Koh Phangan Travel Guide

Overview & Geography

Koh Phangan is a tropical island paradise in the Gulf of Thailand, part of Surat Thani Province in southern Thailand’s premier island region. Covering approximately 168 km² (about 65 square miles—roughly Manhattan’s size but far more rugged)—the island combines legendary nightlife with serene natural beauty, making it suitable for diverse travelers seeking everything from wild beach parties to peaceful meditation retreats.

Location & Access

• Distance from Koh Samui: 15 km by ferry (30 minutes)
• Distance from Mainland: 65 km from Surat Thani
• Island Population: 10,000–14,000 residents
• Ferry Access: Only accessible by boat; no airport on island

Terrain & Landscape

Koh Phangan features a dramatic terrain of mountainous interior with dense jungle coverage, steep hills, and pristine coastline. The island’s highest point, Khao Ra, rises to 627 meters, offering panoramic sunset hikes and viewpoints across the Gulf. The landscape combines white-sand beaches with rocky coves, hidden waterfalls, and lush mangrove forests—creating diverse experiences across different regions.

Main Towns:

• Thong Sala: Primary port and main town (ferry arrivals)
• Chaloklum: Northern beach village, quiet atmosphere
• Haad Rin: Famous party beach and nightlife hub
• Srithanu: Yoga and wellness-focused village

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Best Time to Visit Koh Phangan

High Season (December–March)

Perfect for most travelers

• Weather: Sunny, clear skies, 28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Sea Conditions: Calm, ideal for all water activities
• Crowds: Busiest period, especially December–February
• Cost: Peak pricing, accommodation fills quickly
• Why Visit: Optimal weather, perfect for beaches and island hopping

Pro Tip: Book accommodation 2–3 months ahead if visiting during High Season.

Shoulder Season (April–June & September–November)

Best for budget travelers and those avoiding crowds

• April–June: Getting hotter, occasional rain, fewer tourists
• September–November: Approaching monsoon, cheaper rates, lush greenery
• Weather: 30–35°C with increasing humidity
• Sea Conditions: Generally acceptable but can be choppy
• Cost: 20–40% cheaper than high season
• Crowds: Significantly fewer tourists

Low Season (July–October)

Adventure seekers and budget minimalists

• Weather: Rainy, monsoon patterns (especially September–October)
• Sea Conditions: Rough seas, ferries occasionally cancelled
• Activities: Parties quieter, some tours operate limited schedules
• Cost: Lowest prices, many discounts available
• Crowds: Island feels local and quiet
• Vegetation: Jungle lushest green, waterfalls flowing powerfully

Full Moon Party Considerations

The world-famous Full Moon Party at Haad Rin Beach affects planning significantly:

• Dates: Occur monthly on lunar full moon (check fullmoonpartythailand.com for upcoming dates)
• 2026 Key Dates: Monthly throughout year including New Year’s Countdown (Dec 31)
• Accommodation: Book 2–3 months ahead; prices double or triple
• Crowds: 10,000–30,000 attendees create peak congestion
• Atmosphere: Beach raves with fire shows, neon paint, UV lighting
• Cost: Bucket drinks 300–500 THB, entry varies (often free beach access)

Seeking Peace?: Avoid Haad Rin on full moon dates; Bottle Beach or Thong Nai Pan offer quiet alternatives.

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Climate & Weather

Monthly Overview

Month	Temp	Rainfall	Sea	Best For
January	28–31°C	Minimal	Calm	Swimming, diving
February	28–32°C	Minimal	Calm	Peak season
March	30–33°C	Low	Calm	Diving, hiking
April	32–35°C	Moderate	Calm-choppy	Budget travel
May	31–34°C	High	Choppy	Green jungle
June	30–33°C	High	Choppy	Fewer crowds
July	29–32°C	Very high	Rough	Intrepid travelers
August	29–31°C	Very high	Rough	Monsoon seekers
September	28–31°C	Very high	Very rough	Lowest prices
October	28–31°C	High	Very rough	Lush nature
November	28–32°C	Moderate	Improving	Excellent value
December	28–31°C	Minimal	Calm	Holiday season

Water Temperature: 28–30°C year-round (always swimable)

Monsoon Note: Southwest monsoon (May–October) brings higher rainfall and rougher seas. September–October sees heaviest rain and occasional ferry cancellations.

