For example, there is Phuket, where infrastructure and entertainment are no worse developed than on the mainland. Some places on Samui also have busy traffic, a large selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, massage parlors, etc. But 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 open sea makes its own adjustments and life on the islands is noticeably different from life in cities:
- There are very few Thais here and almost all of them are involved in the tourism business.
- It is more difficult to get here (only Phuket and Samui have airports); you have to travel first by land transport and then by ferry. This means that not every person will want to deal with such transplants.
- The nature here has been 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 attractions: temples, ancient houses.
- The Internet is also not always good and the tap water is often dirty, suitable only for showering (it’s better to buy it in stores for drinking).
But still, these disadvantages are insignificant and the advantages far outweigh them - clear sea, half-empty or even wild beaches, natural attractions, waterfalls, beautiful views, the opportunity to live right on the coast. Each has its own characteristics and is different from others.
The best islands in Thailand
First of all, I would like to talk about the most popular resort islands among tourists - and. There is everything there as on the mainland: a developed network of paved roads, public transport, hospitals, shopping centers, a large selection of hotels, entertainment (bars, discos, shows), attractions, excursions, and for single men - available girls. They are also united by ease of accessibility, since there are airports (and in Phuket there are generally). And since they are one of the largest in the country, those who wish can choose a beach to their liking - some will want to be in the thick of events and parties, while others will prefer to retire on a deserted coast. But in general, Phuket is more developed than Samui and is similar to. We can confidently say 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
Another group includes islands that are more inaccessible, and therefore less popular among mass tourists. These are Koh Chang, Samet, Koh Phangan, Koh 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 of Thailand
The sparsely populated Thai islands stand apart. There are very few hotels there and they rarely offer a discount for long-term stays (i.e. a month there will cost around 20,000-30,000 baht, while the average price in the country is 5,000-7,000). There are almost no restaurants and bars, let alone accessible girls, nightclubs and discos. These are the Similan and Surin archipelagos,
Each island of Thailand is beautiful in its own way, let’s look at why each of them is worth visiting.
Thailand has long been a leader in the list of the most interesting holiday destinations. Holidays in this country are always luxurious and comfortable, but, most importantly, they are very interesting.
Thanks to the interesting whim of nature and the waters of the two seas washing the shores of Thailand, this state has more than a hundred islands in its territories. And almost each of them is famous and unusual in some way.
Most of the islands have remained uninhabited to this day and can boast of their untouched civilization and luxurious tropical vegetation. Others began to develop as tourist destinations and won the love of tourists, turning into comfortable resorts with well-developed infrastructure.
Country of islands
Conventionally, all the islands of Thailand can be divided into three groups:
- Eastern Islands
- Southern Islands
- Adaman Bay Islands
In each category there are several well-known, developed and most popular resort islands among tourists. There are small islands that are part of a group of excursion islands. And there are those that no tourist has ever set foot on.
But there are also those who are not included in this classified group. Such as: the distant South or islands in the endless lakes and rivers of Thailand.
The largest of the islands of Thailand
Soft white sand, bright colors of tropical flowers and a gentle turquoise sea await tourists on any of the beaches of any of the selected islands. When choosing a tour to Thailand, the resort where you would like to relax should be chosen according to the features of the vacation offered there and your needs. Listed below are the ten largest and most famous island resorts in the country and the features of recreation on them.
Phuket Island
The largest and most famous island in Thailand. Most of the territory is covered with virtually untouched forests and highlands. The beaches are located on the east coast and they are amazing in their beauty.
- The most popular and famous place on the island is Patong Beach. Life and fun are in full swing here around the clock.
This place should be chosen when planning a family vacation. Thanks to the well-developed infrastructure of the tourist destination, Phuket offers entertainment for both children and adults.
Koh Samui
The next most popular island is Taya. Known for its white sand beaches, gorgeous palm trees, luxurious waterfalls and stunningly beautiful coral reefs. There are a huge number of comfortable hotels and entertainment here. Also recommended for family holidays.
