Looking for fun things to do in Koh Phangan? We got you covered. We spent years living on and off Thailand and have made numerous trips to Koh Phangan.
Although Koh Phangan is commonly associated with non-stop crazy parties, what a lot of people don’t know is that there is an equally lovely quiet side to the island that is totally underrated.
When Tom and I first went to Koh Phangan, we purposely stayed away from the craziness of the full moon parties and opted to skip it altogether.
Instead, we spent our days exploring in our motorbike, finding hidden beaches and viewpoints. We’ve recently updated this article after spending yet another few blissful seasons (we come back every year) relaxing in Koh Phangan.
So if you want all the insider scoop on the best things to do on Koh Phangan Island, keep on reading!
View Contents
- About Koh Phangan
- Highlights of Things to Do in Koh Phangan
- Things to Do in Koh Phangan
- 1. Go Diving
- 2. Visit Thong Sala Night Market
- 3. Go Boating in Koh Phangan
- 4. Visit Ang Thong Marine Park
- 5. Kayak Around Ang Thong National Marine Park
- 6. Rent a Motorbike and Explore Koh Phangan
- 7. Take a Cooking Class in Koh Phangan
- 8. Visit Phaeng Waterfalls
- 9. Visit Koh Nang Yuan Island
- 10. Go Trekking in Koh Phangan
- 11. Attend a Yoga Class
- 12. Watch the Sunset (Everyday)
- 13. Get a Thai Massage
- 14. Go to the Half Moon Party
- 15. Watch a Muay Thai Fight
- 16. Kayak Around Koh Phangan
- 17. Visit a Few Temples
- 18. Attend the Full Moon Party
- 19. Go Snorkeling in Koh Phangan
- Best Beaches in Koh Phangan
- Hiking in Koh Pha Ngan
- Transportation: Koh Phangan to Other Islands
- Where to Stay in Koh Phangan
- FAQ on Koh Phangan
About Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan or Koh Pha Ngan is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and vibrant islands, situated in the Gulf of Thailand just north of Koh Samui and south of Koh Tao.
While it’s certainly famous for its insane full moon parties, there’s actually SO much more to explore in this beautiful island.
Koh Phangan is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. From hidden waterfalls and pristine forests to the vibrant local culture and delicious cuisine, Koh Phangan has something for everyone.
In the recent years, Koh Pha Ngan has also become a hotspot for both digital nomads as well as the health and wellness crowd.
It is the 5th largest island in Thailand and is around 168 square kilometers in size. It is located right by the Gulf of Thailand, which is a part of the larger South China Sea which is why it is so rich in marine life and natural resources.
The best time to visit the island is between February and September, when the weather is dry and sunny.
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Highlights of Things to Do in Koh Phangan
- Island Road Trip– Road Trip around the best spots in Koh Phangan on a 4×4 truck taking you to explore mountain and jungle trails all over the island!
- Discover Scuba Diving– This tour is perfect for beginners who want to experience scuba diving. Get an introductory course in one of Koh Phangan’s dive best sites, Sail Rock.
- Speed Boat Tour to Koh Tao and Koh NangYuan– This tour takes you around two of the best islands surrounding Koh Phangan for a fun day out at sea! Highly recommended.
Things to Do in Koh Phangan
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1. Go Diving
I know that most people associate diving with Koh Phangan’s neighboring island, Koh Tao. However, what a lot of people don’t realize is that some of the dive sites that you can reach from Koh Tao are the same sites your visit when in Koh Phangan.
Dive sites like the Southwest Pinnacle and Sail Rock are halfway in the middle and are great sites to explore. For those that are just looking to go snorkeling, checking out some of the beaches in Haad Salad and Haad Ya.
In all honesty, Dive Sites in Thailand are all pretty amazing but the ones near Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are pretty noteworthy.
Scuba diving in Sail Rock is my absolute favorite and is a must for any underwater enthusiasts! If you’re a certified diver, you can book this diving trip to Sail Rock here.
The main attraction of Sail Rock is a large granite pinnacle that rises up from the sea floor and breaks the surface. This pinnacle is covered in soft and hard corals, making it a haven for a wide variety of marine life, including barracudas, groupers, snappers, and sometimes even whale sharks.
It is honestly an incredible dive site and is perfect for both beginners and advance divers. To scuba dive in Koh Phangan (or anywhere in Thailand really) is such an incredible experience.
For beginner divers who want to do an introductory course while in Koh Pha Ngan, you can book a discovery dive instead.
2. Visit Thong Sala Night Market
Thong Sala is a town whose main attraction is its street food market and because of this, tourists often frequent this spot.
