Koh Phangan is often known for its legendary Full Moon Party, but this island is so much more than that. Think palm-fringed beaches, clear turquoise water, jungle trails, hidden waterfalls and a laid-back rhythm of life that invites you to slow down. Whether you’re a backpacker chasing adventures, a couple looking for sunset cocktails or a family wanting some down-time by the beach, Koh Phangan offers a little something for everyone.
What Makes Koh Phangan So Special?
What sets Koh Phangan apart from the many islands in Thailand is its balance. Compared to its busy neighbour Koh Samui, this island feels less developed and far more relaxed, yet it still has everything you need for a memorable holiday.
The north coast is where you’ll find peaceful bays and boutique resorts, while the south hums with beach bars and traveller hangouts. Wander inland and you’ll discover jungle walks, yoga retreats and locals who genuinely make you feel welcome. Mornings might be spent snorkelling in crystal waters, afternoons chasing waterfalls and evenings watching the sky light up in pink and gold.
Koh Phangan’s charm goes well beyond the party scene. It’s about the small moments too – sipping a coconut at a quiet beach café, chatting with the friendly market vendors or taking part in a yoga class as the sun rises. Those are the memories that linger long after you’ve left.
What This Guide Will Show You About Koh Phangan
Our guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Koh Phangan. From the best beaches to hidden gems, we’ve gathered local insights and along with our own tips to help you plan the perfect island holiday. Read on to discover accommodation options for every budget, mouth-watering local cuisine and practical travel advice that will make your trip unforgettable.
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Top 10 Things to Do in Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan might be famous for its Full Moon Party, but this island has so much more waiting beyond the beach raves. From jungle treks and yoga retreats to snorkelling reefs and fiery sunsets, there’s a mix of wild adventures and quiet escapes to suit every kind of traveller. Here are our top 10 things to do in Koh Phangan – experiences that capture the island’s energy, beauty and charm.
1. Ang Thong Marine Park Day Trip
- This tour can be taken from Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, or even Koh Tao, but starting from Koh Phangan makes it an easy and unforgettable day out. Just offshore lies Ang Thong Marine Park, a protected cluster of 42 limestone islands rising out of emerald-green seas. A typical trip will have you snorkelling over coral reefs alive with tropical fish, kayaking through hidden lagoons and caves and tackling the climb up to the famous Ko Wua Talap viewpoint. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most jaw-dropping panoramas in Thailand – a sweeping view of the entire archipelago scattered like jewels across the water.
- For us, it’s the kind of place that reminds you just how stunning nature can be. If you only do one organised tour from Koh Phangan, make it this one.
2. Than Sadet Waterfall National Park
- Step into a piece of history and nature at Than Sadet National Park, where Thai royalty once came to bathe in the clear waterfall pools. The falls cascade through the jungle into natural swimming holes that are perfect on a hot afternoon. Combine your visit with a picnic, a dip or even a walk along the trails that lead deeper into the forest.
3. Find Your Flow with Yoga
- Koh Phangan has become a real hub for yoga and wellness, with retreats and studios scattered all around the island. One of the best-known centres is Agama Yoga, where classes welcome everyone – from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Picture starting your morning with a gentle flow as the sun rises over the jungle or the ocean, leaving you energised and calm for the day ahead.
- We didn’t make it to Agama ourselves but joined a small class right at our beachfront resort instead. It was a simple session, perfect for beginners, and such a bonus to practice with the sound of the waves rolling in behind us. Wherever you choose, Koh Phangan makes it easy to slow down and connect with your breath.
4. Full Moon Party at Haad Rin
- My son has been to two Full Moon Parties and reckons they’re absolutely crazy – wild, messy and the kind of party you have to do at least once in your lifetime. Hmmm… oh to be in that frame of mind again! You really can’t talk about Koh Phangan without mentioning this legendary event. What started as a small beach gathering has exploded into a full-blown, alcohol- fuelled festival where thousands of travellers from all over the world dance barefoot in the sand under the glow of the full moon. Picture fire shows, neon paint, DJs spinning until sunrise and an atmosphere that’s part unforgettable, part outrageous… and maybe part you’d rather forget.
5. Trek to Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat)
- If you’re up for an adventure, the trek to Bottle Beach is a rite of passage. The jungle trail winds up and down through thick greenery, teasing you with glimpses of turquoise sea before finally delivering you to a secluded stretch of white sand. We were told not to take our moped there – the road is rough and not worth the risk and we’re so glad we listened. Instead, we hiked in the sticky heat, battling mozzies and stopping often to sip water while trying to catch our breath, wondering if we’d ever get there. The descent felt endless but when we finally stepped onto the beach, it all melted away. Bottle Beach was as beautiful as promised, quiet, raw and absolutely worth the sweat.
- If hiking isn’t your thing, longtail boats also make the trip but there’s something extra special about earning that first swim with a trek.
