Thailand has a thousand islands, but only a few truly capture its magic.
These 10 stand out for their clear turquoise water, soft beaches, and easygoing island life.
Each one has its own charm, from lively beach towns to hidden lagoons.
This guide will show you the best times to visit, what to avoid, and how to reach each island with ease so you never miss Thailand’s most gorgeous islands. 😊
1. Koh Chang – The Jungle Island
a. Why It’s Special
Tucked away in the eastern Gulf near Cambodia’s border, Koh Chang is Thailand’s third-largest island where mountainous rainforest tumbles down to pristine beaches.
Over 70% remains protected jungle, so you’ll wake to birdsong rather than jet skis, with dozens of uninhabited islets waiting just offshore in the Mu Ko Chang National Park.
b. Best Things to Do
- Dive the HTMS Chang Shipwreck – Explore this 100-meter naval vessel with barracuda and groupers
- Trek to Klong Plu Waterfall – Jungle hike to cool off in a large swimming pool
- Kayak Salak Khok Mangroves – Paddle through serene forests into hidden lagoons at high tide
- Stroll Bang Bao Fishing Village – Walk wooden boardwalks trying fresh seafood at sunset
- Party at Lonely Beach – Backpacker haven with beach bars, fire shows, and bucket drinks
c. Best Time to Visit
Visit from November to February for clear skies and calm seas. Avoid May through October when monsoon rains turn trails muddy.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
From Koh Chang, Koh Mak lies 20 km south – a tiny eco-paradise with quiet beaches and superb snorkeling.
Further south, Koh Kood feels like the edge of the world with pristine rainforest and waterfalls.
Tiny Koh Wai makes a perfect snorkeling stop with vibrant reefs right offshore and no roads to disturb the peace.
e. How to Get There
- Fly to Trat Airport (TDX) from Bangkok (1 hour)
- Take shared minivan to Ao Thammachat Pier (30 minutes, ~฿800)
- Board Ferry Koh Chang to Ao Sapparot Pier (30-45 minutes, ฿80)
2. Koh Mak – The Green Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Mak floats between Koh Chang and Koh Kood, a privately-owned 16 km² eco-paradise with no high-rises or chain stores.
You can often find peaceful stretches of beach like Ao Kao with very few people around, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
b. Best Things to Do
- Take a speedboat or kayak to Koh Kham – Visit this small island known for its black volcanic rocks, white powdery sand, and crystal-clear turquoise water
- Snorkel at Koh Rang – The Gulf’s healthiest reefs with clownfish and hawksbill turtles
- Cycle Through Coconut Groves – Free resort bikes to explore red-dirt roads and secret beaches
- Kayak to Koh Kradat – Paddle 2 km north to see wild deer roaming beaches
- Thai Cooking Class – Learn authentic recipes at Smile Koh Mak with ocean views
c. Best Time to Visit
November to February brings blue skies and calm seas, while the monsoon season from June to September can bring heavy rain and rough seas, and some resorts may close or reduce services during this period.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Kradat sits just 15 minutes away, famous for free-roaming deer herds and shallow reefs.
Koh Kood sprawls 17 km southeast with jungled hills and spectacular waterfalls.
Koh Chang waits 60 minutes northwest by ferry when you crave more restaurants and nightlife.
e. How to Get There
- Fly to Trat Airport (TDX) from Bangkok (1 hour)
- Minivan to Laem Sok Pier (฿1,000 including ferry)
- Ferry to Ao Nid Pier (Koh Mak) by Boonsiri Catamaran or Koh Kood Express
- Total travel time from Trat Airport to Ao Nid Pier is about 1 hour and 45 minutes
3. Koh Kood – Thailand’s Last Frontier
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Kood is Thailand’s fourth-largest island near Cambodia, wonderfully undeveloped with just fishing villages and some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.
Jungle-clad hills cascade to turquoise bays while Khlong Chao Waterfall offers cool pools beneath the canopy.
b. Best Things to Do
- Beach Hop by Scooter – Rent wheels to find empty Ao Phrao and snorkel Bang Bao Bay
- Swim at Khlong Chao Waterfall – Short jungle trek to this three-tier cascade with natural pool
- Visit Ao Salad Fishing Village – Authentic stilt village with super-fresh steamed crab
- Snorkel Koh Rang – Nearby islets with vibrant coral gardens and clownfish
c. Best Time to Visit
November to April for sunny skies and calm seas. May through October monsoons shut down most resorts and ferries.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Mak sits 17 km northwest, sharing similar clear waters and laid-back vibes perfect for bicycle exploration.
