South thailand islands. Islands of Thailand - earthly paradise for relaxation

For example, there is Phuket, where infrastructure and entertainment are developed just as well as on the mainland. Some places on Koh Samui also have busy traffic, a large selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, massage parlors, etc. Still, these undoubtedly beautiful islands of Thailand are rather an exception to the rule, and Phuket has long been connected to the mainland by a bridge and can be called a peninsula.

But still, the location on the high seas makes its own adjustments and life on the islands differs markedly from life in cities:

• There are very few Thais here and almost all of them are engaged in the tourism business.
• It is more difficult to get here (only Phuket and Samui have airports), you have to go first to land transport and then by ferry. This means that not every person wants to face such transplants.
• The nature here is well preserved for the simple reason that many islands began to be populated only a couple of decades ago, with the development of tourism in the country.
• A small number of man-made sights: temples, old houses.
• The Internet is also not always good and the tap water is often dirty, suitable only for showering (it is better to buy it in stores for drinking).

But nevertheless, these disadvantages are insignificant and the advantages far outweigh them - a clear sea, half empty or even wild beaches, natural attractions, waterfalls, beautiful views, the ability to live right on the coast. Each has its own characteristics and is different from the others.

The best islands in Thailand

First of all, I would like to talk about the most popular island resorts among tourists - and. There is everything that is on the mainland: a developed network of asphalt roads, public transport, hospitals, shopping centers, a large selection of hotels, entertainment (bars, discos, shows), attractions, excursions, for single men - affordable girls. They are also united by their ease of accessibility, since there are airports (and in Phuket there are). And since they are one of the largest in the country, those who wish can choose a beach to their liking - someone will want to be in the thick of events and parties, and someone will prefer to retire on the deserted coast. But in general, Phuket is more developed than Samui and is similar to. We can say with confidence that these are the best islands in Thailand for 99% of tourists.

You can find a detailed comparison of these popular resorts in the article.

Hard-to-reach islands

The other group includes the more inaccessible islands, and therefore less popular with the mass tourist. These are Ko Chang, Samet, Phangan, Ko Tao, Lanta and Phi Phi. They are united by well-preserved nature, a small number of cars and motorcycles on the roads, sparsely populated beaches and moderately developed infrastructure.

The wildest islands in Thailand

The sparsely populated Thai islands stand apart. There are very few hotels on them and they rarely make a discount for long-term stays (i.e. a month there will be in the region of 20,000-30,000 baht, while the average price in the country is 5,000-7,000). There are almost no restaurants and bars, and there is no need to talk about affordable girls, nightclubs and discos. These are the Similan and Surin archipelagos,

15 most beautiful islands Thailand
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The only drawback of Thailand is an extremely large influx of tourists, over the past ten years it is very difficult to find at least one deserted vacation spot throughout Thailand. This article has selected fifteen of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, which provide an eclectic atmosphere of peaceful relaxation in the bosom of nature.

1. Lipa: best island worth visiting first

Ko Lipe is an incredibly popular island in the Andaman Sea, 70 km from southwest coast Thailand (near the Malaysian border). He is known for his great beaches, convenient snorkeling spots and gorgeous scenery. Despite the fact that the island is very small (the traveler can go around it twice a day), here it is proposed a good choice bungalow for the average budget traveler. It is worth rushing to order tourist vacation in Ko Lipe until the island became too civilized. The island, unfortunately, has already begun to face environmental problems.

2. Tup: the best place for day trips

Koh Tup, or simply Tup, is one of the four islands located offshore Krabi. Krabi is famous for its rugged limestone cliffs that rise above turquoise water and white powdery sand. This island is very popular with tourists who come here for the day. Koh Tyup is a tiny island where in best season most likely to see a large crowd of tourists, however, the island is great for snorkeling, swimming and contemplating beautiful landscapes.

