Thailand has over a thousand islands, but only a handful truly capture what makes this country magical.
These 10 stand out for their crystal-clear water, soft beaches, and that perfect island vibe you’re looking for.
Each island has its own personality. Some buzz with beach parties, while others offer hidden lagoons where you’ll barely see another soul.
This guide will help you pick the right ones for your trip, showing you when to go, what to skip, and exactly how to get there. 😊
1. Koh Chang – The Jungle Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Chang sits near Cambodia’s border in the eastern Gulf, and it’s Thailand’s third-largest island.
What makes it special? Over 70% is still protected jungle. You’ll wake up to birds singing instead of jet skis roaring.
The mountains tumble right down to the beaches, and dozens of tiny, uninhabited islands wait just offshore in the national park.
b. Best Things to Do
- Dive the HTMS Chang Shipwreck – This 100-meter naval vessel sits underwater, now home to barracuda and groupers
- Trek to Klong Plu Waterfall – A jungle hike that ends at a large pool perfect for cooling off
- Kayak Through Salak Khok Mangroves – Paddle into hidden lagoons when the tide is high
- Explore Bang Bao Fishing Village – Walk the wooden boardwalks and try fresh seafood at sunset
- Party at Lonely Beach – The backpacker spot with beach bars, fire shows, and yes, those famous bucket drinks
c. Best Time to Visit
Go between November and February for blue skies and calm water. Skip May through October unless you love rain and muddy trails.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
From Koh Chang, you can easily reach Koh Mak (20 km south). It’s tiny and eco-friendly with quiet beaches and great snorkeling.
Koh Kood is further south and feels like the edge of the world, with untouched rainforest and waterfalls.
Little Koh Wai makes a perfect day trip. The reefs start right off the beach, and there aren’t even roads to disturb the peace.
e. How to Get There
From Trat Airport:
- Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport (1 hour)
- Shared minivan to Ao Thammachat Pier (30 minutes, ~800 baht)
- Ferry to Ao Sapparot Pier on Koh Chang (30-45 minutes, 80 baht)
From Koh Kood:
- Boonsiri catamaran from Ao Salad Pier to Bang Bao Pier (1.5 hours, 900 baht)
- Koh Kood Express speedboat from Koh Kood Pier to Bang Bao Pier (1 hour, 1,000 baht)
2. Koh Mak – The Green Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Mak floats between Koh Chang and Koh Kood. It’s privately owned, just 16 square kilometers, and they’ve kept it simple.
No high-rises. No chain stores. You can walk for ages on beaches like Ao Kao and barely see another person.
b. Best Things to Do
- Visit Koh Kham – Take a speedboat or kayak to this tiny island with black volcanic rocks and powder-white sand
- Snorkel at Koh Rang – The healthiest reefs in the Gulf, complete with clownfish and sea turtles
- Cycle Through Coconut Groves – Most resorts offer free bikes to explore the red dirt roads
- Kayak to Koh Kradat – Paddle 2 km north to see wild deer on the beaches
- Take a Thai Cooking Class – Learn authentic recipes at Smile Koh Mak with ocean views
c. Best Time to Visit
November to February brings perfect weather. From June to September, heavy rains hit and some places close down completely.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Kradat is just 15 minutes away. Wild deer roam the beaches, and the shallow reefs are perfect for beginners.
Koh Kood sprawls 17 km southeast with jungle-covered hills and beautiful waterfalls.
When you need more restaurants and nightlife, Koh Chang is just an hour away by ferry.
e. How to Get There
From Trat Airport:
- Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport (1 hour)
- Minivan to Laem Sok Pier (includes ferry ticket, 1,000 baht)
- Boonsiri or Koh Kood Express ferry to Ao Nid Pier on Koh Mak
- Total journey: 1 hour 45 minutes
From Koh Chang:
- Boonsiri catamaran from Bang Bao Pier to Ao Nid Pier (1 hour, 600 baht)
3. Koh Kood – Thailand’s Last Frontier
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Kood is Thailand’s fourth-largest island, sitting near Cambodia.
