My Information to Island Hopping in Thailand (2025)

If you happen to’re a seashore lover like me then island hopping in Thailand might be excessive in your bucket record!

This tropical paradise boasts a number of the greatest islands and seashores on this planet – suppose gentle white sands, calm turquoise waters, gently swaying palm timber and contemporary coconuts as large as your head! And, as there are over 1,400 lovely islands in Thailand, why not go to multiple…

From massive resort islands with all mod-cons to tiny islets in protected marine parks, every Thai island is completely different so there’s one thing for everybody. Whether or not you’re dreaming of a luxurious seashore trip, a household pleasant vacation, partying on a paradise island, or a extra rustic, offbeat journey – Thailand is the place island hopping desires come true!

Throughout my time dwelling in Thailand I’ve been fortunate sufficient to discover many islands so I’ve put collectively this information that can assist you plan your individual epic Thailand island hopping journey.

Keep it up studying as I’ll share the perfect Thai islands to go to, thrilling island hopping itineraries to observe and loads of sensible journey ideas that can assist you have the absolute best expertise.

The Final Thailand Island Hopping Information

The Greatest Islands In Thailand

One of many explanation why Thailand is the preferred vacationer vacation spot in South East Asia is as a result of it boasts a number of the most lovely seashores and islands on the planet – the laborious half is deciding which of them to go to!

Out of the 1,400 islands in Thailand you’ll be able to keep on about 60 of them. The most well-liked islands in Thailand are effectively developed for tourism with a wide array of lodging and eating choices to go well with all budgets.

From low-cost and cheerful backpacker hostels and funds seashore huts, to five star luxurious resorts boasting non-public seashores, beautiful infinity swimming pools and world class eating places, however you’ll be able to nonetheless discover loads of pure magnificence and pristine seashores on undeveloped islands too.

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After spending so lengthy in Thailand, a query I’m typically requested is ‘Which is the perfect island in Thailand?’

Properly it’s an nearly unattainable query to reply as a result of every Thai island is completely different and can enchantment to completely different individuals.

Some individuals need a stress-free seashore vacation or wellness resort expertise, others need celebration till dawn or discover Thai tradition, whereas paradise for some is solely hanging a hammock between 2 palm timber and dwelling out your ‘seashore’ fantasies.

To make it simpler so that you can determine these are the perfect islands to go to in Thailand, relying on what kind of traveler you’re:

Greatest for {couples} and honeymooners – Koh Samui, Phuket, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Kood
Greatest for households with kids – Koh Samui, Koh Lanta, Koh Chang
Greatest for digital nomads – Phuket, Koh Phangan, Koh Lanta,
Greatest for backpackers and funds vacationers – Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Lanta,
Greatest for nightlife and partying – Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Samui (Chaweng)
Greatest for scuba diving and snorkeling – Koh Tao, Koh Surin, Koh Smilian
Most lovely island in Thailand – Koh Similan, Koh Lipe
Greatest island to flee from all of it – Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Kood, Koh Muk

Whether or not you’re planning an island hopping journey or simply wish to chill out on the right paradise island vacation listed below are the perfect islands to go to. I’ve cut up it as much as teams of islands, as a result of until you’ve limitless time, I like to recommend exploring one group moderately than attempting to see each island in Thailand.

Plus, every coast has completely different climate patterns, so the perfect one to go to will rely upon the time of 12 months – however there’s extra sensible journey ideas afterward on this weblog.

Greatest Islands within the Andaman Sea (West Coast)

Phuket

Phuket is the biggest island in Thailand with a lot to supply, with wonderful seashores, full of life nightlife, and even a novel culutre and vibrant outdated city.

As one of the well-known islands in Thailand, there are many issues to do in Phuket with points of interest, actions and lodging choices for all budgets, and a effectively linked worldwide airport which makes it the perfect island to go to in case you like your seashore holidays enjoyable and straightforward.

Phuket island is house to many lovely, white sand seashores, forested hills, and beautiful viewpoints. The most well-liked is Patong Seaside, the place you’ll discover loopy nightlife on notorious Bangla street, watersports, and tons of resorts, eating places, bars and retailers, however there’s a lot extra to discover.

If you happen to choose extra laid again seashores there are loads to select from like household pleasant Kata seashore and uncrowded Karon seashore. See my information to the perfect seashores and locations to remain in Phuket for extra info.