3. Racha Island: the best alternative to Phuket

A more peaceful and much less developed alternative to the Phuket resort is the island of Racha (or Raya). This island is located about 12 km south of Phuket. Although Racha is mainly used as a diving base, overnight stays here are also enjoyable. Racha Island is famous for its beautiful beach - a strip of fine white sand stretches far into the U-shaped bay, and Racha Noi Island is an uninhabited diving place where there are no residential apartments and other amenities of civilization.

4. Chang: the best alternative to Koh Samui

For those travelers who are looking for an alternative to the developed structure of Koh Samui, a trip to Koh Chang can be offered. Koh Chang Island is a quieter holiday base compared to the festive bustle of Phuket or Ko Samui, but still those tourists who want seclusion in their vacation are advised not to hesitate in a trip to the islands of Thailand, until civilization has penetrated everywhere in these quiet places. Koh Chang is worth visiting mainly for its deserted, white sandy beaches, waterfalls, jungle treks, diving and lush wildlife around.

5. Koh Pa Ngan: best for parties under the moon

Every tourist on the planet has probably heard of Ko Pa Ngan - a pretty island on the East Coast, where many of the world famous "full moon parties" are held. The island is known for its palm trees along white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Ko Pa Ngan is not as developed as Ko Samui, however, most tourists tend to come here, as Ko Pa Ngan has a large number of bars and cafes decorated in a bohemian style, serving delicious local delicacies. One of them is the "mushroom" cocktail - a highlight of the local cuisine.

6. Tao: best for getting diving lessons

The east coast of Koh Tao can be reached in two hours by boat from Koh Pa Ngan or Koh Samui. it quiet place, in which there are much fewer tourists, therefore more secluded. This rocky island offers world-class snorkeling and diving facilities. Koh Tao has a huge number of convenient diving sites and no less instructors who teach diving skills. The island is ideal for those looking for a beautiful paradise to train for their PADI certification.

7. Nang Yuan: the best in its extraordinary beauty

Ko Nang Yuan is a tiny island located in the immediate vicinity of Tao (can be easily reached by boat). It is a popular destination for day trips, diving and snorkeling. This is perhaps the best island in Thailand, with extraordinary beaches and a charming atmosphere of tranquility, where there are no roads or cars nearby. The only residential area on the island is the Nang Yuan Diving Resort. Therefore, if a tourist wants to stay here with an overnight stay, then the place of residence should be booked in advance.

8. Maaka: best rest"Low key"

Ko Maaka is a very small, flat island. Ideal for relaxing and simply enjoying the sun. This "low key" area is suitable for anyone looking to avoid the crowds. Vacationers are accommodated in resort bungalows, with a budget price range. Activities on Koh Maaka include cycling along the coconut plantation coastline, Thai cooking classes at one of the local cooking schools, or snorkeling in the calm clear waters.

9. Tarutao: best for camping

Ko Tarutao is one of 51 islands that belong to the Tarutao National Marine Park archipelago, the southern part of the Andaman coast of southern Thailand. Since the island has the status of a National Park, this means that it has not suffered too much from the excessive penetration of civilization into this area. There are few man-made objects on the island, so lovers of exotic nature will like it. In the main office of the National Park Administration, tourists can rent tents for 150 baht per day and arrange a camping. Also, rest on the island of Ko Tarutao will appeal to more self-sufficient travelers.

10. Pee Pee: Best Sunset

Travelers arriving on Koh Phi Phi get a contrasting, double impression of it. The island is, as it were, divided into two parts. On the one hand, it looks like a completely heavenly place, practically untouched by civilization, and on the other, like an ugly, overly civilized locality... Unfortunately, the island suffers from the uncontrolled development of civilization on its territory, especially this process accelerated after the release of the film "The Beach". Although the island is packed with tourists from time to time, it maintains a relaxing atmosphere that is conducive to a happy holiday for travelers and camping enthusiasts. In addition, Koh Pi Pi is a great place to watch a fantastically beautiful sunset. It is very tempting to climb to the top of a steep cliff to get a better view of this beautiful natural phenomenon. Although you cannot count on a special seclusion of a romantic moment, since hundreds of other tourists will want to join the daredevil climber.

