With the entire issues to do in Koh Phangan, it’s nothing wanting paradisiacal. Its golden seashores and turquoise water are rivaled in magnificence solely by its personal towering palms and plush jungle.
The island sits within the Gulf of Thailand and thrums with vitality 24/7. There are quite a few unimaginable places to visit in Thailand, however be sure to put this island in your listing.
That is one in all my favourite islands in Thailand, I had such a terrific expertise right here. From the bustling streets lined with meals stalls to the serenity of secret seashores, there may be an limitless listing of issues to do in Koh Phangan, however listed below are my high 25.
1. Expertise The Full Moon Social gathering
Okay, so my first one isn’t distinctive, however the remaining are!
Let’s begin with the obvious and common factor to do in Koh Phangan. The bulk of people that go to Koh Phangan accomplish that for the Full Moon Party. The occasion takes place on Haad Rin Seaside each month and brings in round 30,000 party-goers.
To get the complete expertise, cowl your self in UV paint, drink alcohol from a bucket, and occasion till dawn. In case you’re into events, that is undoubtedly one of many coolest things to do in Thailand.
- The place: Haad Rin Seaside
- When: Each full moon
- How: Keep in one of many many accommodations near Haad Rin Beach after which stroll to the occasion with the opposite neon ravers
- Value: The occasion is free so simply price range for nevertheless a lot alcohol and paint you need to purchase
2. Go Diving at Sail Rock
Sail Rock is no doubt the perfect dive web site within the Gulf of Thailand. The rock is about an hour’s boat trip from Koh Phangan and appropriate for divers of all ranges. Star gamers at this dive web site embody manta rays, barracuda, and whale sharks.
- The place: Sail Rock, located between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao
- When: 12 months-round however the perfect diving situations are from April – October
- How: E-book a diving tour from one of many respected dive faculties on the island. Click here for a newbie dive, and click here in case you’re already licensed.
- Value: 2000 – 2500 Baht ($70-80USD)
☞ SEE ALSO: Things To Do in Bangkok – High 13 Superior Issues You Gained’t Wish to Miss
3. Gorge on Thai Meals in The Thong Sala Night time Market
The vitality within the Thong Sala Night time Market alone makes it among the best issues to do in Koh Phangan. However, that’s not why you go. From steaming bowls of pad thai to recent falafel slathered in hummus, the evening market is a foodie paradise. There are such a lot of unimaginable foods to try in Thailand, with markets normally providing the perfect.
- The place: Thong Sala ($4 in a cab from Haad Rin)
- When: Each evening
- How: Simply rock up with an empty abdomen and order something that takes your fancy
- Value: 150 Baht ($5) for dinner and a beer
4. Hike Up Khao Ra (One of many Greatest Issues To Do in Koh Phangan)
I wager you didn’t suppose you’d be climbing on this occasion island, did you? In case you’ve carried out your packing correctly and have what you need to hike in comfort, this journey is effectively value doing. The spherical journey up and down takes round 3 hours relying in your tempo and it’s a fairly simple climb – you don’t want a information.
Whereas the trail is well-maintained, it’s not marked very effectively. There are just a few intersections the place you’ll be uncertain of which solution to go, however after about 100m, you’ll see an indication…you may need to backtrack a few instances. Click here for more details.
- The place: Within the North of the island
- When: Both early within the morning or late within the afternoon to keep away from the noon warmth
- How: Begin at Khao Ra Retreat and Guesthouse and comply with the trail from there
- Value: Free
5. Get Moist at Problem Phangan
Have you ever ever watched Whole Wipeout on TV and wished you possibly can do it? Effectively, since this is among the issues to do in Koh Phangan, you’ll be able to! This water-based impediment course is a lot enjoyable and may have you in stitches as you bounce, flip, and faceplant into the water. Seize some buddies and revel in. Click here to study extra.
- The place:90/22 Moo 1, Bantai, Koh Phangan
- When: Each day 10am – 6pm
- How: Hop in a cab, they’ll know the place to go
- Value: 500 Baht ($15)
6. Go To The Half Moon Social gathering
In case you aren’t going to be in Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Social gathering however nonetheless need some UV rave motion, this may kind you out. The Half Moon Social gathering takes place in an enormous open-air venue and has three music phases: psytrance, home and hip-hop. The pageant doesn’t e book large names and has a most capability of round 4,000, making it way more low-key than the Full Moon Social gathering.