It’s wonderfully undeveloped, with just fishing villages and some of the country’s most stunning beaches.
The jungle hills cascade down to turquoise bays, and Khlong Chao Waterfall offers cool pools under the trees.
b. Best Things to Do
- Beach Hop by Scooter – Rent wheels to find empty Ao Phrao beach and snorkel at Bang Bao Bay
- Swim at Khlong Chao Waterfall – A short jungle walk leads to this three-tier cascade with a natural pool
- Visit Ao Salad Fishing Village – The real deal on stilts, with incredibly fresh steamed crab
- Snorkel Koh Rang – The nearby islands have bright coral gardens full of clownfish
c. Best Time to Visit
November to April for sunny days and calm seas. Most places shut down completely from May to October during monsoon season.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Mak (17 km northwest) shares the same clear water and laid-back feel. Perfect for exploring by bicycle.
Koh Rang to the west offers uninhabited marine park islands with the best coral in the region.
If you want nightlife and more facilities, Koh Chang is 34 km north.
e. How to Get There
From Trat Airport:
- Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport (1 hour)
- Minivan to Laem Sok Pier (includes ferry, 1,000 baht)
- Boonsiri or Koh Kood Express to Ao Salad Pier on Koh Kood
- Total journey: 2 to 2.5 hours
From Koh Chang:
- Boonsiri catamaran from Bang Bao Pier to Ao Salad Pier (1.5 hours, 900 baht)
- Koh Kood Express speedboat from Bang Bao Pier to Ao Salad Pier (1 hour, 1,000 baht)
4. Koh Tao – The Diving Paradise
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Tao (Turtle Island) is tiny at just 21 square kilometers, but it’s the world’s cheapest place to get PADI certified.
Reef sharks cruise Chumphon Pinnacle, and the famous Koh Nang Yuan sandbar connecting three tiny islands is absolutely stunning.
b. Best Things to Do
- Get Dive Certified – Join thousands getting their PADI at rock-bottom prices
- Snorkel Japanese Garden – The shallow reefs around Koh Nang Yuan are full of parrotfish
- Hike to John-Suwan Viewpoint – Just 20 minutes up for that postcard view of twin bays
- Walk Koh Nang Yuan’s Sandbar – The famous strip of sand connecting three islands
- Party at Sairee Beach – Sunset BBQ, then fire dancers at Lotus Bar under the stars
c. Best Time to Visit
February to April gives you the best underwater visibility. October and November bring rain and murky water, though diving continues year-round.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Nang Yuan is practically next door. Just 10 minutes by boat to walk that famous sandbar.
Koh Phangan (45 km south) offers Full Moon parties or peaceful yoga retreats, depending on what you’re after.
Koh Samui is 2 hours away by ferry, with big resorts, shopping, and an international airport.
e. How to Get There
From Koh Samui:
- Lomlahkkhirin speedboat from Bangrak Pier to Mae Haad Pier (1.5 hours, 700 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Maenam Pier to Mae Haad Pier (1.5 hours, 700 baht)
From Koh Phangan:
- Lomlahkkhirin speedboat from Thong Sala Pier to Mae Haad Pier (45 minutes, 700 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Thong Sala Pier to Mae Haad Pier (1 hour, 600 baht)
- Songserm ferry from Thong Sala Pier to Mae Haad Pier (1 hour 45 minutes, 500 baht)
From Surat Thani Airport:
- Lomprayah bus + catamaran to Mae Haad Pier (4 hours 45 minutes, 1,100 baht)
- Lomlahkkhirin van + ferry to Mae Haad Pier (4-5 hours, 1,200 baht)
From Chumphon Airport:
- Boonsiri van + ferry to Mae Haad Pier (3.5 hours, 900 baht)
5. Koh Phangan – The Dual Personality Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Phangan sits between Koh Samui and Koh Tao. Yes, it hosts the world-famous Full Moon Party at Haad Rin, drawing over 10,000 people monthly.
