Many people fantasize about going island hopping in Thailand’s Gulf of Thailand. Nothing compares to sitting on the sun-drenched deck of a ship, gazing out on the mesmerizing turquoise waters and dreaming of the journey that lies on the subsequent island.
Scattered like pearls throughout the shallow inlet within the southwestern South China Sea, the islands within the Gulf of Thailand are charming and thrilling. While there are lots of stunning islands within the area, the star points of interest are Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. These islands are lower than a three-hour boat journey from each other, making them an excellent island hopping mixture. Travellers with further time usually add Koh Chang and Koh Mang to their island-hopping list as properly.
Koh Samui is among the largest islands in Thailand. Most people tend to skip this island and solely make it their starting point earlier than heading out to other islands around the area. However, if you have time, Koh Samui actually offers every little thing that makes an island gateway so good. The island boasts breathtaking views, white sand beaches, and thriving marine life. If you want water activities, the island is located near Ang Thong National Marine Park, so you’ll find a way to go snorkelling and diving.
For a taste of Thai tradition, spend your evening at the Fisherman’s Market in Bophut or go to the Big Buddha statue. The island is also recognized as one of the established islands in terms of infrastructure, making it a great vacation spot for households. You can find extravagant 5-star resorts, high-end spas, world-class restaurants, and stylish bars with sunset views right here. Plus, it’s easy to achieve varied cities in Thailand.
Koh Phangan is mainly identified for its beer-infused seashore parties. Up to 30,000 party-goers travel to the island every month to attend the infamous Full Moon Party on Haad Rin seashore. The get together can final all night, and along with DJs blasting digital music, you’ll encounter fire exhibits and watch fireworks. Besides the parties, Koh Phangan truly has a lot extra to offer than partying. So even when you’re not into wild events, you presumably can still get pleasure from a great time on this island. Venture out the popular spots, and you’ll find semi-hidden coves, waterfalls, and even lovely temples.
If you wish to truly loosen up, stay within the north end of the island. Here, you’ll find pristine beaches with a few of the clearest waters in the Gulf of Thailand. Spend your days lounging in a hammock, sunbathe with a great e-book, or swim the clear blue ocean. If you want snorkelling or scuba diving, Koh Phangan additionally has some unimaginable diving sights. The Thong Sala Night Market can be a must-visit before departing the island.
From Koh Phangan, continue your island-hopping journey to Koh Tao. Koh Tao is way smaller than Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, however it’s simply as beautiful. Although there’s a lot of events occurring on the island, it still has a very laid back vibe good for leisure and soothing of the soul. Koh Tao is particularly generally recognized as the most reasonably priced vacation spot to discover methods to scuba dive. There are plenty of low-cost diving services here, making it great for first-timers. In addition, the island is surrounded by a variety of the best diving websites in Thailand.
If you favor to snorkel, there are a myriad of bays with loads of vibrant coral and delightful marine life to see just some metres from the water’s floor. Those who love climbing shall be delighted that the island has some epic viewpoints to discover, such because the John Suwan Viewpoint. From this viewpoint, you can benefit from the postcard-worthy scenery of the island.
Despite being the third largest island in Thailand and located just six hours away from Bangkok, Koh Chang is amongst the lesser-visited islands within the nation. It’s considerably quieter and extra laid-back than other islands on the Gulf. The island is full of natural magnificence, from majestic mountains and plush forests with waterfalls to beaches and coral reefs. Koh Chang National Park is positioned right within the coronary heart of the island. It’s a nature reserve stuffed with climbing trails, rugged jungle terrain, and picturesque waterfalls. The main seaside on the island is White Sand Beach. However, there are Piece of cake unspoilt seashores for visitors to discover here.
Despite rising increasingly more well-liked each year, Koh Mak continues to be a sleepy island with quiet seashores and a laid-back environment. It’s situated south of Koh Chang and north of Koh Kood. It’s a really great island to visit for anyone who needs to escape the crowds. The seashores on the island are comparatively empty, so you presumably can relax with out having to be interrupted by other people. The main seashores are Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai, where you’ll discover most bungalows on the island.
Are you able to expertise an exhilarating island hopping expertise in Thailand? While travelling in the course of the Covid-19 pandemic is still tough, there’s nothing incorrect with planning early! So make sure to hold this article to make use of when travelling is lastly protected and simple again!

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