The Best Islands to Visit in Thailand (in 2024)

Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful and picturesque islands in the world, making it a popular destination for travellers seeking an island-hopping adventure.

With over 1,400 islands, it’s hard to say which is the best island to visit in Thailand.

Each offers unique landscapes, activities, and cultures, something to suit every traveller!

We'll introduce you to the top 15 islands in Thailand.

1. Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a stunning island in the Andaman Sea known for its clear waters, towering cliffs, and vibrant nightlife.

Best island for:

• Island and beach hopping
• Nightlife and partying
• Adventure activities such as rock climbing, hiking, and kayaking, and snorkelling

Best Time to Visit Koh Phi Phi:

The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is sunny and warm, and the sea is calm and clear.

Things to See & Do in Koh Phi Phi:

• Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach”
• Snorkelling at Shark Point and other dive sites
• Hiking up to the viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the island
• Enjoying the nightlife at the bars and clubs on Tonsai Bay
• Taking a long-tail boat tour to explore the nearby islands

How to Get to Koh Phi Phi:

Koh Phi Phi can be reached by ferry from Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Lanta.

The journey time and prices vary depending on the departure point, with the shortest journey time being from Krabi.

Best Hotels on Koh Phi Phi

Best villas to stay in: Phi Phi Villa Resort

Best beachfront resort on Koh Phi Phi: Phi Phi CoCo Beach Resort

Best budget accommodation on Koh Phi Phi: Dee Dee Sea Front

2. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a luxury island in Thailand. It is one of the best islands in Thailand for couples, known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical landscape, and luxurious resorts.

Best island for:

• Honeymooners and families
• Wellness retreats and spa treatments
• Adventure activities such as zip-lining, ATV tours, and water sports

Best Time to Visit Koh Samui:

The best time to visit Koh Samui is from December to February, during the dry season when the weather is sunny and warm.

However, the island is a popular year-round destination.

Things to see & do in Koh Samui:

• Visiting the Big Buddha statue and temple
• Explore the Na Muang Waterfalls
• Enjoying water sports, such as snorkelling and paddleboarding
• Taking a day trip to the nearby Ang Thong Marine Park
• Indulge in luxury spa treatments and wellness programs

How to Get to Koh Samui:

Koh Samui can be reached by ferry or plane, with direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, and other major cities.

Best Hotels on Koh Samui

Best hotel on Koh Samui: Melia Koh Samui

Best family resort on Koh Samui: Lamai Coconut Beach Resort

Best luxury stay for couples: Sea Dance Resort

3. Phuket

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions.

Best island for:

• Nightlife and partying
• Beach hopping and water sports
• Cultural experiences, like visiting temples and museums
• Wellness retreats and yoga classes

Best Time to Visit Phuket:

The best time to visit Phuket is from November to February when the weather is sunny and dry.

However, the island of Phuket is a popular year-round destination for travelers.

Things to See & Do in Phuket

• Visit the iconic Big Buddha statue and Wat Chalong temple
• Exploring the Old Town with its Sino-Portuguese architecture and street art
• Take a day trip to the nearby Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island
• Enjoying the beaches and water sports
• Partying at the bars and clubs in Patong and Bangla Road

How to Get To Phuket:

Phuket can be reached by plane or bus from Bangkok or by ferry from nearby islands.

Best Hotels in Phuket

Best luxury villa in Phuket: Kata Rocks

Best modern accommodation in Phuket: Hotel IKON Phuket

Best resort in the heart of Patong, Phuket: Baan Laimai Beach Resort & Spa

4. Koh Phangan

As one of the top 5 islands in Thailand, Koh Phangan is a stunning island in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, hippie vibe, and famous Full Moon Party.

Best island for:

• Full Moon Party and nightlife
• Yoga and wellness retreats
• Beach hopping and water sports

Best Time to Visit Koh Phangan:

The best time to visit Koh Phangan is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is sunny and dry.

The island is particularly popular during the Full Moon Party, which takes place every month during the high season!

Things to See & Do in Koh Phangan:

• Attending the Full Moon Party or other famous island parties
• Exploring beaches and waterfalls, such as Thong Nai Pan and Bottle Beach
• Practising yoga and meditation at one of the many retreat centres
• Visiting the Than Sadet National Park and other natural attractions

How to Get to Koh Phangan:

Koh Phangan can be reached by ferry from Koh Samui, Koh Tao, or the mainland of Thailand.