But the north side? That’s all yoga retreats and hidden waterfalls. It’s an island where fire dancers and yoga teachers watch the same sunset.
b. Best Things to Do
- Explore by Scooter – Find Secret Beach, long Haad Yao, and the twin bays at Thong Nai Pan
- Experience Full Moon Party – Dance until dawn with DJ stages, fire jumping, and neon paint
- Chase Waterfalls – Hike to Phaeng Waterfall, then up to Domesila Viewpoint for palm forest views
- Snorkel Koh Ma – Walk the sandbar at Mae Haad to tiny Koh Ma for great reef snorkeling
- Join a Yoga Class – Drop into Sri Thanu’s wellness scene at Orion Healing Centre
c. Best Time to Visit
December to March for sunny days and a buzzing atmosphere. October and November bring heavy rain that can cancel boats.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Samui is just 30 minutes south. Much bigger, with an airport, shopping malls, and busy Chaweng Beach.
Koh Tao waits 1-1.5 hours north if you want to dive.
Ang Thong Marine Park makes an incredible day trip to 42 limestone islands, including the famous Emerald Lake.
e. How to Get There
From Koh Samui:
- Lomlahkkhirin speedboat from Bangrak Pier to Thong Sala Pier (30 minutes, 351 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Maenam Pier to Thong Sala Pier (30 minutes, 350 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Bangrak Pier to Thong Sala Pier (30 minutes, 350 baht)
- Seatran Discovery ferry from Bangrak Pier to Thong Sala Pier (45 minutes, 360 baht)
- Songserm ferry from Nathon Pier to Thong Sala Pier (1 hour, 250 baht)
- Songserm speedboat from Petcharat Pier to Thong Sala Pier (20 minutes, 350 baht)
From Surat Thani Airport:
- Lomprayah bus + catamaran to Thong Sala Pier (4 hours, 950 baht)
- Seatran Discovery van + ferry to Thong Sala Pier (4.5 hours, 648 baht)
- Phantip 1970 bus + ferry to Thong Sala Pier (4.5 hours, 560 baht)
- 12Go Transport bus + ferry to Thong Sala Pier (5 hours, 595 baht)
From Koh Tao:
- Lomlahkkhirin speedboat from Mae Haad Pier to Thong Sala Pier (45 minutes, 700 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Mae Haad Pier to Thong Sala Pier (1 hour, 600 baht)
- Songserm ferry from Mae Haad Pier to Thong Sala Pier (1 hour 45 minutes, 500 baht)
6. Koh Samui – The Coconut Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island with its own international airport.
You can have breakfast in Bangkok and lunch on the beach.
It offers everything from Chaweng’s party scene to Bophut’s charming Fisherman’s Village, all under the watchful eye of the iconic Big Buddha.
b. Best Things to Do
- Sunset at The Roof Samui – Rooftop bar with 360-degree views, perfect for cocktails and tapas
- Beach Hop the Coast – From busy Chaweng to quiet Lamai, hidden Silver Beach, then sunset at Lipa Noi
- Explore Ang Thong Marine Park – Day trip to 42 islands for kayaking and the Emerald Lake viewpoint
- Visit Big Buddha Temple – Climb to the 12-meter golden statue for coastal views
- Browse Fisherman’s Village – Hit Bophut’s Friday night market for street food and live music
c. Best Time to Visit
December to February for perfect weather. September through November gets wet, with October-November being the rainiest.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Phangan is 30 minutes north by speedboat. Famous for Full Moon Parties but also has quiet yoga spots.
Koh Tao (1.5-2.5 hours by ferry) is Thailand’s diving capital.
