VACATION ISLANDS OF THAILAND

Koh Chang island is located in Trat Province.

The main attractions are the beaches, coral reefs and marine life, rain forests and wildlife.

Koh Chang is Thailand’s third-largest island which is also a part of the Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park. The island is renowned for its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches like White Sand Beach and Kai Bae Beach. These are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside dining. Snorkeling and diving the coral reefs, kayaking and paddleboarding provide you with adventurous ways to explore the island’s crystal clear waters.

You can trek through the island’s dense jungle to discover hidden waterfalls like Klong Plu or experience traditional Thai culture in fishing villages like Bang Bao which is known for its stilted houses and fresh seafood markets. The island features a range of accommodation, from budget friendly bungalows to luxurious beachfront resorts.

To get to Koh Chang, take a flight from Bangkok then mini bus and ferry, or bus from Bangkok and ferry.

Koh Lanta island is located in Krabi Province.

The attractions here are the long uncrowded beaches, scuba diving, and caves.

There are several islands that make up Ko Lanta. Ko Lanta Yai (big) is the main tourist island and Ko Lanta Noi (small) the other main island.

Koh Lanta Yai in Krabi province is known for its long stretches of uncrowded shoreline such as Klong Dao and Long Beach. Koh Lanta is the perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. The island’s waters are teeming with marine life, making it a top destination for snorkeling and diving.

You can explore Lanta Old Town, a historic fishing village with colorful wooden houses, local markets, and waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. For the more adventurous, the Mu Ko Lanta National Park offers jungle trekking and panoramic viewpoints, while mangrove kayaking lets you connect with nature.

To get to Koh Lanta, take a ferry from Phuket to Ko Lanta via Ko Phi Phi.

Koh Phi Phi Don and Kho Phi Phi Leh are located in Krabi Province.

Popular attractions include the beaches, mountains and cliff faces.

Phi Phi is an archipelago in the Andaman Sea and one of Thailand's most iconic and popular destinations. Phi Phi Don is the largest and only inhabited island. This island is a hub of activity with lively beachfront bars, international restaurants, and boutique accommodation.

Just a short boat ride away, the smaller un-inhabited Phi Phi Leh captivates visitors with its unspoiled beauty, particularly at Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. Maya Beach was previously closed to allow it to recover from damage by excess tourism but is now open under strict rules and regulations. Snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are popular ways to explore the surrounding crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

Koh Phi Phi offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. You can hike up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the island’s twin bays or take a sunset boat tour for unforgettable views of the Andaman horizon. Despite its popularity, the islands maintain a sense of laid-back charm, with car-free roads and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

You can get to Kho Phi Phi Don by taking a short ferry ride from Phuket or Krabi.

Koh Samui is located in Surat Thani Province.

The main attraction includes the Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai temple, beaches, mountains and rain forests.

This is one of Thailand's largest Islands and a well known tourist destination with several luxury resorts and yoga retreats.

Koh Samui is in the Gulf of Thailand and famous for its stunning beaches such as Chaweng and Lamai with its powdery white sands and clear waters.

These beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and a vibrant nightlife. Quieter spots like Mae Nam and Silver Beach offer a more relaxed escape.

Visitors can also explore iconic landmarks like the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) and the picturesque Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations.

Koh Samui also offers a range of various adventure activities. You can hike to the Na Muang Waterfalls, snorkel in the clear waters of Koh Tao, or explore Ang Thong National Marine Park archipelago.

To get to Koh Samui you can take a direct flight or ferry from the mainland.

Koh Samet is located in Rayong Province on the eastern seaboard.

The main attractions are the beaches, snorkelling, parasailing, and the beach restaurants.

To get to Koh Samet, take a mini-bus from Bangkok or Pattaya and then a ferry boat from Ban Pae Pier in Rayong. Note that the large busses only go to Rayong Bus station.

This is a popular island with tourists and locals. There are many beaches, restaurant tables right on the beach, and not so expensive hotels and bars. Also used by Bangkokians for weekend breaks.