Koh Chang
The third largest island by area, Koh Chang. No less popular than Phuket and Saumi. Famous for its vibrant nightlife and plenty of shopping opportunities. Shops, stalls and benches, as well as all possible cafes and restaurants, can be found here literally at every step. Accommodation for tourists in this place is presented in all possible categories: from economy class to VIP. Simple bamboo bungalows coexist surprisingly harmoniously with luxurious luxury hotels. Lovers of active recreation, exotics and excursions should go here.
Koh Phangan
The island is very young in terms of tourism development, but is actively gaining popularity with each new season. Landscape features: mountains. Features of the beaches of Koh Phangan are the finest sand of all the islands of Thailand. Features of the holiday are monthly Full Moon Parties, it is thanks to them that this place is rapidly developing. It is recommended to come here for those who are looking for bright impressions, are ready to stay up at night and simply cannot live without discos and entertainment.
Ko Lipe
An island for those who are tired of civilization. For those who associate the word “vacation” with silence, tranquility and relaxation. Life on Koh Lipe has not yet been at all spoiled by the influence of newfangled technologies and flows calmly and measuredly. In small settlements, general relaxation and nirvana reign. I only have enough strength and desire to reach the alluring sea and settle down with a book under the nearest palm tree.
Phi Phi Don Island
This place is known for its unique water clarity. In some places it reaches three hundred meters. This resort is chosen by people who are tired of the bustle of cities, and, perhaps, of active life in general. Despite the fact that the island began to be settled and developed relatively recently, there will be no problems with accommodation. Phi Phi Don has a lot of medium-sized, three-star hotels and other holiday options, from budget accommodation in bungalows to luxury apartments in five-star hotels.
Koh Tao
Or, as it is also called, “Turtle Island”. More than a million diving enthusiasts come here every year, among them Koh Tao is very, very famous. It is one of the few on which there are no temples or palaces. The only attraction is the statue of a turtle on the main pier, magnificent in grace and beauty. There is no shortage of cafes, restaurants and hotels, as the resort is very popular and crowded. Recommended for lovers of scuba diving, spa treatments and yoga.
Koh Lanta
Very soon this place will most likely become one of the most famous in the world. At least that's what it's all about. Koh Lanta is rapidly gaining popularity points, actively developing a recently popular destination. One of the largest and most luxurious resorts is open here: Pimalai Resort & Spa, which is difficult to find analogues, especially in such a stunningly beautiful place. So, if the main goal of your vacation is to get your body and health in order, then Koh Lanta is for you.
Thanks to the abolition of the mandatory visa requirement to enter the country for less than a month in 2007, Thailand has become a leading holiday destination for Russians. And thanks to the huge number of such different islands, holidays in this country become incomparable. Only in Thailand you can get a new beach, a new sea and new sensations every day. All year round, the islands of Thailand are open to you.
Many of our compatriots are already tired of the monotonous holiday in Egypt and Turkey, with crowded beaches, crowds of tourists and the same excursions. And then they think about where the real tropical paradise is, with beautiful landscapes, exotic nature, far from civilization. Or vice versa, where to find vibrant nightlife and sexual entertainment. In both cases, turn your attention to Thailand, where all of the above is available in abundance, and in addition you will also find a warm sea with a temperature of +27...+29 degrees, interesting sights and an acquaintance with oriental culture.
If the choice is made in favor of this country, a number of questions arise: where is it better to go to Thailand, where is it cheaper to relax in Thailand, where is the clean sea in Thailand and many other questions.
You can organize your holiday in Thailand according to your taste, you just need to choose the right resort. For young people who party, it’s one direction, but for lovers of silence, it’s completely different. This article will help you find your way around where to relax in Thailand for this or that type of leisure activity, give a comparative description and describe all the pros and cons of various resorts.
Where is the best place to relax in Thailand if you are a sex tourist - Pattaya
Pattaya is located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, just 150 km from Bangkok. The area is relatively small - only 21 square meters. km.
