Vacation Islands of Thailand

Take a relaxing vacation on one of Thailands amazing islands. Escape far away from the big cities with their pollution and congestion.

Enjoy the sunbathing, yachting, snorkeling, rock climbing, relaxing massages, dining out on the beach front, and immersing yourself in the friendly Thai culture.

Thailands islands are located throughout the Kingdom.

Eastern Seaboard around the provinces of Chonburi, Chachoengsao, Samut Prakan, and Rayong.
West Coast around Prachuap Khiri Khan province in the Gulf of Thailand.
Southern Islands in the Gulf of Thailand around Chumphon and Surat Thani Provinces.
Andaman Coast near the provinces of Ranong and Phang Nga.
Southern Coast area around Phang Nga Bay, Krabi and Phuket.
Far Southern Islands around Trang and Satun provinces.

The weather patterns are distinctly different for each area. See Thailands provincial map for locations.

For many other popular islands accessible by ferry or speed boat from Phuket Island such as Coconut Island, Koh Yao Noi, Ao Por, Koh Yao Yai, Racha Island, Nakha Yai Island, and Maiton Island see the Phuket Island Map.

Ko Samui

Koh Samui

Location: Surat Thani Province.
Attractions: Big Buddha statue, beaches, mountains and rain forests.
Directions: Direct Flights or ferries from the mainland.

This is one of Thailands largest Islands and a well known tourist destination with several luxury resorts and yoga retreats, making it a hub for wellness tourism.

Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is famous for its stunning beaches such as Chaweng and Lamai with its powdery white sands and clear waters.

These beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and a vibrant nightlife. Quieter spots like Mae Nam and Silver Beach offer a more relaxed escape.

Visitors can also explore iconic landmarks like the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai) and the picturesque Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations.

Koh Samui also offers a range of various adventure activities. You can hike to the Na Muang Waterfalls, snorkel in the clear waters of Koh Tao, or explore Ang Thong National Marine Park archipelago.

Koh Samui Accommodation
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Transport: Powered by 12Go Asia system
transport icon vectors black small airplane Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok International) Airport with Bankok Airways directly to Ko Samui is the quickest at around an hours flight or more but is the most expensive option and you will need to take a taxi to Bangkok International airport which is located an hours drive or more east of Bangkok city. Select your route ticket(s) carefully as there are usually more than one train/bus/ferry start and end options to choose.

transport icon vectors black small train Hua Lamphong train (Bangkok city station) with Thai Railways joint ticket, bus and then ferry to Ko Samui is the cheapest option but takes around 16 hours full trip. Select your route ticket(s) carefully as there are usually more than one train/bus/ferry start and end options to choose.

transport icon vectors black small airplane Don Mueng (Bangkok Domestic Airport) with Nok Air, then bus and ferry joint ticket is quicker at around 10 hours full trip and cheaper than a direct flight. You will need to take a taxi from Bangkok city to the domestic airport which is located just north of the city center. Select your route ticket(s) carefully as there are usually more than one train/bus/ferry start and end options to choose.

transport icon vectors black small bus Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal to Ko Samui joint ticket, bus and ferry, using private travel company. This is a more comfortable ride in a bus and then ferry (no train), but takes neary 16 hours total trip. You will need to get to the Southern Bus terminal by taxi. You need to select the joint ticket for bus and ferry, not just the bus. Select your route ticket(s) carefully as there are usually more than one train/bus/ferry start and end options to choose.

Ko Phi Phi Leh

Koh Phi Phi

Location: Krabi Province.
Attractions: Beaches, mountains and cliff faces
Directions: Phuket or Krabi ferries from the mainland.

Phi Phi is an archipelago in the Andaman Sea and one of Thailand's most iconic and popular destinations. You can get there by taking a short ferry ride from Phuket or Krabi. Phi Phi Don, the largest and only inhabited island, is a hub of activity with lively beachfront bars, international restaurants, and boutique accommodations.

Just a short boat ride away, the smaller Phi Phi Leh captivates visitors with its unspoiled beauty, particularly at Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. Maya Beach was previously closed to allow it to recover from damage by excess tourism but is now open under strict rules and regulations. Snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are popular ways to explore the surrounding crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

Koh Phi Phi offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. You can hike up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the island’s twin bays or take a sunset boat tour for unforgettable views of the Andaman horizon. Despite its popularity, the islands maintain a sense of laid-back charm, with car-free roads and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Ko Phi Phi Accommodation
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Transport: Powered by 12Go Asia system
transport icon vectors black small train Hua Lamphong train (Bangkok city station) with Thai Railways joint ticket to Surat Thani and then ferry to Ko Phi Phi is the cheapest option but takes around 19 hours full trip. Select one joint ticket as there are usually different train/bus/ferry options to choose. Select your route ticket(s) carefully as there are usually more than one train/bus/ferry start and end options to choose.

transport icon vectors black small airplane Don Mueng (Bangkok Domestic Airport) with Thai Lion Air or Nok Air, to Phuket Airport, then bus to pier and then ferry using joint ticket. Takes around 10 hours full trip. You will need to take a taxi from Bangkok city to the domestic airport which is located just north of the city center. Select one flight and one shuttle bus/ferry joint ticket. Select your route ticket(s) carefully as there are usually more than one train/bus/ferry start and end options to choose.

transport icon vectors black small bus Bangkok Hua Lamphong or Bangkok Khao San Songserm to Ko Phi Phi ticket, bus and ferry, using private travel company. This is a more comfortable ride in a bus and then ferry (no train), but takes neary 16+ hours total trip. You need to select one joint ticket for bus and ferry from the private company option. Note any special pick up points in Bangkok and if the bus has multiple transport change-overs. Select your route ticket(s) carefully as there are usually more than one train/bus/ferry start and end options to choose.