And Phuket has loads of tradition too! Don’t miss exploring vibrant, historic Previous Phuket City with it’s Sino-Portuguese structure and full of life Sunday strolling avenue market. Additionally go to Wat Chalong and the Massive Buddha, a forty five meter tall white Buddha statue perched on prime a hill with panoramic views over the island. You possibly can see the highlights in simply in the future with this Phuket island tour.

Thailand’s largest island additionally makes an incredible base for exploring the close by islands with loads of island hopping journeys from Phuket to locations just like the Phi Phi islands, Phang Nga Bay, and the Surin and Similian Islands Marine Nationwide Parks.

A day journey to the Phi Phi islands to see Maya Bay is a should. Phang Nga Bay is one other spotlight – it’s house to distinctive limestone rock formations in addition to James Bond Island, the place the film ‘the Man with the Golden Gun‘ was filmed, and tiny Panyee, a novel floating village. This Phang Nga Bay Journey Tour by speedboat contains all of the highlights – don’t miss it out of your Phuket itinerary!

For extra info try my weblog posts on Phuket:

Krabi

Krabi will not be an island however it’s a beautiful province situated on the West Coast of Thailand that’s house to a few of Thailand’s greatest islands, together with the favored Phi Phi islands

If you happen to’re dreaming of seeing these iconic Thailand postcard excellent scenes for your self – colourful longtail boats, dramatic limestone cliffs, and the impossibly turquoise waters of the Andaman sea then you want to go to Krabi!

Krabi is house to over 150 attractive islands, seashores, jungles, and mangrove forests. Ao Nang seashore is the area’s vacationer hub with a variety of resorts, eateries and actions on supply, however there’s many different locations to remain in Krabi if you’re on the lookout for extra secluded seashores to get away from all of it.

Don’t miss visiting Railay Seaside, it’s a magical spot surrounded by limestone cliffs and solely accessible by boat. Railay has a brilliant laid again ambiance, there’s no vehicles and simply a few resorts, and it’s an incredible spot to attempt mountaineering.

There’s loads of alternatives for island hopping from Krabi, the preferred is the 4 island tour. As you’d anticipate, this boat journey visits 4 islands – Koh Poda, Koh Kai (Hen Island), Koh Tup, and Phra Nang Cave Seaside with loads of stops for swimming and snorkeling.

You can even take a day journey to the Phi Phi islands, or go to hidden gems just like the dreamy Hong islands or discover inland and see genuine Krabi City, climb the Tiger Cave Temple, and swim within the beautiful Emerald Pool.

For extra info try my Krabi weblog posts:

The Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are most likely THE most well-known island in Thailand. This group of six islands, typically simply known as Koh Phi Phi, are situated between Phuket and Krabi and shot to fame after the film, ‘The Seaside’ was filmed right here.

The one island you’ll be able to keep on right here is Phi Phi Don. It’s unbelievably lovely with lush towering cliffs over brilliant turquoise seas and no vehicles. The principle space, Ton Sai Bay Village, has a full of life backpacker celebration scene and loads of lodging, seashore bars, retailers and eating places, but it surely’s fairly overdeveloped, crowded and noisy.

If you happen to choose a extra peaceable expertise merely head to Lengthy Seaside or take a longtail boat to one of many secluded resorts like Zeavola on the opposite facet of the island to dwell out your castaway fantasies.

Don’t miss taking an island hopping boat journey across the Phi Phi islands, – I extremely suggest forking out on this non-public journey to keep away from the crowds on this well-liked space. Probably the most well-known spot from the movie is Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh, a shocking white sand seashore with emerald water surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

Maya Bay can get fairly crowded with vacationers so, to guard this paradise, you’re not allowed to swim or camp right here, but it surely’s nonetheless a spectacular sight and a should if, like me, that film impressed your dream of visiting Thailand.

On the boat journey you’ll additionally go to Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Bamboo island and Monkey Seaside and go snorkeling and scuba diving. As soon as again on Phi Phi Don, the difficult hike as much as Phi Phi Viewpoint is effectively value it for the unbelievable views.

Because it’s a small, well-known and very fashionable island, Koh Phi Phi generally feels just like the busiest island in Thailand and has grow to be fairly overdeveloped and crowded, but it surely’s nonetheless one of the lovely locations in Thailand and effectively value a go to. Until you wish to celebration, I like to recommend staying outdoors of Ton Sai Village and taking a personal boat tour for the perfect expertise.