Ang Thong Marine Park is unmissable. A day trip shows you limestone islands up close.
e. How to Get There
Direct flights: Bangkok Airways to Koh Samui Airport (1 hour 15 minutes)
From Koh Phangan:
- Lomlahkkhirin speedboat from Thong Sala Pier to Bangrak Pier (30 minutes, 351 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Thong Sala Pier to Maenam Pier (30 minutes, 350 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Thong Sala Pier to Bangrak Pier (30 minutes, 350 baht)
From Koh Tao:
- Lomlahkkhirin speedboat from Mae Haad Pier to Bangrak Pier (1.5 hours, 700 baht)
- Lomprayah catamaran from Mae Haad Pier to Maenam Pier (1.5 hours, 700 baht)
7. Koh Phi Phi – The Dramatic Beauty
a. Why It’s Special
The Phi Phi Islands rise dramatically from the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Krabi.
Towering limestone cliffs draped in jungle make this place special.
Maya Bay on uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is tropical perfection, while the viewpoint offers one of Thailand’s most photographed scenes.
b. Best Things to Do
- Visit Maya Bay Early – Take a sunrise longtail to beat the crowds (swimming banned but still gorgeous)
- Float in Pileh Lagoon – Turquoise water surrounded by towering cliffs
- Snorkel Shark Point – See harmless blacktip reef sharks early morning off Long Beach
- Hike to Viewpoint 2 – 20-30 minutes up for that iconic twin bay view
- Party at Loh Dalum – Fire shows at Slinky and Ibiza Beach Bar until 2 AM
c. Best Time to Visit
November to April for calm seas perfect for boat trips. Maya Bay closes August-September for ecosystem recovery.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Phi Phi Leh (1.5 km south) has Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Viking Cave.
Bamboo Island (5 km northeast) offers white sand and coral gardens.
Koh Lanta (30 km east) has long, quiet beaches and charming Old Town.
e. How to Get There
From Phuket:
- Chaokoh Travel ferry from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 500 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour, 700 baht)
- Seatran ferry from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 550 baht)
- PP Sabai Marine speedboat from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour, 700 baht)
- Andaman Wave Master speedboat from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour, 700-850 baht)
- Andaman Wave Master ferry from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 500 baht)
- Satun Pakbara speedboat from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour, 700 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Jian Wanich Pier to Ton Sai Pier (45 minutes, 594 baht)
- Phi Phi Logistic speedboat from Rassada Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour, 701-750 baht)
From Krabi:
- Jijie Tour ferry from Klong Jilad Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 555 baht)
- Andaman Wave Master speedboat from Klong Jilad Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour, 900 baht)
- Andaman Wave Master ferry from Klong Jilad Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 450 baht)
- Songserm ferry from Klong Jilad Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 450 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Ton Sai Pier (50 minutes, 880 baht)
- Ao Nang Travel ferry from Nopparat Thara Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 616 baht)
- Seatran Discovery ferry from Nopparat Thara Pier to Ton Sai Pier (2 hours, 660 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Ao Nam Mao Pier to Ton Sai Pier (45 minutes, 1,000 baht)
- Railay Eco Tour speedboat from Ao Nam Mao Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour 15 minutes, 880 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Ton Sai Pier (30 minutes, 825 baht)
- Phi Phi Logistic speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Ton Sai Pier (30 minutes, 825 baht)
- Railay Eco Tour speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Ton Sai Pier (45 minutes, 880 baht)
- Ao Nang Travel ferry from Floating Pier East Railay to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour 45 minutes, 615 baht)
- Koh Yao Sun Smile speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Ton Sai Pier (30 minutes, 850 baht)
From Koh Lanta:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Saladan Pier to Ton Sai Pier (45 minutes, 700 baht)
- Andaman Wave Master speedboat from Saladan Pier to Ton Sai Pier (30 minutes, 600 baht)
- Lanta Petpailin ferry from Saladan Pier to Ton Sai Pier (1 hour, 450 baht)
- Satun Pakbara speedboat from Saladan Pier to Ton Sai Pier (30 minutes, 700 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Saladan Pier to Ton Sai Pier (30 minutes, 679 baht)
8. Koh Mook – The Pearl Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Mook (Pearl Island) in Trang Province mixes stunning nature with real Thai-Muslim fishing village life.
