The best beaches of Koh Phangan. Beaches for pensioners, romantics, youth, beaches for parties and walks under the moon, as well as beaches for rogue backpackers. Where is the sand whiter and which one to choose on one of the best islands in Thailand, my recommendations, photos and reviews.
One beach for all time holidays in Koh Phangan- not an option, even if you decide spend just a week on this island in Thailand. I don’t want to write a little useful longread on three and a half dozen beaches of Koh Phangan either. All beaches are good, each for its own format of recreation.
What beaches to choose for a short vacation on Koh Phangan? For one or two weeks. We are trying to figure it out so as not to make a mistake in the choice, recommendations, advice.
I will stop only on those beaches that aroused interest and desire to stay at least for one day. Conventionally, I divided them into several categories, which include beaches for pensioners, beaches for families with children and beaches for romantic walks, including after a stormy night the day before, as well as a backpacker vacation option on Koh Phangan - it is also the cheapest.
Where do we arrive on Koh Phangan
Main port of arrival - Thongsala city, he is the administrative center of the island of Koh Phangan. Get to Koh Phangan can be from almost anywhere in Thailand, including Bangkok. We are looking for and select transfers on our own.
There is also a second small port - on Haad Rin beach, tourists from Koh Samui arrive here and this port is actively operating during the Full Moon Party - Follow the link to read more about this disgrace.
Budget beaches of Koh Phangan, backpacker option
The cheapest place to stay in Koh Phangan it could be considered Thongsala, which is the port we are arriving at. The beach here is not suitable for swimming, but it has excellent infrastructure, shops, inexpensive food and cheap hotels / hostels / bungalows.
Those who prefer Thongsala tend to rent a bike and travel around the island in search of adventure and beautiful places. The choice of Thongsala is justified only if you prefer this type of holiday and do not want to pay a little more for comfort and life in a beautiful place.
We spent in Thongsala one night unplanned because we missed the ferry. But they went around all corners of the "capital" of Koh Phangan and got an idea of budget housing options.
The best beach in Koh Phangan - Haad Rin
I believe, that best beach in Koh Phangan can be called Haad Rin Beach. For what such a title, I will list:
- For comfortable and inexpensive bungalows / hotels on the beach or in tropical greenery 100 meters from the coast.
- For accessibility from Thongsala Pier - 150 baht and 20 minutes by taxi or the same amount on a rented motorbike on a good albeit hilly road.
- Excellent infrastructure, the second after Thongsal - there are no large supermarkets here, but there are a lot of 7/11 or Family Mart stores, many cafes for locals, many tourist restaurants, taxis, bike rentals on every corner.
- One of the most beautiful beaches on the island with a smooth entry into the water and fine white sand.
- There are no less than 10 cool locations near Haad Rin Beach, including places for walking, an extreme observation deck and easy walking tracks through the jungle to difficult-to-reach secret beaches.
- On the beach of Haad Rin, due to the geographical elongation, you can watch both sunrise and sunset
- On this beach, as well as on all the beaches on the eastern side of the island, the influence of low tides is not felt - you can swim all day.
The downside can be considered noise and partying, but it happens only during full moon parties, the rest of the time it is quite calm and quiet. The intricacies of relaxing on this beach can be found by reading full moon party beach review on Koh Phangan
.
Beaches for romantic walks
I would highlight two beaches which are good for walking. It is not very comfortable to swim on them because of the low tides, the state of the coast or the unclear and ugly sea. They are next to each other, but separated by an impressive rock and completely different from each other. 
As an introduction, I will inform you that many sources, including English-speaking ones, recommend these beaches for a good rest. Do not believe, because they recommend absolutely everything. You read this, book a hotel there for a week, and upon arrival you realize that more than one or two days at most there is nothing to do there ...
sunset beachhaadRinNai
Haad Rin Nai- this beach is located in the south of the island on the opposite side of the appendix on which Haad Rin is located or Full Moon Party beach, it is only 500 meters or 10 minutes walk. 
Haad Rin Nai also called the sunset beach for the opportunity to watch how beautifully finish the best day of your life. 
This beach is quite long, at least two kilometers - it’s good to walk just after lunch before sunset, at this time the low tide exposes all the passages along the beach, which are filled with water before lunch. Far side of the beach Haad Rin Nai completely free from people in any season and at any time - even walk naked. 
There are a lot of modern designer hotels on this beach with cool pools by the sea, which can be considered a good compensation for the "inaccessible" sea.
BeachLeelabeach
The second beach, which is good for walking and a very relaxing holiday. This beach is also located near Full Moon Party beach (HaadRin)
and many love it for the opportunity to walk quietly after a stormy night on Haad Rin. 