Koh Lanta

If you happen to’re on the lookout for a much less crowded island in Thailand, try Koh Lanta. This island presents lengthy white sand seashores, loads of unspoilt pure magnificence, and a extra genuine, relaxed vibe than a number of the different extra well-liked vacationer locations.

Most lodging choices and eating places are discovered round Phra Ae Seaside (often known as Lengthy Seaside) however there’s loads extra to discover. For a style of conventional Thai island life, go to Lanta Previous City a captivating fishing village with colourful wood homes, native retailers and eating places.

If you happen to like nature walks and scenic viewpoints try Mu Koh Lanta Nationwide Park, it covers the southern tip of the island and protects 16 close by islands. You possibly can be a part of the 4 islands boat journey from Koh Lanta to the smaller Trang Islands together with Koh Ngai, Koh Muk and Koh Kradan. A few of Thailand’s greatest dive websites are additionally near Koh Lanta.

Koh Lipe

Tiny Koh Lipe is likely one of the most lovely islands in Thailand with such gentle white sand seashores and crystal-clear blue waters that it’s earned the nickname of the ‘Maldives of Thailand’. (Psst. Learn this weblog to search out out go to the Maldives on a funds! )

Koh Lipe is situated within the far south of the Andaman sea in Tarutao Nationwide Park, near the Malaysian island of Langkawi. It’s a small island with a brilliant laidback vibe, wonderful sunrises and sunsets, and an excellent vary of lodging and different facilities together with a nightly strolling avenue, however with a way more low key nightlife than locations like Koh Phi Phi.

Koh Lipe additionally makes an excellent base to go snorkeling, diving and island hopping within the Tarutao Nationwide Park – there are 51 islands unfold over 3 archipelagos to discover so regardless that it’s a small island you received’t get bored.

Because it’s located thus far south, Koh Lipe takes longer to achieve than a number of the different islands, however there’s loads of choices, whether or not you’re taking a pace boat from Phuket or Krabi (5 – 6 hours) Koh Lanta (3 hours) or fly into Hat Yai or Langkawi and take a ship from there it’s an island paradise value the additional effort to get to.

The Koh Yao Islands

If you happen to’re on the lookout for a tranquil, off the crushed path escape with out touring too removed from Phuket or Krabi think about the Koh Yao islands – Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi. Positioned in the course of Phang Nga Bay, these barely developed twin islands retain their conventional island life and supply a extra peaceable ambiance in comparison with different busier islands within the Andaman Sea.

Koh Yao Yai is the bigger of the 2 islands, with lengthy stretches of empty seashores, coconut groves, and some high-end resorts like Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort tucked away alongside the coast. One of many highlights is the epic sandbar at Laem Had Seaside. The island remains to be principally undeveloped, so that you received’t discover large cities or nightlife right here so it’s supreme for pure leisure.

Koh Yao Noi is smaller however has extra lodging and eating choices, making it a greater base for funds travellers and island exploration. The views out to the bay over the Hong Islands from Pasai Seaside are unbelievable, nonetheless most seashores on this island are solely swimmable throughout excessive tide.

The Koh Yao islands make an incredible base for island hopping within the Hong Islands however what makes these hidden gems so particular is that they’ve stayed low-key and laid again and supply a glimpse of Thai island life earlier than mass tourism.

The Similian Islands and Surin Islands

For essentially the most pristine, lovely islands in Thailand head to the Similan Islands and the Surin Islands – two of Thailand’s most beautiful marine nationwide parks with unspoilt pure magnificence providing unbelievable snorkeling and scuba diving.

The Similan Islands, are a protected, uninhabited archipelago within the Andaman Sea, about 70 km off the coast of Phang Nga, with lovely granite boulders, dreamy azure waters, white sand seashores and wonderful marine life.

Koh Similan (Island 8) is the biggest island the place you’ll discover the well-known Sailboat Rock viewpoint. The Similan islands are additionally a prime diving vacation spot with deep drop-offs, underwater caves, and the possibility to see manta rays and whale sharks.

Because it’s a nationwide park there isn’t a lodging on the Similian Islands, however you’ll be able to go to this tropical paradise on a day journey from Khao Lak or Phuket, or keep on a liveaboard dive boat. Because of monsoon rains, the park is barely open from November until mid Could.