Koh Rang to the west offers uninhabited marine park islands with the region’s best coral reefs.
Koh Chang lies 34 km north if you want to add some nightlife and infrastructure to your journey.
e. How to Get There
- Fly to Trat Airport (TDX) from Bangkok (1 hour)
- Minivan to Laem Sok Pier (฿1,000 including ferry)
- Board the Boonsiri Catamaran or Koh Kood Express to Ao Salad Pier
- Total travel time from Trat Airport to Ao Salad Pier is about 2 to 2.5 hours
4. Koh Tao – The Diving Paradise
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Tao (“Turtle Island”) is a small 21 km² gem north of Samui, famous as the world’s cheapest place to get PADI certified.
Reef sharks cruise Chumphon Pinnacle while the iconic Koh Nang Yuan sandbar connecting three islets adds picture-perfect beauty.
b. Best Things to Do
- Get Dive Certified – Join thousands earning PADI certification at rock-bottom prices
- Snorkel Japanese Garden – Shallow reefs around Koh Nang Yuan teem with parrotfish
- Hike John-Suwan Viewpoint – 20-minute climb for the postcard view of twin bays
- Visit Koh Nang Yuan – Walk the famous sandbar connecting three islets
- Beach Party at Sairee – Sunset BBQ then fire dancers at Lotus Bar under the stars
c. Best Time to Visit
February to April offers the best underwater visibility. October and November bring heavier rain and reduced visibility, but diving continues year-round with trips adjusted for weather conditions.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Nang Yuan is essentially next door – 10 minutes by boat to the famous sandbar and Japanese Garden reef.
Koh Phangan lies 45 km south for Full Moon parties or serene yoga retreats.
Koh Samui sits 2 hours by ferry southwest with big resorts, shopping, and international airport.
e. How to Get There
From Koh Samui:
- Lomlahkkhirin (Depart from Bangrak Pier) – Speedboat, about 1.5 hours, ฿700
- Lomprayah (Depart from Maenam Pier) – Catamaran, about 1.5 hours, ฿700
From Surat Thani Airport:
- Lomprayah – Bus & High-Speed Catamaran, about 4 hours and 45 minutes, ฿1,100
- Lomlahkkhirin – Van & Ferry, about 4 to 5 hours, ฿1,200
From Chumphon Airport:
Boonsiri – Van & Ferry, about 3.5 hours, ฿900
5. Koh Phangan – The Dual Personality Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Phangan sits between Samui and Tao, a 168km² island where the world-famous Full Moon Party at Haad Rin draws 10,000+ dancers monthly.
Yet the north harbors yoga retreats and hidden waterfalls – an island where fire dancers and yoga teachers share the same sunset.
b. Best Things to Do
- Explore by Scooter – Find Secret Beach, Haad Yao’s long sand, and Thong Nai Pan’s twin bays
- Experience Full Moon Party – Dance till dawn with DJ stages, fire jumping, and neon paint
- Chase Waterfalls – Hike to Phaeng Waterfall then Domesila Viewpoint for palm forest vistas
- Snorkel Koh Ma – Walk the sandbar at Mae Haad to tiny Koh Ma for excellent 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 lively atmosphere. Avoid October and November when heavy rains and rough seas can cancel boats.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Samui lies just 30 minutes south by ferry – much larger with airport, shopping malls, and busy Chaweng Beach.
Koh Tao waits 1-1.5 hours north, famed for diving with daily ferries.
Ang Thong Marine Park offers spectacular day trips to 42 limestone islands with the famous Emerald Lake.
e. How to Get There
From Koh Samui:
- Lomlahkkhirin (Depart from Bangrak Pier) – Speedboat, about 30 minutes, ฿351
- Lomprayah (Depart from Maenam Pier) – Catamaran, about 30 minutes, ฿350
- Seatran Discovery (Depart from Bangrak Pier) – High-Speed Passenger Ferry, about 45 minutes, ฿360
From Surat Thani Airport:
- Lomprayah – Bus & High-Speed Catamaran, about 4 hours, ฿950
- Seatran Discovery – Van & Ferry, about 4.5 hours, ฿648
- 12Go Transport – Bus & Ferry, about 5 hours, ฿595
6. Koh Samui – The Coconut Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island with its own international airport, offering everything from Chaweng’s bustling beaches to Bophut’s charming Fisherman’s Village.