First about the bad. It is also not very comfortable to swim on Haad Leela, at least in February. Silty bottom and muddy water in places. Somewhere on the Sea of Azov, I would forgive this, but not in Thailand. The sand on this beach is coarser and not as white as on Haad Rin or Bottle Beach. 
Now good. Leela Beach very photogenic. Along the edge of the beach, along the stone perimeter, there is a boardwalk with railings and pavilions for yoga and meditation, swings and sloping palm trees on the beach, several "boring" and very quiet hotels. 
Before Leela Beach easy to reach on foot Haad Rin beach, if you have chosen it as the base for the rest.
In addition, close to Leela Beach there is an extreme observation deck - a working land lighthouse, from which a view of the isthmus from the category of "gives ist fantastic" opens. 
If you walk along the boardwalk along the sea, to the left of Leela Beach if you stand facing the sea - we will get to the bungalow Lighthouse Bungalows, there is also a bar and a small natural lookout on the rocks. A place for hermits, although very close to the party. 
Considering all of the above, Leela Beach It's great to spend half or even the whole day. The beach itself is not very good for swimming, especially since there is such a masterpiece as dawn Haad Rin.
Good hotel on Leela Beach - Sarikantang Resort & Spa Koh Phangan - cozy, on the beach with a beautiful pool
Malibu - a beach for families with children
And not only for recreation with children, as this beach is perfect for any format of recreation. Just for holidays with children he is the fittest. Namely, a gentle entrance and a shallow sea near the coast, clear water, shady corners on the beach, peace and quiet, several good hotels.
The feature of the beach is a lot of trees that grow directly from the white sand. Palm trees, casuarinas, ficuses create a shade in which you can hide from the sun and, as a result, be near the water for at least a whole day. For moms and dads there is a bar-cafe on the beach, prices are higher than on Haad Rin, but tolerable. 
In addition, after dinner you can always go to eat freshly caught fish in authentic fish taverns by the water. Near Malibu beach there is a fishing Chaloklam village- upon arrival from Koh Phangan, I gave this place full of compliments .
We spent the whole day here, but would gladly stay for two or three days, no more. 
Phangan, aka Phangan (Kho Phangan) - an island located in the Gulf of Thailand, the area of which is 125 square km. The name of the island has the following origin. Particle "Co" means "island" and the second part - "Ngan" translates as "sand spit".
The sights of Koh Phangan are plentiful and worthy of enthusiastic attention. The island is located at a distance of 56 km from the mainland, the distance from the neighboring islands is as follows. Koh Samui is 16 km away from Koh Samui and 35 km from Koh Tao.
As the sun is destined to rise into the sky, as spring is destined to come after winter, so Koh Phangan, due to its incredible beauty, was destined to satisfy tourists who want to relax and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a beautiful oasis.
Koh Phangan and tourism
Remarkably, the tourism business on the island began to function not so long ago, less than thirty years ago. However, at the moment, Koh Phangan has become the epicenter of popularity among young Europeans. And all thanks to the opportunity to take part in entertainment events and vibrant parties in the southern part of the island.
This resort is versatile. Since, in addition to lovers of noise, music and vivid impressions, the souls of people who want to indulge in a quiet, blissful rest in the bosom of a peaceful and beautiful nature can also find shelter in it. The second category of tourists can find everything they want in the west and north of the country, full of harmony and exoticism.
Full Moon Party
Koh Phangan in Thailand may differ from other resorts with a unique celebration called Full Moon Party (Full Moon Party) - a delightful celebration held directly in the bosom of nature, hundreds of participants take part in it once.
Events take place monthly in the middle of the night. Any such event is attended by thousands of lovers of good rest from different parts of the globe. Locals say that at the chosen point, the full moon is beautiful and attractive to the greatest extent. The event takes place over 3 nights. The main currents of musical accompaniment are modern styles, under which the young audience loves to break away.
The tradition started in 1985. Today, a pass to the celebration costs 100 baht. These rates are valid for visitors using boats to moor near the venue on the day of the event. People arrive with For all other visitors, the pass to the celebration is free.
Haad Rin Nok beach
The holiday is held inside the territory Haad Rin Nok beach . At your disposal are nightclubs, cozy bars, dance floors, shops where you can buy something to refresh yourself or quench your thirst. The young audience especially likes the plastic cocktail bucket, where fancy combinations of cocktails are created.
Haad Rin beach is full of hotels. But, despite their great number, on the days of parties they are completely occupied by numerous people who want to become part of a wonderful celebration.
We can give good advice: when going on a trip, you need to book a hotel room for a month, or even two, so as not to really spend the whole vacation on the sand. In this area there is transport called songteo - These are cars with a canopy, inside which there are benches on which passengers sit. During festive events, a large number of these pickups are busy transporting tourists. You can ride on such a pickup for 300-600 baht per passenger per direct flight.