The Surin Islands is one other nationwide park with 5 islands which is situated barely additional north, close to the Myanmar border. The Surin islands are surrounded by shallow coral reefs with plentiful marine life are and top-of-the-line locations for snorkeling in Thailand. Close by, Richelieu Rock is likely one of the greatest dive websites within the nation. There’s additionally a Moken (sea gypsy) village you could go to on Koh Surin Tai.

It takes about 2 hours by speedboat to achieve the Surin islands from Khuraburi, you’ll be able to take a day journey to the Surin islands from Khao Lak or if you wish to keep in a single day be a part of this 2 day/1 evening journey from Phuket the place you camp on the seashore in a tent or keep in a fundamental air conditioned bungalow on the island for a novel castaway island expertise!

Greatest Islands within the Gulf of Thailand (East Coast)

Koh Samui

The most important and hottest island within the Gulf of Thailand – Koh Samui was once a coconut plantation and is now well-known for it’s beautiful palm-fringed seashores and luxurious resorts – supreme for first timers, honeymooners and households who like their holidays straightforward.

Even earlier than being featured in ‘The White Lotus’ HBO present, Koh Samui has lengthy been one of the well-liked trip locations in Thailand with no scarcity of lovely seashores to discover and one thing to entertain each kind of traveller.

Chaweng Seaside is the preferred resort on the island with an image excellent seashore, full of life ambiance and loads of seashore golf equipment, eating places, bars, retailers and nightlife to take pleasure in. If you happen to’re after a extra relaxed, household pleasant vacation I like to recommend heading to Bophut Seaside. That is additionally the place you’ll additionally discover the stunning Fisherman’s Village Strolling Road and evening market.

And if you wish to escape from all of it there’s loads of luxurious resorts in Koh Samui nestled in secluded coves with non-public seashores that really feel like your individual slice of paradise. Try my information to the place to remain in Koh Samui for extra info on all of the completely different seashores, areas and lodge suggestions for all budgets.

One purpose Koh Samui is so well-liked is as a result of there are so many issues to do so ensure you get off the seashore and discover the distinctive temples like Wat Phra Yai (Massive Buddha Temple) and Wat Plai Leam and the jungle lined inside which accommodates spectacular waterfalls, viewpoints and coconut plantations. You possibly can see the highlights simply in simply in the future on this Koh Samui island tour.

One other should is a boat journey to Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park, a bunch of beautiful karst islets with distinctive rock formations, crystal clear lagoons, glorious snorkeling and scuba diving, and a tremendous 360 diploma panoramic viewpoint.

Positioned close by are the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. These can simply be explored as a part of an island-hopping journey from Koh Samui however are effectively value spending a number of days on too in case you have time.

For extra info learn my different Koh Samui blogs:

Koh Phangan (Koh Pha Ngan)

The island of Koh Phangan (often known as Koh Pha Ngan) is only a quick boat experience away from Koh Samui. It’s most well-known for its month-to-month full moon events on Haad Rin seashore, however there’s way more to this magical island.

And, in case your dates don’t algin with the complete moon celebration, don’t despair – there are various different events on Koh Phangan together with half moon events and black moon events.

However the island has a lot extra to supply – there’s hidden, uncrowded seashores and pristine jungle to discover and a novel religious facet.

One in every of my favorite issues to do in Koh Phangan is to hire a scooter and go seashore hopping alongside the west and north coast, hike to Bottle Seaside and discover the waterfalls and viewpoints within the jungle.

And, in case you’re into yoga, you’ll love Koh Phangan, the island has so many yoga retreats and meditation workshops the place you’ll be able to discover your religious facet and join with a thriving like minded neighborhood.

The island is sort of numerous so select your vibe when deciding the place to remain on Koh Phangan – if you wish to celebration head to Haad Rin and Baan Thai, however if you’d like peace and spirituality you’ll discover loads of that on Koh Phangan too in areas like Sri Thanu and on attractive seashores like Thong Pan Nai.

Learn these Koh Phangan Blogs for more information:

Koh Tao

The smallest island on this group is Koh Tao, often known as turtle island because it’s formed like a turtle. This small island paradise 90 minutes ferry experience from Koh Samui is likely one of the greatest diving spots in Thailand with colourful coral reefs and plentiful marine life.