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Getting to Koh Phangan

From Bangkok

Duration: 12–15 hours total

Option 1: Overnight Bus + Ferry (Most Popular)

• Depart Bangkok 8–10 PM via VIP bus
• Arrive Surat Thani 6–7 AM
• Transfer to ferry (1.5–2.5 hours depending on destination)
• Arrive Koh Phangan 9–10 AM
• Cost: ~900–1,200 THB

Option 2: Flight + Ferry

• Fly Bangkok to Koh Samui (2 hours)
• Ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan (30 minutes)
• Total: 4–5 hours, more expensive but faster

Option 3: Train + Bus + Ferry

• Overnight train Bangkok to Surat Thani
• Bus/shuttle to pier
• Ferry to Koh Phangan
• Cost: Budget option, longer duration

From Koh Samui

• Duration: 30 minutes
• Frequency: Multiple daily sailings
• Operators: Lomprayah (speedboat), Seatran, Songserm
• Cost: 400–600 THB

From Koh Tao

• Duration: ~1 hour
• Frequency: Several daily options
• Operators: High-speed catamarans available
• Cost: 500–700 THB

Ferry Information

• No direct airport on Koh Phangan
• Main Ferry Port: Thong Sala Pier (central location)
• Operating Hours: Most ferries operate 5 AM–7 PM
• Best Booking: Use ThailandBoatTickets.com for reliable booking and schedules

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Beaches of Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan boasts 20+ distinctive beaches, each with unique character. Choose based on your travel style:

Party & Vibrant Scene

Haad Rin (Rin Beach) - The Party Capital

• Character: World-famous Full Moon Party epicenter
• Best For: Nightlife, beach bars, social travelers
• Activities: Beach clubs, raves, fire shows
• Accommodation: Hotels, hostels, bungalows (budget to mid-range)
• Atmosphere: 24/7 energy, never truly quiet
• Caution: Can be rowdy, watch valuables, use buddy system

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Family-Friendly & Swimming

Haad Yao - Perfect for Relaxation

• Character: Long white sand beach, calm waters
• Best For: Families, swimmers, sunbathing
• Activities: Swimming, beach walks, water sports
• Accommodation: Mix of bungalows and resorts
• Atmosphere: Laid-back, good restaurants
• Facilities: Beach bars, massage services

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Luxury & Tranquil Bays

Thong Nai Pan Noi & Yai - Pristine Twin Bays

• Character: Secluded northern bays with powdery sand
• Best For: Luxury travelers, couples, snorkelers
• Activities: Snorkeling, diving, yoga, meditation
• Accommodation: Upscale resorts (Anantara, Panviman, Santhiya)
• Atmosphere: Serene, quieter, sophisticated
• Features: Calm waters, vibrant coral, peaceful vibe

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Remote & Adventure

Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat) - Hidden Gem

• Character: Remote, accessible only by boat or challenging scooter path
• Best For: Adventure seekers, digital detox, secluded travelers
• Activities: Swimming, hiking, hammock relaxation
• Accommodation: Basic bungalows, hippie vibe
• Atmosphere: Isolated, quiet, traveler community
• Access: Boat transfer from Thong Sala or challenging inland route

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Snorkeling & Water Activities

Mae Haad & Malibu Beach - Chaloklum Area

• Character: Shallow turquoise waters rich with marine life
• Best For: Snorkelers, beginner divers, water sports
• Activities: Snorkeling tours, diving instruction, kayaking
• Accommodation: Northern village vibe with resorts
• Atmosphere: Quiet but accessible, local flavor

Salad Beach (Haad Salad) - Yoga & Wellness Hub

• Character: Shallow waters, palm-fringed, wellness-focused
• Best For: Yoga retreats, wellness travelers, snorkelers
• Activities: Yoga classes, snorkeling, wellness treatments
• Accommodation: Yoga retreat centers, wellness resorts
• Atmosphere: Health-conscious, peaceful, international

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Instagram-Famous & Photogenic

Secret Beach (Koh Ma Swing) - Hidden Cove

• Character: Tiny island cove with famous rope swings
• Best For: Photography, day trippers, Instagram explorers
• Activities: Swimming, swing photos, snorkeling
• Access: Boat tour from Thong Sala (30–45 minutes)
• Atmosphere: Crowded during tours but worth visiting

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Hidden Finds

Haad Khom - Quiet Palm-Fringed Beach

• Character: Peaceful, underdeveloped, serene
• Best For: Those seeking escape from party scene
• Accommodation: Few bungalows, local feel
• Atmosphere: Authentic, quiet, minimal development

Leela Beach - Pristine & Secluded

• Character: Powdery sand, remote feel, minimal crowd
• Best For: Couples seeking peace, beach lovers
• Amenities: Basic but adequate
• Atmosphere: Tranquil, quiet, romantic

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Top Attractions & Activities