Having got the taste, and not wanting to stop purely as part of the Full Moon Party, the locals introduced a number of events:
- half moon party,
- black moon party,
- Jungle Experience, these hangouts are also in demand.
Their difference from Full Moon Party is that they take place in the middle of the island jungle, have special specifics and goals. The time of the events is not the same, so every tourist has the right to visit several parties at the same time. For example, the Jungle Experience takes place one day apart from the Full Moon Party.
If you are a sports lover, you will definitely like it here. Because at this resort there are many chances and options to relax actively and get thrills using water sports and entertainment. In the event that you arrived on the island in order to give peace to the soul and delight the eye with beauty, you have at your disposal the wild beauty of virgin nature, deserted beaches that look like a corner of paradise, and a calm, quiet life.
Koh Phangan - prices
- Transportation by road from Thongsala to many parts of the island is 140-200 baht per person.
- A scooter ride can cost from 200 baht per day.
- Renting a dwelling costs from 300 baht per day.
- Food costs from 110 baht per tourist for one meal in a fine restaurant or cozy cafe.
How to get to Koh Phangan
There are the following options for the way to the point of rest, where not only your thoughts and dreams can now rush, but also you yourself:
- You have the opportunity to go to the island by air by air from. Koh Phangan deprived of airport.
- The points from which you can continue your journey after an air flight are Surat Thani and.
Flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui cannot be called cheap, but they certainly can be called the fastest and most comfortable. You can get to the pier from the airport by car. Then board the ferry for a fabulous voyage to Koh Phangan.
Ferry transportation cost is 200-300 baht one way. In order to avoid worries about the organization of the transport chain and the connection of flights in time, at the point of departure by air Samui, it is recommended to take the opportunity to buy a combined ticket, which includes transportation by bus and a ferry trip.
Method 1
Consider the following option. You can fly to a nearby airport at Suratthani . Our advice is to use the services of local airline companies, as their rates look much more attractive and attractive. The most profitable is to involve the service of the following companies that have managed to establish themselves as a responsible and attentive to the wishes of customers as a transport service provider:
- thai smile,
- Lion Air,
- Nok air,
- AirAsia.
Air Asia and Nok Air provide the opportunity to purchase combined ticket (Joint ticket) , which includes a plane + ferry + bus, a very convenient option for people who want to pay more attention to relaxation, rather than organizing it.
Airfare from Bangkok to Surat Thani fluctuates around the level 1300 baht, for flights operated in the evening after 17.00 you can often win discounts, so you have the opportunity to get tickets for 600 baht (return flights are not provided from Surat Thani).
Method 2
The next way to get to the resort is transportation by bus . Buses run to a stop in the city of Surat Thani. Here you have the opportunity to purchase a combined ticket. This will give you the opportunity to travel by bus to Donsak Pier and take a ferry trip to Koh Phangan. If this method is to your liking, take it into account in your budget, leaving for this trip 300 baht. In addition, there are flights that go directly to the Donsak pier. From here it is possible to depart by ferry.
The Bangkok-Surat Thani flight departs from the Bus Station in the south of Bangkok (Sai Tai Mai or Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal). Flight price approx. 500 baht, it is possible to choose the class of the bus.
By car, you can easily get to Surat Thani from anywhere in the southern part of the country: Krabi, Hat Yai and other resorts.
Koh Phangan island what to see
There is no better creation of art than that created by nature. The beaches of the island are the most attractive and entertaining part of it. As well as beautiful waterfalls and exotic nature. For natural energy and freshness, go to Than Sadet Park. You can get there at any convenient time without any entrance fee.
Admire the tiered peang waterfall, Lake Lem Son surrounded by palm trees of coconuts. Great places to relax. Must visit Wat Thong Sala Temple .
Great to visit Koh Phangan with children. Here for them there is not only a lot of interesting entertainment. But in general, such a trip is an unforgettable experience for a lifetime. The fact that your child will remember at a conscious age as a children's fairy tale, a beautiful kingdom of beauty and nature ... Where you will definitely want to return and bring your children.
Koh Phangan island, he is Koh Phangan(Koh Phangan) is located in the Gulf of Thailand, 15 km from. Translated from the Thai language, "Koh" means "island", "Phangan" - a sandy spit.
During low tides, sand bars on Koh Phangan can be seen everywhere. On Koh Phangan, ebbs and flows are pronounced, especially for the southern tip of the island. The most powerful low tides are observed during the full moon, on some beaches the water leaves for half a kilometer.
The contingent here is going to be completely different. In the middle of each month, European youth come to drink and break away. The main party is concentrated in the south on the beach of Haad Rin.