As there’s so many dive retailers, Koh Tao is likely one of the greatest and least expensive locations on this planet to get your PADI certification. This prime rated PADI open water scuba diving course solely takes 3 days, so in case you’ve ever needed to learn to scuba dive you’ll be able to’t miss Koh Tao.

And if simply wish to go snorkelling to discover the underwater world you’ll be able to take this full day 5 island snorkeling boat journey to find the perfect spots across the island. It’s additionally effectively value visiting the tiny island of Koh Nang Yuan close by which has one of the iconic viewpoints in all of Thailand!

The principle hub in Koh Tao is Sairee Seaside which has loads of lodging and eating choices and a full of life nightlife scene. If you happen to’re on the lookout for a extra secluded escape there are a number of different lovely bays and secluded seashores with low key resorts boasting nice snorkelling and beautiful views.

Extra weblog posts on Koh Tao coming quickly!…..

The Trat Islands (Close to Bangkok)

On the japanese seaboard of the Gulf of Thailand, between Bangkok and Cambodia, you’ll discover well-liked Pattaya Seaside and the Trat Islands that are supreme in case your on the lookout for a fast escape from the capital.

Pattaya could be very city, so most likely not your thought of tropical island bliss, however there are a number of small islands, together with Koh Larn (coral island) you could go to on a day journey from Pattaya, however in case you choose extra uncrowded islands and fewer seedy nightlife then it’s effectively value touring a bit additional to Koh Samet or Koh Chang.

Koh Samet

Koh Samet is the closest main island to Bangkok and a well-liked weekend getaway for locals and expats on the lookout for a fast and handy island escape, but it surely has loads to supply western vacationers too.

It’s a small however lovely island with white sandy seashores, clear blue waters, hidden coves and nature trails via lush forests. The island is well-liked and busy, however retains it’s laid-back vibe. Events brighten up the weekends, however the remainder of the time it’s fairly peaceable.

Sai Kaew Seaside, often known as Diamond Seaside, is the principle seashore close to the ferry port the place you’ll discover some attention-grabbing statues and quite a lot of lodging choices and glorious contemporary seafood eating places. There’s additionally a number of smaller bays with unique resorts additional down.

It takes about 3 – 4 hours on the bus from Bangkok to achieve Ban Phe port the place you catch a brief ferry experience to Koh Samet.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a good selection for an extra off the crushed path island journey. It’s situated close to the Cambodian border, so it makes the right detour in case you’re on route between Bangkok to Siem Reap for Angkor Wat.

Koh Chang (Elephant Island) is the biggest island with essentially the most facilities within the Mu Ko Chang Nationwide Marine Park, a bunch of 52 under-the-radar islands, so it makes an excellent base. It takes about 6 – 7 hours by bus and ferry to achieve Koh Chang from Bangkok.

Koh Chang is good in case you’re on the lookout for a much less crowded and extra relaxed island expertise with out touring too far south. This massive however much less well-known Thai island has lovely seashores, lush rainforests and waterfalls and can be an incredible spot for snorkeling and diving.

The west facet of the island is the place you’ll discover essentially the most resorts and greatest seashores, like Hat Sai Khao (white sand seashore) and Lonely seashore, a well-liked spot for backpackers with full of life nightlife. The east facet remains to be house to genuine fishing villages and mangrove forests whereas the center of island is filled with pristine jungle and waterfalls to discover.

The Mu Ko Chang Nationwide Marine Park is house to many extra islands you could discover. A number of the larger ones, like Koh Kood (often known as Ko Kut) and Koh Maak, have a small choice of lodging choices, while others like Koh Rang are nonetheless pristine and guarded and might solely be explored as a part of an island hopping boat journeys from Koh Chang.

If you happen to fancy an actual again to nature castaway expertise you might keep in a single day on tiny Koh Wai or Koh Munnork, a personal resort island.

Thailand Island Hopping Itineraries

There’s no scarcity of lovely islands to go to in Thailand, and as most Thai islands are fairly straightforward to get to – why not go island hopping and go to multiple!

There’s two methods to do that – both base your self on a bigger island, like Phuket or Koh Samui, and take boat journeys and day excursions to the encircling islands, or catch a neighborhood ferry and spend a number of nights on every island and discover at your individual tempo.

Koh Samui and Phuket are the perfect islands to go to in Thailand for first timers they’re fairly completely different, so in case you’re having hassle deciding between the 2 learn my comparability submit – Phuket Vs Koh Samui.