Natural Wonders

Waterfalls - Jungle Gems

• Than Sadet Waterfall National Park: Historic, multi-tiered cascades with swimmable pools, royal heritage
• Phaeng Waterfall: Island’s tallest waterfall, multi-tiered, hikeable routes
• Paradise Waterfall: Jungle swim opportunity under natural cascades
• Phaeng Noi: Part of scenic trekking loop, hidden jungle feature

Best For: Jungle trekking, waterfall swims, nature photography

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Viewpoints & Sunsets

• Khao Ra Summit: Highest point on island, panoramic sunset hikes, 627m elevation
• Haad Son Viewpoint: Panoramic bay vistas, accessible by scooter or trek
• Domesila Viewpoint: Jungle overlook, peaceful meditation spot
• Lighthouse Area (Laem Son Sea View): Scenic beacon with coastal views

Best For: Sunset viewing, photography, scenic walks

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Cultural & Spiritual

Temples & Religious Sites

• Chinese Temple (Bottle Beach): Hillside temple overlooking beach, cultural significance
• Wat Phu Khao Noi: Hilltop temple, meditation space, peaceful atmosphere

Wellness Retreats

• The Sanctuary (Srithanu): Yoga and wellness center, residential retreats
• Various yoga studios: Scattered across quieter beaches
• Meditation centers: Focusing on mindfulness and detox

Best For: Spiritual exploration, wellness, yoga classes

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Water Activities

Snorkeling & Diving

• PADI Dive Centers: Located in Chaloklum and other locations
• Nearby Sites: Koh Ma (easy snorkeling), Nok Island, Ang Thong Marine Park
• Coral Reefs: Vibrant marine life, colorful fish, sea turtles
• Guided Tours: 1,200–2,000 THB for half/full day

Water Sports

• Kayaking: Mangrove tours, sea kayaking
• SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard): Yoga on water, coastal paddling
• Freediving: Advanced diving for certification
• Boat Tours: Island hopping, snorkeling expeditions

Best For: Ocean lovers, adventurers, marine enthusiasts

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Adventure Activities

Jungle & Land

• ATV/Quad Bike Tours: Explore hillside terrain, jungle routes (~800–1,500 THB)
• Jungle Treks: Guided hiking through rainforest, waterfall discovery
• Scooter Adventures: Self-explore (rental 200–300 THB/day)
• Mountain Biking: Suitable trails available
• Muay Thai Classes: Traditional boxing training (500–1,000 THB/session)

Culinary & Cultural

• Cooking Classes: Learn Thai cuisine preparation (~1,000–1,500 THB)
• Market Tours: Street food exploration, local food stalls

Best For: Active travelers, skill learners, cultural explorers

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Island-Hopping & Day Trips

Ang Thong Marine Park

• Famous For: 42-island protected marine park, stunning scenery
• Day Trips: Boat tours from Koh Phangan (1,000–2,000 THB)
• Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, hiking viewpoints
• Best Time: December–April (calmer seas)

Nearby Islands: Koh Tao (diving), Koh Samui (shopping, nightlife)

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Nightlife & Entertainment

Full Moon Party - The World’s Most Famous Beach Rave

Haad Rin Beach Spectacular

• When: Monthly on lunar full moon
• Scale: 10,000–30,000 international revelers
• Features: Fire shows, neon paint, UV lighting, live DJ, bucket drinks
• Hours: Sunset to sunrise (approximately 6 PM–6 AM)
• Cost: Usually free beach access; buckets 300–500 THB
• Dates: Check fullmoonpartythailand.com for current schedule

2026 Key Dates:

• Monthly throughout year
• Special Event: Dec 31 New Year’s Countdown (massive)

Safety Tips:

• Use buddy system always
• Avoid methanol-laced “bucket” drinks from unknown vendors
• Don’t overindulge in alcohol
• Secure valuables in accommodation, not on beach
• Wear water shoes (broken glass risk)

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Alternative Parties & Events

Half Moon Party - Jungle Experience

• When: Half-moon date at nearby jungle venues
• Vibe: More intimate than Full Moon, different music styles
• Access: Tour operators arrange transportation

Black Moon Party - New Moon Celebration

• Timing: New moon dates
• Venues: Various beachfront clubs
• Atmosphere: Chill vibe, smaller crowds

Waterfall Parties - Jungle Raves

• Location: Jungle waterfall venues
• Activities: Music, swimming, natural setting
• Season: Wet season (more water flow)

Lighthouse Tuesdays - Weekly Beach Club

• Venue: Lighthouse area
• Vibe: Beach club vibes, regular weekly gathering
• Food & Drink: Beachfront dining with music