In the west and north live mainly those who came for a long time. These are various yogis, pranoeds, seekers of spiritual paths, families with small children. In general, everyone can find a place to their liking and a hangout according to their interests.
The main city of Koh Phangan is located in the southwest and is called Thong Sala(Thongsala). Ferries arrive there from the mainland and from the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao, you can also buy souvenirs there, stock up on fruit at the market or drop by Tesco Lotus and Big C supermarkets. Currently, Makro supermarket in Thong Sala is under construction, should open soon.
There are several roads on Koh Phangan, but there is no ring road along the coast as such. The island is small, you can cross it on a bike from south to north along the road going through the center in 15 minutes, but if you drive along the west coast, it will take about half an hour to get from Thong Sala to the northern beaches.
Phangan is a very green island, about 70% of the territory is covered with jungle How to get to Koh Phangan:
There is no airport, so you can only get to Koh Phangan by ferry.
If you are traveling from Bangkok, you can buy tickets at the station or at agencies on Khaosan Road, if you are sailing from Koh Samui, then you can buy tickets at the ticket office on the pier (better in advance, because during the season and on the days of the Full Moon Party there are long queues at the box office ).
Recently, it became possible to buy tickets for local transport via the Internet. You can find out ferry prices to Koh Phangan and the ferry schedule for the desired date by filling out the search form:
Ferry to Koh Phangan 
Internet in Koh Phangan
Many cafes and restaurants have free Wi-Fi, which can not be said about hotels. Not all hotels and bungalows have internet, even if the hotel website indicates that there is WiFi, it is not a fact that it will be in the room. It often happens that WiFi is available only on the territory of the hotel, and its speed leaves much to be desired.
Maybe in long-term rented houses the situation with the speed of the Internet is better. Guys, if someone lived on Koh Phangan for a long time, please write in the comments, how did you solve the issue with the Internet?
When there was no internet in my bungalow, I had to work on the beach Koh Phangan prices:
Prices are 15 percent higher than on neighboring Koh Samui. Even in 7/11 stores, prices for food and drinks are higher than the average for Thailand, and fruits and vegetables are also more expensive.
Dinner in a cafe or restaurant will cost an average of 100-150 baht per person without drinks. Pizzas are sold for 200-300 baht, hamburgers - for 150-200 baht.
Prices for food at the market in Thong Sala:
Fried fish - from 70 to 180 baht per fish, depending on the size and type of fish
Papaya salad or any other salad - 50 - 70 baht
Fruit shake - 30 baht
Boiled corn - 25 baht
Grilled chicken thigh - 40 thb
Spring rolls - 10 thb each
Spring Pancake – 30 to 45 thb
Tom Yum - 70 thb
Green curry - 70 thb
Pad thai - 50 thb
Accommodation and hotels Koh Phangan
Housing on Koh Phangan is different, it all depends on your preferences. Prices for bungalows on the beach start from 400 baht per day. During the Full Moon Party (it's about a couple of days before and a couple of days after the party), Koh Phangan has special housing prices that can be twice the prices on ordinary days.
If you are planning a trip to Koh Phangan on the days of the Full Moon Party, book accommodation in advance, because two days before the party on the island almost everything is occupied, and what is not occupied is unreasonably expensive.
The most common accommodation is wooden bungalows. The peculiarity is that not everywhere there is hot water, so you should always clarify this issue before settling.
It is better to book accommodation on Haad Rin beach, where the Full Moon Party takes place, in advance. You can compare hotel prices.
There are a number of hotels on Phangan, their prices start from 1000 - 1200 baht ( 27-40$) for a room in a 3* hotel and reach $100-200 for a room in a 5* hotel.
Before booking bungalows or hotels on Koh Phangan, I recommend reading to choose an area suitable for living.
Wooden bungalows on Koh Phangan 
What to see on Koh Phangan except for the beaches:
There are many temples, several national parks, waterfalls, yoga centers, bars, cafes (including Russian, Mexican, Italian cuisine). In this article, I will only talk about my favorite sights of Koh Phangan, which are definitely worth a visit.
Chinese Temple on Koh Phangan
This is my favorite place in Koh Phangan. There you want to dance, and thoughts line up in a row. The Chinese temple is located in the northwest on the central road leading from Thong Sala to Chaloklum village. The temple is located on a mountain with a beautiful view of the bay and Chaloklam beach.
Elephant Safari (Phangan Elephant Safari)
Koh Phangan has several elephant farms. I have never ridden an elephant myself. For some reason, it seems to me that animals hardly like to wander around in the heat with a bench on their backs for the entertainment of tourists.