This is the very first mass tourist resort, opened in the late 50s by American soldiers. They had several military bases in Thailand during the Vietnam War and sometimes came to the coast to relax. On one of these days, the military saw the small fishing village of Pattaya, with very friendly local residents. They liked it here so much that after the war many stayed and even opened bars and restaurants. Since the 70s, the town has become the most popular among foreigners who want to relax in Thailand.
Why is it better to relax in Pattaya?
The question of where it’s cheaper to relax in Thailand can be closed right away - in Pattaya the prices are the lowest among all the resorts in the country. Everything is cheap here - hotels, services, food, clothing. He has no alternative in this regard.
It is easy to get to from Russia as there are direct flights from major cities in our country. Planes land at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangok, which is just a stone's throw away. Just an hour and a half and you are enjoying the sea, sitting under a palm tree.
This is the main center of sex tourism throughout Southeast Asia. Prices for “adult” entertainment are quite low, and the girls are mainly 18-25 years old. In addition to meeting local beauties, you can go to erotic massage parlors, watch exotic shows or performances with the participation of transvestites. There are gay clubs and bars for gay people. In a word, Pattaya is a paradise for those who seek carnal pleasures.
Well-developed tourist infrastructure with thousands of hotels, restaurants, shops, banks, bars, clubs, discos.
- You won’t have a question about where to go in Pattaya, as there is a large selection of entertainment, including for. The child will enjoy frolicking in the water park or on the attractions and will get many new impressions from visiting zoos. For adults - water sports, diving and snorkeling at the nearest , paragliding, elephant riding, karting, boat rides and ATVs... you name it! After sunset, it is no less interesting here than during the day: entertainment venues, discos and bars with girls open their doors.
The best place in Thailand according to the excursion program is a huge number of different options that cannot be seen in two weeks of rest.
Proximity to Bangkok. Just 2 hours and you are in the capital of Thailand. This city has a huge number of interesting sights, both historical and modern. This will be a great addition to your beach holiday in Pattaya.
The best climate among resorts in Thailand. There are rarely strong waves at sea, during the dry season from November to May there is practically no rain, and from June to October only a few times a week. There are no strong winds either, since the city is very conveniently located in a closed bay.
Where to go to Thailand for a secluded holiday - the islands of Koh Chang, Phangan, Phi Phi and Lanta
Located in the east of Thailand, on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, near Cambodia. Koh Phangan is located next to Koh Samui. and – in the Andaman Sea, in the southwestern part of the country, near Malaysia.
You may ask why we united resorts located so far from each other into one group? The fact is that they are very similar in infrastructure, attractions and distance from the main tourist roads. In principle, they differ only in size: Koh Chang is the second largest island in the country, and the Phi Phi twins (Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley) are very small.
Advantages of these islands
Uncrowded beaches. There are no crowds of tourists here, you may well find corners where during the day only a few people within a radius of 100 m from you will sunbathe, and after sunset you may find yourself completely alone on a deserted shore. These are great places for lovers of tropical nature and silence. The only exception is the Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan, when partygoers from all over the world come to dance all night in the open air.
But Parties take place only on a few beaches during the full moon; in all other places it’s peace and quiet. There is also one beach on Phi Phi - where an open-air disco is held daily;
Great opportunities for diving and snorkeling, especially on Phi Phi;
The cleanest sea, no garbage or plastic bags on the beaches (this can often be seen in Pattaya and sometimes in Phuket);
Proximity to uninhabited islands, to which day excursions are organized. There you can completely merge with nature, forgetting that somewhere there are cities, factories, noisy highways and nightclubs;
- you can see the life of the local residents, which has hardly changed with the arrival of tourists (this applies to a greater extent to Lanta);
Disadvantages of Koh Chang, Phangan, Phi Phi and Lanta
It is quite difficult to get from the international airport, especially to Koh Phangan. You will have to transfer to a local flight;
All natural attractions: waterfalls, caves, national parks. On Phi Phi you can see places where the film “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio was partially filmed. There are simply no architectural, cultural and historical monuments;
There is virtually no nightlife, with the exception of a couple of beaches on Koh Phangan and one on Phi Phi. After sunset, the only entertainment available is drinking bars with girls, restaurants with local musical groups, and fire shows;
Bad place for shopping. The islands do not have large shopping centers. The maximum that can be purchased is souvenirs and clothes;
There are no jet skis or other motorized water activities on Koh Chang because it is located within the National Marine Reserve and the environment is very monitored here.