- The place: Within the forest, north of Baan Tai
- When: One week earlier than and one week after the Full Moon Social gathering (each half moon)
- How: Each taxi on the island will know tips on how to get there
- Value: 1,500 Baht ($45) on the door
7. Get pleasure from The Sundown From Secret Mountain
Sitting atop a steep hill is Secret Mountain, an area restaurant with unparalleled views. Individuals have a tendency to go up right here within the late afternoon to eat and drink whereas they watch the solar set over the horizon. From approach up there, you get panoramic vistas over the island and you’ll even see the Ang Thong Islands rising up out of the water. This is among the finest issues to do in Koh Phangan on the finish of the day.
- The place: 42/3 Baan Nai Suan, Moo 2. Click here for more.
- When: Each day simply earlier than sundown
- How: Both drive to the highest of the hill or hike in case you’re feeling energetic
- Value: 50 Baht ($1.50) to make use of the pool, 500 Baht ($15) for meals and drinks
8. Eat Some Israeli Meals at Paprika
Israeli meals may not be the very first thing you need to eat while you get to Thailand, however in case you want a break from pad thai, Paprika has among the best culinary choices on the island. The meals is recent, scrumptious, and low-cost; and the portion sizes are greater than ample even for an enormous eater like myself.
- The place: Moo 6, Haad Rin
- When: Each day 11am-11pm
- How: Stroll there out of your lodging in Haad Rin or get a cab
- Value: 300 Baht ($10) for meals and drinks
9. Discover The Ang Thong Nationwide Park
If you’d like journey and exercise, put Ang Thong Nationwide Park on the high of your listing of issues to do in Koh Phangan. The park includes big inexperienced islands that loom dramatically over the water. Housing secret caves that may be explored by kayak or just by swimming, the park makes for a significantly cool expertise.
- The place: Within the Gulf of Thailand between Koh Phangan and Koh Samui
- When: 12 months-round or April – October for the perfect climate situations
- How: Boat tour
- Value: 1800 Baht ($55) for a speedboat tour
☞ SEE ALSO: Things To Do in Chiang Mai – A Record of The High 17 Greatest, 21 superior things to do in Chiang Rai and Things To Do in Pai. In case you’re heading to different islands, don’t miss the superior things to do in Koh Lipe. There are such a lot of wonderful locations to go to in Thailand 😀
10. Kayak Round The Island
In case you are the type of one that likes to discover solo, versus in a tour group, then seize your self a kayak and begin paddling. Most seashores have kayaks for rent however discover out what the currents at that seashore are like earlier than you commit.
Wok Tum to Koh Ma alongside the west coast usually has calm water in addition to pristine hidden seashores to which you’ll be able to paddle. At all times heed the recommendation of locals earlier than setting off, and guarantee you’ve correct security gear on board (life jacket, water, and many others.)
- The place: Anyplace, however Wok Tum to Koh Ma is an efficient wager.
- When: Everytime you need
- How: Go to the seashore and rent a kayak
- Value: 150 Baht ($5) per hour
11. Trek to Bottle Seaside
Conde Nast Traveller known as this seashore the perfect in Koh Phangan and I’ve to say I agree. The trek by way of the jungle is difficult and you’ll significantly remorse it in case you don’t lather your self in bug spray beforehand, however it’s going to all be value it while you get there.
Altogether, it’s going to take you about an hour and a half to finish the trek from Coconut Seaside to Bottle Seaside. This was in all probability one in all my favorite issues to do in Koh Phangan!
- The place: The island’s North Coast
- When: 12 months-round however keep away from November as that is when the rain is heaviest
- How: Go to Chalok Lam after which stick with it to Coconut Seaside. From there simply comply with the trail all the best way to Bottle Seaside.
- Value: Free
☞ SEE ALSO: Backpacking Thailand – The Final Journey Information
12. Study How To Cook dinner Thai Meals
Wish to impress your folks at your subsequent ceremonial dinner? Study to make Thai food. Critically, it really works. Take a look at this highly-rated Thai cooking class run by an area lady. You’ll go to the natural farm and see the place the entire elements you’ll be cooking with come from, then discover ways to make conventional Thai dishes. Better of all, you get to eat every part you make on the finish.