Regardless of whether you want to go for a ride, or just look at the animals and feed them bananas, it's worth stopping by on a safari. Elephants on Koh Phangan are very tiny. The most popular Elephant safari is located on the main road from Thong Sala to Chaloklam near the Chinese Temple mentioned above.
Elephant safari prices 
You can buy a bunch of bananas to feed the elephants 
Opposite Phangan Safari is the Buddha's house and another elephant lives. Elephant is sick and aggressive, safari workers say 
Wat Pho Herbal Sauna
The herbal sauna is quite a popular place; travelers from Russia and the CIS countries have a special love for it. Entrance to the sauna costs 70 baht You can stay as long as you want.
For another 10 baht, you can rent a cotton pareo. Soap, scrubs and tea are sold on the territory of the bathhouse. Herbal baths are open daily from 15.00 to 19.00. Most people in the evening, if you come to the opening, then you can bathe in splendid isolation.
There are two saunas - male and female. The rooms are tiny, inside it smells of herbs. You can take a shower outside, and there are also outdoor changing cabins. The sauna is located 5 km from Thong Sala in the village of Ban Tai opposite the Wat Pho temple.
Bar Amsterdam
Located on a mountain a few kilometers from Thong Sala. This is one of those places where you can see the most amazing sunset in Koh Phangan. Also in "Amsterdam" there is a persistent smell of grass, they also sell mushroom cocktails.
Lovers of such pleasures come to the bar before sunset, listen to music, sit on the floor, drink beer and smoke weed. It is worth noting that in Thailand people go to jail for smoking weed and using drugs, but in Amsterdam all this is conditionally allowed, and the police are turning a blind eye for now.
There you can splash in the pool overlooking the sea. Swimming costs 100 baht per person.
Than Sadet National Park and Peang Waterfall and Phaeng Noi Waterfall
Than Sadet National Park is located 3 km from Thong Sala, you have to go along the main road going through the center of Koh Phangan, north towards Chaloklam. The entrance to the park is free, you can visit at any time.
On the territory of the park is the most beautiful and largest multi-tiered waterfall called Peang (Peang Waterfall). In winter, the waterfall looks very impressive, and in the spring, if it has not rained for a long time, the waterfall dries up. The maximum that you can count on is a thin trickle flowing down wet stones.
You can reach the top of the waterfall along the path through the jungle in about 20 minutes. Walking is quite comfortable even in flip flops. As usual, I climbed barefoot on wet rocks instead of walking along the trail with my friends.
Koh Phangan (Koh Phangan, Koh Phangan, Koh Pha-Ngan) is one of the five largest. It has one feature that makes it unique in its kind. This, of course, is about the Full Moon Party - a grandiose open-air party that gathers several thousand people in one place. In no (famous for its nightlife) or such. Only on one of the beaches of Phi Phi there is something similar, but only on a much smaller scale.
Koh Phangan is located in the southwest of the Gulf of Thailand, 100 km from the coast of Thailand (Surat Thani province) and 16 km north of Koh Samui. Its total area is 170 sq. km, the perimeter is about 50 km. The name comes from "Ngan", which is translated from Thai - "sand barrier". This definition was not chosen by chance, since the coast of Koh Phangan is rather shallow and at low tides sand drifts are exposed around it, which form a network of small islands. There is a big plus in such “sand barriers” - in any weather, the coastal waters are calm and you can swim in them even with strong winds, as sand dunes reduce the strength of the waves.
The landscape of the island is 65% mountainous, covered with forests and plantations of coconut palms.
The number of local residents is about 10,000 people, mostly from China, who settled on this land more than 100 years ago. The vast majority of local residents practice Buddhism and only 6% are Muslims.
Phangan is the favorite island of the kings of Thailand, they visited it much more often than other resorts.
Koh Phangan on the map of Thailand
Story
Archaeological excavations show that the first settlements on Phangan were at the beginning of the 1st century BC. According to historical data, these were "sea gypsies" - pirates from the south. Their descendants still live here, but now they are engaged in fishing. In the century before last, the Chinese from the island of Hainan began to move to Koh Phangan, who made coconut oil and sent it on ships to the capital of Thailand - Bangkok.
The modern history of Koh Phangan dates back to the early 80s of the last century, when the first tourists appeared here. Over time, local beauties began to attract more and more people and the island began to expand, hotels, bars, restaurants, shops and banks appeared.
At the moment, Phangan combines the beauty of untouched nature and all the benefits of civilization (with the exception of some "wild" beaches).
There are spas, massage parlors, night discos, high-speed Internet and much more, which a modern person cannot do without.
How to get to Koh Phangan
There is no airport on Koh Phangan. The easiest and fastest way to get there is to fly to the neighboring island - Koh Samui, and from there take a water transport.