6. Snorkel Around Koh Ma
- Koh Ma is a tiny island joined to Koh Phangan by a sandy causeway and it’s known as one of the island’s best snorkelling spots. We didn’t make it there ourselves this trip but a couple we sat next to on the ferry couldn’t stop talking about it and it’s now firmly on our list for next time. The shallow reef is alive with colourful fish and coral, making it perfect for beginners, yet still beautiful enough to impress experienced snorkellers. Locals say it’s also magic at sunset, when the sandbar glows in the evening light and the water turns into a mirror.
7. Sunset at the Bars
- On Koh Phangan, sunsets aren’t just a time of day – they’re a ritual. The island is dotted with clifftop bars that draw people in for the evening light show with Amsterdam Bar being one of the most popular.
- In the area we stayed, we hiked up to 2C Bar instead. The climb was steep and the mozzies were relentless but the reward was worth it – a cold drink in hand and a view that stretched across the horizon as the sky turned fiery orange, pink and purple. Walking back down the road felt like a mission of its own and at that point, those who had zipped up on mopeds looked like they’d made the smarter choice!
- No matter which bar you end up at, settling in for sunset with new friends and a chilled drink is one of Koh Phangan’s simple joys.
8. Explore the Island’s Temples
- Beyond the beaches, Koh Phangan has a quiet spiritual side. Wat Phu Khao Noi, the island’s oldest temple, sits on a small hill with peaceful views and an atmosphere that feels far removed from the bustle of the tourist trail. Stopping by a few temples is not only a cultural experience but also a grounding way to connect with local life.
9. Learn to Dive: PADI Open Water Course
- Koh Phangan isn’t just about beaches and parties – it’s also one of the most accessible places in Thailand to get your PADI Open Water Diver certification. Courses usually take 3–4 days and are offered all over the island, from small local schools to bigger international dive centres.
- The beauty of learning here is that you start in calm, shallow waters before heading out on boat trips to nearby dive sites. It’s a brilliant mix of classroom learning, pool sessions, and real dives in the Gulf of Thailand. Along the way, you’ll spot colourful coral, tropical fish, and maybe even a sea turtle or two.
- We met travellers who came to Koh Phangan just for the diving, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to advance your skills, there are plenty of dive schools to choose from – so shop around, read reviews, and find an instructor who makes you feel comfortable. It’s one of those life experiences you’ll never forget.
10. Herbal Sauna & Thai Massage
- After days of beaches, hikes, and exploring, give your body some love with a proper Thai-style reset. The Herbal Sauna at Baan Tai is a rustic favourite – a traditional steam bath infused with local herbs that melts away the heat and dust of the day. Pair it with an authentic Thai massage, and you’ll walk out feeling like a new person.
- Be warned though – Thai massages aren’t your typical spa pampering. You’ll be stretched, bent, and pulled in directions you didn’t even know your body could move, but the result is deeply restorative. For us, it was an absolute highlight.
- That said, there are massage shops everywhere across Thailand, and some are definitely better than others. Always check reviews before choosing where to go – that little bit of research can make the difference between a forgettable rub-down and an experience you’ll rave about.
🏡 Where to Stay in Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan has something for everyone from budget bungalows to luxury resorts. Each area offers a different vibe, so your choice of base can shape your whole trip. (We use Trip.com for our bookings – it’s been reliable and easy to compare options.)
We stayed at Penns Bungalow on Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach and loved the laid-back vibe and long sandy beach. The town is small with around a dozen eateries all serving good, simple food – perfect if you’re after peace and quiet. It is, however, a fair distance from the ferry terminal and taxi prices are higher as you need to go over the mountain. Transfers also aren’t free here, so it’s best to arrange pickup with your resort.
Best Areas to Stay in Koh Phangan (with Recommendations)
- Haad Rin – Party-central, ideal if the Full Moon Party is why you’re here.
- Rin Bay View Resort – Comfortable rooms and balconies just steps from the action.
- Vannee Golden Sands Beachfront Resort – Beachfront with strong guest ratings and easy access.
- Baan Tai & Thong Sala – Convenient for ferries and nightlife without going full party-mode.
- La Belle Vie – Boutique Hotel (Adults Only) – Stylish and serene with a pool.
- Yangyai Garden Lodge – Relaxed tropical setting and great value.
- Srithanu – The island’s yoga and wellness hub.
- Orion Healing Centre – Yoga, detox, and wellness stays.
- The Yoga House – Simple rooms with daily classes and healthy food.
- Thong Nai Pan (Noi & Yai) – Quiet, family-friendly, boutique beach escapes.
- Penns Bungalow – Our choice, peaceful and laid-back.
- Santhiya Resort & Spa – Luxury with private pools and jungle views.
- Haad Yuan & Haad Yuan/Salad – Remote and beautiful, great for chilled backpackers.