11. Lanta: the best traditions of local culture

Koh Lanta Island is located in the beautiful Krabi province of South Thailand. The island is known wonderful places for diving and long white beaches. Definitely, this place- an ideal area for those who want to avoid modern civilized living conditions and touristy places. On the island, the traveler will find absolute tranquility combined with the small conveniences of everyday comfort. Underdevelopment and unspoiled nature are the main advantages of Koh Lanta. The island's holiday atmosphere consists of mountainous landscapes, green wooded hills, sandy beaches, beautiful coral reefs and local cultural traditions.

12. Ngai: best wild life

This very small mountainous island of Koh Ngai is located between the provinces of Krabi and Trang. The area of ​​the island is covered with tropical forest. Its main attractions are: white sand beaches, clear waters and beautiful corals lying everywhere. Lodging on the island is also available, but comes with mid-range amenities. Here the traveler will not find the luxury of modern civilization. Lovers of wildlife and secluded relaxation will surely be pleased with such living conditions. The western and northern parts of the island are uninhabited. In this area, tourists have excellent opportunities for observing migratory birds. Koh Ngai Island is home to wild crab-eating monkeys and monitor lizards.

13. Payam: the best recently opened

Ko Paiyam is the second largest island in the Andaman Sea (after Ko Chang). Located in Ranong province. Ko Paiyam is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. It is interesting that until recently it was unknown to tourists. The island has everything you would expect from a Thai tropical paradise island: long white sandy beaches, clear blue sea, jungle and forests, coral reefs and all this in peaceful silence, without an overabundance of tourists. The island is said to look like Ko Samui thirty years ago.

14. Muck: best for a quiet, peaceful rest

Koh Muk Island is also known as Pearl island... It has a small footprint and a relaxed atmosphere. Koh Muk is located in the southwest of Thailand (south of Phuket). In addition to beach activities, guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, kayaking or day trips to other islands. While on the island, tourists should definitely visit the nearby Farang Beach in the west of Ko Muk. Here you can enjoy unforgettable sunsets or take a boat trip to the Emerald Cave, one of Thailand's natural wonders. In addition to the cave, there is a completely enclosed beach in this area, formed in a deep gorge with a sandy bottom.

The islands of Thailand are very popular with tourists who flee from winter to summer in search of budget vacation in the tropics. Phuket, Koh Samui, Phi Phi Le, Ko Chang, Ko Lipe, Ko Phra Tong and other islands are famous for their clean sandy beaches and clear turquoise water with lush palm trees. We present a list of the best vacation spots, beautiful and interesting islands Thailand.

Phuket is one of the main islands in Thailand, which is snapped up by Russian tourists (photo: @ iaslan_28)

Phuket - noisy and family friendly

Phuket is located in the southern part of Thailand, and its name is translated from Malay as "mountain". It really looks like a mountain that rises from the depths of the sea, in addition, it is the largest and most popular island in Thailand.

Here you can relax on a budget or arrange a luxury vacation in a famous five-star hotel. Tourists love Phuket for the variety of nightlife - there are a huge number of bars, discos, nightclubs, as well as restaurants and cafes for every budget.

Koh Samui - Beach Tourist Paradise

Koh Samui is the second largest island after Phuket and the second most popular among tourists. The main advantage of Koh Samui over the rest of the islands of Thailand is the combination of a developed tourist infrastructure with luxury hotels / restaurants and stunning natural beauty with picturesque bays, white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and beautiful waterfalls.

Phi Phi Le - the most cinematic

This Thai island owes its insane popularity to the film "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio, which was filmed in Maya Bay. The shooting of the film was accompanied by scandals, and after the film was released on the screens of the film company 20th Century Fox, lawsuits were filed for violating the ecosystem of the island, which was dug up and significantly modified for a more heavenly image in the frame.