- The place: Meet at Pantip Market, Thong Sala
- When: Test the schedule
- How: Test availability and join here
- Value: $53 for a half-day class
13. Rent a Bike and Discover The Island
Most individuals who rent motorbikes on Koh Phangan will live on. Nevertheless, there are some who suppose sporting a helmet is uncool and dashing round corners is enjoyable. These individuals get injured. Don’t be one in all these individuals.
I’ve rented a bike many instances, at all times worn a helmet and pushed cautiously and by no means had any points. In case you’re protected and also you drive sensibly, hiring a bike might be among the best stuff you do in Koh Phangan. It provides you the liberty to discover at your leisure and cease everytime you see one thing attention-grabbing.
Talking of renting a bike, the Mae Hong Son Loop is a well-liked, stunning journey you gained’t need to miss.
One other enjoyable possibility is to hire a bicycle and be part of this present day half-day journey with a information. Bikes, snacks, water and a information are included within the enjoyable day journey. Click here for details.
- The place: There are rental locations all around the island
- When: 12 months-round
- How: Hiring a bike is straightforward however you might want handy over your passport as a deposit (strive your finest to not do that). Be sure you take photographs of the bike earlier than you trip it in case they attempt to blame you for any dings the car already had. Don’t trip without insurance both. Click here to affix a half-day biking journey.
- Value: 150 Baht/$5 per day for a bike.
14. Detox at The Yoga Retreat
After working across the island, taking in all of the issues to do in Koh Phangan, a detox could be very a lot so as. The Yoga Retreat is hidden away within the jungle and presents retreats starting from every week to a complete month.
Throughout your retreat, you’ll spend hours meditating, doing yoga, and feasting on vegan delicacies. In case you don’t have time for a full-blown retreat, the Yoga Retreat additionally presents drop-in yoga courses.
- The place: Within the jungle, ten minutes from Haad Salad Seaside
- When: Each day
- How: Taxis are your best choice
- Value: 300 Baht/ $9 for a drop at school
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15. Chill out in The Baan Tai Natural Sauna
In case you went a bit too arduous on the Full Moon Social gathering, you may get all of these toxins out of your physique by sweating for an hour or two within the natural sauna. In addition they do massages right here if you’d like a bit of additional pampering.
Whereas most suppose the one issues to do in Koh Phangan contain partying to a point, Koh Phangan additionally presents tons of the way to chill out and is definitely a well-liked place for retreats.
- The place: Wat Pho Temple, Baan Tai
- When: Each day from 2pm-9pm
- How: Taxi
- Value: 100 Baht/ $3
16. Feast On Seafood at Milky Bay
The place higher to feast on seafood than on a tropical island? Located on the sting of a white sand seashore and boasting a pool searching over the ocean, that is the very definition of meals with a view. Milky Bay is ideal for peaceable eating within the superb sunshine, and is among the finest eating places on the island.
- The place: Baan Tai
- When: Each day
- How: Taxi
- Value: 500 Baht/$15 for meals and a drink
17. Get a Therapeutic massage
What higher solution to nurse your post-Full Moon Social gathering hangover than by being kneaded like dough by a deceptively robust Thai lady? Put together your self, these massages are hardcore and at factors, you are feeling such as you’re being folded up like origami.
However, the ache is value it for the sunshine and limber feeling you get afterward. I at all times get a therapeutic massage when in Koh Phangan, it’s a must-do.
This isn’t simply one of many high issues to do in Koh Phangan, it’s among the best things to do in Thailand basically! Don’t depart with out getting one.
- The place: Everywhere in the island
- When: Anytime
- How: No have to e book for many locations, simply stroll in
- Value: 300-1500 Baht/$10-45 for an hour relying on the standard of the institution (avenue masseurs will cost lots lower than these in correct salons)
☞ See Additionally: Ayutthaya Historical Park – The Final Journey Information
18. Meditate With Phra Olarn
Experiencing mindfulness and connecting with your self on a deeper stage can actually make a distinction to the state of your psychological well being. Phra Olarn makes use of particular respiration strategies and strolling meditation to boost wellness and peace of thoughts. Whether or not you’ve meditated earlier than or not, that is undoubtedly value attempting out.
