drink Tea & Travel.
06 | Ko Thao
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Koh Tao, also known as “The Turtle Island”, is one of the best islands to visit in Thailand. It features beautiful beaches like Sairee Beach, perfect snorkeling points, and delicious restaurants and bars as well. It’s easy to move around and you can find a mixture of wilderness and things to do.
It’s the best choice for those who seek a relaxing day in paradise and some amusing nights out. Don’t miss a boat trip to the near Koh Nang Yuan island and, if you’re into adventure, than you won’t miss a very suggestive scuba dive at Sail Rock.
Picture by Guenda’s Travels.
07 | Rai Leh
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
This peninsula is so stunning that it can compete with some of the best Thai islands. The scenery is enchanting especially thanks to limestone cliffs that surround it.
From three beaches, pick Ton Sai as this is where the best value accommodations are based. If you are backpacker than this is you place. Ton Sai is separated by a jungle hike or wade through the water. Grab a pineapple, mango and coconut milkshake and relax to the beat of the waves.
Picture by Travel the World.
08 | Koh Chang
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Koh Chang is really easy to get to from Bangkok and has some of the best diving. There’s a huge reef system only a short trip from shore with beautiful clear, warm waters.
When you don’t feel like getting in the water, there’s one main road that loops around the island and allows you to explore jungle, waterfalls, wild monkeys and tiny fishing villages. Some of the best food I have in Thailand was at the night market here, too.
Picture by Eternal Expat.
09 | Koh Larn
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Koh Larn is a small island located at the east coast of Thailand. It is the perfect escape from busy Pattaya. In order to get to the island, you need to take a ferry. It costs less than $1!
Why should you visit Koh Larn? It looks like it was taken out of the fairy tale. The beautiful, white-sanded beaches, crystal clear sea and unspoiled nature are something we will never forget. The best way to get around the island is to rent a motorbike. It costs about $8 for a day.
Picture by Karolina Patryk.
10 | Ko Lanta
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Ko Lanta is a gorgeous island with some uncrowded beaches. It offers fantastic scuba diving locales with exotic marine life. When it comes to sunsets, Ko Lanta is a great choice for a relaxed beach destination. Doesn’t really matter if you watch it over a glass of wine with someone you love or alone.
Even on Ko Lanta, where it’s all about the beaches, there are enough small markets, massage parlors, jewelry shops to keep shopaholics happy. It is easy to fall in love with this island because of its quiet and peaceful surrounding, full of natural beauty. The beaches and the sunsets coupled with delicious food makes your stay memorable.
There are as many as 17 amazing things to do in Koh Lanta.
Picture by Le Monde.
11 | Koh Samui
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
It’s not all about the destination, it’s the journey that matters, as the quote goes and landing at Koh Samui by air is one hell of a touchdown! From the airplane window you naturally see a lot of water but also two massive, colorful statues smothering the skyline.
These monuments are the tourist attractions, Big Buddha and Guan Yin. Koh Samui is a popular Thai Island, awash with beach babes and nature lovers alike. Some of the top things to do in Koh Samui include hiring a scooter and riding to Na Muang waterfall. Also, check out the local market at Lamai (slightly less tacky than the party side of the island, Chaweng) is recommended.
Picture by Two Scots Abroad.
12 | Ao Nang
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Ao Nang not technically an island but an amazing paradise nonetheless. Perfectly situated near Krabi airport, Ao Nang makes for one of Thailand’s most accessible paradises. The beach is stunning and flanked by beautiful cliffs giving it an aura of mystery. Along the beach you’ll find a boardwalk filled with restaurants and shopping to suit all desires.
Island hopping tours are inexpensive and will bring you to monkey beaches, cliff diving hotspots and hidden gems. Local fishing boats head out at night offering travelers an awe-inspiring, green glow on the horizon. If you’re heading to Thailand be sure to stop by Ao Nang for another slice of tropical paradise!
To plan your trip, you can also check out this guide to Ao Nang featuring the best beaches and other things to know before going.
Picture by Live Travel Teach.