Many tourists, inspired by the tropical footage of the film, came here to see with their own eyes paradise beach and… were disappointed, faced with a different reality. Nevertheless, Phi Phi Le Island remains one of the most beautiful and popular islands in Thailand, as can be easily seen by looking at the photos.

Koh Pha Ngan (Phangan) - Island with Full Moon Party

Tourists adore Koh Phangan for the idyllic atmosphere of the tropics with white sandy beaches and stunning unspoiled nature. It is here that the world famous "Full Moon Party" or Full Moon Party is held, which takes place every month.

2018 Full Moon Party schedule:

• January 2
• January 31
• 2nd of March
• March 31
• April 29
• May 30
• 27th of June
• July 29
• August, 26th
• 24 september
• the 25th of October
• November 22
• December 22

Koh Lanta - with wide sandy beaches

Ko Lanta is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. It is located just off the coast of Krabi, and its long coastline has about a dozen beaches, many of which are considered the best in the country. Koh Lanta - popular destinations for weddings.

Ko Chang - idyllic "Elephant Island"

Ko Chang is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, the third largest in Thailand. It owes its name ("Elephant Island") to its shape in the form of an elephant's head, which has become its symbol. Unlike bustling Phuket or gorgeous Koh Samui, Koh Chang is suitable for tourists looking for a secluded getaway, because the island has many truly wild places without crowds of tourists. At the same time, the local "wildness" is reflected in the leisure opportunities, which are not numerous on Koh Chang.

Ko Samet - many-sided and diverse

The island gets its name from the Thai cajeput trees "Samet", which grow here in abundance. Koh Samet is very popular with tourists, because there is everything that is necessary for a high-quality and fun beach holiday: the endless smooth surface of the turquoise sea, crescents of bays with fine white sand, opportunities for classes aquatic species sports and throbbing night life.

Koh Tao (Tau) - for diving and cheap vacations

Koh Tao or "Turtle Island" is also called the island of divers and backpackers, that is, budget tourists who come to Thailand in search of an inexpensive vacation.

Koh Kood (Kut) - rocky jungle island

Kut - big Island, however, it began to turn into a major tourist center of Thailand relatively recently. Previously, it was practically a virgin land, untouched by infrastructure. And until it turns into crazy Phuket or a favorite Russian tourists Pattaya, many people come here in search of a secluded vacation surrounded by a tropical jungle.

Koh Mak - calm and idyllic

A small tropical island in Thailand, which cannot boast of a developed infrastructure for tourists who are accustomed to comfort, but it has something to offer vacationers. Those who are looking for an idyllic pastime alone with nature come here: there are very beautiful sandy beaches with clear turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand and lush crowns of palm trees.

Koh Rang Yai - an island with a pearl farm

You may have heard that there is a famous old pearl farm somewhere in Thailand. So, it is located right here, on Rang Yai Island, where you can also buy souvenirs from real sea pearls at reasonable prices.

Ko Lipe - "Maldives of Thailand"

This island in southern Thailand is called the Thai Maldives, and with good reason. Until recently, it was a place practically untouched by buildings, but the popularity of Ko Lipe among tourists led to the fact that hotels quickly "grew" here, and along with them entertainment appeared. Despite the small size of the island, it is one of the centers of diving tourism in Thailand, after which vacationers from all over the world come here.

Koh Adang - Wildlife Thailand

Koh Adang Island is a paradise for contemplators and connoisseurs of dazzling tropical nature. It enters national park Tarutao, so it should be borne in mind that you can only stay here in bungalows and campgrounds that do not harm the local ecosystem.

Koh Phra Thong - sandy beach paradise

Ko Phra Tong is part of national park Mu Ko Ra – Ko Phra Thong, so here too you will find a minimum of infrastructure and a maximum of mesmerizing beauty of tropical nature with long sandy coasts, turquoise waters and coral reefs.

Ko Sukorn - quiet and provincial

This small and quiet island is ideal for those looking to get away from tourist centers and crowded beaches and dive into measured life the real Thailand with its locals, who are still more here than tourists, unlike others popular places Kingdoms.

