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9 Best Islands in Thailand

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Koh Phi Phi Leh, Thailand

Koh Phi Phi Leh, Thailand

The best islands in Thailand demonstrate rustic beauty or luxurious vistas, with each new destination offering an introduction to the diverse characteristics that have made the islands places of discovery, immersion, relaxation, and adventure.

Dive into the pale, crystal-clear water to scuba with tropical marine life. Venture into tropical jungle to find pristine wilderness. Sail around enormous karsts or bask on the white-sand beaches as you explore the islands in Thailand to find the right one for you.

Whether eager to visit a famous island landscape or looking for a secluded, lesser-known escape, the top islands can give any traveler a preferred experience as they embrace the beauties of life in Thailand.

Overview
  1. 1. Koh Phayam
  2. 2. Koh Yao Islands
  3. 3. Koh Tao
  4. 4. Phuket
  5. 5. Koh Lanta
  6. 6. Koh Phi Phi
  7. 7. Koh Chang
  8. 8. Koh Similan
  9. 9. Koh Muk
  10. Explore the Best Islands in Thailand

1. Koh Phayam

Kayaking on Koh Phayam, Thailand

Koh Phayam, Thailand

The perfect island escape will immerse you in limited amenities that disconnect you from the bustle of daily life, and Koh Phayam offers it all.

Picturesque beaches reflect a tropical paradise accentuated by a slow, inviting pace. Rugged pathways weave through rubber plantations and breezy forests to give you access to the natural ambiance and delicate beauty.

Snorkel off the beaches of small islands, visit the unique setting of an island temple, or kayak through the mangroves as you step away from the fast pace of life.

2. Koh Yao Islands

Aerial view Koh Yao Noi Island, Thailand

Koh Yao Islands, Thailand

The sibling Koh Yao islands have a reputation for comfort and charm, with enough rural beauty to reflect remoteness and infrastructure to provide local luxuries.

Traditional wooden homes stand over the water on stilts. Mangrove trees create a perfect maze in which to wind through on a kayak. Honeymooners can escape to the idyllic views and pools of remote beaches. Whether looking for golden sands next to rocky bays or rock climbing onto magnificent boulders, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai bring the dream of the islands of Thailand to life.

The weather can change throughout the seasons and finding the best time to visit Thailand can give you the information you need to enjoy the Koh Yao Islands during the most ideal time of year.

3. Koh Tao

Тropical Koh Tao,Thailand

Koh Tao,Thailand

Koh Tao is a paradise for sunbathers and scuba divers, often demonstrating why it is considered one of the best islands in Thailand.

As a pristine destination eager to showcase the colorful array of marine life, from scorpionfish to clownfish, coral to whale sharks, Koh Tao throws new experiences at visitors. Find beaches blanketed with soft white sands. Venture into the inland tropical vegetation.

Whether looking for a great way to spend 10 days in Thailand or excited by the things to do in Thailand with your family, crystal-clear waters and enveloping sunsets let you indulge in the iconic majesty of Koh Tao and Thailand’s islands.

4. Phuket

Laem Singh beach on Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is one of Thailand’s largest islands and an obvious choice as it blends Western convenience, contemporary luxury, and tropical beauty.

Glorious beaches create an enticing escape to the crystal-clear waters or places to lounge in the soft sands, while cosmopolitan streets offer a diversion into eclectic designer stores.

World-class restaurants take inspiration from their surroundings and elegant resorts provide a comfortable way to indulge in the natural island splendor.

5. Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Koh Lanta, Thailand

A serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of larger islands and city life, Koh Lanta embodies relaxation in a tropical paradise.

Beaches and bays fade into the clear waters and drop-offs provide incredible opportunities for swimming. Find impressive limestone formations, silky sands, mangroves, and hills blanketed with forest.

Visit the diverse communities to meet sea people, free dive to view tropical marine life, or simply soak into the calm sea to enjoy the warmth of island living.

6. Koh Phi Phi

Fishing boats in the bay, Phi Phi island, Thailand

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

A popular destination for beachgoers, Koh Phi Phi is a marvel of natural wonder. The beauty emanates from limestone karsts covered in greenery and tropical trees spread to the edge of the white sands.

Lush mountains, crystal-clear waters, and incredible vistas demonstrate the reasons the island remains popular. A narrow isthmus creates a stunning panorama as two curved sandy bays nestle between the mountains.

With shopping, dining experiences, and soothing sunlight, you can enjoy the remarkable diversity of the cosmopolitan ambiance on the small island.

7. Koh Chang

Dense jungle and magnificent beach of Koh Chang island, Thailand

Koh Chang, Thailand

With thick jungle, gorgeous beaches, and rugged mountains, Koh Chang is a delightful discovery day and night.

Interior beauty stems from the protected jungle landscape, where you can trek in search of wildlife or stunning views of the secluded archipelago, find waterfalls or embrace the canopy.

Fishing villages retain traditional daily life, mangrove trees provide endless kayaking possibilities, and its proximity to the Cambodian border makes it an easy stopover before venturing further afield to Siem Reap or other destinations.

8. Koh Similan

White sand of Koh Similan island, Thailand

Koh Similan, Thailand

Incredible sunsets, an enticing variety of birdlife, and wonderful diving or snorkeling can immerse you in the beauty of Koh Similan, from stretching out on the white-sand beaches to searching for whale sharks.

A boat can take you around the island or sailing amidst the archipelago, while boutique accommodations can immerse you in the surrounding natural beauty. Untouched coral reefs in dreamy turquoise waters only add to the splendor of Koh Similan and the connected island archipelago.

9. Koh Muk

Koh Muk,Thailand

Koh Muk, Thailand

The small and idyllic island can give you deep jungle experiences and untouched nature.

Small villages provide a view into authentic life and the coast turns from lush palm trees to striking cliffs and stunning coastline. Snow-white beaches offer a touch of paradise and the Emerald Cave offers a distinct perspective of the natural wonder.

The tranquility offers an immersive ambiance that sweeps from tropical reefs brimming with clownfish to circling trails that unveil the island like a hidden pearl, protected by Chao Mai National Park.

Explore the Best Islands in Thailand

Two red kayaks on the sand at the entrance to a cave in Koh Lanta, Thailand

Koh Lanta, Thailand

With the promise of exotic jungles and pristine sands, the islands in Thailand are the perfect destination for a tropical escape for any kind of traveler. From dramatic karsts rising out of the pristine sea to the hidden mysteries beneath the water on a scuba excursion, searching for a secluded stretch of beach, or uncovering an exciting network of caves, Thailand offers endless adventures for you to enjoy.

Whether looking at the best places to visit in Bangkok or interested in enjoying romantic places in Thailand, our Thailand tours offer featured itineraries to help inspire your Thailand trip. You can also find new ways to experience your journey before booking with our Thailand travel guide.

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