Cheap flights to Bangkok
You can buy tickets to Thailand as profitably as possible with the help of special search engines that collect data from all airlines.
If you would like to save on a fairly expensive flight to Koh Samui, then it is better to use alternative airports in Chumpon, Surat Thani or Nakhon Si Thammarat. From where you can get by minivans and buses, and then by ferry.
You can also get from anywhere in Thailand by buses, minivans, trains and ferries at the end of the journey. Tickets are sold at travel agencies and bus stations. If you do not want to bother with this, then you can.
Transport
Transport and roads of Koh Phangan is a separate issue. There is no circular paved road encircling the entire island. The paved highway running close to the coast runs only from Haad Rin to Chaloklum village and Haad Khom beach in the north. The whole east and northeast turned out to be in a "span" - it seems that you start to drive on asphalt, but after a few kilometers it stops and the gravel-sand extreme begins. The road winds up and down, right and left, so riding on a moped can be dangerous.
If you have never ridden a motorbike, then in no case go along broken roads to the east and northeast of Koh Phangan. True, they are being built in this area, but very slowly. A flat highway without serious ascents and descents is available only in the section from Baan Kai and approximately to the center of the western part of the island. Also a good road goes through the center of Koh Phangan from Thongsala to Chaloklum. At the entrance to Haad Rin, very steep ascents and descents begin (albeit paved). You should be especially careful on them after sunset, when the headlights of oncoming cars can blind you.
On the roads of Koh Phangan, you can travel by tuk-tuks (cost 100-250 baht, depending on the distance), motorcycle taxis, rented motorbikes or cars.
Beaches
Koh Phangan is the most versatile tourist resort in terms of beaches, where people with completely different tastes and ideas about the perfect vacation can be happy. Their number has exceeded two dozen, each has its own characteristics and differences.
Some places on the island are very party places, they will be ideal for young people and lovers of entertainment. This is primarily the eastern Haad Rin (Haad Rin Nok), where every month on the full moon is the world-famous Full Moon Party - Full Moon Party. Under the open sky, on the seashore, a grandiose disco is arranged, where several thousand people come off. In fact, there are parties on Koh Phangan every day, they are just on a smaller scale than on the days of the Full Moon Party.
The Black Moon and Half Moon Party are also very popular. The latter is held in the jungle, where there is no habitation within a radius of one or two kilometers. In general, the theme of parties on Phangan is very developed and if your vacation does not fall on the Full Moon Party, then do not worry - there are various parties here almost every other day: Shiva Party, Pool Parties, at the waterfall, etc. Without vivid impressions, if you want, you definitely will not leave!
But there is another Koh Phangan, where even in the midst of the Full Moon Party it is quiet and calm, and you will not meet many people on the coast in any season. These beaches are located west of the town of Thongsala and 10-15 km from Had Rin.
There are also quite “wild” places on the island, which can only be reached by a motor boat, or along a narrow path passing through the mountains. True, they cannot be called completely wild, since there are several hotels and a couple of restaurants there. This is where the infrastructure ends, you will not find any bars and discos there. Such hard-to-reach corners are located in the east and north-east of the island.
Koh Phangan is also suitable for couples with children, as everything is provided for the smallest ones - there are pharmacies, shops, a hospital.
In this regard, the best area is Thongsala, where the main pier of Koh Phangan is located, where boats arrive from the mainland. This is the most developed place on the island, the largest selection of housing, eateries, all major bank branches are also located here. On the other hand, this is more of a Thai area, so you will not find nightclubs and discos within the city, it is quiet and calm here at night (animation is present only near the night market and further along the road to Ban Tai and Ban Kai). The only negative of Thongsala is that the beach is full of boats, so it is not particularly suitable for swimming. But there is also good news. Just 15 minutes walk to the west and you will find yourself on the excellent and secluded Nai Wok beach. You can settle here, and if you need pharmacies or shops, then walk to Thongsala.
What to do on Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is good for diving and snorkeling. There are equipment rental offices, and experienced instructors will help you take the first steps to scuba diving.
If you like outdoor activities, you like everything unusual and new, then elephant riding, kayaking, safaris, mini-golf, water skiing and motorcycles (not on all beaches) and much more are at your service. If you have never tried this, then experienced instructors will teach you everything.
Koh Phangan is not as rich in attractions as neighboring Koh Samui. Nevertheless, you can go to waterfalls, viewing platforms or look at temples (there are both Thai and Chinese ones). For trips to some waterfalls and viewing platforms, it is better to hire a taxi than to get there on a rented motorbike, since the path will not be easy, and even dangerous in some parts of the road.
For gourmets who know a lot about food, there are many different restaurants on Koh Phangan, where the widest choice of dishes of national and European cuisine.