Whereas each are value visiting I do suggest selecting one facet, relying on what time of 12 months you’re visiting. If you happen to go to Thailand between December and April head to the west coast and go island hopping within the Andaman Sea, however in case you plan to go to from Could to September then the climate on the east coast within the Gulf of Thailand is best.

Right here’s some advisable itineraries on your Thailand island hopping journey. (That is the minimal period of time wanted to see the highlights of every island – in case you have extra time I’d suggest including yet another day onto every island to discover at a extra leisurely tempo.)

12 Day Andaman Sea Island Hopping Itinerary

Phuket (3 Days) – Koh Phi Phi (2 days) – Krabi (2 days) – Koh Lanta (2 days) – Koh Lipe (2 days)

Day 1-3: Phuket

Fly into Phuket and benefit from the fabulous resorts, seashores and nightlife
Discover Phuket Previous City, Wat Chalong and the Massive Buddha
Take a ship tour to Phang Nga Bay or the Similan Islands

Day 4 – 5: Koh Phi Phi

Take a ferry ( 2 hours) or speedboat (1 hour) from Phuket to Phi Phi Don
Hike as much as the Phi Phi Viewpoint and benefit from the nightlife in Loh Dalum and Tonsai Village
Take a ship tour to Phi Phi Ley to see Maya Bay and go scuba diving or snorkeling

Day 6 – 7: Krabi

Take a ferry (1 hr 15 minutes) from Koh Phi Phi to Krabi
Go to Railay Seaside, go mountaineering or take the 4 island boat journey.
Discover Krabi City, the Emerald Pool and the Tiger Cave Temple

Day 8 – 9: Koh Lanta

Take a speedboat from Krabi to Koh Lanta ( 2 hours)
Chill out on Lengthy seashore, go scuba diving or snorkelling
Discover Lanta Previous City and Koh Lanta Nationwide Park
Take a 4 island tour to the Trang Islands (Koh Ngai, Koh Muk, and Koh Kradan.)

Day 10 – 11: Koh Lipe

Take a speedboat from Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe (3 hours).
Chill out on Dawn Seaside and discover the strolling avenue
Take an island hopping journey in Tarutao Marine Nationwide Park

Day 12: Again to Phuket

Both return to Phuket or proceed to Langkawi island in Malaysia!

10 Day Gulf Of Thailand Island Hopping Itinerary

Koh Samui (3 days) – Koh Phangan (3 days) – Koh Tao (3 days)

Day 1-3: Koh Samui

Fly into Koh Samui and benefit from the unbelievable seashores, resorts and nightlife
Discover the distinctive temples, waterfalls and viewpoints.
Take a day journey to Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park.

Day 4-6: Koh Phangan

Take the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan (30 min).
Discover the hidden seashores on the west and north coast and be a part of a yoga class
Expertise the Full Moon Social gathering in Haad Rin (or different wonderful events relying on the time of the month)

Day 7-9: Koh Tao

Ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao (90 minutes).
Go scuba diving or take a ship tour to snorkelling spots across the island
Take a day journey to Koh Nang Yuan (simply 15 min from Koh Tao)

Day 10: Return to Samui

Return by ferry to Koh Samui for onward journey

If you happen to’re going to spend a number of days within the Thai capital earlier than or after your island hopping journey then try my Bangkok itinerary for all the information you want to have a tremendous time on this thrilling metropolis.

Prime Tip: If you wish to see either side it’s straightforward to journey from Krabi over to the west coast islands so (in case you restricted time) skip Koh Lanta and Koh Lipe and get a bus and ferry mixture ticket from Krabi to Koh Samui (the entire journey takes about 4 – 5 hours.)

Important Journey Ideas For Island Hopping In Thailand

Earlier than you e book your ticket and pack your swimwear, right here’s all the things you want to know to plan a tremendous island hopping journey in Thailand, from when to go and get round to what to carry.

When To Go

One of the best time to go island hopping in Thailand is determined by which a part of the nation you wish to go to because the climate patterns differ between the Andaman Sea (west coast) and the Gulf of Thailand (east coast).

One of the best time for island hopping on the west coast within the Andaman Sea (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Similan Islands) is between December and April when the climate is dry and sunny, the seas are calm, and visibility is nice for snorkeling and diving.