You can breakfast in Bangkok and lunch on the beach, with the iconic Big Buddha Temple watching over it all.
b. Best Things to Do
- Experience The Roof Samui – Rooftop bar with 360-degree views perfect for sunset cocktails and tapas
- Beach Hop the Coast – From bustling 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 Emerald Lake viewpoint
- Visit Big Buddha Temple – Climb to the 12-meter golden statue for panoramic coastal views
- Wander Fisherman’s Village – Browse Bophut’s Friday night market with street food and live music
c. Best Time to Visit
December to February for pleasant temperatures and sunny skies. Avoid September-November when October-November see the wettest conditions.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Phangan is just 30 minutes north by speedboat – famous for Full Moon Parties plus quiet yoga retreats.
Koh Tao sits 1.5-2.5 hours by ferry north, Thailand’s diving mecca.
Ang Thong Marine Park makes an unmissable day trip to experience limestone scenery up close.
e. How to Get There
Fly to Koh Samui Airport (USM) with Bangkok Airways (1 hour 15 minutes)
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, with towering limestone cliffs draped in jungle.
Maya Bay on uninhabited Phi Phi Leh epitomizes tropical perfection, while the famous viewpoint offers one of Thailand’s most photographed vistas.
b. Best Things to Do
- Visit Maya Bay Early – Sunrise longtail to beat crowds (swimming prohibited but still breathtaking)
- Swim in Pileh Lagoon – Float in turquoise waters surrounded by towering cliffs
- Snorkel Shark Point – See harmless blacktip reef sharks in early morning off Long Beach
- Hike to Viewpoint 2 – 20-30 minute climb for iconic twin bay panorama
- Night Party at Loh Dalum – Fire shows at Slinky and Ibiza Beach Bar till 2 AM
c. Best Time to Visit
November to April for calm seas ideal for boat trips. Maya Bay closes August-September for ecosystem recovery.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Phi Phi Leh sits just 1.5 km south with Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Viking Cave.
Bamboo Island (Koh Pai) lies 5 km northeast with white sand and coral gardens.
Koh Lanta sprawls 30 km east offering long quiet beaches and charming Old Town.
e. How to Get There
From Phuket:
- Chaokoh Travel Center (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Ferry, about 2 hours, ฿500
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Speedboat, about 1 hour, ฿700
- Seatran Phuket (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Ferry, about 2 hours, ฿550
- PP Sabai Marine (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Speedboat, about 1 hour, ฿700
From Krabi:
- Jijie Tour and Travel (Depart from Klong Jilad Pier) – Ferry, about 2 hours, ฿555
- Andaman Wave Master (Depart from Klong Jilad Pier) – Speedboat/Ferry, about 1/2 hours, ฿900/ ฿450
- Songserm (Depart from Klong Jilad Pier) – Ferry, about 2 hours, ฿450
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Nopparat Thara Pier) – Speedboat, about 50 minutes, ฿880
- Seatran Discovery (Depart from Nopparat Thara Pier) – Ferry, about 2 hours, ฿660
8. Koh Mook – The Pearl Island
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Mook (“Pearl Island”) in Trang Province blends stunning natural attractions with genuine Thai-Muslim fishing community life.
The famous Emerald Cave offers Thailand’s most magical experience – swimming 80 meters through darkness to 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” with clear waters
- 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 is the best time to visit when the Emerald Cave is safely accessible. December to March brings the sunniest days around 30°C, while some resorts and ferry services close from May to October during the low season.
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 to Trang Airport (TST) from Bangkok (1.5 hours)
- Take a van and local longtail boat to Koh Mook Pier with King Travel Company
- You can book this trip through 12go.asia
- The total travel time from Trang Airport to Koh Mook Pier is about 2 hours and 50 minutes, costing around ฿445
From Phuket:
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Speedboat, about 2 hours and 50 minutes, ฿1,952
- Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Speedboat, about 2 hours and 50 minutes, ฿1,950
From Krabi:
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Nopparat Thara Pier) – Speedboat, about 3 hours and 10 minutes, ฿1,959
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Floating Pier East Railay) – Speedboat, about 2 hours and 50 minutes, ฿1,970
9. Koh Kradan – The World’s Best Beach
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Kradan in Trang Province has no villages or roads – just park rangers and resorts on an island where the main beach was crowned world’s best in 2023.