The journey time and prices vary depending on the departure point.

Best Hotels in Koh Phangan

Best hotel near the Full Moon Party: Palita Lodge

Best beachfront hotel in Koh Phangan: Le Divine Comedie Beach Resort

Best resort away from the crowds: Panviman Resort

5. Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a small island that is famous for its diving and snorkelling. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colourful marine life.

Best island for:

• Diving and snorkelling
• Outdoor activities
• Relaxation

Best Time to Visit Koh Tao:

Anytime between March to May and September to November!

Things to See & Do on Koh Tao:

• Scuba diving and snorkelling at Shark Island, Southwest Pinnacle, and Sail Rock
• Hiking to the viewpoint and watching the sunset at John-Suwan Viewpoint
• Visiting the Mae Haad Pier and the popular Mae Haad Beach & its markets

How to Get to Koh Tao:

Take a ferry or a speedboat from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Chumphon.

Best Hotels in Koh Tao

Best luxury resort on Koh Tao: Cape Shark Villas

Best beachfront hotel: Blue Tao Beach Hotel

6. Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a relaxed and peaceful island with stunning beaches, abundant nature, and a laid-back vibe.

Best island for:

• Relaxation and tranquillity
• Natural beauty
• Scuba diving trips

Best Time to Visit Koh Lanta:

Anytime between November and April is a great time to see the island! The dry season is between January and April.

Things to See & Do in Koh Lanta:

• Explore the Koh Lanta National Park and the Khao Mai Kaew Caves
• Walk around Koh Lanta Old Town
• Visit the Lanta Animal Welfare and the Sea Gypsy Village
• Relax at Klong Nin Beach, Kantiang Bay, and Long Beach

How to Get to Koh Lanta:

You’ll have to take a ferry or a speedboat from Krabi or Phi Phi Island.

Best Hotels in Koh Lanta

Best resort on Koh Lanta: Twin Lotus Resort and Spa

Best boutique hotel in Koh Lanta's main town: The Hotel Zealonta

7. Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a small and stunning island that boasts crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and a serene atmosphere.

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, Koh Lipe is it!

Best island for:

• Dreamy and picturesque beaches
• Snorkelling and diving
• Relaxation and romance

Best Time to Visit Koh Lipe:

Anytime between November to April, the island will be the best weather without much rain.

Things to See & Do in Koh Lipe:

• Snorkelling at the Hin Ngam and the Koh Hin Son Islands
• Relaxing at the Sunrise Beach, the Pattaya Beach, and the Sunset Beach
• Visiting the Tarutao National Marine Park and the Chadoe Cliff

How to Get to Koh Lipe:

Take a ferry or a speedboat from Pak Bara or Langkawi in Malaysia.

Best Hotels in Koh Lipe

Best island resort: AKIRA Lipe Resort

Best value for money hotel on Koh Lipe: The Reef Hotel

8. Koh Samet

Koh Samet is a small and peaceful island that is ideal for a weekend getaway, and is one of the best islands to visit in Thailand near Bangkok!

Best island for:

• A short escape from Bangkok
• A relaxed and easy-going beach vibe
• A mix of activities and relaxation

Best Time to Visit Koh Samet:

It’s best to visit between October and February.

Things to See & Do on Koh Samet:

• Relaxing at the Sai Kaew Beach and the Ao Prao Beach
• Watching the sunset at the Koh Samet Viewpoint
• Snorkelling at the Koh Kudee, the Koh Talu, and the Koh Thalu

How to Get to Koh Samet:

Take a bus or a van from Bangkok to Ban Phe and then a ferry to Koh Samet.

Best Hotels on Koh Samet

Best beachfront bungalows: Blue Bay Bungalow

Best resort on Koh Samet: Sai Kaew Beach Resort

9. Koh Chang

Koh Chang is the second-largest island in Thailand and a great destination for those who want to avoid the crowds.

Best island for:

• Hiking and trekking in Khao Laem National Park
• Relaxing on quieter beaches such as Long Beach, Kai Bae Beach, and Lonely Beach
• Exploring the island's waterfalls and temples

Best Time to Visit Koh Chang:

The best island to visit in Thailand in November, would have to be Koh Chang. From November to February when the weather is cooler and drier, with plenty of sunshine to enjoy!