Nonetheless as that is the height vacationer season, costs for lodging are greater, ferries can get absolutely booked and the islands and seashores can really feel crowded. Be sure to prebook lodging and transport to keep away from disappointment.

On the west coast, the wet season falls from mid Could until mid October. The rains usually begin off mild and get heavier all through the moist season. Whereas it doesn’t rain all day day-after-day you’ll be able to anticipate frequent tropical downpours, tough seas, and fewer frequent boat companies.

Smaller islands, just like the Similan Islands, shut from mid-Could to mid-October, whereas bigger islands like Phuket stay open and supply off-season reductions and luxuriate in much less crowds. Nonetheless, within the case of actually heavy rain ferries and boat journeys might get suspended for security causes and the seas may be harmful for swimming.

One of the best time for island hopping within the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Chang) is from January until September. The west coast has an extended dry season and a shorter wet season making it an excellent choice nearly all 12 months spherical. March to August is particularly good for Koh Tao’s diving scene, and the waters round Koh Samui and Koh Phangan stay calm. These islands can get fairly busy in the course of the summer season holidays in July and August as this facet is way drier than the Andamans.

The Gulf of Thailand will get its wet season later than the Andaman facet and is usually fairly moist between October and December. November is the wettest month, with heavy downpours and storms affecting ferries and boats.

If you wish to go to either side, the perfect time to go is in January and February, whereas planning an island hopping journey for October or November isn’t supreme as a result of each coasts expertise rain throughout this time.

How To Get There

Koh Samui ferry pier — Take a ferry to Koh Samui

Thailand is a fairly straightforward nation to journey round, nonetheless most Thai islands don’t have airports, so that you’ll normally want a mixture of flights, buses, ferries, speedboats and longtail boats to achieve them.

First, you’ll have to get to Thailand. The capital metropolis, Bangkok, receives essentially the most worldwide flights and coming into Thailand is simple as most travellers can go to visa free for 30 days.

While Bangkok is certainly value a go to, if the principle function of your journey goes island hopping then getting a flight straight into Phuket Worldwide Airport (HKT) will prevent time. Verify Skyscanner to search out the perfect offers.

You possibly can fly into Bangkok after which connect with a flight to Krabi Airport (KBV) for the Andaman facet, or Koh Samui Airport (USM) and Surat Thani Airport (URT) for the Gulf facet. These are small airports handy for visiting the islands however have restricted worldwide flights.

Phuket Airport is the most important worldwide hub within the south of Thailand so it makes the perfect place to begin your island hopping journey. From Phuket one can find buses, ferries and speedboats to all locations throughout the Andamans together with Krabi, the Phi Phi islands, Koh Lanta and Koh Lipe. You can even get a bus – boat mixture ticket to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao from Phuket.

For the Trat islands, together with Koh Samet and Koh Chang, the closest airport is Trat airport (TDX) nonetheless this a really small home airport with only a few flights. Because it solely takes 3 – 4 hours to get a bus and ferry from Bangkok to Koh Samet I don’t suppose it is sensible to fly right here because it’s unlikely to avoid wasting you time.

One of the best place to e book home flights, bus, ferry and speedboat tickets prematurely on-line is on 12 Go Asia. If you happen to’re touring within the peak season, or wherever close to Koh Phangan across the full moon interval, I extremely suggest reserving your transport prematurely as tickets can promote out throughout busy durations so you might get caught in case your not organised.

While public ferries join the larger islands, in case you’re visiting smaller islands or nationwide marine parks you’ll have to both be a part of a ship tour or rent a longtail boat to achieve them. You possibly can organise this prematurely utilizing websites like Viator and Get Your Information.

What I like about these websites is that there’s a big selection of journeys and you may see opinions from earlier company so what to expect- most supply free cancellation, choose up out of your lodge, lunch, and take pictures for you making it a problem free and unforgettable expertise. You possibly can additionally try Klook – a well-liked platform in Southeast Asia which has some nice offers on excursions and attraction tickets.

How To Make It Occur

The best technique to make your island hopping desires a actuality is to base your self on a bigger, essential island with good lodging choices and plentiful connections like Phuket, Koh Samui, or Koh Chang and do a number of island hopping day journeys from there.

If you happen to’re on a funds you’ll be able to be a part of group island hopping excursions that cowl a number of islands in a day just like the Phi Phi islands, Krabi’s 4 islands excursions, and Ang Thong Marine Park.