Phuket

Location: Phuket.
Attractions: Beaches, rainforest, golfing, scuba diving.
Directions: Direct international flights and flights from Bangkok and other cities in Thailand.

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and a world famous destination that offers the visitor natural beauty, modern amenities, and an International airport with direct flights from other countries. This popular island is located on the Andaman Sea and home to some of Southeast Asia’s most iconic beaches, such as Patong, Karon, and Kata. These sandy stretches cater to a variety of travelers, from those seeking water sports and nightlife to those looking for relaxation and serenity. Phuket also boasts lush rainforests, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints like Promthep Cape.

Phuket is also rich in culture and history. Visitors can explore the charming streets of Old Phuket Town, known for its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, bustling markets, and local eateries. Spiritual landmarks such as the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong provide insight into the island’s cultural heritage. Phuket also has a vibrant dining scene, from beachfront seafood shacks to fine-dining restaurants. You have a wide choice of accommodation available from the many luxurious resorts, hotels, hostels, homes and beach cottages. See the Phuket Island Map with all the popular tourist beaches to stay in Phuket.

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Transport: Powered by 12Go Asia system
transport icon vectors black small airplane Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok International) Airport or Don Mueng (Bangkok Domestic Airport) directly to Phuket Airport is the quickest at around one and a half hours flight and is a relatively cheap option. You will need to take a taxi to whichever airport is best. Don Mueng would be closest if you are in Bangkok city or use Suvarnabhumi International if you are arriving from International flight or other destination.

transport icon vectors black small train Hua Lamphong train station in Bangkok to Surat Thani, then seperate ticket for Bus to Phuket. There is no train service direct to Phuket. You will need to book a train ticket from Bangkok to Surat Thani and a seperate bus ticket from Surat Thani to Phuket. You can book a bus from Surat Thani Train station or Surat Thani town (bus station) or certain town hotels pickup. This is the slowest way and not recommended, the direct bus route is much more comfortable and faster.

transport icon vectors black small bus Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal, or Mochit (Northern Bangkok near Katuchak Market) to Phuket bus station ticket, using private travel company. This is a more comfortable ride in a bus and takes 12 to 14 hours total trip depending on the starting destination in Bangkok.

Ko Samut

Koh Samet

Location: Rayong Province. Eastern seaboard.
Attractions: Beaches, snorkling, parasailing, beach restaurants.
Directions: Mini-bus/van from Bangkok or Pattaya and ferry boat from Ban Pae Pier in Rayong. Note that the large busses only goes to Rayong Bus station.

A popular island with tourists and locals. There are many beaches, restaurant tables right on the beach, and not so expensive hotels and bars. Also used by Bangkokians for weekend breaks.

This is one of the closest Islands from Bangkok usually taking less than 5 hours total journey from Bangkok. Other more popular tourist Islands are on the eastern and southern areas of Thailand and take a good days travel. Ko Samet has the town area which is a busier area and with more facilities. Further down the Island the quieter it becomes. If you can swim, take the snorkling tour around the Island as this is an excellent days excursion.
Koh Samet Accommodation
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Ko Chang

Koh Chang

Location: Trat Province.
Attractions: Beaches, coral reefs and marine life, rain forests and wildlife.
Directions: Flights from Bangkok then mini bus and ferry, or bus from Bangkok and ferry.

Koh Chang is Thailand’s third-largest island which is also a part of the Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park. The island is renowned for its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches like White Sand Beach and Kai Bae Beach. These are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside dining. Snorkeling and diving the coral reefs, kayaking and paddleboarding provide you with adventurous ways to explore the island’s crystal clear waters.

You can trek through the island’s dense jungle to discover hidden waterfalls like Klong Plu or experience traditional Thai culture in fishing villages like Bang Bao which is known for its stilted houses and fresh seafood markets. The island features a range of accommodation, from budget friendly bungalows to luxurious beachfront resorts.

Koh Chang Accommodation
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Ko Lanta

Koh Lanta

Location: Krabi Province.
Attractions: Long uncrowded beaches, scuba diving, caves.
Directions: Ferry from Phuket to Ko Lanta via Ko Phi Phi.

There are several islands that make up Ko Lanta. Ko Lanta Yai is the main tourist island and Ko Lanta Noi the other main island.

Koh Lanta Yai in Krabi province is known for its long stretches of uncrowded shoreline such as Klong Dao and Long Beach. Koh Lanta is the perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. The island’s waters are teeming with marine life, making it a top destination for snorkeling and diving.

You can explore Lanta Old Town, a historic fishing village with colorful wooden houses, local markets, and waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. For the more adventurous, the Mu Ko Lanta National Park offers jungle trekking and panoramic viewpoints, while mangrove kayaking lets you connect with nature.

Koh Lanta Accommodation
Koh Lanta Noi Accommodation

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Ko Mak

Koh Mak

Location: Trat Province.
Attractions: Windsurfing, hiking, swimming, snorkling, bike riding around the island and long deserted beaches. There is also guided boat tours to visit nearby islands.
Directions: Bangkok Airways to Trat Airport then Laem Ngop Pier speed boat service, take a taxi from Trat city.

Ko Mak is a peaceful and unspoiled island away from the usual tourist destinations. This island is known for its natural beauty without the beer bars or jet skis.

Nestled between Koh Chang and Koh Kood, this small island has pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere with its low-key vibe and absence of mass tourism. Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai are this islands main beaches and are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.

This island also offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can kayak around the island and visit the many coves and nearby islets. There are also snorkeling and diving tours to coral reefs which are teeming with marine life. The island also has a charming cultural side, with rubber and coconut plantations that you can explore by bicycle.

Koh Mak Accommodation

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