In fact, the Thong Sala night market is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike on the island of Koh Pha Ngan in Thailand.
Located in the town of Thong Sala, the market is open every evening and features a variety of stalls selling a range of goods, including handmade crafts, clothing, souvenirs, and local food.
You can enjoy browsing the stalls, sampling the local cuisine, and experiencing the lively atmosphere of Thong Sala night market in Koh Pha Ngan.
The Thong Sala Night Market is a must do while you’re in Koh Phangan. Unlike most night markets, the one in Thong Sala is full of food (dream come true for me!) The seafood selection is pretty good and the meals always come out so fresh and delicious!
When you wander around the Thong Sala night market, you will find anything from traditional Thai meals to sushi rolls, fried potatoes, and many more. Don’t let the run-down parking lot feel throw you off! If you’re a bit apprehensive as to what to order, here’s an article on the best Thai Food.
A must-eats are:
- Pad Thai
- Mango Sticky Rice
- Massaman curry
- Grilled seafood (which are particularly good in Thong Sala!)
3. Go Boating in Koh Phangan
Set aside a day and do yourself a favor and explore the many beautiful beaches near Koh Phangan.
There are also boat tours or taxi boats which bring you to the hard to reach places like Thong Nai Pan, Ko Ma, and Ko Tae.
We rented a scooter and tried to reach Bottle Beach whose roads were steep and almost impassable. Although we succeeded, I will forever have that scar on my leg to remember that afternoon by.
Another fun day out while in Koh Pha Ngan is visiting the nearby islands of Koh Tao and Nang Yuan Island.
Koh Nang Yuan was one of our favorite spots in Thailand- the viewpoint is a must! I will share more about this below!
4. Visit Ang Thong Marine Park
Visiting Ang Thong Marine Park is a must-do activity when in Thailand! Located just off the coast of Koh Samui, this beautiful archipelago is made up of 42 islands, each with its own unique charm and beauty.
However, despite being closer to Koh Samui, you can also easily visit this marine park from Koh Phangan.
The crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, and the limestone cliffs and caves offer breathtaking views. There are also several beaches to choose from, so you can relax and soak up the sun.
The marine park is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colourful fish and coral, making it a popular spot for diving. It has a spectacular underwater scenery and is a must-do for diving enthusiasts.
Although we personally visited Ang Thong Marine Park from Koh Samui, from Koh Phangan, the marine park is only a 45 minute speedboat ride making it very accessible.
For a unique experience, you can even stay overnight in a bungalow nearby (Ko Wua Talap) where you can rent kayaks (more on this below!)
5. Kayak Around Ang Thong National Marine Park
If you prefer a more active approach towards exploring Ang Thong National Marine park, we recommend doing it by kayaks as it is one of the best ways to see the place! You can easily row your way around the hundred of different islets amidst the emerald-colored waters.
As mentioned above, you can stay overnight in one of the island “headquarters” and rent kayaks to explore the marine park.
Alternatively, ask around the many tour agencies while in Koh Phangan for kayaking options in the Marine Park. In our opinion, you cannot go Koh Phangan without going to Ang Thong Marine Park.
6. Rent a Motorbike and Explore Koh Phangan
Riding a motorbike in Koh Phangan can be a great way to explore the island and see all that it has to offer.
Some of the must-see spots to visit while on a motorbike include Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai, two beautiful beaches located on the north-east coast of the island.
Another popular spot is Haad Rin Beach, home to the famous Full Moon Party. Seeing it during the day offers another perspective to this often crowded beach!
If you’re looking for stunning views, be sure to head up to the Bottle Beach Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding area. After you park your motorbike, there is a short 15-20 minute uphill climb but trust me, the views are 100% worth it!
Just make sure you wear shoes and bring some water!
Although we don’t recommend trying to find Bottle Beach via motorbike (I have the battle scars to prove it), we do recommend renting one and taking it around the island for a spin.
Riding bikes are the cheapest and best way to see a place! Koh Phangan itself is very steep and hilly so experienced riders are recommended.
Another awesome viewpoint in Koh Phangan is this hill with a lovely view of Haad Son.
If you’re coming from Ai Chao Phao, head towards Haad Yao. Keep riding down and soon you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the island.
There are many more wonderful places to explore on Koh Phangan, so be sure to allow plenty of time to see as much of the island as possible while riding your motorbike.
Editor’s note: To get around the islands, we’ve found the best way to book tickets for buses and boats are through Bookaway or 12go website.