This is one of the closest Islands from Bangkok usually taking less than 5 hours total journey from Bangkok. Other more popular tourist Islands are on the eastern and southern areas of Thailand and can take a good days travel. Ko Samet has the town area which is a busier area and with more facilities. Further down the Island the quieter it becomes. If you can swim, take the snorkelling tour around the Island as this is an excellent days excursion.

Phuket Island is located very close to the mainland and accessible by a road and walk bridge.

The attractions on Phuket are the many beaches, rainforest, golfing, scuba diving, and much more.

Getting to Phuket is very easy by direct international flights and flights from Bangkok and other cities in Thailand.

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and a world famous destination that offers the visitor natural beauty, modern amenities, and an International airport with direct flights from other countries. This popular island is located on the Andaman Sea and home to some of Southeast Asia’s most iconic beaches, such as Patong, Karon, and Kata. These sandy stretches cater to a variety of travelers, from those seeking water sports and nightlife to those looking for relaxation and serenity. Phuket also boasts lush rainforests, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints like Promthep Cape.

Phuket is also rich in culture and history. Visitors can explore the charming streets of Old Phuket Town, known for its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, bustling markets, and local eateries. Spiritual landmarks such as the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong provide insight into the island’s cultural heritage. Phuket also has a vibrant dining scene, from beachfront seafood shacks to fine-dining restaurants. You have a wide choice of accommodation available from the many luxurious resorts, hotels, hostels, homes and beach cottages. See the Phuket Island Map with all the popular tourist beaches to stay in Phuket.

There are many other popular tourist islands that are accessible by ferry or speed boat from Phuket Island such as Coconut Island, Koh Yao Noi, Ao Por, Koh Yao Yai, Racha Island, Nakha Yai Island, and Maiton (Honeymoon) Island.

Kho Mak is located in Trat Province.

Attractions include windsurfing, hiking, swimming, snorkelling, bike riding around the island, and the long deserted beaches. There are also guided boat tours to visit nearby islands.

Ko Mak is a peaceful and unspoiled island away from the usual tourist destinations. This island is known for its natural beauty without the beer bars or jet skis.

Nestled between Koh Chang and Koh Kood, this small island has pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere with its low-key vibe and absence of mass tourism. Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai are this islands main beaches and are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.

This island also offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can kayak around the island and visit the many coves and nearby islets. There are also snorkeling and diving tours to coral reefs which are teeming with marine life. The island also has a charming cultural side, with rubber and coconut plantations that you can explore by bicycle.

To get to Kho Mak from the mainland, take a Bangkok Airways flight to Trat Airport then Laem Ngop Pier speed boat service. Take a taxi from Trat city.

Coconut Island or Koh Maphrao as it is locally known, is a peaceful retreat just a short boat ride from Phuket’s east coast. This small island is a haven of natural beauty, characterized by swaying coconut palms and quiet beaches.

Visitors can relax on its pristine shores, take leisurely swims in the warm waters, or explore the island’s mangrove-lined coastline by kayak. The island also offers a touch of luxury and adventure. It is home to a handful of upscale resorts that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering world-class amenities such as beachfront villas, infinity pools, and rejuvenating spa treatments.

For adventure seekers, activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and mountain biking provide exciting ways to explore the island.

Koh Yao Noi is a tranquil gem in the middle of Phang Nga Bay that is just a short boat ride from Phuket.

The island offers a refreshing escape for travelers seeking natural beauty and authentic island life.

The eastern coastline boasts soft sandy beaches like Pasai, perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning sunrise views over the bay's iconic limestone karsts.

For a more immersive experience, visitors can explore the island’s rural charm by cycling through rubber plantations, rice paddies, and local fishing villages, where warm hospitality and authentic Thai culture await.

Kayaking around the bay’s dramatic rock formations, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, or taking longtail boat trips to nearby islands offer endless opportunities to connect with nature. The island also features boutique resorts and eco-lodges that emphasize sustainability and harmony with the environment.