Where is the best holiday in Thailand for diving and snorkeling - the islands of Kood, Mak, Wai, Tao, the Surin and Similian archipelago
The first three islands are located in the Gulf of Thailand near Koh Chang, and the rest are in the Andaman Sea, north of Phuket. There are quite a few hotels here. The islands are often visited by divers. One-day excursions are organized here from popular resorts, but if you wish, you can stay for a longer period. The infrastructure is in its infancy and is unlikely to ever improve, since the islands are located far from tourist trails and are difficult to get here.
Advantages
Nature is in its original form, there are practically no asphalt roads. It is worth coming only for those who are tired of the fast pace of cities and want to spend their vacation “savage” in the lap of nature. If this is you, then the islands will be the perfect refuge from civilization - only the azure sea, an empty beach, the sea breeze, the singing of birds and the whisper of leaves.
- The cleanest sea in Thailand and the cleanest air. It is very rare to see motorbikes, and cars even more so.
Beautiful landscapes that are not spoiled by hotels and entertainment centers standing here and there.
The best places in Thailand to explore the underwater world.
Flaws
It is very difficult and far to get there. There are no airports, so you will first have to take a bus to some famous resort, and from there go by boat.
On the islands of the Andaman Sea, there are storms during the rainy season (May-November), so during this period they are closed to tourists and there is little or no ferry service with them.
Entertainment lovers will be bored, because there is simply none here. There are no bars, clubs, or reputable restaurants.
Many islands do not have ATMs, so you need to take a small supply of cash with you (small - because there is not much to spend it on).
Since these are not very popular destinations, there is little competition between tour operators, which means prices are also high. And getting there on your own is not cheap.
There are almost no tuk-tuks or other public transport to explore the entire island inexpensively.
- “Man-made” attractions are completely absent, but there are many natural ones: waterfalls, caves, lagoons, bays, forests, a rich underwater world.
Sometimes there are power outages. In some hotels it is turned on only at strictly defined hours from local generators.
Where is the best place to go to Thailand for shopping and entertainment - Bangkok
Since Bangkok is located in the very center of Thailand, it is an ideal starting point for trips around the country: be it the northern provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai or the southern islands of Koh Samui, Phuket or Lanta.
This is not the best place in Thailand because
No sea. The nearest resort of Pattaya is about 2 hours by bus. Sichang Island is a little more accessible, but there are few sandy beaches on it.
Air purity leaves much to be desired. Numerous cars leave no chance for good ecology.
During rush hours there are many kilometers of traffic jams.
- As in any metropolis, there are no large forest areas left in Bangkok, although there are several large parks.
It is always 2-3 degrees hotter here than in seaside resorts (smog creates a “greenhouse effect”).
If you stay in the center, and especially in places with night entertainment, then noise and music will not allow you to sleep well until 2 o'clock (by law, at 2 o'clock in the morning all establishments in Thailand must be closed).
Results: which resort to choose in Thailand?
We hope that this article introduced you to the advantages and disadvantages of various resorts and gave you a little guidance on where it is better for you to go to Thailand.
Summarizing the above, we can give the following recommendations on where it is better to relax in Thailand:
1. If you want maximum entertainment, then the best places for you in Thailand are Pattaya, Bangkok and, to a lesser extent, Phuket (from here it is very far from the capital of the country - the main place of party life).
