The best of Thailand: 9 islands you shouldn’t miss

Fed up with the daily grind? Imagine yourself on a tropical Thailand island, surrounded by turquoise waters and powdery white sand beaches. And the best part is that each Thai Island boasts its own unique charm, from bustling party scenes to tranquil retreats. Whether you're seeking adventure with water sports and hiking, or looking to unwind in a serene paradise, this Southeast Asian country offers something for everyone.

However, with so many islands to choose from it's tough to decide on which ones to include in your itinerary. That's why we've scouted out the best of the best to help you find your perfect island getaway. Get ready to explore lush jungles, vibrant coral reefs, and quaint fishing villages as we guide you through the must-visit destinations for an unforgettable Thai escape.

And that's not all: we'll also give you a special tip on how to find free accommodation and have the experience of a lifetime in some of Thailand's best islands and towns.

You might also like these articles:

• 10 best places to visit in Thailand
• The best hidden gems in Thailand
• Tips for an epic Southeast Asia backpacking adventure

The best of Thailand: 9 islands for your bucket list

1. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is one of the most popular Thailand islands, and for good reason. This island truly has it all - from luxury beach resorts to authentic fishing villages, vibrant coral reefs to mouthwatering street food. It's the perfect destination for those seeking a well-rounded Thai island experience.

One of the top attractions on Koh Samui is the Big Buddha, a 12-meter golden statue located at Wat Phra Yai temple. Visiting this iconic landmark is a must-do, especially in the early morning, when the light is magical. After taking in the serene atmosphere, head to one of the many stunning beaches that ring the island.

Chaweng Beach is the busiest and most developed, with a wide range of resorts, restaurants, and nightlife options. For something a bit more low-key, check out Bophut Beach or Maenam Beach.

In the evenings, be sure to visit one of Koh Samui's famous night markets. The Fisherman's Village Walking Street in Bophut is a favorite, with an incredible selection of street food. Sample local specialties like spicy papaya salad, sizzling meat skewers, and sweet mango sticky rice as you soak up the lively atmosphere.

2. Koh Pha Ngan

If you're looking for a Thailand island with a bit more of a party vibe, head to Koh Pha Ngan. This beautiful spot is famous for its monthly Full Moon Parties, which draw thousands of revelers to Haad Rin Beach for a night of dancing under the stars.

But there's more to Koh Pha Ngan than just the parties. The island also boasts some incredibly relaxed and secluded beaches, perfect for solo travelers or those seeking a more low-key experience. Bottle Beach and Haad Yao are two of our favorites, with their laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.

Koh Pha Ngan is also a great spot for yoga and wellness retreats. The island has a thriving community of yogis and such, with plenty of studios and centers offering classes and workshops. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just looking to try something new, you'll find plenty of options here.

And don't forget to explore the island's lush interior. Rent a scooter and wind your way through the jungle to hidden waterfalls and viewpoints. Also stop at local markets to sample fresh tropical fruits and aromatic curries.

3. Koh Tao

Koh Tao, a picturesque Thai island, is every ocean lover's paradise. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and kaleidoscope of marine life, it's no wonder this tiny Gulf of Thailand island is a global hotspot for diving and snorkeling adventures.

The island's coral reefs are a treasure trove of tropical wonders. Swim alongside schools of fish, ride the currents with sea turtles, and keep an eye out for whale sharks. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just starting out, you'll find a dive site that's perfect for you. Sail Rock and Chumphon Pinnacle are must-visits, with their stunning underwater vistas that'll leave you awestruck.

After a day of snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun's warm rays, make sure to explore Koh Tao's other gems. Take a hike up to the Two View viewpoint for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the island or visit the picturesque John-Suwan Viewpoint for a tranquil atmosphere. And don't forget to indulge in the freshest seafood caught from the turquoise waters surrounding you.

4. Phi Phi Islands

If you're island hopping in Thailand, the Phi Phi Islands should be at the top of your list. With their crystal-clear turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs, these islands will leave you speechless.

On the largest of the Phi Phi Islands, Phi Phi Don, the action never stops. Soft white sand beaches, like Long Beach and Loh Dalum Bay, beckon you to soak up the sun, while crystal-clear waters invite you to explore the island's hidden coves and caves.

If adventure is what you're after, consider a day trip to Phi Phi Leh. This smaller island is famous for Maya Bay, the stunning backdrop of "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The bay's towering cliffs and boat-only access make it a secluded haven.