The famous Emerald Cave offers Thailand’s most magical experience.
You swim 80 meters through complete darkness to reach a hidden lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs.
b. Best Things to Do
- Swim Through Emerald Cave – Go before 9 AM, swimming through darkness to the secret beach
- Relax at Charlie Beach – West coast paradise for afternoon swimming and spectacular sunsets
- Snorkel at Koh Kradan – 20-minute boat to the “world’s best beach 2023”
- Cycle the Village – Explore Baan Koh Mook to reach Sivalai Beach’s stunning sandbar
- Kayak Hidden Coves – Paddle to sea caves and Sabai Beach
c. Best Time to Visit
November to April when the Emerald Cave is safely accessible. December to March brings the sunniest days. Some resorts close May to October.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Kradan lies just 8 km east with world-class beaches and reefs right offshore.
Koh Ngai sits 12 km north offering tranquil beaches like mini Phi Phi without crowds.
Koh Libong to the south is Trang’s largest island, known for dugong spotting.
e. How to Get There
From Trang Airport:
- Fly from Bangkok to Trang Airport (1.5 hours)
- Van + longtail boat to Koh Mook Pier with King Travel Company (book via 12go.asia)
- Total journey: 2 hours 50 minutes (445 baht)
From Phuket:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Rassada Pier to Koh Mook Pier (2 hours 50 minutes, 1,952 baht)
- Satun Pakbara speedboat from Rassada Pier to Koh Mook Pier (2 hours 50 minutes, 1,950 baht)
From Krabi:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Mook Pier (3 hours 10 minutes, 1,959 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Koh Mook Pier (2 hours 50 minutes, 1,970 baht)
- Awaycation Trip speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Mook Pier (3 hours 10 minutes, 1,959 baht)
From Koh Lanta:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Mook Pier (50 minutes, 910 baht)
- Satun Pakbara speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Mook Pier (50 minutes, 900 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Mook Pier (1 hour, 888 baht)
- Awaycation Trip speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Mook Pier (50 minutes, 900 baht)
- Lanta Petpailin ferry from Koh Lanta Old Town Pier to Koh Mook Pier (1 hour 45 minutes, 651 baht)
9. Koh Kradan – The World’s Best Beach
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Kradan has no villages or roads. Just park rangers and resorts on an island where the main beach was crowned world’s best in 2023.
White powder sand meets crystal-clear water, with vibrant coral reefs just 50 meters from shore. At night, you’ll see the Milky Way and glowing plankton.
b. Best Things to Do
- Snorkel the House Reef – Wade in from Paradise Beach to find coral gardens full of fish
- Catch Sunrise and Sunset – East beach sunrise with coffee, then hike 10 minutes to Sunset Beach
- Trek to Secret Beaches – Jungle trail (20-30 minutes) to west-side coves where you’ll be alone
- Star Gaze on the Beach – Moonless nights reveal the Milky Way and blue glowing sparks in the water
c. Best Time to Visit
December to March for world-class snorkeling in calm, glass-like seas. May to October brings rough conditions and reduced services.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Mook (8 km west) and its famous Emerald Cave is just 15 minutes by boat.
Koh Ngai (9 km north) shares Kradan’s tranquil vibe with lovely beaches.