4. Where is the best place for shopping lovers to go to Thailand – Bangkok and Pattaya.
5. For a relaxing holiday, but with the benefits of civilization, Krabi, Koh Chang, Samui, Phangan, Lanta, Khao Lak, the islands of Samet and Yao are suitable.
6. For a “wild” holiday away from the benefits of civilization and as close to nature as possible - the islands of Kood, Mak, Vai, Chicken Island, Surin, Similian.
7. The best diving and snorkeling in Thailand is Tao Island, the Surin and Similian archipelagos, and there are also many opportunities on Phi Phi.
8. If you want to dance until you drop and have a full drive -... no, not Pattaya, but the island of Koh Phangan on a full moon. For several days, grand parties are held here, attended by tens of thousands of people. During this period, don’t even try to find places in hotels and guest houses - they definitely won’t be available. It is best to book in advance or arrive on the island 5 days before the Fool Moon Party.
This concludes the brief overview of the main resorts. If you still have any questions about where to relax in Thailand, you can ask them in the comments.
15 most beautiful islands in Thailand
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The only drawback of Thailand is the extremely large influx of tourists; over the past ten years it has been very difficult to find at least one deserted vacation spot throughout Thailand. This article selects fifteen of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, which represent an eclectic atmosphere of peaceful relaxation in the lap of nature.
1. Lipe: the best island to visit first
Koh Lipe is an incredibly popular island in the Andaman Sea, located 70 km off the southwest coast of Thailand (near the Malaysian border). It is known for its excellent beaches, snorkeling sites and stunning scenery. Although the island is very small (a traveler can walk around it twice a day), there is a good selection of bungalows for mid-budget holidaymakers. It is worth hurrying to book a tourist holiday in Koh Lipe before the island becomes too civilized. The island, unfortunately, has already begun to face environmental problems.
2. Tyup: the best place for day trips
Koh Tyup Island, or simply Tyup, is one of 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 day trippers. Koh Tup is a tiny island where, in the best season, you are likely to see large crowds of holidaymakers, but the island is great for snorkeling, swimming and beautiful scenery.
3. Racha Island: the best alternative to Phuket
A more peaceful and much less developed alternative to the resort of Phuket is the island of Racha (or Paradise). 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 known for its beautiful beach - a strip of fine white sand stretches far into a U-shaped bay, and Racha Noi Island is an uninhabited diving site where there are no residential apartments or other amenities of civilization.
4. Koh Chang: the best alternative to Koh Samui
For those travelers who are looking for an alternative to the developed holiday structure of Koh Samui, we can offer a trip to the island of Koh Chang. The island of Koh Chang is a quieter holiday resort compared to the holiday bustle of Phuket or Koh Samui, but still those tourists who want privacy in their holiday are advised not to hesitate in traveling to the islands of Thailand until civilization has penetrated everywhere into these quiet places. Koh Chang is worth visiting mainly for its deserted, white sandy beaches, waterfalls, jungle trekking, diving and lush wildlife around.
5. Koh Pa Ngan: Best for Parties Under the Moon
Every tourist on the planet has probably heard of Koh Pa Ngan, a pretty island on the East Coast where many of the world's famous "full moon parties" are held. The island is known for its palm trees lining its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere. Ko Pa Ngan is not as developed as Ko Samui, however, most tourists flock 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 Diving Lessons
The east coast of Koh Tao can be reached via a two-hour boat ride from Koh Pa Ngan or Koh Samui. This is a quiet place with far fewer tourists and therefore more secluded. This rocky island offers world-class snorkeling and diving. In Koh Tao there are a huge number of convenient diving sites and no less instructors teaching diving skills. The island is ideal for those looking for a paradisiacal location to train towards their PADI certification.
7. Nang Yuan: the best in its extraordinary beauty
Koh Nang Yuan is a tiny island located very close to Koh Tao (accessible by cheap boat). It is a popular destination for day excursions, diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. 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 location on the island is the Nang Yuan Diving Resort. Therefore, if a tourist wants to stay here overnight, then a place to stay should be booked in advance.
