The Similan Islands are topping the list of best island destinations of Thailand. Nevertheless, there are even more hot spots to explore in the Asian country. Thailand is enclosed by two totally different seas namely the Andaman Sea which borders the Bay of Bengal, the Similans are located here, and the Gulf of Thailand that borders the South China Sea. Both seas have different perks and qualities.
The Andaman Sea is known for its turquoise waters and the Gulf of Thailand carries a more emerald green color. Both seas are warm, have clear waters and harbor multiple islands teaming with wildlife. The most famous islands of Thailand are Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Surin Islands in the Andaman Sea. In the Gulf of Thailand you will find Koh Tao, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Kut. But which are the best Islands in Thailand?
Top 5 best islands in Thailand
We made a selection of the top 5 most beautiful islands of Thailand. Be sure to visit them after the Similan Islands, as they are merely as stunning.
#1 Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi offers the perfect combination between tourist facilities and getting in touch with nature. The small island is shaped dramatically by the 2004 tsunami but is recovering rapidly. It has a beautiful beach with lots of bars and restaurants on it. Perfect for partying or relaxing or snorkeling. Additionally, Koh Phi Phi has a beautiful nature trail that leads to one of the most famous viewpoints of Thailand; it is overlooking the Andaman Sea and Phi Phi Island. There are also multiple daytrips that are worth doing such as monkey Island and Maya Beach. On Maya Beach the famous movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed. This remote island offers stunning cliffs, jungles and crystal clear waters teaming with marine life. This makes snorkeling in Thailand an unforgettable experience.
#2 Koh Tao
The runner up best Island in Thailand is Koh Tao. This island offers everything from tech diving centers, whale shark diving, partying on various beaches that are deserted and can only be reached via hikes through jungles. The locals are nice and getting around on Koh Tao is easy by motorbike. Be sure to bring your snorkel gear since there is a lot to see in the Gulf of Thailand. Fire shows and other evening entertainment isn’t uncommon in high season but more spectacular on Koh Phangan.
#3 Koh Phangan
One of the larger islands of Thailand is Koh Phangan. This island is famous around the world for its massive Full Moon party and deserted beaches. The Full Moon Party of Koh Phangan is one of the most epic parties in the world and should be on your bucket list when you’re party animal. Besides partying you can also explore the Islands nature trails, exotic birds and dive all around the island. While the diving conditions are less spectacular than around Koh Tao or the Similan Islands they are still worth the travels. The island of Phagnan offers luxuries resorts but also budget hostels or beach bungalows. Fireshows are daily entertainments on the beaches that are always full of people partying. Fun place to end your journey through Thailand!
Are you a Dutch traveller? Check out this awesome page on Azie-expert.nl about Koh Phangan.
#4 Koh Surin
One of the most unexplored paradise islands of Thailand is the archipelago of Mu Ko Surin. They are located a few hours north by boat from the Similan Islands but are truly amazing. They aren’t as large as the other best Islands in Thailand but offer great diving facilities and more to get the vacation vibe running. You can also combine a trip to the Surin Islands with the Similan Islands. Exploring both islands will be an amazing journey to one of the paradises of Mother Earth.
#5 Koh Lanta
The Archipelago of Koh Lanta is the last in our top 5 islands of Thailand, last but not least. The islands of Lanta Yai are located in the Krabi province and harbor ancient rainforest and pristine diving spots. The west coast of the island is filled with beachside bungalows that are the perfect honeymoon destination. The island is definably one of the top ones of Thailand.
Bonus: Koh Samui
Did you know Koh Samui is a popular tourist destination on cruises visiting the Asian continent? The island has everything the modern tourist would like to see and have during their vacation. One of the best cruises visiting Koh Samui are the Thailand cruises from Tui.
Thailand islands list
There are more islands in Thailand that are worth visit. Thus the islands selected by us are beautiful in various ways and offer great facilities for tourist. Seen all of them? Then you might want to visit Phuket, Koh Lipe, Koh Samet, Koh Tarutao, Koh Samui, Koh Chang, Ko Samet, Ko Mak, Ko Kood, or Koh Si Chang. These aren’t even all the islands of Thailand! Enjoy!