Powdery white sand meets crystal-clear water with vibrant coral reefs just 50 meters from shore, while nights reveal the Milky Way and bioluminescent plankton.
b. Best Things to Do
- Snorkel the House Reef – Wade in from Paradise Beach to find coral gardens teeming with fish
- Watch 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 bioluminescent sparks
c. Best Time to Visit
November to April is the main travel season, with December to March offering world-class snorkeling and calm, glass-like seas. May to October sees rougher conditions and reduced services during the low season.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Mook sits just 8 km west for its famous Emerald Cave – 15-minute boat ride.
Koh Ngai lies 9 km north with lovely beaches sharing Kradan’s tranquil vibe.
Koh Rok (1 hour south-east) offers Thailand’s best snorkeling but requires a dedicated day trip.
e. How to Get There
From Trang Airport:
- Fly to Trang Airport (TST) from Bangkok (1.5 hours)
- Take Van and Local longtail boat to Koh Kradan Pier with King Travel Company
- You can book it through 12go.asia
- Total travel time from Trang Airport to Koh Kradan Pier is about 3 hours and costs about ฿650
From Phuket:
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Speedboat, about 3 hours and 40 minutes, ฿1,952
- Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club (Depart from Rassada Pier) – Speedboat, about 3 hours and 5 minutes, ฿1,950
From Krabi:
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Nopparat Thara Pier) – Speedboat, about 3 hours and 30 minutes, ฿1,959
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Floating Pier East Railay) – Speedboat, about 3 hours and 10 minutes, ฿1,970
10. Koh Lipe – The Maldives of Thailand
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Lipe is Thailand’s southernmost island near Malaysia, a tiny 2 km² paradise in Tarutao Marine Park.
The water clarity is unbelievable – neon blue with 20+ meter visibility revealing world-class diving at sites like 8 Mile Rock and Stonehenge, while the Chao Lay sea gypsy culture adds unique island identity.
b. Best Things to Do
- Beach Hop Across All Sides – Start your day at Sunrise Beach for calm morning views, relax and swim at Pattaya Bay during midday, head to Sunset Beach for laid-back evening drinks, and don’t miss North Point Beach for quiet sands and crystal-clear water ideal for snorkeling
- Dive World-Class Sites – Stonehenge’s coral towers or deep 8 Mile Rock attracting pelagics
- Hike Koh Adang – 10-minute longtail then 40-minute climb for Thailand’s best island vista
- 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 peak with lively New Year scene. Some businesses close May-October monsoons.
d. Nearby Islands You Can Visit
Koh Adang rises directly north – large mountainous island with hiking trails and deserted beaches 10 minutes by longtail.
Koh Rawi offers beautiful uninhabited beaches on snorkeling tours.
e. How to Get There
From Hat Yai Airport:
- Fly to Hat Yai Airport (HDY) from Bangkok (1.5 hours)
- Take Van and Ferry to Koh Lipe with Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club
- You can book it through 12go.asia
- Total travel time from Hat Yai Airport to Koh Lipe Pier is about 3.5 hours and costs about ฿700
From Krabi:
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Nopparat Thara Pier) – Speedboat, about 5 hours and 20 minutes, ฿2,300
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Floating Pier East Railay) – Speedboat, about 5 hours, ฿2,300
Bonus Tip: Koh Yao Noi – The Peaceful Escape
a. Why It’s Special
Koh Yao Noi floats in Phang Nga Bay exactly between Phuket and Krabi yet remains remarkably quiet.
This Muslim fishing island offers breathtaking views of the bay’s iconic limestone karsts from its east coast, with quiet roads winding through rice paddies and rubber plantations perfect for cycling.
b. Best Things to Do
- Explore by Scooter – Cruise 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 quieter still with stunning sandbar at Laem Had Beach.
The Koh Hong archipelago offers hidden lagoons and pristine beaches.
Further afield reach Phi Phi Islands or Krabi’s Railay Beach.
e. How to Get There
From Phuket:
- Green Planet (Depart from Laem Hin Pier/ Bang Rong Pier) – Speedboat, about 40-50 minutes, ฿400
- Koh Yao King Marine (Depart from Bang Rong Pier) – Speedboat, about 30 minutes, ฿500
From Krabi:
- Green Planet (Depart from Nopparat Thara Pier) – Speedboat, about 30 minutes, ฿650
- Green Planet (Depart from Floating Pier East Railay) – Speedboat, about 1 hour and 10 minutes, ฿650
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Nopparat Thara Pier) – Speedboat, about 40 minutes, ฿686
- Bundhaya Speed Boat (Depart from Floating Pier East Railay) – Speedboat, about 1 hour, ฿744