Ao Po is located on Phuket’s northeast coast. This serene destination serves as a perfect gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Phang Nga Bay. The Ao Po Grand Marina is a hub for yacht charters and boating excursions, making it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby islands, hidden lagoons, and limestone karsts. The marina’s chic waterfront ambiance is complemented by upscale dining options, offering fresh seafood and international cuisine with stunning views of the Andaman Sea. Visitors can take a kayak to explore the mangrove forests along the coast. Nearby luxury resorts offer spa treatments and infinity pools that overlook the bay, creating an atmosphere of indulgence and serenity.

Koh Yao Yai is the larger of the two Koh Yao islands in Phang Nga Bay. Located just a short boat ride from Phuket, this tranquil island is characterized by its unspoiled beaches and lush mangrove forests.

Beaches like Loh Pared and Loh Jark are ideal for relaxing in the sun, swimming in calm seas, or enjoying picturesque views of the Andaman Sea. The island’s rural charm is evident in its rubber plantations, coconut groves, and small fishing villages.

Kayaking along the mangrove-lined coasts, snorkeling in nearby coral reefs, and hiking trails that wind through the island’s dense jungles are just some of the activities on offer.

Boutique resorts and eco-friendly lodges cater to travelers looking for both comfort and harmony with nature, offering stunning views and fresh seafood dining experiences.

Koh Racha Yai (big) Island, also known as Raya Island, is a pristine tropical destination located just 12 kilometers south of Phuket. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches, this island is a favorite among travelers seeking a tranquil yet visually stunning escape.

The main beach, Ao PatRacha Island, also known as Raya Island, is a pristine tropical destination located just 12 kilometers south of Phuket. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches, this island is a favorite among travelers seeking a tranquil yet visually stunning escape.

The main beach, Ao Patok, features a crescent-shaped bay with calm, inviting waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Snorkeling and diving are particularly popular here, as the surrounding coral reefs are teeming with vibrant marine life.

Racha Island offers scenic hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints, where visitors can take in breathtaking vistas of the Andaman Sea. Accommodations range from cozy beachfront bungalows to luxurious resorts. Fresh seafood and authentic Thai cuisine are available at the island’s restaurants.ok, features a crescent-shaped bay with calm, inviting waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Snorkeling and diving are particularly popular here, as the surrounding coral reefs are teeming with vibrant marine life.

Racha Island offers scenic hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints, where visitors can take in breathtaking vistas of the Andaman Sea. Accommodations range from cozy beachfront bungalows to luxurious resorts. Fresh seafood and authentic Thai cuisine are available at the island’s restaurants.

Koh Racha Noi is located 20 kilometers south of Phuket Island.

This is a small uninhabited island that remains untouched and is only accessible by boat on day trips.

Clear water and coral gardens surround this island which make it ideal for divers and snorkelers wanting to explore the several available dive sites.

There are no facilities or accommodation on Koh Racha Noi.

You will need to join a boat tour from Phuket or Koh Racha Yai to reach this island.

Maiton Island including resort now closed until further notice.

Maiton Island, also known as “Honeymoon Island,” is a secluded private tropical haven which offers an exclusive and tranquil escape for travelers seeking luxury and natural beauty. The island’s calm and quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for couples, families, or anyone looking to disconnect from the bustling tourist crowds.

In addition to its stunning beaches, Maiton Island offers a range of activities for those eager to explore. For a more indulgent experience, visitors can enjoy world-class dining and spa services at the island’s boutique resorts, which prioritize privacy and exclusivity.

Koh Pha Ngan is located in the Gulf of Thailand between Koh Samui and Koh Tao.

The island offers a mix of relaxation and adventure with waterfalls, hiking to scenic viewpoints, snorkeling and diving around its coral reefs, and a vibrant atmosphere of night time music and dancing.

There are also many peaceful resort retreats located around the island's beaches.