Koh Moon Nork - for romance and meditation

The only private island resort in Thailand, reachable in 3 hours from Bangkok. Couples come to this island with a snow-white coastline for romantic seclusion, as well as yoga and meditation practitioners away from noisy beaches and chain hotels. This is another Thailand island popular as a wedding destination.

We present to your attention an overview of 15 of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. Millions of tourists flock to Thailand every year for its reputation for idyllic beauty and nature. The huge influx of tourists over the past decade has made it increasingly difficult to find an unspoiled Thai island. But still, there are several heavenly corners, where you can still relax in peace and tranquility, enjoying the scenery of one of the most heavenly corners of the world.

Let's start from the island of Ko Lipe.

It is an increasingly popular island 70 km from the Andaman Sea and the southwest coast of Thailand (near the Malaysian border). Ko Lipe is famous for its excellent beaches and snorkeling spots. Although it is a very small island (you can get around it in half a day), you can find a good bungalow here at a reasonable price. You can still have time to visit here before everything is overdeveloped - the island is already facing environmental problems.

Koh Tup Island. Best for day trips.

Ko Tup, or the island of Barana - one of the four local islands located in Krabi. Krabi is known for its high rugged cliffs, turquoise waters and white sands. The tiny island, where you can encounter large crowds at peak times, offers excellent snorkeling and outdoor activities.

Racha Islands: the best alternative to Phuket.

A quieter and much less developed alternative to Phuket is the Racha Islands. The islands are located approximately 12 km south of Phuket. Although they are mainly used for day trips for diving, you can also stay overnight here by renting a bungalow. Racha islands are famous beautiful beaches white sand and some of the best snorkeling spots in Thailand.

Koh Chang: The best alternative to Koh Samui.

Vacationers increasingly began to look for an alternative to the island of Koh Samui, and turned their eyes to Koh Chang, which even proclaimed it an ideal option. But for now, it is still a much quieter and more peaceful place with deserted white beaches, waterfalls, hiking in the jungle, snorkeling and an abundance of natural wildlife.

Koh Pha Ngan: the best island to party under the moonlight.

Every tourist on the planet has probably heard of Ko Pha Ngan, a beautiful island on the East Coast, where great night parties are held. The island is also known for its white sandy beaches and palm trees, clear turquoise waters and the relaxed attitude of those around it. The island is not as developed as Ko Samui and is mainly aimed at tourists, with a lot of bohemian bars and cafes where parties are held.

Koh Tao: the best island for learning to dive.

Koh Tao Island can be reached by taking a two-hour boat ride from Koh Pha Ngan or Koh Samui. It is a peaceful place, much less touristy due to its more isolated location. The Rocky Island offers world class diving, with a huge number of dive operators. Ideal for people who like to explore nature and the underwater world. Among the best resorts in Thailand, Koh Tao will certainly not get lost.

Ko Nan Yuan: Best for lovers of extraordinary beauty.

Ko Nan Yuan is a tiny island nearby Ko Tao (easily accessible by boat). Mestro is popular with hikers, divers and snorkelers. It is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, with extraordinary beaches and dreamy serenity and tranquility. The only hotel on the island is Nang Yuan Diving Resort so if you want to stay make sure to book in advance.

Ko Maak. The best place for a budget holiday.

Ko Maak is a small, very flat island perfect for just relaxing in the sun. This discreet place would suit anyone looking to get away from the crowds and noise. There are many bungalows on the island for quite low prices... Here you can spend time cycling along coconut plantations and coastline while studying Thai cooking at one of the cooking schools, or snorkeling in the calm clear waters.

Ko Tarutao: best for camping.

Ko Tarutao is one of the 51 islands that make up the National Archipelago Marine park on the south coast of Andaman in Thailand. It has the status of a national park, which means that it has not suffered as much from the rapid development and construction as other islands. It would be suitable for nature lovers, tourists (you can rent a tent and camp), and independent travelers.

