5 Must See Islands in Thailand

by Ari

Now that I’ve been living in Thailand for the past 4 years, one of the biggest questions I get from people is “What should I see while I’m here?” While there is much more to Thailand that just pretty beaches, I must say, they do live up to the hype. 

Thailand has treated me to many a gorgeous sunset and white sand beach and it’s islands are a must see for anyone staying here for more than a few days. 

Here are my top 5 islands to visit in Thailand (in no particular order)

5. Koh Phi Phi

Arguably one of the most beautiful islands in the world. It’s largely considered to be the gem of Thailand. Everywhere you look, limestone cliffs and bright blue water surround you. 

The view when you pull up to Koh Phi Phi

During the day you can take a long tail boat out and discover different types of coral and maybe even see an eel or two!

On an island tour!

You can also take pictures at the infamous look out point! Just make sure you take the shorter path from the main part of the island. My friend and I ended up going from the quieter side and it took us almost an hour to get to the top!

The view from the top!

4. Koh Lipe 

On our way!

Koh Lipe has been touted as the new Koh Phi Phi. It’s beautiful clear water and white sand beaches make it the perfect place to relax on your next vacation. However, each passing the islands year gets more and more crowded so make sure you go soon!

Friends like these make the islands a little better

If crowds aren’t your thing, the neighboring island Tarutao is treated like a national park and feels like your own little slice of paradise.

Then we saw fire one night over the beach

3. Koh Tao

What isn’t pictured are the hoards of people waiting to take this same picture, but damn was it worth it!

Known mostly for diving and snorkeling, Koh Tao has one of the most expansive marine eco systems in the country. If you’re into swimming, hiking, and all things outdoors, this is the island for you!

There are plenty of snorkel tours to take while you’re here, or you can just camp out on the beach and soak in the sights! Whatever hobbies you’re into, there is definitely something for you on this island.

2. Koh Ngai

Koh Ngai was something I had stumbled on when trying to find some new places to go. I wanted white sand and stunning views without the crowds. A friend had been talking about her stay on the island and I knew I had to go. 

Imagine pulling up to this on your boat….

I mean, have you seen such gorgeous place?

and think, it’s even prettier than this picture…

There are only a handful of places to stay on the island, and you can only reach Koh Ngai during the months of September – March so you’re almost guaranteed a quiet visit to the island.

1. Koh Phangang    

If you’re looking for a good time, this island is the place to go. I admit that at first I was a little nervous to travel here. Not being much of a partier myself, I was worried that there wasn’t going to be much else to do. I was so happy to find out how wrong I was. 

Koh Phanang is the home to the Full Moon Party. Once a month people flock to the island from all over the world to celebrate the full moon and to indulge in a good time. 

We found these adorable little puppies across the road from our AirBNB!

After the Full Moon Party, take care to rent a motorbike and drive across the island. You won’t know what hidden gems you might find!

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