If you are not planning a trip only to Koh Phangan, then we offer you.
Important information
- When renting a motorbike, be extremely careful. Danger, especially on party days, other than poor quality roads, may be drunk or stoned oncoming drivers.
- When going to a party, do not take extra money and valuables with you - there are cases of theft.
Climate and weather in Koh Phangan
The climate of Koh Phangan is similar to the neighboring islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao. During the year, the average temperature varies slightly from the maximum 29-32 degrees Celsius during the day, to the minimum 24-26 degrees Celsius at night.
The sea, beautiful beaches, hotels for every taste and friendly Thais - this is Koh Phangan. It became popular with tourists not so long ago, the infrastructure is still developing. Most vacationers know it as a large and noisy venue. Any guest of the island will be able to choose the beach, the hotel, and the views according to their taste. Here you can try local dishes, buy unusual souvenirs, admire temples and waterfalls, or just spend time with your family. This is a good alternative to other tourist areas in Thailand, where it has become very noisy and crowded.
In the Gulf of Thailand is a small island - Koh Phangan. Total area - 125 sq. km. Most of the island is occupied by mountains covered with impenetrable jungle - 70% of the territory. The rest is a coastal strip with magnificent beaches and coconut groves. From the island you can see the neighboring island of Koh Samui, 15 km from it. It is located 35 km, and it is 55 km away from the mainland of Thailand.
The island has one central city - Thongsala and small settlements located along the coastline. Today, the population of Koh Phangan is 10,000 people. Almost all of them are employed in the tourism business. According to legend, the island was a haven for pirates, after which it was chosen by civilians engaged in growing coconuts and fishing. These areas of activity of the island are still actively developing today, but tourism brings the main income.
Koh Phangan became attractive for tourists relatively recently, when the more developed Koh Samui became boring. Koh Phangan attracts with its beaches, almost wild nature. It is perfect for relaxing with the family. All beaches are connected by concrete roads, many hotels of various types are set up. There are many cafes, markets, souvenir shops in Togsala. There is everything for a comfortable pastime.
Weather on Koh Phangan
This island is suitable for holidays all year round. The temperature during the day ranges from +29 to +32 degrees Celsius, and at night it drops to +24 - +26.
The coldest and rainiest months are September-January. The greatest amount of precipitation occurs in October and November. The second rainy season falls in May and June. July and August are considered to be the high tourist season. In general, precipitation is not very abundant and long. They will not interfere with sunbathers and participants in a large Full Moon Party, but swimming will not be so pleasant.
Beaches
Almost the entire coast of the island is occupied by beaches. These are long sandy spits or small coves separated by a rocky coast. Almost any beach can be reached by road. But there are several bays where vacationers are taken by boat. All beaches are free, tourists can even freely visit the beaches at large hotels.
The coast differs in sand: fine white or larger yellow, as well as in depth. Some become very shallow at low tide.
The most popular destinations are:
South coast(from Ao Ban Tai to Haad Rin Nok). The most crowded part of the coast overlooking Koh Samui. Due to the reefs, the beaches are quite shallow, which is ideal for families with children. There is a famous party at Haad Rin Nok beach. On the shore there are many hotels and bungalows of different levels and for every taste.
West Bank(Ao Nai Wok - Haad Salad). Indented by small bays. This place is worth choosing for wild tourism. There are many inexpensive bungalows in the area. This part of the island is riddled with many roads for ease of movement.
north coast(Ao Mae Haad - Bottle Beach). It attracts tourists with a small island of Ma, connected to the shore by a sandy spit - a very picturesque place. Tourists usually choose the long and deserted Bottle Beach or Ao Chaloklum, where the central fishing port is located.
Orientalshore(Haad Rin - Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai). Some of the most beautiful beaches are located on this side of the island. Most of the bays can only be reached by boat, such as Haad Yao. This part of the island is distinguished by the greater depth of the beaches. For recreation tourists are offered both luxurious villas and simple bungalows.
What to do on the island?
Most of the island's guests flock to Haad Rin Nok about once a month for the Full Moon Party. It lasts 2-3 days and is very reminiscent of parties in Ibiza or Kazantip. At this time, the moon is especially beautiful. The party is fluorescent paints on the body, trance, electro, techno music, various cocktails and drinks and a lot of people. Guests are entertained with competitions, fire shows, professional dancers dance on the stages. The only drawback: where there are a lot of people, there are a lot of pickpockets.
Full Moon Party (video)
After watching this video, you will find out how the Full Moon Party goes, what entertainment is there and how many people take part in this event.
For those who don't come on a full moon, there are several smaller parties around the new moon and the "half moon". It is worth planning a trip to the party in advance and booking places in hotels.