8. Maaka: the best low key vacation
Ko Maaka is a very small, flat island. Ideal for relaxing and simply enjoying the sun's rays. This low key area is great for anyone looking to escape the crowds. Vacationers are accommodated in resort bungalows, with a budget price range. Activities on Koh Maaka include cycling along the coconut plantation coast, taking Thai cooking classes at one of the local cooking schools or scuba diving in the calm, clear waters.
9. Tarutao: Best for Camping
Koh Tarutao is one of the 51 islands that belong to the archipelago of the Tarutao National Marine Park, 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 it will appeal to lovers of exotic nature. At the main office of the National Park, tourists can rent tents for 150 baht per day and set up camping. Also, holidays on the island of Koh Tarutao will appeal to more self-sufficient travelers.
10. Pee Pee: Best Sunset
Travelers arriving on the island of Koh Phi Phi get a contrasting, double impression of it. The island seems to be 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 settlement. Unfortunately, the island suffers from the uncontrolled development of civilization on its territory, this process especially accelerated after the release of the film “The Beach”. Even though the island gets crowded with tourists from time to time, it maintains a relaxing atmosphere that makes for a happy holiday for travelers and campers. In addition, Koh Phi Phi is a great place to watch a fantastically beautiful sunset. It's tempting to climb to the top of the steep cliff to get a better view of this beautiful natural phenomenon. Although you can’t count on any special privacy for a romantic moment, since hundreds of other tourists will want to join the daredevil climber.
11. Lanta: the best traditions of local culture
The island of Koh Lanta is located in the beautiful province of Krabi, Southern Thailand. The island is known for its excellent diving spots and long white beaches. Definitely, this place is an ideal area for those who want to escape modern civilized living conditions and places crowded with tourists. On the island, the traveler will find absolute tranquility combined with small amenities of everyday comfort. Underdevelopment and untouched nature are the main advantages of Koh Lanta. The holiday atmosphere on the island consists of mountainous landscapes, green wooded hills, sandy beaches, beautiful coral reefs and local cultural traditions.
12. Ngai: the 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: beaches with white sand, clear water and beautiful corals lying everywhere. Accommodation on the island is also affordable, but offers mid-range amenities. Here the traveler will not find the luxury of modern civilization. Lovers of wild nature and secluded relaxation will certainly be pleased with these 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 is home to wild crab-eating monkeys and monitor lizards.
13. Payam: the best, recently opened
Koh Phayam is the second largest island in the Andaman Sea (after Koh Chang). Located in Ranong province. Koh Phayam is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. Interestingly, until recently it was unknown to tourists. The island has everything you would expect from a Thai tropical island paradise: long white sandy beaches, clear blue seas, jungles and forests, coral reefs and all this in a peaceful silence, without an overabundance of tourists. They say that the island looks like Ko Samui thirty years ago.
14. Muk: best for a quiet, peaceful holiday
Koh Mook Island is also known as Pearl Island. It is characterized by its small area and calm atmosphere. Koh Muk is located in the southwest of Thailand (south of Phuket). In addition to beach holidays, 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 Koh Muk. Here you can admire unforgettable sunsets or take a boat ride to the Emerald Cave, one of the natural wonders of Thailand. In addition to the cave, in this area there is a completely enclosed beach, formed in a deep gorge with a sandy bottom.
If you have been to Thailand at least once, you cannot help but appreciate the beauty of its nature: snow-white beaches, mountains, impenetrable jungles and amazing sunsets. And how beautiful the islands are! This is simply a heavenly place that will not leave any tourist indifferent. The islands of Thailand are not far from the mainland, so getting to any of them will not be difficult for you. We will talk about the most beautiful islands in this article, so that everyone can choose the most ideal island for themselves.
