🗺️ Where to go to the islands of Thailand: season and 15 destinations

A beach vacation in Thailand should be planned around a specific island. The difference between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand changes the season, the waves, and the cost of accommodation. The dry season falls in different months in each, and getting the dates wrong ruins the whole trip.

We've put together fifteen islands, from the heavily promoted Phuket to the wild Tarutao. For each one, we've noted who it suits, how to get there, and what its weak point is. A quiet bay and a loud nightlife scene almost never coincide on the same island.

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What to know about Thailand's islands

💡 In short:

Pick the coast based on the season: the Andaman Sea is dry from November to April, the Gulf of Thailand from January to March and from August to October.
Ferries and speedboats run between the islands. For remote islands, people usually travel from Phuket or from the mainland.
National parks charge a separate entrance fee. It is higher for foreigners than for Thais.

Many islands are part of national parks, so on some of them you cannot stay overnight without a permit. On others, you'll find hotels in every category. Below is a breakdown of each island: season, how to get there, strengths and weaknesses.

1. Phuket

The country's largest island lies in the Andaman Sea. The season here runs from November to April; during the rainy season, downpours and tropical cyclones hit the island. The temperature almost never drops below twenty-six degrees.

Hotels, restaurants, shops, and nightlife are concentrated on the west coast. The east coast is quieter and cheaper. A small hut near Nai Harn Beach offers the seclusion that is hard to find in Patong. Patong Beach is a good choice for a first introduction to diving: there is a coral garden near the shore.

You should see the floating village and go up to the Buddha statue. Phuket is convenient as a base. Boats leave from Chalong Pier for the neighboring islands.

Who it's for: developed infrastructure, hospitals, shops, and a short flight.
Not for: there is almost no seclusion in high season.
How to get there: an international airport on the island itself.
The catch: from May to October there are downpours and strong waves.
Phuket hotels on Trip.com

2. Racha Yai and Racha Noi

Boats at the white sand beach of Racha Yai Island

Two small islands lie close to Phuket. They are surrounded by clear water and a snow-white shore, and the shore is sheltered by palms and hills. The coral reefs here are considered among the best in Southeast Asia.

The main beach is in Patok Bay. There are several more bays nearby: Kon Kare Bay, Lah Bay, and Siam Bay. A five-star hotel stands on the coast, and cafes and restaurants operate there.

The rocky Racha Noi is uninhabited. It is a place for diving, walks, and spearfishing. In the clear water you can see octopuses, turtles, moray eels, and reef sharks. You can get there on a tour from Chalong Pier or by speedboat.

Who it's for: snorkeling and a relaxed beach day near Phuket.
How to get there: a boat from Chalong Pier, about half an hour each way.
The catch: only one of the two islands has infrastructure.
Racha Yai hotels on Trip.com

3. Maiton

Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok at sunset

Maiton was once a private island for luxury vacations. A five-star hotel, a helipad, and all the necessary infrastructure were built here. After the devastating tsunami, the island was restored, and now regular tourists are only allowed in on a tour.

There is a daily visitor limit. You can stay overnight in a bungalow, but the cost is high. The hotel has a small gym, a spa, and a conference room.

Two restaurants operate among the greenery near the shore. They serve tour participants, with fruit and desserts offered without limits. A viewing platform at the top offers a view of the turquoise sea. Paths lead through the jungle, and snorkeling spots are set up near the shore.

Who it's for: a day trip from Phuket without an overnight stay.
How to get there: only with an organized tour.
The catch: the island has a visitor limit.
Maiton tours on GetYourGuide

4. Khai

A trip to the Khai Islands is an easy way to add variety to a Phuket vacation. Three tiny patches of land, Khai Nui, Khai Nai, and Khai Nok, lie in clear water. You can get there from Chalong Pier on a rented boat or with a tour.

Koh Khai Nok Island in the middle of the blue sea

The route is short and safe, so people often come here with small children. Conditions on the three islands differ: some are shallow and convenient for swimming, others are deeper. You can easily pick a beach that suits your children.

Who it's for: a family day with kids not far from Phuket.
How to get there: boat or tour from Chalong Pier.
The catch: the islands have almost no infrastructure.
Tours to the Khai Islands

5. Similan Islands

Panorama of a tropical bay with beach and cliffs

The Similan Islands form a group of uninhabited land areas in the Andaman Sea. They are considered some of the most beautiful on the planet. Since the early eighties they have been part of a national park, and the name is usually accompanied by the island's number.

Coral beaches, clear water, and granite rocks draw visitors here. One of the open beaches, Donald Duck Beach, lies on Similan Island next to Sail Rock. Walking on the rocks and through the forests of most islands is not allowed: they are closed to visitors.

The underwater world offers the country's best diving and snorkeling. The park operates only in the dry season; during the monsoon it is completely closed.