- The Hideaway Pariya Haad Yuan – Rustic and quiet with sea views.
- Smile Bungalow Bottle Beach – Affordable, simple, and right on the sand.
Booking Tips:
- Book at least 3 months ahead for full moon party dates
- Many places offer discounts for stays longer than a week
- Low season (October-November) sees prices drop by up to 50%
- Most places require cash deposits, even when booking online
- Air-conditioned rooms typically cost NZD 16-33 more per night than fan rooms
🍲 Thai Food Paradise in Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan’s food scene is as diverse as its visitors from smoky roadside stalls to candlelit beachfront dinners. Whether you’re after a quick plate of Pad Thai or a long lazy seafood feast, eating here becomes part of the adventure.
🌊 Beach BBQ Feasts
The one meal we went back for again and again was a simple beach BBQ just down from our resort at Thong Nai Pan Yai. You choose your catch of the day – fish, crab, prawns, even lobster and watch it sizzle over coals while the waves lap the shore. With potatoes, cor, and spicy Thai sauces, it was the perfect barefoot dining experience under the stars.
Tohu tip: don’t forget the mozzie repellent – it’s the only thing that can spoil the magic.
🛍️ Thong Sala Night Market
The night market at Thong Sala is the heart of local food culture. Open every evening from around 4 pm, it’s a maze of sizzling woks, colourful smoothies and tables piled high with Thai sweets. Classic dishes like Pad Thai, spring rolls and mango sticky rice are cheap and delicious and the seafood section is a crowd favourite. End the night with a hot, crispy Thai pancake for dessert.
💫 Romantic Beachfront Dining
For something special, many beachfront restaurants around Thong Nai Pan and Haad Yao set up candlelit tables right in the sand. You can enjoy fusion Thai dishes or freshly grilled seafood with the waves as your soundtrack. It’s not unusual to see private setups for couples, complete with flowers and wine. Perfect for a birthday, honeymoon or just a treat-yourself night.
🌿 Local Favourites
Some of the best meals come from family-run spots where the curries are made from scratch and the prices are easy on the wallet. Expect to pay only a few dollars for a plate of green curry or fried rice with a cold Chang beer or fresh coconut to go with it. Breakfast bowls of rice soup (khao tom) are a local staple and you’ll find them everywhere in the mornings.
🥗 Sri Thanu’s Healthy Side
If you’re into wellness, head to Sri Thanu. This little village has become a hub for vegan and vegetarian cafés, smoothie bars and raw dessert spots. Think smoothie bowls topped with tropical fruit, colourful juices and plant-based twists on Thai favourites.
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- Eat a few streets back from the beach – prices are often 30–40% cheaper.
- Lunch specials are common, offering great value.
- Pick up fresh fruit at the market – it’s half the price of restaurants.
- Take advantage of happy hours (usually 4–7 pm) for cheap cocktails or beers.
🔎 Hidden Gems
- Check out the fishermen’s villages for some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.
- Don’t miss the roadside noodle shops serving boat noodles – simple, cheap and authentic.
- Follow the locals – if a place is packed with Thai families, you’ve probably found a winner.
- Many resorts welcome outside guests to dine at their restaurants, so don’t be shy about exploring.
No matter where you eat, Koh Phangan serves up meals that are as memorable as its sunsets. From street food to beach BBQs, you’ll leave with full bellies and a smile.
🚤 How to Get to Koh Phangan
Reaching Koh Phangan is all part of the adventure, with routes to match every budget and travel style. We recommend booking through 12GoAsia for easy comparisons and reliable tickets.
✈️ Fly via Koh Samui
The fastest route is to fly directly into Koh Samui Airport, where daily flights arrive from Bangkok with Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways. One-way tickets usually cost NZD 150–300. From Samui, you can hop on a Seatran or Raja Ferry across to Koh Phangan – the ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around NZD 20. Ferries run from 8 am until 4:30 pm daily.
🚌 Overnight Bus or Train + Ferry from Bangkok
For budget travellers, the overnight bus or Train from Bangkok is a popular choice. Buses & Trains leave Bangkok around 5-7 pm and reach Surat Thani early the next morning. From there, you can take a combined bus + ferry ticket straight to Koh Phangan.
✈️ Fly into Surat Thani
Another affordable option is flying into Surat Thani International Airport – often cheaper than flying to Samui. Airlines like Air Asia and Nok Air offer tickets from Bangkok. At Surat Thani, you can book a combined transfer service that includes the bus to the pier and ferry across to Koh Phangan.