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Year-Round Nightlife

Haad Rin Bars & Clubs - Party Central

• Famous Venues: Cactus Club, Rock Bar, Dady’O
• Hours: Open until sunrise during parties
• Music Styles: EDM, reggae, house, Thai pop
• Atmosphere: 24/7 party energy, never closes
• Crowd: International backpackers and tourists

Srithanu Beach Bars - Chill Alternative

• Vibe: Relaxed, sunset vibes, yoga-friendly
• Music: Reggae, world music, acoustic
• Crowd: Wellness-focused travelers, local hangout
• Food: Beach restaurants, healthy options

Thong Sala Town Bars - Local Scene

• Atmosphere: More Thai, less touristy
• Options: Karaoke bars, pool halls, local pubs

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Accommodation Guide

Budget Options (under 1,000 THB/night)

Backpacker Hostels

• Milky Bay Resort: Social atmosphere, pool, party vibe (Haad Rin area)
• Tree Chart Hostel: Budget beds, friendly staff, social hangout
• B52 Beach Resort: Beachfront budget, close to Full Moon action
• Zama Resort: Bungalows and dorms, good value

Best For: Backpackers, Full Moon partygoers, budget travelers

Mid-Range (1,000–4,000 THB/night)

Beachfront & Comfort

• Palita Lodge: Thong Nai Pan area, mid-range comfort
• Longbay Resort: Spacious rooms, pool, family-friendly
• Nice Beach Resort: Haad Yao location, good swimming beach
• Various independent bungalows: Scattered across beaches (500–2,500 THB)

Best For: Comfort-seeking travelers, small groups, families

Luxury Options (5,000+ THB/night)

Premium Resorts

• Anantara Rasananda: Private villas, 5-star luxury (Thong Nai Pan)
• Panviman Resort: Exclusive sanctuary, wellness-focused (Thong Nai Pan Yai)
• Santhiya Koh Phangan: Upscale resort, beachfront villas, spa

Best For: Honeymooners, luxury seekers, wellness retreats

Best Beach Areas for Accommodation

Area	Best For	Vibe	Noise Level
Haad Rin	Partiers	Party central	Very loud
Thong Sala	Convenience	Practical	Moderate
Bottle Beach	Escapists	Remote	Quiet
Srithanu	Yoga/Wellness	Peaceful	Quiet
Thong Nai Pan	Families/Luxury	Relaxed upscale	Quiet
Haad Yao	Families	Family-friendly	Moderate
Salad Beach	Yogis	Wellness-focused	Quiet
Chaloklum	Local flavor	Quiet village	Quiet

Booking Tips

• High Season (Dec–Feb): Book 2–3 months ahead, prices double
• Full Moon Party: Book 2–3 months in advance; expect 3–4x normal pricing
• Booking Platforms: Agoda, Booking.com, ThailandBoatTickets.com
• Loyalty: Some resorts offer discounts for extended stays
• Negotiate: Off-season discounts often available for direct booking

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Food & Dining

Local Thai Cuisine

Authentic Thai Restaurants

• LEO Thai Food: Authentic curries, papaya salad (somtam), traditional dishes
• Nong View Restaurant (Baan Kai): Local favorite, homestyle Thai cooking
• At Chiang Mai: Northern Thai specialties (larb, khao soi)
• Jimmy’s Thai Food: Street-style meals, local recipes

Street Eats - Budget & Authentic

• Pantip Night Market (Thong Sala): Evening food stalls, cheap meals
• Saturday Walking Street: Weekly market with food vendors
• Beach Vendors: Fresh grilled fish, satay, fruit (50–200 THB)

International & Fusion

Cafe & Restaurant Scene

• Siri’s Island Cafe: Views, casual atmosphere, Thai-Western fusion
• Lost Paradise: Fresh seafood, restaurant quality
• Grandma’s Kitchen: Home cooking, comfort food
• Various cafes: Coffee shops, smoothie bowls, breakfast spots

Dietary Preferences

• Vegan/Vegetarian: Abundant options, especially in Srithanu
• Healthy Options: Juice cleanses, organic restaurants (Srithanu focus)
• Budget Meals: 50–200 THB at local stalls
• Restaurant Meals: 200–600 THB at casual restaurants
• Fine Dining: 800–2,000+ THB at upscale establishments

Culinary Tips

• Fresh Seafood: Get grilled fish from local vendors (best value)
• Mango Sticky Rice: Thai dessert specialty
• Pad Thai: Street vendors offer great versions cheap
• Massaman Curry: Rich, less spicy option
• Avoid: Tap water (drink bottled), uncooked vegetables from questionable sources
• Eat At: Busy stalls (high turnover = fresh food)