Beyond the sun-kissed shores of the Phi Phi Islands lies an underwater world waiting to be explored. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters is just the beginning – you might even spot a mischievous monkey or two along the way. Island hopping here is amazing.

5. Koh Lanta

If you're looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to Koh Lanta. This island is located off the west coast of Thailand and is known for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and relaxed atmosphere.

One of the must-see spots on Koh Lanta is the Mu Ko Lanta National Park. This park covers several islands and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, like Bamboo Beach and Koh Rok Island. You can spend your days hiking through the lush jungles, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or just relaxing on the pristine beaches.

Koh Lanta is also known for its stunning sunsets. Head to one of the many beachside bars or restaurants and watch as the sky turns shades of pink and orange over the Andaman Sea. It's the perfect way to end a day of exploring this beautiful island.

6. Koh Yao Islands

If you're looking to get off the beaten path, head to the Koh Yao Islands. These two islands, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai, are located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay and offer a glimpse into traditional Thai island life.

Khao Yao Noi, the more developed of the two, radiates a carefree vibe despite its progress. Picture-perfect beaches like Pasai and Loh Paret make this island a tropical haven. And if you're itching for adventure, explore the island's scenic routes by bike or motorbike.

Now imagine an island where the air is sweet with the scent of saltwater and the rhythm of life is dictated by the tides. Koh Yao Yai is that enchanting haven, where small-scale fishing villages thrive, and nature's splendor is on full display. Wander through the island's mangrove forests, seaside villages, and stunning vistas.

7. Koh Chang

Eastern Thailand's largest island, Koh Chang, is a tranquil oasis for travelers. Leave the chaos of popular islands behind and indulge in the island's stunning beaches, vibrant jungles, and relaxed atmosphere.

Explore the unspoiled beauty of Mu Ko Chang National Park, covering a significant chunk of Koh Chang's lush landscape. Hike through the jungle trails, swim in the crystal-clear pools, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery surrounding waterfalls like Klong Plu and Than Mayom. The island's natural wonders await your discovery.

Koh Chang is also a culinary dream come true, with a staggering array of restaurants and street food stalls serving up everything from fresh seafood to traditional Thai favorites like pad Thai and green curry.

If you're looking for a bit of adventure, Koh Chang also has plenty to offer. You can go snorkeling or diving, take a jungle trek, or even try your hand at fishing with the locals.

8. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands, a stunning archipelago of nine islands in the Andaman Sea, should also be in your Thailand islands bucket list. The scenery is breathtaking – towering rock formations burst forth from the turquoise waters, while lush jungles pulse with the rhythm of wildlife.

A trip to the Similan Islands is like diving into an underwater wonderland. The islands boast some of the most stunning coral reefs on the planet, making them a magnet for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. No wonder they're consistently ranked among the top island destinations for an unforgettable underwater adventure.

But the Similan Islands aren't just about the beaches and the ocean. The islands are also home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including the Nicobar pigeon and the hawksbill turtle.

If you're planning a trip to the Similan Islands, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, the islands are only open to visitors from October to May due to monsoon season. Second, because the islands are a protected national park, there are strict regulations in place to help preserve their natural environment. This means that you'll need to book your visit in advance and follow all the rules set by the park authorities.

9. Trang Islands

If you're craving a more genuine Thai experience without the chaos of tourist hotspots, the Trang Islands are your haven. Tucked away off the coast of Trang Province in southern Thailand, these hidden gems offer a serene atmosphere that's a breath of fresh air.

In the Trang archipelago, you'll find a quartet of captivating islands, each with its own distinct personality. Take Koh Mook, with its hidden Emerald Cave, or Koh Libong, cloaked in lush mangrove forests.

Which Thai Island is the best for you?

Still haven’t figured out which is the ideal spot for your dream getaway? Here’s our advice, broken down according to different profiles:

The good all-rounder

If you want a little bit of everything, Koh Samui is your island. This popular spot has stunning beaches, lush jungles, luxury resorts, and plenty of activities. Plus, it's easy to reach from Bangkok.

Spend your days lounging on white sand beaches, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, or visiting the famous 12-meter Big Buddha statue. In the evenings, indulge in delicious street food at the night markets.

Untouched island relaxation

If you’re craving something more untouched, escape to the tranquil Trang Islands, where unspoiled beaches, sparkling waters, and a relaxed vibe invite you to unwind in peaceful solitude.

Koh Mook, Koh Kradan, and Koh Libong are our top picks. Spend the time kayaking through emerald caves, snorkeling with sea turtles, and soaking up the tranquility of these unspoiled islands.

