With all the 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 locations to go to in Thailand, however be sure you put this island in your record.
That is certainly one of my favourite islands in Thailand, I had such an ideal expertise right here. From the bustling streets lined with meals stalls to the serenity of secret seashores, there’s an limitless record of issues to do in Koh Phangan, however listed below are my prime 25.
1. Expertise The Full Moon Social gathering
Okay, so my first one isn’t distinctive, however the remainder are!
Let’s begin with the obvious and well-liked factor to do in Koh Phangan. The bulk of people that go to Koh Phangan achieve this for the Full Moon Social gathering. The occasion takes place on Haad Rin Seashore each month and brings in round 30,000 party-goers.
To get the total expertise, cowl your self in UV paint, drink alcohol from a bucket, and occasion till dawn. When you’re into events, that is positively one of many coolest issues to do in Thailand.
- The place: Haad Rin Seashore
- When: Each full moon
- How: Keep in one of many many lodging close to Haad Rin Seashore 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 wish to purchase
2. Go Diving at Sail Rock
Sail Rock is undoubtedly the very best dive website 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 website embody manta rays, barracuda, and whale sharks.
- The place: Sail Rock, located between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao
- When: 12 months-round however the very best diving situations are from April – October
- How: Guide a diving tour from one of many respected dive faculties on the island. Click on right here for a newbie dive, and click on right here for those who’re already licensed.
- Value: 2000 – 2500 Baht ($70-80USD)
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Bangkok – High 13 Superior Issues You Received’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 night time market is a foodie paradise. There are such a lot of unimaginable meals to attempt in Thailand, with markets often providing the very best.
- The place: Thong Sala ($4 in a cab from Haad Rin)
- When: Each night time
- 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 (among the best issues to do in Koh Phangan)
I guess you didn’t suppose you’d be mountaineering on this occasion island, did you? When you’ve achieved your packing correctly and have what you want to hike in consolation, 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 option to go, however after about 100m, you’ll see an indication…you might need to backtrack a few occasions. Click on right here for extra particulars.
- 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 observe the trail from there
- Value: Free
5. Get Moist at Problem Phangan
Have you ever ever watched Complete Wipeout on TV and wished you might do it? Nicely, since this is likely one of the issues to do in Koh Phangan, you’ll be able to! This water-based impediment course is a lot enjoyable and could have you in stitches as you bounce, flip, and faceplant into the water. Seize some pals and luxuriate in. Click on right here to be taught extra.
- The place:90/22 Moo 1, Bantai, Koh Phangan
- When: Day by 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
When you aren’t going to be in Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Social gathering however nonetheless need some UV rave motion, this can kind you out. The Half Moon Social gathering takes place in an enormous open-air venue and has three music levels: 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 the way 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. Folks have a tendency to move 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 likely one of the finest issues to do in Koh Phangan on the finish of the day.
- The place: 42/3 Baan Nai Suan, Moo 2. Click on right here for extra.
- When: Day by day simply earlier than sundown
- How: Both drive to the highest of the hill or hike for those who’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 won’t be the very first thing you wish to eat while you get to Thailand, however for those who want a break from pad thai, Paprika has among the most interesting culinary choices on the island. The meals is recent, scrumptious, and low cost; and the portion sizes are greater than adequate even for a giant eater like myself.
- The place: Moo 6, Haad Rin
- When: Day by 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 would like journey and exercise, put Ang Thong Nationwide Park on the prime of your record of issues to do in Koh Phangan. The park includes large 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 severely cool expertise.
- The place: Within the Gulf of Thailand between Koh Phangan and Koh Samui
- When: 12 months-round or April – October for the very best climate situations
- How: Boat tour
- Value: 1800 Baht ($55) for a speedboat tour
☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Chiang Mai – A Checklist of The High 17 Finest, 21 superior issues to do in Chiang Rai and Issues To Do in Pai. When you’re heading to different islands, don’t miss the superior issues to do in Koh Lipe. There are such a lot of superb locations to go to in Thailand 😀
10. Kayak Round The Island
In case you are the type of one who 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 seaside are like earlier than you commit.
Wok Tum to Koh Ma alongside the west coast typically has calm water in addition to pristine hidden seashores to which you’ll be able to paddle. All the time heed the recommendation of locals earlier than setting off, and guarantee you could have correct security gear on board (life jacket, water, and so forth.)
- The place: Anyplace, however Wok Tum to Koh Ma is an effective guess.
- When: Everytime you need
- How: Go to the seaside and rent a kayak
- Value: 150 Baht ($5) per hour
11. Trek to Bottle Seashore
Conde Nast Traveller known as this seaside the very best in Koh Phangan and I’ve to say I agree. The trek by means of the jungle is difficult and you’ll severely remorse it for those who 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 Seashore to Bottle Seashore. This was in all probability certainly one of 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 keep it up to Coconut Seashore. From there simply observe the trail all the way in which to Bottle Seashore.