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Getting Around Koh Phangan

Scooter Rental (Highly Recommended)

Best Way to Explore

• Cost: 200–300 THB/day
• Where: Available at Thong Sala and all beach towns
• License: International Driving Permit recommended (can rent with passport)
• Insurance: Travel insurance essential (accidents common)
• Safety: Wear helmet, watch for curves (mountainous terrain), avoid after drinking

Roads: Mix of paved and unpaved; some steep/narrow sections

Shared Transportation

Songthaews - Shared Local Trucks

• Cost: 50–200 THB depending on distance
• Routes: Regular routes between main beaches and Thong Sala
• Availability: Less frequent than roads, irregular scheduling
• Best For: Travelers without scooters or short distances

Taxis & Motorbike Taxis

• Cost: Expensive (100–500+ THB for island routes)
• Usage: Convenient late night, especially after Full Moon
• Negotiation: Agree on price before boarding

Walking & Cycling

• Within Villages: Easy walking between accommodations and beaches
• Bicycles: Available for rent (100–200 THB/day)
• Long Distances: Not practical (island is hilly)

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Practical Travel Information

Visas & Entry

• Visa Exempt: 60-day exemption for 90+ nationalities (valid passport required for 6+ months)
• Extensions: Available at Surat Thani immigration office
• Travel Insurance: Essential (medical evacuation can be expensive)

Money & Banking

• Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
• ATMs: Available throughout island (220 THB typical fee per withdrawal)
• Credit Cards: Accepted at hotels, resorts, restaurants
• Budget:
  • Budget: 1,500–2,000 THB/day (hostels, street food)
  • Mid-range: 2,500–5,000 THB/day (decent hotel, restaurants)
  • Luxury: 5,000+ THB/day (resorts, upscale dining)

Health & Safety

Medical

• Facilities: Hospital in Thong Sala, clinics at major beaches
• Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended
• Mosquito-Borne Illness: Dengue fever risk; use repellent
• Water: Bottled/filtered water recommended

Safety General

• Crime: Low crime rate on island
• Scooter Safety: Accidents are main injury risk (wear helmets, go slow)
• Full Moon Party Safety: Keep valuables secure, use buddy system
• Beach Safety: Watch for strong currents, ask locals about conditions

Specific Warnings

• Avoid methanol-laced drinks from unknown vendors
• No public marijuana smoking (laws changed 2025)
• Respect local customs (temples, monks, beaches)

Cultural Etiquette

• Religion: Respect temples, cover shoulders/knees when visiting
• Royal Respect: Never disrespect images of Thai royalty
• Body Language: Don’t point feet at people or images
• Beaches: No nudity except designated areas
• Modesty: Avoid bikinis/tank tops outside beach areas

Sustainability & Responsible Travel

• Plastic: Refuse single-use plastics, bring reusable bottles
• Sunscreen: Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral
• Tours: Choose ethical animal tourism (no elephant riding)
• Locals: Support local businesses, respect community spaces

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Pro Tips from Experienced Travelers

• Download Maps.me: Offline map app essential (poor signal in remote areas)
• Book Ferries Online: Use ThailandBoatTickets.com for reliability and best prices
• Scooter Day 1: Rent immediately upon arrival for flexibility
• Carry Small Cash: Many vendors don’t accept cards
• Pharmacy Access: Available in Thong Sala and larger towns
• Check Weather: Monitor forecasts, especially May–October
• Learn Basic Thai: Simple phrases appreciated (“Sawadee krap/ka”, “Khop khun krap/ka”)
• Go With the Flow: Island vibe is relaxed; rushing causes stress
• Full Moon Prep: Book 2–3 months ahead; prices inflate significantly
• Digital Detox: Embrace offline time; internet can be spotty

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Island Spirit

Koh Phangan perfectly embodies the duality of tropical island travel—perfectly balancing hedonism with harmony. Whether you’re seeking:

• All-night beach raves at the famous Full Moon Party
• Serene yoga retreats in wellness villages
• Jungle waterfall adventures through rainforest trails
• Underwater explorations via snorkeling and diving
• Remote beach escapes on secluded coves
• Cultural immersion in local communities

Koh Phangan delivers authentic experiences for every traveler type. The island’s laid-back “go-with-the-flow” philosophy combined with excellent infrastructure makes it one of Thailand’s most versatile and accessible destinations.

Whether returning for the legendary parties or the peaceful nature, travelers consistently find Koh Phangan offers more than expected—a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, perfectly tailored to individual travel styles.

Safe travels to the island of infinite possibilities!