A holiday away from the crowds

The Koh Yao Islands, nestled between Phuket and Krabi, also offer a serene getaway. Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are the two main islands. With their unspoiled beauty, traditional villages, and stunning landscapes, these islands provide an authentic Thai experience.

Day trips and luxury stays

If you're short on time but still want to experience Thailand's island paradise, the Phi Phi Islands are ideal. Located just a short boat ride from Phuket, these islands offer stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs.

Take a day trip to explore Maya Bay, made famous by the movie "The Beach”, or indulge in a luxury stay at one of the high-end resorts on Phi Phi Don.

Volunteering in Thailand: islands with free accommodation

Did you know you can stay for free in some of the most amazing destinations in Thailand? It’s easy: create a free profile on Worldpackers, a collaborative travel platform, and look for volunteering positions in your preferred destinations. 

There are plenty of hosts throughout Thailand (and all around the world) looking for travelers who are eager to help for a few hours per week in exchange for accommodation and other perks.

You can collaborate with a variety of tasks, like gardening, building, cleaning, teaching languages or sports, promoting parties, videomaking, farming, caring for animals, welcoming guests, cooking etc. Host types are also quite varied, including hostels, NGOs, animal shelters, ecovillages, non-profit schools, farms and holistic centers.

This is a great way to travel, allowing you to save a lot of money, make friends from around the world, immerse yourself in local culture, discover hidden gems and develop new skills. An experience to remember! If you're interested, read our guide on How Worldpackers works for more information.

You can browse through the opportunities on the website for free and use the platform’s filters to narrow down results according to your skills and preferences. Click here to see all the volunteering positions currently available in Thailand.

To give you a taste of what you’ll find, we’ve selected some examples of amazing opportunities in Thai islands:

Join a vibrant hostel in Koh Tao

As a volunteer, you'll help this hostel create unforgettable experiences for travelers from around the world. Main tasks are hosting social events like game nights, movie nights, and island tours; assisting with reception tasks and guest inquiries; and supporting their commitment to sustainability and community involvement.

In exchange for your help, you’ll get accommodation in a volunteer dorm, discounts on parties and drinks and use of their equipped kitchen.

“I had the best time volunteering at the hostel! I met amazing people there and had so much fun. The staff was so welcoming and felt like family, it truly is home away from home ❤️ Working at the reception/bar was really fun and I still had plenty of time to explore the island! I learned so much there. Would recommend 1000%!”, said Juliette, a former volunteer from France.

Help animals and enjoy a paradise island life in Koh Pha-Ngan

This host is looking for volunteers who love animals and are eager to help by feeding and bathing them, cleaning kennels, dog walking, and socializing animals at an NGO that cares for sick animals. In exchange for your help you’ll get a stay in a private room, free laundry, use of their equipped kitchen and basic internet access.

“A mix of smelly, ridiculously adorable dogs, a bit crazy, big hearted humans and work that's never easy nor done before lunchtime yet more rewarding than any other stuff you occupy yourself with at home. The jungle has swallowed my heart and so I know I'll be back!”, said Worldpackers volunteer Julia, from Poland.

Teach yoga to hostel guests in Koh Pha-Ngan

This position consists on teaching Yoga to guests for 1 hour per day and giving general help at the hostel. In exchange, you’ll get a bed in a private or shared room, 2 days off per week, three daily meals, discounts on restaurants and drinks and other perks.

“I absolutely loved my time at the hostel! Everyone is so kind and I felt very welcomed the second I walked in. Working doesn't really feel like working and you get to meet so many amazing people during and outside your shift. You wake up with the beach right in front of you and work in the most amazing atmosphere. Koh Phangan absolutely stole my heart and there's much more to see than just the Full Moon Party! After volunteering here for one month I can say that it truly feels like home to me, and I know I'll miss it so much. Definitely recommend 100% and would love to come back in the future!”, said Julia from Germany.

Act as a Guest Entertainment Rep in Krabi

This hostel is looking for guest entertainment reps, which they consider crucial for keeping vibes high with unparalleled customer service. This role includes helping the staff with check ins, hosting game nights, running pub crawls, and going on some of their tours to make sure everything runs smoothly. All fun, social and outgoing people are welcome to apply. You’ll get free accommodation, internet access, and discounts on many events.

As you’ve seen, Thailand islands offer something for everyone, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both. That’s already amazing by itself, but our bonus tip for scratching beneath the surface of these gems is to sign up for a volunteer program and uncover a treasure trove of experiences.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Create your free profile on Worldpackers right now and start saving your favorite positions!

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