🚆 Scenic Route via Chumphon
If you’d like a more scenic journey, consider travelling via Chumphon. Night trains depart Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station daily, arriving around 4 am. Sleeper tickets cost NZD 45–60, depending on class. VIP and standard buses also run this route (6–7 hours, NZD 30–40). We chose to catch a bus to Chumphon purely because the hours of arrival were more friendly than the train which meant I didn’t have to pay for an extra nights accommodation. And honestly it was pretty comfy. From Chumphon, you can take the Lomprayah high-speed catamaran, a 2.5-hour trip across the Gulf of Thailand for about NZD 35. Ferries leave twice daily at 7 am and 1 pm.
We broke up this route with a night in Chumphon, a week in Koh Tao – another stunning island worth exploring before arriving via ferry in Koh Phangan.
🌕 Top Tohu Tip
Book your ferry crossings early if you’re travelling during peak season (December–January) or around Full Moon Party dates. Morning ferries sell out fast, especially the day after the party. Often, your accommodation can arrange transfers at better rates than booking independently.
🌞 Best Time to Visit Koh Phangan
☀️ December – April: Peak Season
- Weather: Clear blue skies, calm seas, 28–32°C
- Vibe: Perfect for snorkelling, diving, and beach days
- Downside: Peak season crowds and higher prices (up to 50% increase over Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year)
🌤️ May – September: Shoulder Season
- Weather: Mostly sunny with short afternoon showers (rarely lasting more than an hour)
- Vibe: Great balance of sunshine, fewer crowds and more space on the beaches
- Bonus: Resorts often offer 20–30% discounts compared to peak season
🌧️ October – November: Low Season
- Weather: Monsoon season brings heavier rainfall in short bursts with plenty of dry spells
- Vibe: Quieter, greener, and more relaxed – ideal for those who don’t mind the odd downpour
- Perks: Cheapest time to visit, lush landscapes, dramatic skies and decent surf on the east coast
✨ Tohu Take: If you love energy and nightlife, go in peak season. If you prefer peace, space and better deals, the shoulder or low seasons might surprise you.
💡 Good Tips for Visiting Koh Phangan
🛏️ Planning Your Stay
- Accommodation sells out 2–3 months ahead around Full Moon Party dates.
- Prices can double in Haad Rin during these times.
- Not into the party? Stay on the opposite side of the island to avoid noise and inflated prices.
🛵 Getting Around
- Scooter rental offers the most freedom (NZD 8–12/day).
- Roads can be steep and slippery after rain – ride with caution.
- Always rent from reputable shops, photograph any damage (we actually do a video and let them see you doing it) and NEVER leave your passport as a deposit (cash deposits of NZD 100–200 are normal).
- Songthaews (shared taxis) run between main beaches, costing NZD 5–15 depending on distance.
💰 Money Matters
- ATMs are widely available in Thong Sala and Haad Rin but each withdrawal carries a NZD 7 fee. Withdraw larger amounts to save on charges.
- Bigger resorts may accept cards but often add a 3–4% surcharge.
- Most restaurants, massage places and tour operators are cash only.
🙏 Cultural Awareness
- When visiting temples, cover shoulders and knees (sarongs often available to borrow).
- Away from the beach, modest dress is appreciated by locals.
- Learn a few Thai basics:
- Hello: sawadee ka (female) / sawadee krap (male)
- Thank You: khop khun ka (female) / khop khun krap (male speaker)
🩺 Health & Safety
- Drink bottled water; be cautious with ice in smaller eateries.
- Travel insurance is essential – motorbike accidents are common and treatment can be costly.
- Koh Phangan has several clinics but for serious issues you’ll need a transfer to Koh Samui hospitals.
📌 Practical Tips
- Download Maps.me or offline Google Maps – internet can be patchy.
- Save your accommodation’s number/location – street addresses are rarely used.
- Buy a local SIM card (around NZD 15 for 10GB) for easy navigation and bookings.
- Keep emergency numbers handy (Tourist Police: 1155).
- Carry a torch at night – some beach roads aren’t well lit.
- Book ferries through your accommodation to simplify transfers.
🌴 5 Fun Facts About Koh Phangan
- Royal Retreat – Koh Phangan was a favourite escape for Thailand’s King Rama V, who visited the island over a dozen times. His initials are still carved into a rock at Than Sadet Waterfall.
- Coconut Island – At one point, Koh Phangan exported millions of coconuts each month to Bangkok, making it one of the island’s biggest industries before tourism took over.
- No Traffic Lights – Despite the growing popularity, Koh Phangan has no traffic lights – giving it a laid-back charm compared to more developed Thai islands.
- Marine Protected Waters – About half of Koh Phangan’s coastline is part of a marine park zone, helping to protect coral reefs and sea life.
- Festival Central – While the Full Moon Party is world-famous, the island also hosts Half Moon and Black Moon parties – so technically, you can party with the moon all month long.
🌍 Travel Planning Resources
These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.
- ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
- 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
- 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
- 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
- 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
- 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
- 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
- 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
- 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
- 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
- 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.
🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.
Live in the sunshine, Swim in the sea, Drink the wild air