There are a lot of islands in Thailand: small and large, uninhabited and densely populated. Going on vacation, first of all, you need to choose a country, then a resort. Which island of Thailand to choose for a vacation? First of all, when choosing, you should be guided by the goals of the vacationer ... As a rule, people travel to the islands for a beach vacation. Which is reasonable - where else White sand and the blue sea, like on an island in the ocean? But nevertheless, the island is the island of strife.

Paradise island Phuket

Phuket is perhaps the most popular island in Thailand. Why? Because, along with beach holidays, the infrastructure for tourists is maximally developed here. There are large shopping centers for full-fledged shopping, discos and nightclubs that allow you to dance until the morning, and numerous restaurants with a wide variety of cuisines of the world, and much, much more. If you are ready to combine beach vacation with a sightseeing tour, and in the evening plunge into the nightlife of the island, then Phuket is your choice.
Do not think that Phuket is suitable only for active travelers, the island is also suitable for family vacation with kids. If you do not want to go “to the city” for entertainment, almost every hotel will invite you to spend an evening in a hotel restaurant. Excursion rest it is also focused on small tourists, there are water parks, zoos, various shows for kids. And of course an abundance of fresh fruit and sun. What else do you need for a successful vacation ?!

Mysterious island of Koh Samui

Samui shares a pedestal of popularity among vacationers with Phuket. The island also has an airport for the convenience of travelers. But there are still differences between the islands. Firstly, water bodies and location. Phuket is located in the very south of Thailand closer to the border with Malaysia and is washed by the Andaman Sea. Samui, on the other hand, is a smaller island and is located east of the "elephant's trunk". Koh Samui is called the island of romance. There are noticeably fewer local settlements here, but nevertheless the nightlife and evening events are quite developed. There are also many restaurants on the island in the popular areas of Lamai and Chaweng, there are fewer excursions than in Phuket, but nevertheless there is something to see here. Diving and snorkeling are very developed. In general, Koh Samui is an island for romantic travel, there are not many places where you can be active, and the island itself can be circled in 40 minutes.

From Koh Samui you can take a ferry to another island, Koh Phangan, which is famous for its full moon parties, the so-called "Full Moon Party". Parties are held every 3 months, during these periods the island becomes the most popular. As a rule, they stay on the island for a couple of days to visit this event, and then return to Koh Samui or back to the mainland.

Elephant Island Koh Chang

The third place in popularity goes to the island with the symbolic name "Chang", which means elephant in Thai. Koh Chang has a fairly mountainous area and a large number of beaches. It is generally accepted that Koh Chang is suitable for a more relaxed family holiday. Large shopping centers on the island no. There are a lot of small restaurants for evening gatherings near each beach, but there are no truly night discos on the island. The sea is quite clean, mostly tourists are attracted by bungalow-type hotels, because it is in the bungalows on the seashore that you can truly enjoy the measured rest of the island of Chang.

Small islands "bounty"

Along with the popular and inhabited islands, Thailand can offer travelers a completely serene vacation. As a rule, these are not large islands, often Thai national reserves... These are places where only hotels and beaches are located, nature remains practically untouched, and the locals carefully take care of the flora and fauna, trying to preserve the pristine nature. On such islands you will not find any shopping centers or discos, moreover, in some places, especially in bungalow-type hotels, the lights are turned off after 7-8 pm and torches with open fire are used as lighting devices.
You can get such a harmonious vacation, for example, on the islands adjacent to Phuket in the Andaman Sea.

Closer to the most popular resort of Pattaya, you can also find such islands.

Going on vacation to the islands of Thailand, be sure to take with you sunscreens with a protection factor of at least 30, for children 50. Do not leave your room on the beach without smearing yourself with cream. Remember that on the islands, especially during the hot season, the sun is not just scorching, but scorching. Using the cream every day, you can protect yourself from burns and, as a result, always stay in a good mood on your island vacation.

Welcome to the islands of Thailand!