Who it's for: diving and snorkeling with a rich underwater world.
Not for: walking around the islands, a significant part is closed.
How to get there: boat from Phuket or from the Khao Lak area.
The catch: outside the dry season, access to the park is closed.
Tours to the Similan Islands

6. Koh Samui

Beach with umbrellas and tables by the sea

Koh Samui lies in the Gulf of Thailand and is protected from tsunamis. You can vacation here year-round, but the summer months are considered the best, not winter as on Phuket. It is the country's second most popular destination.

The island has more than twenty beaches, waterfalls, and mountains covered in tropical greenery. Accommodation varies: inexpensive guesthouses, luxury villas, and private homes almost at the water's edge.

It is worth seeing the ancient temples, the most famous of which is Wat Khunaram, and the natural rock formations Hin Ta and Hin Yai. Nearby is Ang Thong Marine Park with dozens of limestone islands. Entertainment and infrastructure are similar to Phuket, but on a smaller scale and at lower prices. You get the same set of services for less money.

Who it's for: year-round vacations and a mild climate in the summer months.
How to get there: airport on the island or ferry from the mainland.
The catch: heavy rains can occur in November.
Hotels on Koh Samui on Trip.com

7. Koh Lipe

White sand spit and turquoise sea on Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe lies in the Andaman Sea near the border with Malaysia. The island is small: at a leisurely pace you can walk around it twice in a day. It has everything for a quiet beach vacation and unhurried snorkeling.

For accommodation, traditional bungalows and beach huts are offered. They suit travelers on a mid-range budget. Several dive centers, bars, and air-conditioned rest rooms operate here.

This is a place to hide from the noise of civilization. In the evening it is worth watching the sunsets, and in the morning greeting the sunrise by the water. People also come here from Malaysia, so you will meet tourists from different countries.

Who it's for: a calm vacation without nightclubs and crowds.
Not for: loud parties and large hotels.
How to get there: ferries from the mainland and from Langkawi.
The catch: accommodation options are limited to bungalows and guesthouses.
Hotels on Koh Lipe on Trip.com

8. Phi Phi

Turquoise lagoon and cliffs of the Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi archipelago consists of two main islands. Phi Phi Don attracts visitors with hotels and developed infrastructure, while Phi Phi Leh remains wild. It is one of the favorite destinations for divers from around the world.

Near the shore you can see sunken ships, caves, and coral reefs. There is a marine national park here, along with several beaches, bays, and grottoes with unusual acoustics. The main beach, Ton Sai, lies next to the pier on a sand spit, with plenty of cafes and bars around.

The calmest areas are in Rantee Bay and Loh Mood Dee Bay. Accommodation is more expensive than at the country's main resorts, and prices peak in the days before New Year. September has the most rainy days.

A separate reason to visit lies on Phi Phi Leh: Maya Bay, where the movie "The Beach" was filmed. It closes every year from August 1 to September 30 for reef restoration (according to the national park, 09/2026). Plan your trip to avoid these weeks.

Who it's for: diving, snorkeling, and a well-developed infrastructure.
How to get there: ferry or speedboat from Phuket and Krabi.
The catch: high prices in the peak season before New Year.
Hotels on Phi Phi on Trip.com

9. Koh Samet

Beach with umbrellas and bungalows on Koh Samet

Koh Samet is named after a medicinal tree. The island is small but covered with nearly impenetrable forests and nature trails. The popular beaches lie in the eastern part of the island: Hat Sai Kaew, Ao Phutsa, Wong Duean, and Ao Wai.

The best conditions for a vacation are in the Ao Kio beach area. You can stay in bungalows and small huts. A room in a two- or three-story building on the second line from the shore should be booked in advance.

You can get there by ferry from Ban Phe. There is no public transport on the island, so you should rent a bicycle, motorbike, or car. Available activities include boat trips and fishing.

Who it's for: a short trip from Pattaya and Bangkok.
How to get there: ferry from Ban Phe.
The catch: there is no public transport on the island.
Hotels on Koh Samet on Trip.com

10. Koh Chang

Klong Prao Beach with palm trees and mountains

Koh Chang is called the "elephant island." There are no industrial facilities here, and water activities on speedboats are prohibited. Hotels stay below the palm trees: even upscale buildings remain two or three stories tall.

Guests stay in bungalows built according to local traditions. On the second line from the shore, accommodation is noticeably cheaper. Nearby there are mountains, jungle, and waterfalls.

Compared to trendy resorts, it is quiet here. Local authorities preserve the pristine nature, so animals roam the jungle and the beaches are almost free of noise. You can get there by ferry from the mainland.