Things to See & Do in Koh Chang:

• Visit the Klong Plu Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island
• Take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Koh Mak and Koh Kood
• Rent a motorbike and explore the island's lush jungles and remote beaches

How to Get to Koh Chang:

Koh Chang can be reached by a combination of bus and ferry from Bangkok or Pattaya. The nearest airport is Trat Airport, which is a short flight from Bangkok.

Best Hotels on Koh Chang

Most unique stay in Koh Chang: Santhiya Tree Koh Chang Resort

Best accommodation surrounded by nature: Siam Bay Resort

10. Koh Larn

Koh Larn is a small island located off the coast of Pattaya, making it a popular destination for day-trippers and weekend getaways.

Best island for:

• Beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports
• Snorkelling and diving in the island's clear waters
• Enjoying the vibrant markets and nightlife of nearby Pattaya

Best Time to Visit Koh Larn:

The best time to visit Koh Larn is from November to April when the weather is dry and sunny.

Things to See & Do in Koh Larn:

• Visit popular beaches, such as Tien Beach, Nual Beach, and Ta Waen Beach
• Explore the coral reefs and marine life with a snorkelling or diving tour
• Take a short boat ride to Pattaya and experience the city's famous nightlife

How to Get to Koh Larn:

Koh Larn can be reached by a 45-minute ferry ride from Pattaya.

Best Hotels on Koh Larn

Best beach resort on Koh Larn: Xanadu Beach Resort

Best affordable bungalows: Poopreaw Koh Larn

11. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a group of nine small islands located in the Andaman Sea, known for their crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs.

Best island for:

• Snorkelling and diving in some of the world's best-preserved coral reef
• Relaxing on secluded beaches
• Experience the island's sea turtles, dolphins, and rare bird species

Best Time to Visit the Similan Islands:

The Similan Islands are open to visitors from mid-October to mid-May when the weather is dry and sunny. This is one of the best islands to visit in Thailand in January!

Things to See & Do in the Similan Islands:

• Visit the world-famous Donald Duck Bay for its white sand and crystal-clear waters
• Explore the island's marine life with a snorkelling or diving tour
• Hike through the island's lush jungle trails and spot rare bird species

How to Get to the Similar Islands:

The Similan Islands can only be reached by a speedboat from Tab Lamu in Khao Lak or by tour boat from Phuket.

Staying in the Similan Islands

You cannot find any hotels on the Similan Islands as their nature is protected. Most people take day trips to the Similan islands but there are a handful of basic bungalows and campsites on three of the Similan islands, Koh Miang, Koh Similan and Koh Tachai.

Another option is a live-a-board tour you can take for multiple days, which I especially recommend for divers and those wanting to spend as much time in the water as possible.

12. Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai

Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai are two small islands located between Phuket and Krabi.

They offer a perfect retreat for travellers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspots in Thailand.

Best island for:

• Quiet and relaxing vacations
• Experiencing traditional Thai culture and way of life
• Scenic biking and hiking trails

Best Time to Visit Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai:

The best time to visit Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai is between November and April. Then, the weather is dry and pleasant for a beach holiday.

Things to see & do in Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai:

• Take a scenic boat tour to explore the mangrove forests and limestone cliffs
• Visit the local fishing village and experience the traditional way of life of the islanders
• Take a Thai cooking class to learn the secrets of the local cuisine

How to get to Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai:

The easiest way to get to Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai is by taking a ferry from Phuket or Krabi. The journey takes around 1-2 hours depending on the departure point.

Best Hotels in Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai 

Most unique villas on Koh Yao Noi: TreeHouse Villas

Best resort with a view on Koh Yao Noi: Purana Resort

13. Koh Kood

Koh Kood is a small, quiet island located in the Gulf of Thailand.

It offers a tranquil atmosphere, unspoiled beaches, and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway and one of the best islands in Thailand for families.

Best island for:

• Secluded, romantic retreats
• Peaceful family vacations
• Adventure seekers looking to explore the island's waterfalls and hiking trails

Best Time to Visit Koh Kood:

Visit Koh Kood from November to April to find dry weather and pleasant temperatures.