13| Koh Mak
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Shhhh! The island of Koh Mak is still a very well kept secret, partially due to the face that it is only accessible by either sea kayak or boat. This serenity makes it one os the best islands to visit in Thailand.
Koh Mak is a fun and scenic short boat ride away from Trat, Thailand and it boasts some of the most stunning white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters you will ever see.
Picture by The Vicki Winters Show.
14 | Koh Samet
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Koh Samet! Where to start?! It is so easy to love this island. Yes, it can get pretty busy, but the selling point for us is how close it is to Bangkok. Perfect for emergency beach escapes from the hustle and bustle of the capital!
Koh Samet mid-week is practically dead, and the further south you go the quieter the beaches are! ‘Ao Sang Thian’ is probably the most chilled beach – and avoid ‘Haad Sai Kaew’ unless jetskis and speedboats are your thing! Koh Samet is definitely worth a visit if you’re in and around Bangkok regularly, just try and get there mid-week!
Picture by Am I Nearly There Yet?
15 | Koh Phra Thong
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
Koh Phra Thong must be Thailand’s best-hidden secret for sure! The island is just a few hours from Phuket, but if you’re thinking about partying, noisy people, and pre-made tourist packages, forget it. It’s an adventure to get to the island, but it’s totally worth it.
The most breathtaking sunsets I’ve ever seen, friendly locals, and deserted beaches are what you’ll find here. But this is not all: the interior of the island is pretty special, as it’s a big savannah that will remind you of Africa, with king cobras and all. Just ask a local to bring you around the island for a couple of hours, you won’t regret it!
Picture by Every Steph.
16 | Phuket
Why is it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand?
It would be nearly impossible to talk about best islands to visit in Thailand and ignore Phuket. Phuket is the largest island in the country and its population is nearly 400,000 inhabitants. I tis better to have several days or even a week, as there so many things to do.
Phuket town with its heritage houses is definitely worth spending half a day. Enjoy a massage in one of the spa’s. Keep the rest of the time in Phuket to exploring the beaches featuring feature silky soft white sand. And there is so many of them!
Are you heading there with a family? A fellow blogger posted an useful article about Things to do in Phuket with kids.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THAI ISLAND?
It’s time to start planning your trip to Thailand! This country has so many islands that it’s nearly impossible to visit all of them! Have you been to any of listed places? or perhaps any other island? What was your experience like?
Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this article, please share it on Facebook!
Veronika Tomanova is the founder of award-winning solo female travel blog Veronika’s Adventure, featuring travel tips, guides and stories from around the world. She is from Czech Republic and has been to 30+ countries.
20 Comments. Leave new
Excellent post and very informative. Delighted to be a part of it. Nice one V 🙂
Thank you, guys 🙂 I just have to get to see the Nemo finally!
Thanks for featuring me here. Got to know few more islands which I didn’t know of. 🙂
Thanks for your contribution to the post!
Lots of Thai inspiration! Thanks for featuring us.
Yep, too many great places to go!:]
Stop tempting me! There are so many beautiful beaches, I couldn’t possibly choose.
🙂 Just do one by one:)
Fantastic post and you are giving me lots of ideas as I never been to Thailand. Thank you 🙂
You are welcome. Take it as your TO DO LIST:)
I love that there is a Thai island for everyone, from the busy to the deserted and close to every major connection, and hub. I think one could spend a lifetime just island hopping in Thailand…might not be a bad idea!
True:) It would be great to see all of them!
I’ve never been to Thailand but I hope to visit one day. This list certainly gives some great suggestions of islands to visit. The trouble will be choosing! They all sounds wonderful.
Thanks for cheering up for my blog:)
Wow, this just shows how many more islands I have to visit in Thailand. I love seeing the list of other blogger’s favorites. Just need to start checking them off the list one at a time!
So many places to go, right:)
They all look so beautiful, how could I choose?! Great post Veronika, I enjoyed learning about all the different islands!
I’m headed to Thailand for the first time in a couple of weeks and this has me so excited! I’m not quite sure what to expect with the Kings passing, but I still can’t wait!
Thanks for the inspiration! Koh Samui and Phuket were the only two on this list I recognized, so I have some serious research to start doing before our trip to Thailand next year!