Who it's for: a quiet vacation, nature, and trips to waterfalls.
How to get there: ferry from the mainland.
The catch: nightlife is almost nonexistent.
Hotels on Koh Chang on Trip.com

11. Koh Phangan

Bottle Beach with turquoise water on Koh Phangan

Once a month, Koh Phangan fills with music and dancing. The world-famous party draws young people from around the globe. On other days, the island falls asleep and turns into a quiet place with deserted beaches.

The best time to visit is considered to be January through March and August through October. Accommodation varies. Next to luxury hotels there are inexpensive houses and traditional bungalows.

The main infrastructure is concentrated in the Tong Sala area: shops, a hospital, cafes, restaurants, a night market, and souvenir stalls. With children, it is convenient to stay near Mae Haad Beach, which has a gentle entry into the sea. Equipment for activities can be rented on any beach, so you will always have something to do.

Who it's for: parties and quiet relaxation between them.
How to get there: ferries from Koh Samui and the mainland.
The catch: during full moon days, prices and noise rise sharply.
Hotels on Koh Phangan on Trip.com

12. Koh Tao

Evening street with shops and scooters on Koh Tao

Tao, or "Turtle Island," lies not far from Phangan. Turtles became less common after people arrived, but divers still encounter them offshore. King Rama V once visited the island, and his monogram can still be seen on a rock near Sairee Beach.

The island used to have a prison camp. Today it's a diving destination: there are dive schools and centers, a fishing museum, and the famous diamond caves.

Not all beaches are safe for swimming, especially with children. This applies to the Mae Haad and Mango Bay areas. That's why Tao is more often chosen for its underwater world than for a beach vacation. If you're traveling with a child, check the beach in advance.

Who it's for: dive training and snorkeling.
Not for: swimming with small children on all beaches.
The catch: some beaches are not suitable for swimming.
Hotels on Tao on Trip.com

13. Nang Yuan

Panorama of the Nang Yuan Islands with a sandbar

Nang Yuan consists of three small islands connected by a sandbar. At high tide, the sandbar almost disappears. People come here on day trips for diving and snorkeling.

Only a dive center operates here. Accommodation there must be booked in advance. The area is privately owned, so visiting hours are limited: from ten in the morning to five in the evening.

There is one resort with a hotel and restaurant, Nang Yuan Diving Resort. The central island has a pier, restaurant, bar, and paid showers. The viewpoint at the top of the hill offers a view of the entire coastal beauty. There are almost no currents, so you can dive even without experience. You can get there from Tao by public boat or water taxi.

Who it's for: a short trip for the viewpoint and snorkeling.
How to get there: boat from Tao island.
The catch: visiting hours are limited and showers are paid, and the entrance fee for foreigners is 250 baht (as of 09/2026, Koh Nangyuan Resort official website).
Tours to Nang Yuan

14. Tarutao

Turquoise lagoon and jungle of Tarutao Island

Tarutao is wild and almost uninhabited. There are few regular tourists here; the island is popular with experienced travelers. Dugongs, turtles, and whales live here, and rare plants hide in the mangroves.

The water near the shore is not as clear as at other resorts in the country. Snorkeling and diving are more challenging. You can only get here by boat from the mainland during the high season.

You can stay in a campsite, a basic bungalow, or your own tent. Tarutao National Park unites dozens of islands in the Andaman Sea. In the center there is an inner bay where you can paddle a kayak and see Crocodile Cave, named for the shape of its entrance. From May to September, trips here are prohibited due to monsoons.

Who it's for: nature, camping, and trips away from the crowds.
Not for: comfortable hotel stays.
How to get there: speedboat from the fishing village of Pak Bara.
The catch: access is closed from May to September due to monsoons.
Tours to Tarutao

15. Lanta

Tropical beach with palm trees on Koh Lanta

Lanta consists of two islands in southern Thailand. Lanta Noi is uninhabited, while Lanta Yai has a young resort. It's quiet here: there are no loud entertainments, but there is plenty of untouched nature and coral reefs.

Accommodations consist of low-rise bungalows, villas, and guesthouses. They have pools, fitness centers, spas, massage rooms, and yoga schools. Special attention is given to family travel: playgrounds, nannies, and special menus.

The beaches are made of fine shell sand and have a gentle entry into the sea. Among them are Kantiang, Klong Dao, and Long Beach. It's easy to get there by bus from Phuket; the trip takes about five hours.

Who it's for: families with children and a quiet beach vacation.
How to get there: bus or ferry from Phuket.
The catch: the trip from Phuket takes almost half a day.
Hotels on Lanta on Trip.com

What to do on Thailand's islands

Longtail boat near the rocky shore of the island

You can't see all the islands of the Kingdom in one trip. It's not just Phuket and Samui, but also very small patches of land that have preserved their pristine nature. Before you go, it's worth figuring out what you want more.