Koh Rok (1 hour southeast) offers Thailand’s best snorkeling but needs a dedicated day trip.
e. How to Get There
From Trang Airport:
- Fly from Bangkok to Trang Airport (1.5 hours)
- Van + longtail boat to Koh Kradan Pier with King Travel Company (book via 12go.asia)
- Total journey: 3 hours (650 baht)
From Phuket:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Rassada Pier to Koh Kradan Beach (3 hours 40 minutes, 1,952 baht)
From Krabi:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Koh Kradan Beach (3 hours 30 minutes, 1,959 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Koh Kradan Beach (3 hours 10 minutes, 1,970 baht)
From Koh Lanta:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Kradan Beach (1 hour 10 minutes, 1,120 baht)
- Satun Pakbara speedboat from Saladan Pier to The Beach in front of National Park Koh Kradan (1 hour 10 minutes, 950 baht)
- Lanta Petpailin ferry from Koh Lanta Old Town Pier to Koh Kradan Beach (1 hour 20 minutes, 651 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Kradan Beach (45 minutes, 939 baht)
10. Koh Lanta – The Laid-Back Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Lanta stretches 30 km in Krabi Province, with nine beaches along its west coast.
Unlike bustling neighbors, Lanta keeps things wonderfully relaxed.
Traditional communities, mangrove forests, and Lanta Old Town (a charming stilted village) feel frozen in time.
Perfect for families, digital nomads, and anyone wanting beautiful sunsets without the party scene.
b. Best Things to Do
- Explore Lanta Old Town – Wander this authentic Chinese-Thai village on stilts with wooden shophouses and seafood restaurants
- Beach Hop the West Coast – From busy Klong Dao to secluded Bamboo Bay, each beach has its own personality
- Snorkel at Koh Rok – Day trip to pristine islands with Thailand’s clearest water
- Visit Mu Ko Lanta National Park – Hike to the lighthouse at the southern tip for views and wild monkeys
- Kayak Through Mangroves – Paddle Tung Yee Peng forest spotting monkeys and monitor lizards
c. Best Time to Visit
November to March brings the best weather with calm seas. April is hot but still good. May to October monsoons make beach activities difficult.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Haa has five small islands perfect for diving with swim-throughs and caves.
Koh Rok offers Thailand’s best snorkeling with crystal-clear water.
Koh Kradan and Koh Ngai to the south have world-class beaches accessible by speedboat.
Koh Phi Phi (30-45 minutes north) if you want more action.
e. How to Get There
From Krabi Airport:
- Fly to Krabi International Airport
- Private car or shared minivan to Koh Lanta (2.5 hours, ~350 baht)
From Krabi:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Saladan Pier (1 hour 50 minutes, 1,115 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Saladan Pier (1 hour 20 minutes, 1,115 baht)
- Ao Nang Travel ferry from Nopparat Thara Pier to Saladan Pier (3 hours, 662 baht)
- Ao Nang Travel ferry from Floating Pier East Railay to Saladan Pier (1 hour 45 minutes, 662 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Saladan Pier (1 hour 15 minutes, 1,090 baht)
From Koh Phi Phi:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Ton Sai Pier to Saladan Pier (30 minutes, 700 baht)
- Jijie Tour speedboat from Ton Sai Pier to Saladan Pier (30 minutes, 884 baht)
- Awaycation Trip speedboat from Ton Sai Pier to Saladan Pier (30 minutes, 700 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Ton Sai Pier to Saladan Pier (30 minutes, 680 baht)
From Phuket:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Rassada Pier to Saladan Pier (1 hour 30 minutes, 1,500 baht)
- Awaycation Trip speedboat from Rassada Pier to Saladan Pier (1 hour 30 minutes, 1,500 baht)
- Satun Pakbara speedboat from Rassada Pier to Saladan Pier (1 hour 30 minutes, 1,500 baht)
- Andaman Wave Master speedboat from Rassada Pier to Saladan Pier (1 hour 30 minutes, 1,400 baht)
Bonus Tip #1: Koh Lipe – The Maldives of Thailand
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Lipe is Thailand’s southernmost island near Malaysia. This tiny 2 square kilometer paradise sits in Tarutao Marine Park.
The water clarity is unbelievable, with neon blue water and 20+ meter visibility.