The largest island of Thailand is Phuket, which is also the most popular; crowds of tourists from all over the world come there. Advantages of the island– numerous snow-white beaches, clear water and developed infrastructure. An excellent place for diving, as there are many coral reefs near Phuket. There is a wide selection of hotels, cafes, restaurants, many large shopping centers and markets, banks and clubs. There are also numerous Buddhist temples, observation decks, and waterfalls. Disadvantages of Phuket– a large number of tourists, prices are higher than, for example, in Pattaya. The atmosphere in Phuket is more urban. There are tall buildings, wide roads, and a lot of traffic.
Phi Phi
Not far from Phuket are located. Here you can find quiet places, untouched by civilization, as well as places with overly developed infrastructure and densely populated areas. The Phi Phi Islands are great for diving and snorkeling.
The advantages of the Phi Phi Islands are snow-white beaches, clear water and a rich underwater world. Here is the famous one, where the film “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed. There are also parties for “lonely hearts” here, where everyone can find a match.
The disadvantages of the Phi Phi Islands are quite high prices for accommodation compared to other islands.
Similan Islands
100 km from Phuket are located, which have incredibly beautiful nature and are ideal for a relaxing beach holiday. The Similan Islands are one of the best places for diving, and UNESCO has listed them as the most beautiful islands in the world. The calling card of the Similan Islands is the Sail Rock. You can only get there from Phuket or Khao Lak by purchasing a tour from an agency. The Similan Islands can be visited from October-November to May; at other times they are closed to tourists.
Samui
The second most popular island is Koh Samui. There is a developed infrastructure, many large shops, markets, banks, pharmacies, clubs. All this goes well with beautiful nature: clean beaches, mountains, tropical jungles, waterfalls. Compared to Phuket, Koh Samui is smaller, cheaper and quieter. The atmosphere here is more rural than urban.
Not far from Koh Samui there is a famous one, which gained its popularity thanks to the “Full Moon Party”. Similar parties take place every month on the full moon.
The infrastructure on Koh Phangan is developed only in certain parts of it. However, Koh Phangan has very beautiful nature: many mountains, fresh air and incredibly beautiful beaches.
Prices on Koh Phangan are lower than on Koh Samui. And if you want to spend the winter on a paradise island and at the same time live cheaply, then Phangam is ideal for you.
Koh Tao
It is located 65 kilometers from Koh Samui. You can get there by ferry. The island is a tranquil place with untouched nature. There are few tourists; Koh Tao attracts diving and snorkeling enthusiasts to a greater extent.
Disadvantages of Koh Tao - poor internet, few attractions, long journey to get there.
Koh Chang
Koh Chang, which is the second largest island of Thailand, is located in the Gulf of Thailand. There are no large shopping centers or discos, but on its territory you will find a large number of restaurants and cafes near the sea. The island is suitable for a relaxing family holiday. Koh Chang will amaze you with its white beaches, beautiful wildlife and waterfalls.
Samet
Samet Island is located 10 kilometers from the mainland and will amaze you with its untouched nature and clean white beaches. Its nature is protected by the government and it is part of the national park of Thailand. The island is ideal for a relaxing holiday; there are few tourists here and you can always find a secluded place to be alone and enjoy the beauty of its nature.
Lanta
The Koh Lanta Islands are located near the Krabi province. There is underdeveloped infrastructure and untouched nature. Perfect for a quiet, secluded holiday. The Lanta Islands consist of two islands, Lanta Noi and Lanta Yai, but only Lanta Yai is popular. You can get to the Lanta Islands by ferry from the mainland Krabi province. A distinctive feature of the Lanta Islands is its snow-white beaches, which stretch up to several kilometers.
Lipe
Lipe Island is located on the border with Malaysia. It is famous for its clean white beaches and beautiful scenery. The island is part of the Taratao National Marine Park.
If just a few years ago almost no one knew about Lipe Island, now tourists are starting to appear here, and the island is being developed in due time, hotels, restaurants and cafes are appearing.
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