Beach vacation. Warm white sand, palm shade, and calm water are perfect for recharging. On many islands you can swim year-round.
Diving and snorkeling. Clear water reveals fish and coral. Beginners have schools and trial dives, and gear is provided on site.
Health and wellness. Thai massage, spas, and clinics with modern equipment. Herbal and mineral treatments help you recover after a flight.
Tours. Guides show you temples, caves, and viewpoints that guidebooks don't mention.
Rock climbing. Many islands have rock formations suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.

If it's your first time, keep it short: one beach, one boat trip, and one temple. That way you won't get worn out from moving around. Thailand island tours on GetYourGuide

Best time to visit

Jungle-covered mountains of Thailand at sunset

Weather varies more between islands than infrastructure does. Rainy seasons shift and arrive on different coasts in different months. There's no "mild everywhere, always" climate here.

On the Andaman Sea, the dry season runs from November to April. This includes Phuket, Phi Phi, and the Similan Islands. From May to October, downpours and strong waves are common here.

In the Gulf of Thailand, it's dry from January to March and from August to October. This includes Samui, Phangan, and Tao. In November, these islands get heavy rains. Pick an island based on the season you're flying in.

How to choose a hotel

Resort bungalows among palm trees by the sea

Accommodation matters especially if you're traveling with kids. Getting familiar with options usually starts online. This is where the international hotel classification helps.

Hotel level is marked with letters. Deluxe is marked with L, First with F, Superior with S. Mid-range is marked with M, budget with B. These letters often appear next to the hotel name.

Before booking, check a few things: meal plan, distance to the beach, services offered, whether there's a private beach, and proximity to shops and entertainment. After that, all that's left is to compare prices and reviews.

Thailand's islands on the map

Below is a map with the islands from this list. Open it to gauge the distances between Phuket, Samui, and the southern islands. This makes it easier to plan transfers between them.

15 best islands of Thailand

Places on the map

1Phuket The country's largest island, international airport
2Koh Racha Yai Clear water and a white sandy shore, a five-star hotel
3Koh Racha Noi Uninhabited island, diving and spearfishing
4Koh Maiton Former private island, a daily visitor limit
5Koh Khai Islands Three tiny islands, convenient for families with children
6Similan Islands National park, open only in the dry season
7Koh Samui The country's second most popular destination, temples and waterfalls
8Koh Lipe Small island near the Malaysian border, quiet holiday
9Koh Phi Phi Sunken ships, caves, Maya Bay from the film The Beach
10Koh Samet Named after a healing tree, beaches on the eastern side
11Koh Chang The Elephant Island, speedboats are banned
12Koh Phangan World-famous full moon party
13Koh Tao The Turtle Island, dive schools and diamond caves
14Koh Nang Yuan Three atolls on a sandbank, private territory
15Koh Tarutao Wild national park, dugongs and turtles
16Koh Lanta A young resort with untouched nature in the south

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to go to Thailand's islands?

The dry season depends on the coast. On Phuket, Phi Phi, and the Similan Islands, it's more comfortable from November to April. On Samui, Phangan, and Tao, it's dry from January to March and from August to October. Check the season for the specific island, not the country as a whole, or you'll end up in the rain.

Is it expensive to vacation on the islands?

Prices vary a lot by island. On Phuket and Phi Phi, accommodation is pricier; on Lanta, Lipe, and Chang you can find cheaper bungalows. National parks charge a separate entrance fee, which is higher for foreigners than for Thais. Check exact prices on official websites before your trip.

Can you visit the islands without a tour?

Yes, you don't always need a tour. Ferries run to Samui, Phangan, Tao, Lanta, and Samet. Maiton, Khai, the Similan Islands, and Nang Yuan are usually reached with an organized trip or by boat. Between islands, it's easy to arrange things on the spot, but in high season it's better to book in advance.

Which island should you choose for diving?

For diving, Tao and the Similan Islands are most often recommended. Tao has calm conditions and many schools, so it suits beginners. The Similan Islands are closed outside the dry season, but they offer a rich underwater world. Lipe and Racha also work: you can see turtles, moray eels, and coral gardens there.

Is it safe to swim with kids?

Swimming with kids is easier where the entry is gradual. Mae Haad Beach on Phangan and the beaches of Lanta are family-friendly. On Tao, some beaches are unsafe, namely Mae Haad and Mango Bay. Watch the tides and don't leave children unattended near rocky coves.

In short: what's worth booking

Your choice of island depends on your habits. Below is a quick matrix.

If it's your first trip: go with Phuket or Samui, where logistics and accommodation are easier.
If your goal is diving: plan for Tao, the Similan Islands, or Lipe.
If you're traveling with kids: choose Lanta, Samet, or Mae Haad Beach on Phangan.
If you want peace and quiet: look at Chang, Lipe, or Lanta.

Check the season before buying tickets: it differs between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Find a hotel on Trip.com and browse tours on GetYourGuide will help you put the trip together.

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