In addition to the party, you can get an unforgettable experience by enjoying diving and snorkeling. There are several especially picturesque places in the area of Ma Island. Diving schools are open all along the coast. Together with instructors, you can learn how to dive and admire coral reefs and tropical fish.
There is a safari park not far from Ao Chaloklum beach. Its main attraction is elephants. You can ride them, watch the tricks. Shows with snakes and crocodiles are organized several times a day. Small monkeys and squirrels live in the park. All animals can be fed, so you should buy fruits and nuts in advance. The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm daily.
Of the architectural sights, tourists are attracted by two temples: Phu Khao Noi and Guan Yin. These are ancient functioning temples located on the slopes of the mountains. In addition to the unusual architecture, tourists from the terraces of the temples can admire the views of the island. The island itself is a single landscape monument with beautiful and unique sunrises and sunsets.
The natural attractions of the island are waterfalls:
- Paeng - expects a hard climb uphill and magnificent panoramas of the entire island.
- Than Pravet - consists of several levels and is most popular with tourists.
- Than Sadet is extraordinarily beautiful, it was visited by about 20 royal families.
The whole island is one attraction. Jungles and coconut palms, sandy beaches and rocky bays, sea and sun, an unusually huge moon - nature will touch the soul of any vacationer.
Hotels
For guests of the island, a large selection of hotels and houses is offered. You can rent inexpensive wooden bungalows or stay in large hotels (hotel resorts). Rent inexpensive housing about 400 baht. Most of the luxury hotels are located on the south coast. The closer to the northern edge of the island and the higher the mountains, the housing becomes more affordable. Some wooden bungalows may not have hot water or air conditioning.
During the high season, as well as during the Full Moon Party, hotel prices increase. At this time, it is worth booking a room in advance, or you will have to spend the night on the beach or in very expensive rooms. Local residents rent houses both monthly and daily. The island is small, crossed by many roads, so you can choose a hotel anywhere.
There are small 2-3 star hotels on Phangan, but the level of service and life in them is at the level of 4-5 stars. Free internet is available everywhere. Service is unobtrusive and inconspicuous. Thais love guests, but do not interfere with their rest. They do not know Russian on the island, they speak English with a slight accent. You can choose a hotel right on the pier of the island.
I can recommend Dreamland Resort on the beautiful Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach, Sandy Bay Bungalow on the more crowded Haad Yao Beach, Neptune’s Villa which is close to the popular Haad Rin Beach and Milky Bay and Le Divine Comedie near Ao Ban Tai Beach.
I also leave a map with hotels for you, which will help you choose a hotel at the right price on the beach you like.
Transport
From the pier to the hotel, tourists can take a taxi or walk to the track and take a songteo. Taxis are closed with air conditioning and open. It is worth taking a taxi and songteo is quite expensive, so tourists choose mopeds to travel around the island. The cost of renting for a day will be 250 baht.
On the island, some of the roads are concrete, and some are bulk. Roads due to heavy rains and mountainous terrain are not very smooth in some places. Tourists should be careful, as falls from mopeds are a common case. Roads go both along the coast and cross the mountainous terrain.
To travel to neighboring small islands and private beaches, you can use taxi boats.
Walking must be done carefully. Nuts often fall from coconut trees. It's life-threatening.
How to get to Koh Phangan?
The developed transport network of Thailand will allow you to be on the island in the shortest possible time. A comprehensive ticket that includes several modes of transport will make the task easier.
If you want to visit Koh Phangan from Bangkok, you can choose several routes:
Airplane
Flights to Koh Samui or Surat Thani fly regularly. The Bangkok-Samui direction is much more expensive than Bangkok-Surat Thani, as local low-cost airlines fly to Surat Thani province from Don Muang Airport. Having flown to one of the two airports, you can buy a complex ticket for Koh Phangan right there. It includes bus transfer and ferry crossing. It is better to book flights in advance on the Aviasales website. You can find plane tickets at the lowest prices using the low price calendar.
Bus
From Bangkok you can buy a complex ticket to Koh Phangan. First you get to Suratani, and then transfer to the ferry to the island. If you want to save time, you should choose a fast boat instead of a ferry.
Train
By train, you need to get to the Phun Pin station in the Surat Thani area, and then transfer to the bus and ferry to the island. You can also buy a complex ticket Bangkok-Phangan.
Complex tickets, including the crossing, are sold at the airport, bus stations and online on the website. Depending on the carrier, the journey from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan takes approximately 50 minutes.
See the map for the exact location of Koh Phangan.
Koh Phangan is a wonderful place for families with children or a romantic getaway. Most of all, the island is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts (diving, snogling, discos), as well as for those who love and know how to enjoy nature. The Thais have created all the conditions for this.