- Value: Free
☞ SEE ALSO: Backpacking Thailand – The Final Journey Information
12. Study How To Cook dinner Thai Meals
Wish to impress your pals at your subsequent feast? Study to make Thai meals. 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 all the elements you’ll be cooking with come from, then learn to make conventional Thai dishes. Better of all, you get to eat all the pieces you make on the finish.
- The place: Meet at Pantip Market, Thong Sala
- When: Verify the schedule
- How: Verify availability and enroll right 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 folks get injured. Don’t be certainly one of these folks.
I’ve rented a bike many occasions, all the time worn a helmet and pushed cautiously and by no means had any points. When you’re secure and also you drive sensibly, hiring a bike will probably be among the best belongings you do in Koh Phangan. It offers 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, lovely journey you received’t wish to miss.
One other enjoyable possibility is to hire a bicycle and be a part of at the present time half-day journey with a information. Bikes, snacks, water and a information are included within the enjoyable day journey. Click on right here for particulars.
- The place: There are rental locations everywhere in the island
- When: 12 months-round
- How: Hiring a bike is simple however chances are you’ll want handy over your passport as a deposit (attempt your finest to not do that). Ensure you take pictures of the bike earlier than you trip it in case they attempt to blame you for any dings the automobile already had. Don’t trip with out insurance coverage both. Click on right here to hitch a half-day biking journey.
- Value: 150 Baht/$5 per day for a bike.
14. Detox at The Yoga Retreat
After operating 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 per week to an entire month.
Throughout your retreat, you’ll spend hours meditating, doing yoga, and feasting on vegan delicacies. When you don’t have time for a full-blown retreat, the Yoga Retreat additionally presents drop-in yoga lessons.
- The place: Within the jungle, ten minutes from Haad Salad Seashore
- When: Day by day
- How: Taxis are your only option
- Value: 300 Baht/ $9 for a drop at school
☞ SEE ALSO: High 10 Meals To Attempt in Thailand
15. Chill out in The Baan Tai Natural Sauna
When you went a bit too arduous on the Full Moon Social gathering, you will get all of these toxins out of your physique by sweating for an hour or two within the natural sauna. Additionally they do massages right here if you would 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 how to chill out and is definitely a preferred place for retreats.
- The place: Wat Pho Temple, Baan Tai
- When: Day by 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 seaside and boasting a pool looking over the ocean, that is the very definition of meals with a view. Milky Bay is ideal for peaceable eating within the wonderful sunshine, and is likely one of the finest eating places on the island.
- The place: Baan Tai
- When: Day by day
- How: Taxi
- Value: 500 Baht/$15 for meals and a drink
17. Get a Therapeutic massage
What higher option 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’re 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 all the time get a therapeutic massage when in Koh Phangan, it’s a must-do.
This isn’t simply one of many prime issues to do in Koh Phangan, it’s among the best issues to do in Thailand on the whole! Don’t go away 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 (road masseurs will cost lots lower than these in correct salons)
☞ See Additionally: Ayutthaya Historic Park – The Final Journey Information
18. Meditate With Phra Olarn
Experiencing mindfulness and connecting with your self on a deeper degree can actually make a distinction to the state of your psychological well being. Phra Olarn makes use of particular respiratory methods and strolling meditation to boost wellness and peace of thoughts. Whether or not you’ve meditated earlier than or not, that is positively value attempting out.
- The place: Wat Samai Kongkha
- When: Day by day
- How: Taxi or stroll from Salad Seashore
- Value: 30,000 Baht/$930 for a 7 day mindfulness retreat
19. Sunbathe On Thong Nai Pan Seashore
Thong Nai Pan is strictly what you’ll count on a seaside on a Thai island to appear to be. Pearly white sand, lush, swaying palms, and turquoise water that glimmers below 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: Day by day
- How: Keep in Panburi Village and go from there
- Value: Free
20. Snorkel At Mae Haad Seashore
Snorkelling is unquestionably certainly one of my favorite issues to do in Koh Phangan. There’s lots occurring within the water across the island and fortunate snorkellers could have the possibility to admire tropical fish, coral, rays and different marine wildlife.
- The place: North Coast
- When: Throughout daylight, day by day
- How: Both deliver your individual snorkel gear or rent it on the island
- Value: 100 baht/$3 per hour
21. Take a Day Journey To Koh Tao
Suppose you’ve achieved 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 issues to do in Koh Tao to maintain you busy…it’s additionally an ideal spot for chilling out.
Koh Tao presents some world-class scuba diving, and inexpensive PADI certifications. When you’re into diving, a go to right here is likely one of the finest issues to do in Koh Phangan.
- The place: North of Koh Phangan
- When: 12 months-round
- How: There are boats that go away repeatedly all through the day from Haad Rin and Thong Sala piers
- Value: 400 Baht/ $12
22. See The Waterfalls
Uninterested in the attractive sea? Koh Phangan is residence to quite a few cascading waterfalls, however be sure you take a look at Paradise Falls, Phaeng Falls, and Than Sadet, which is a vital website for Thai folks as a result of inscriptions left on the rocks by King Rama VI.