- The place: Wat Samai Kongkha
- When: Each day
- How: Taxi or stroll from Salad Seaside
- Value: 30,000 Baht/$930 for a 7 day mindfulness retreat
19. Sunbathe On Thong Nai Pan Seaside
Thong Nai Pan is precisely what you’d count on a seashore on a Thai island to appear to be. Pearly white sand, lush, swaying palms, and turquoise water that glimmers beneath limitless sunshine. Seize your self an ice-cold drink and whereas away the hours as you get your tan on.
- The place: On the Northeast Coast
- When: Each day
- How: Keep in Panburi Village and go from there
- Value: Free
20. Snorkel At Mae Haad Seaside
Snorkelling is certainly one in all my favorite issues to do in Koh Phangan. There’s lots happening within the water across the island and fortunate snorkellers may have the prospect to admire tropical fish, coral, rays and different marine wildlife.
- The place: North Coast
- When: Throughout daylight, daily
- How: Both convey your individual snorkel gear or rent it on the island
- Value: 100 baht/$3 per hour
21. Take a Day Journey To Koh Tao
Assume you’ve carried out all of the issues to do in Koh Phangan? Hop in a ship and head off to neighbouring Koh Tao (Turtle Island). Though it could be smaller and quieter than Koh Phangan, there are quite a few things to do in Koh Tao to maintain you busy…it’s additionally a terrific spot for chilling out.
Koh Tao presents some world-class scuba diving, and inexpensive PADI certifications. In case you’re into diving, a go to right here is among the finest issues to do in Koh Phangan.
- The place: North of Koh Phangan
- When: 12 months-round
- How: There are boats that depart repeatedly all through the day from Haad Rin and Thong Sala piers
- Value: 400 Baht/ $12
22. See The Waterfalls
Bored with the attractive sea? Koh Phangan is house to quite a few cascading waterfalls, however be sure to try Paradise Falls, Phaeng Falls, and Than Sadet, which is a crucial web site for Thai individuals as a result of inscriptions left on the rocks by King Rama VI.
23. Attempt Kitesurfing
In case you’ve ever needed to offer kitesurfing a go, Koh Phangan is a good place to strive it out. AccroKite Koh Phangan is affiliated with IKO (Worldwide Kitesurf Group), so you’re in good arms!
In the course of the 3-hour expertise, you’ll study principle on the seashore, talk about the wind, security, tips on how to arrange the kite, and tips on how to fly. Then, you’ll enter the water and discover ways to handle the kite.
In addition to having a great time and studying one thing new, included within the day are gear, an IKO skilled teacher, and an IKO license on the finish. Click here for more details.
24. ATV Across the Island
Koh Phangan is a jungly, mountainous island, which makes exploring by ATV all of the extra enjoyable! It is a distinctive factor to do in Koh Phangan and an effective way to discover the island.
The adventurous tour is enjoyable for all ranges. Rip round off-track grime tracks, pull as much as wonderful lookout factors to see the ocean, and benefit from the lush jungle. Included within the journey is a information, gear, water, and insurance coverage. Click here for details.
25. Full-Day Street Journey Journey
A good way to see the entire island and discover the attractive nature (seashores, jungle, mountains), is by becoming a member of a day journey.
On this group tour, you’ll try the perfect seashores on the island, pure swimming swimming pools and waterfalls, go snorkeling, and have sundowners at a seashore bar. Roundtrip transfers between Haadrin and Thong Sala are included. Discover out extra about this budget-friendly exercise in Koh Phangan, here.
In case you’d moderately get pleasure from a day on the island with your individual group of buddies, you and your associate, or just by your self, you’ll be able to try this private tour as an alternative. You possibly can customise your itinerary and have a driver and an air-conditioned car at your disposal all day! Click here for details.
The place to Keep in Koh Phangan
Listed below are some high inns, hostels & B&B’s in Koh Phangan.