However, in case you can afford it and wish to keep away from the crowds, then I do suppose it’s effectively value getting a personal tour or hiring a personal longtail boat so that you could go at your individual tempo and be extra versatile so you’ll be able to keep away from massive tour teams.

Whilst you can generally negotiate straight with the longtail boat drivers, in case you don’t communicate Thai I like to recommend reserving boat excursions on-line on web sites like Get Your Information, Viator and Klook.

Greatest Thailand Island Hopping Excursions

It’s by no means been simpler to go island hopping in Thailand – simply discover the proper tour for you, e book and go!

Top-of-the-line locations to search out island hopping excursions in Thailand is on Tour Radar – they’ve an enormous choice of excursions from all the highest tour corporations, and you may learn opinions from earlier travellers so what to anticipate.

The highest 3 Thailand island hopping excursions are:

These are younger and enjoyable small group excursions supreme for solo travellers who wish to discover Thailand’s islands whereas making new mates with out breaking the financial institution.

Alternatively, you’ll be able to observe my island hopping itineraries (or tweak them to go well with you) and make your individual DIY tour utilizing public ferries to achieve bigger islands and taking day journeys to smaller islands.

The highest 5 island hopping day excursions are:

Different Necessary Ideas

Guide early in excessive season (December to March) – Ferries, flights, resorts and boat excursions replenish quick. If you happen to’re touring within the wet season be ready for rougher seas and sudden climate modifications – mornings are sometimes higher however afternoons can rapidly grow to be overcast, windy, wet and even see thunderstorms.

Take into consideration which sort of boat fits you greatest – Speedboats are sooner however may be bumpy and uncomfortable; particularly in wet season when waters can get uneven. If you happen to get journey sick you may wish to keep away from speedboats. Ferries could also be slower however they’re extra comfy for longer rides and infrequently have bathrooms onboard. Longtail boats may be noisy in case you sit close to the engine so are greatest suited to quick journeys.

Defend your self from the solar – packing necessities embrace swimwear, sun shades, hats, mild unfastened clothes and loads of sunscreen! Thailand’s solar is intense and getting sunburnt form of ruins your trip. If you happen to’re snorkeling or spending lots of time within the solar you’ll most likely wish to put on a t-shirt over your swimsuit to guard your pores and skin from the solar. And don’t neglect to drink a lot of water.

Pack Gentle – For a problem free journey I like to recommend packing as mild as doable – rolling heavy baggage on sandy seashores or wood piers isn’t supreme, a backpack or small keep it up bag is best. Beware that smaller islands might not have a pier so that you’ll both must switch from the ferry right into a smaller longtail boat to achieve the shore, or leap off the boat onto the seashore so it’s a good suggestion to put on simply detachable footwear (or ones that you simply don’t thoughts getting moist) and keep away from sporting lengthy pants, lengthy skirts and maxi clothes when island hopping.

Deliver Money – Not all islands have ATMs and never all companies settle for card funds so carry loads of money (Thai Baht.) Many islands in Thailand are a part of nationwide parks or marine parks so that you typically must pay a 400 Baht nationwide park charge in money to enter. That is typically not included within the value of the boat as there are completely different charges for Thai nationals and foreigners.

Now which Thai islands to go to!

With over 1,400 islands in Thailand, there’s no scarcity of island adventures available within the Land of Smiles – I haven’t even been capable of point out the entire right here!

One of the best half is that there’s something for everybody – whether or not you’re on the lookout for a luxurious seashore trip or an off the crushed monitor journey the place you’ll be able to dwell out your castaway fantasies, you’re positive to search out your excellent slice of paradise on the Thai islands.

And due to the numerous ferries, speedboats, and island hopping excursions, touring between Thailand’s islands is fairly straightforward and reasonably priced so it is sensible to take a look at a few islands in a single journey.

My prime tip is to verify which facet has higher climate if you plan to go to and select which group of islands (both the Andaman coast or the Gulf of Thailand) and observe my island hopping itinerary to see all of the highlights of a number of the world’s most lovely and well-liked islands.

I hope you discovered my island hopping ideas useful, if you’re planning to see extra of Thailand try my different blogs like my 2 week Thailand itinerary which exhibits you see the perfect of each north and south in simply 14 days, my choose of the perfect locations to go to in Thailand and my Thailand journey information for extra.

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