World-class diving at sites like 8 Mile Rock and Stonehenge, plus the unique Chao Lay sea gypsy culture.
b. Best Things to Do
- Beach Hop All Sides – Sunrise Beach for morning calm, Pattaya Bay for midday swimming, Sunset Beach for evening drinks, and North Point Beach for quiet snorkeling
- Dive World-Class Sites – Stonehenge’s coral towers or deep 8 Mile Rock with big fish
- Hike Koh Adang – 10-minute longtail then 40-minute climb for Thailand’s best island view
- Walking Street Evening – Seafood BBQ, roti carts, reggae bars, and fire shows on Pattaya Beach
c. Best Time to Visit
November to April for calm seas essential for water activities. December-February peaks with a lively New Year scene. Some businesses close during May-October monsoons.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Adang rises directly north. Large, mountainous island with hiking trails and empty beaches, just 10 minutes by longtail.
Koh Rawi offers beautiful uninhabited beaches on snorkeling tours.
e. How to Get There
From Hat Yai Airport:
- Fly from Bangkok to Hat Yai Airport (1.5 hours)
- Van + ferry to Koh Lipe with Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club (book via 12go.asia)
- Total journey: 3.5 hours (700 baht)
From Krabi:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Bundhaya Pier (5 hours 20 minutes, 2,300 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Bundhaya Pier (5 hours, 2,300 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Pattaya Beach (Koh Lipe) (4 hours 45 minutes, 1,950 baht)
From Koh Lanta:
- Bundhaya speedboat from Saladan Pier to Bundhaya Pier (3 hours, 1,700 baht)
- Awaycation Trip speedboat from Saladan Pier to Bundhaya Pier (3 hours, 1,700 baht)
- Tiger Line speedboat from Saladan Pier to Pattaya Beach (Koh Lipe) (2 hours 30 minutes, 1,694 baht)
Bonus Tip #2: Koh Yao Noi – The Peaceful Escape
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Yao Noi floats in Phang Nga Bay between Phuket and Krabi, yet stays remarkably quiet.
This Muslim fishing island offers breathtaking views of the bay’s limestone karsts from its east coast.
Quiet roads wind through rice paddies and rubber plantations, perfect for cycling.
b. Best Things to Do
- Explore by Scooter – Cruise the scenic loop road through rice fields and quiet beaches
- Island Hop Phang Nga Bay – Longtail to Koh Hong’s hidden lagoon and James Bond Island
- Watch Sunrise at Pasai Beach – Spectacular dawn behind limestone karst silhouettes
- Kayak to Koh Nok – Paddle calm waters discovering hidden coves and uninhabited islets
c. Best Time to Visit
December to April for sunny days and calm seas. May-November brings short rain bursts but fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Sister island Koh Yao Yai is even quieter with a stunning sandbar at Laem Had Beach.
The Koh Hong archipelago offers hidden lagoons and pristine beaches.
You can also reach Phi Phi Islands or Krabi’s Railay Beach from here.
e. How to Get There
From Phuket:
- Green Planet speedboat from Laem Hin Pier to Manoh Pier (50 minutes, 400 baht)
- Green Planet speedboat from Bang Rong Pier to Manoh Pier (40 minutes, 400 baht)
- Supaporn ferry from Bang Rong Pier to Manoh Pier (40 minutes, 400 baht)
- Koh Yao King Marine speedboat from Bang Rong Pier to Manoh Pier (30 minutes, 500 baht)
From Krabi:
- Green Planet speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Manoh Pier (30 minutes, 650 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Manoh Pier (1 hour, 744 baht)
- Koh Yao Sun Smile speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Manoh Pier (40 minutes, 650 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Nopparat Thara Pier to Manoh Pier (40 minutes, 686 baht)
- Green Planet speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Manoh Pier (1 hour 10 minutes, 650 baht)
- Bundhaya speedboat from Floating Pier East Railay to Manoh Pier (1 hour, 744 baht)