Finances
So Good Haad Rin Hostel – rated “Very good” 9.1/10. This is among the highest-rated hostels on the complete island. Individuals love this place. It’s all dorm room lodging however they’ve feminine and coed dorms they usually’re all tremendous clear and comfortable. The place additionally has a enjoyable vibe to it. Click here for details.
Coral Bungalows – rated “Good” 7.2/10. The price range bungalows are round $10 per evening they usually harken again to Thailand of outdated. Fundamental comfortable mattress with a pleasant window, near the seashore. There’s additionally an onsite pool. What extra are you able to ask for? Click here for details.
Alcove Bungalow – rated “Very good” 9.1/10. This property is situated on the west coast of Koh Phangan. Though it’s in a bit extra secluded space, there are bicycles and motorbikes for hire, day journeys might be organized, and also you’ll discover water sports activities like snorkeling and SUP. There’s additionally an onsite restaurant serving Thai and French cuisine. The bungalows listed below are tastefully adorned and provide air-conditioning and ensuite loos. Click here to study extra and e book this lodging.
Midrange
Castaway Beach Bungalows – rated “Very good” 9.4/10. In case you’re searching for a chilled-out place to remain, which is situated proper on the sand, then try these seashore bungalows! The wood bungalows provide wonderful views, a 4-poster mattress, a fridge, a balcony and a hammock. Subsequent door you’ll discover a funky seashore bar – nice for assembly different vacationers. Click here to study extra and e book this bungalow.
Le Divine Comedie Beach Resort – rated “Very Good” 8.5/10. Situated simply 8 kilometers from Haad Rin Seaside, this property presents inexpensive luxurious. There’s an out of doors infinity pool and an onsite restaurant serving up Thai and Burmese meals. Every of the rooms are uniquely designed and presents non-public balconies, air-conditioning and a minibar. Click here to study extra and e book this lodging.
High Finish
Panviman Koh Phangan – rated “Fabulous” 8.7/10. This place is one thing out of a dream! For round $100/evening, you’ll be able to get pleasure from this luxury retreat overlooking Thong Nai Pan. There’s a spa, infinity pool and a couple of beachfront eating places. The trendy, superior double rooms provide a sea view, non-public balcony, air-conditioning and way more. Click here to study extra and e book this lodging.
Prepared for Koh Phangan?
Touching down in Thailand for the primary time is an expertise in contrast to every other. From the second you permit the airport in Bangkok, you’re swept up in a cacophony of coloration and noise. It’s thrilling and new but in addition somewhat overwhelming. Koh Phangan presents some respite from the 24/7 chaos of the capital.
Koh Phangan could also be buzzing with vitality, however it additionally has peaceable enclaves the place you’ll be able to escape the world for a second. It presents a combination of pure magnificence and journey alternatives and combines serenity with adrenaline. It’s a curious and distinctive place that you just’ll simply have to find for your self to really perceive.
Some photographs on this put up are courtesy of Shutterstock. Test them out for royalty-free photographs and movies.
Goats On The Street Advisable Sources For Koh Phangan, Thailand
✓ There are such a lot of adventurous issues to do in Koh Phangan. It’s necessary to be sure to have ample journey insurance coverage earlier than embarking on any journey, however particularly one the place you’ll be partaking in out of doors actions corresponding to snorkelling, diving, kayaking, climbing, and many others.. World Nomads covers virtually all adventurous actions that you can imagine. Click here to get a free quote and study extra about this common journey insurance coverage.
✓ We suggest buying eco-friendly merchandise on your keep in Koh Phangan. We’re personally attempting to cut back the quantity of single-use plastic that we use, and encourage you to do the identical throughout your travels.
To keep away from buying plastic water bottles whereas in Koh Phangan, contemplate shopping for a water bottle with a built-in filter corresponding to LifeStraw or GrayL, or get your self a Steri-Pen. By way of utensils, this bamboo set is nice for picnics on the seashore, whereas these glass or metal straws are excellent for cocktails, fruit juices or a glass of water. Say no to straws and plastic utensils, convey your individual.
✓ There are quite a few inexpensive locations to remain in Koh Phangan. Goats On The Street makes use of and recommends Reserving.com on account of their wonderful costs, and cancellation choices. We additionally continuously use Airbnb after we need to e book a short-term condominium. Click here to seek for lodging in Koh Phangan on Reserving.com.