Things to See & Do in Koh Kood:

• Visit the Khlong Chao Waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters
• Explore the island's hidden beaches and coves by renting a kayak or taking a boat tour
• Visit the traditional fishing village and learn about the local way of life

How to Get to Koh Kood:

The easiest way to get to Koh Kood is by taking a ferry from Trat, which is located on the mainland. The journey takes around 1-2 hours depending on the departure point.

Best Hotels in Koh Kood:

Best beachfront hotel in Koh Kood: Koh Kood Paradise Beach

Best bungalow accommodation in Koh Kood: Suan Maprao Ko Kut Resort

14. Koh Mook

Koh Mook, also known as Koh Muk, is a small island located in the Andaman Sea in Southern Thailand.

It is famous for its stunning Emerald Cave, which can only be accessed by swimming through a dark tunnel.

Best island for:

• Island hopping adventures
• Serene and secluded vacations
• Exploring natural wonders

Best Time to Visit Koh Mook:

The best time to visit Koh Mook is from November to April, in those months the weather is dry and warm.

Things to See & Do in Koh Mook:

• Visit the Emerald Cave and swim through the dark tunnel to discover the hidden lagoon
• Go island hopping and explore the nearby islands, such as Koh Kradan and Koh Ngai
• Take a snorkelling or diving tour to discover the colourful marine life

How to Get to Koh Mook:

The easiest way to get to Koh Mook is by taking a ferry from Trang or Krabi. The journey takes around 1-2 hours

Best Hotels in Koh Mook:

Most relaxing stay on Koh Mook: The Tropical

Best hotel on Koh Mook: Mook Lamai Resort and Spa

15. Koh Kradan

Koh Kradan is a small island located in the Trang Province of Thailand.

It's best known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse marine life, making it a great destination for those who love snorkelling and scuba diving.

Best island for:

• Snorkelling and diving
• Relaxing and peaceful vacation
• Getting away from mass tourism

Best Time to Visit Koh Kradan:

November to April is the best time to visit Koh Kradan when the weather is dry and sunny. The sea is also calmer and better for snorkelling and diving.

Things to See & Do in Koh Kradan:

• Snorkelling and diving at the nearby coral reefs and underwater caves
• Hiking to the island's viewpoint for stunning panoramic views
• Watching the stunning sunset from the beach

How to Get to Koh Kradan:

You can take a flight to Trang Airport, and from there, take a taxi to the Pak Meng Pier. Then, take a speedboat to Koh Kradan.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bangkok to Trang and then follow the same route.

Best Hotels in Koh Kradan

Most popular resort in Koh Kradan: Mali Kradan

Best eco resort: KALUME' Eco Boutique Resort

The Best Islands to Visit in Thailand – Frequently Asked Questions

🏝️ Which Side of the Thai Islands Is Best? (Andaman Sea vs Gulf of Thailand)

It depends on what you’re looking for!

The Andaman Sea side of Thailand (including Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands) is known for its stunning scenery and dramatic limestone cliffs, as well as excellent diving opportunities and other water activities.

The Gulf of Thailand side (including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao) is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and relaxed atmosphere. You can also find good diving and snorkeling on this side of Thailand.

📅 How Many Days Do You Need for Island Hopping Around Thailand?

I’d recommend spending at least a week to 10 days in Thailand to fully experience island life!

This will allow you to explore a few different islands and really soak up the culture and scenery without rushing.

⛵ How to Get Around the Islands of Thailand

The best way to get around the islands of Thailand is by ferry or speedboat. Make sure you book your ticket ahead, we recommend using 12go Asia.

Many of the islands are only accessible by boat, with frequent services that connect the different islands.

Some islands have limited road networks, so renting a scooter or bicycle is a great way to explore the island at your own pace!

⭐ What Are the Most Visited Islands in Thailand

Some of the most visited islands in Thailand are Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.

These islands are popular for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife.

However, there are many other lesser-known islands that offer a more laid-back atmosphere and are well worth a visit.

Final Words on the Best Islands to Visit in Thailand

Deciding which are the best Thai islands to visit is difficult, as there are so many!

But you’ll find the best islands to visit in Thailand depending on the kind of trip you’re looking to have.

They are each unique in their own way and have so much to offer for a memorable holiday!