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 at the mesmerizing turquoise waters and dreaming of the journey that lies on the subsequent island.
Scattered like pearls throughout the shallow inlet in the southwestern South China Sea, the islands in the Gulf of Thailand are charming and thrilling. Whereas there are various stunning islands in the space, the star sights are Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. These islands are lower than a three-hour boat journey from one another, making them an excellent island hopping mixture. Travellers with additional time normally add Koh Chang and Koh Mang to their island-hopping record as nicely.
Island hopping in the Gulf of Thailand
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is one of the largest islands in Thailand. Most individuals are likely to skip this island and solely make it their place to begin earlier than heading out to different islands round the space. Nonetheless, if in case you have time, Koh Samui truly gives every thing that makes an island gateway so good. The island boasts breathtaking views, white sand seashores, and thriving marine life. In case you like water actions, the island is positioned close to Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park, so you possibly can go snorkelling and diving.
For a style of Thai tradition, spend your night at the Fisherman’s Market in Bophut or go to the Huge Buddha statue. The island is also called one of the most established islands in phrases of infrastructure, making it an excellent destination for households. Yow will discover extravagant 5-star resorts, high-end spas, world-class eating places, and stylish bars with sundown views right here. Plus, it’s straightforward to succeed in numerous cities in Thailand.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is principally recognized for its beer-infused seashore events. As much as 30,000 party-goers journey to the island each month to attend the notorious Full Moon Celebration on Haad Rin seashore. The occasion can final all night time, and together with DJs blasting digital music, you’ll encounter fireplace reveals and watch fireworks. Moreover the events, Koh Phangan truly has a lot extra to supply than partying. So even in the event you’re not into wild events, you possibly can nonetheless take pleasure in a good time on this island. Enterprise out the standard spots, and also you’ll discover semi-hidden coves, waterfalls, and even stunning temples.
If you wish to really loosen up, keep in the north finish of the island. Right here, you’ll discover pristine seashores with some of the clearest waters in the Gulf of Thailand. Spend your days lounging in a hammock, sunbathe with a superb e book, or swim the clear blue ocean. In case you like snorkelling or scuba diving, Koh Phangan additionally has some unbelievable diving sights. The Thong Sala Night time Market can be a must-visit earlier than departing the island.
Koh Tao
From Koh Phangan, proceed your island-hopping journey to Koh Tao. Koh Tao is far smaller than Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, but it surely’s simply as stunning. Though there’s so much of events happening on the island, it nonetheless has a really laid again vibe good for leisure and soothing of the soul. Koh Tao is especially referred to as the most reasonably priced destination to discover ways to scuba dive. There are tons of low cost diving amenities right here, making it nice for first-timers. As well as, the island is surrounded by some of the finest diving websites in Thailand.
In case you choose to snorkel, there are a myriad of bays with a lot of vibrant coral and exquisite marine life to see just some metres from the water’s floor. Those that love climbing might be delighted that the island has some epic viewpoints to discover, corresponding to the John Suwan Viewpoint. From this viewpoint, you possibly can take pleasure in the postcard-worthy surroundings of the island.
Koh Chang
Regardless of being the third largest island in Thailand and positioned simply six hours away from Bangkok, Koh Chang is one of the lesser-visited islands in the nation. It’s considerably quieter and extra laid-back than different islands on the Gulf. The island is crammed with pure magnificence, from majestic mountains and plush forests with waterfalls to seashores and coral reefs. Koh Chang Nationwide Park is positioned proper in the coronary heart of the island. It’s a nature reserve full of climbing trails, rugged jungle terrain, and picturesque waterfalls. The principle seashore on the island is White Sand Seaside. Nonetheless, there are tons of unspoilt seashores for guests to find right here.
Koh Mak
Regardless of rising an increasing number of standard annually, Koh Mak continues to be a sleepy island with quiet seashores and a laid-back environment. It’s positioned south of Koh Chang and north of Koh Kood. It’s a extremely nice island to go to for anybody who desires to flee the crowds. The seashores on the island are comparatively empty, so you possibly can loosen up with out having to be interrupted by different folks. The principle seashores are Ao Kao and Ao Suan Yai, the place you’ll discover most bungalows on the island.
Are you able to expertise an exhilarating island hopping expertise in Thailand? Go e book that airplane ticket now!
If you wish to know extra about island hopping in Thailand, take a look at our Island Hopping Insider Information.
Koh Samui TravelThailand TravelThings To DoTravel Guides