23. Attempt Kitesurfing
When you’ve ever wished to present kitesurfing a go, Koh Phangan is a good place to attempt it out. AccroKite Koh Phangan is affiliated with IKO (Worldwide Kitesurf Group), so you realize you’re in good palms!
Throughout the 3-hour expertise, you’ll be taught idea on the seaside, talk about the wind, security, the way to arrange the kite, and the way to fly. Then, you’ll enter the water and learn to handle the kite.
Moreover having a very good time and studying one thing new, included within the day are gear, an IKO skilled teacher, and an IKO license on the finish. Click on right here for extra particulars.
24. ATV Across the Island
Koh Phangan is a jungly, mountainous island, which makes exploring by ATV all of the extra enjoyable! This can be a distinctive factor to do in Koh Phangan and a good way to discover the island.
The adventurous tour is enjoyable for all ranges. Rip round off-track grime tracks, pull as much as superb 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 on right here for particulars.
25. Full-Day Highway 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 take a look at the very best seashores on the island, pure swimming swimming pools and waterfalls, go snorkeling, and have sundowners at a seaside bar. Roundtrip transfers between Haadrin and Thong Sala are included. Discover out extra about this budget-friendly exercise in Koh Phangan, right here.
When you’d fairly take pleasure in a day on the island with your individual group of pals, you and your companion, or just by your self, you’ll be able to take a look at this personal tour as a substitute. You may customise your itinerary and have a driver and an air-conditioned automobile at your disposal all day! Click on right here for particulars.
The place to Keep in Koh Phangan
Listed below are some prime accommodations, hostels & B&B’s in Koh Phangan.
Price range
So Good Haad Rin Hostel – rated “Very good” 9.1/10. This is likely one of the highest-rated hostels on your complete island. Folks 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 on right here for particulars.
Coral Bungalows – rated “Good” 7.2/10. The price range bungalows are round $10 per night time they usually harken again to Thailand of outdated. Fundamental cozy mattress with a pleasant window, near the seaside. There’s additionally an onsite pool. What extra are you able to ask for? Click on right here for particulars.
Alcove Bungalow – rated “Very good” 9.1/10. This property is positioned 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 could be organized, and also you’ll discover water sports activities like snorkeling and SUP. There’s additionally an onsite restaurant serving Thai and French delicacies. The bungalows listed below are tastefully adorned and provide air-conditioning and ensuite loos. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book this lodging.
Midrange
Castaway Seashore Bungalows – rated “Very good” 9.4/10. When you’re on the lookout for a chilled-out place to remain, which is positioned proper on the sand, then take a look at these seaside bungalows! The picket bungalows provide superb views, a 4-poster mattress, a fridge, a balcony and a hammock. Subsequent door you’ll discover a funky seaside bar – nice for assembly different vacationers. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book this bungalow.
Le Divine Comedie Seashore Resort – rated “Very Good” 8.5/10. Positioned simply 8 kilometers from Haad Rin Seashore, 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 personal balconies, air-conditioning and a minibar. Click on right here to be taught 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/night time, you’ll be able to take pleasure in this luxury retreat overlooking Thong Nai Pan. There’s a spa, infinity pool and a pair of beachfront eating places. The trendy, superior double rooms provide a sea view, personal balcony, air-conditioning and way more. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book this lodging.
Prepared for Koh Phangan?
Touching down in Thailand for the primary time is an expertise in contrast to some other. From the second you allow the airport in Bangkok, you might be swept up in a cacophony of shade 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, but it surely additionally has peaceable enclaves the place you’ll be able to escape the world for a second. It presents a mix 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.
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Goats On The Highway Beneficial Sources For Koh Phangan, Thailand
✓ There are such a lot of adventurous issues to do in Koh Phangan. It’s necessary to be sure you have enough journey insurance coverage earlier than embarking on any journey, however particularly one the place you’ll be partaking in out of doors actions equivalent to snorkelling, diving, kayaking, mountaineering, and so forth.. World Nomads covers virtually all adventurous actions that you can imagine. Click on right here to get a free quote and be taught extra about this well-liked journey insurance coverage.
✓ We advocate buying eco-friendly merchandise to 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, think about shopping for a water bottle with a built-in filter equivalent to LifeStraw or GrayL, or get your self a Steri-Pen. By way of utensils, this bamboo set is nice for picnics on the seaside, whereas these glass or steel straws are excellent for cocktails, fruit juices or a glass of water. Say no to straws and plastic utensils, deliver your individual.
✓ There are quite a few inexpensive locations to remain in Koh Phangan. Goats On The Highway makes use of and recommends Reserving.com as a result of their wonderful costs, and cancellation choices. We additionally incessantly use Airbnb once we wish to e book a short-term residence. Click on right here to seek for lodging in Koh Phangan on Reserving.com.
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