7. Take a Cooking Class in Koh Phangan
Hi, I am Anna and I love Thai food. In fact, I am almost obsessed with it. It is by far my favorite cuisine within the South East Asian region.
Since I love it so much, what better way to spend a couple of hours than by learning how to cook (and eat) delicious Thai food.
Koh Pha Ngan is no exception and has no shortage of cooking schools but schools like Same Same in Haad Rin, C&M Study Center, as well as Jang’s Thai cooking school come well recommended.
If you want to see all the cooking classes available in Thailand, check out the link below. Likened to be like the Airbnb for cooking, we’ve used Cookly in so many different countries and love their platform.
8. Visit Phaeng Waterfalls
Contrary to what TLC told you, do go chasing waterfalls while you’re in Koh Phangan (god, I hope you got that reference!)
There are about 7 different waterfalls in Koh Phangan, all relatively close to the main towns. Please do note that a lot of the waterfalls dry up during the rainy season.
However, if you are up for a nature trip, do check out Sramanora waterfalls, Phaeng, Thaan Prapaad, Thaan Sadet, Wangsai, Paradise and Thaan Prawes waterfalls.
Visiting these waterfalls while on Koh Phangan is a great way to spend a few hours!
9. Visit Koh Nang Yuan Island
Although I briefly spoke about visiting this island earlier, it is so beautiful, it deserves its own spot. If you love snorkeling and epic viewpoints, a trip to Koh Nang Yuan Island is a MUST! Although very touristy, the snorkeling was amazing with large fish swimming in the nearby reefs.
The viewpoint is also pretty iconic so this is considered a must-do. You can either rent your own long-tail boats and snorkels.
We recommend going EARLY to get a spot by the beach and to enjoy it before the crowds arrive. This speedboat tour from Koh Phangan takes you to both islands, allowing you to snorkel in various spots along the way.
Koh Nang Yuan is located very close to Koh Tao so you might be able to hit two birds with one stone depending on which tour you book.
10. Go Trekking in Koh Phangan
If for some reason you are tired of lounging around on the beach, there are some great trekking trails by the Eastern coastline of the island.
At the bottom of this travel guide, I will share a few of our favorite hikes!
Insider Tip: Don’t forget to bring snacks and water with you to keep you hydrated during the trek For those that want a guide to accompany them, you can easily find guides by the National Park.
11. Attend a Yoga Class
It’s pretty ironic that after a crazy few days of binge drinking, people immediately look for some peace and quiet, opting to spend a couple of days meditating. Due to the hippie vibe that Koh Phangan has, there are many yoga centers and retreats happening on the island.
Get your ohm on by attending a few yoga classes. Yoga Retreat is in Haad Salad comes well recommended. If you’re looking for something more intense, we’ve heard great things about the detox programs in The Sanctuary.
12. Watch the Sunset (Everyday)
Because I naturally gravitate towards the sun, watching sunsets in different parts of the world is sort of like a past time of mine. So believe me when I say that Koh Pha Ngan has no shortage of beautiful sunsets.
One of our favorite spots is by Amsterdam Bar by Ao Playlaaem. The view from the restaurant area is out of this world! Relax in their many floor cushions as you enjoy the colors of the sunset unfold in front of you.
13. Get a Thai Massage
It is my honest belief that you cannot visit ANY Thai island without getting a massage.
Thai massage is a traditional form of bodywork that combines elements of yoga, shiatsu, and acupressure to promote relaxation and alleviate stress.
There are many massage shops and spas located throughout the island that offer Thai massage, and prices vary depending on the location and length of the massage.
While there are a plethora of beach massage services, if you want a proper one, a few highly recommended ones are Revive Massage as well as Pure Relax. Although the prices are a bit higher than the average beach massage, it is very much worth it!
14. Go to the Half Moon Party
If you want to party and dance the night away but aren’t in Koh Phangan for the full moon, do not fret as you have the Half Moon Party.
The Half Moon Party in Koh Phangan attracts visitors from all over the world and is held on the crescent-shaped Haad Rin Beach. Similar to the Full Moon Party, this event features a lineup of international DJs playing a range of music, from techno and house to reggae and hip hop.
The party usually starts around sunset and goes on until the early hours of the morning. In addition to the music, there are also fire shows and all sorts of entertainment.
Although the Full Moon Parties are bigger, the Half Moon Party is pretty fun nonetheless!
15. Watch a Muay Thai Fight
Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is a popular activity in Koh Phangan, and there are several options for those interested in learning or watching the sport.
If you prefer to watch a Muay Thai show, there are several stadiums on the island that host regular fights.
One of the most popular stadiums in Koh Phangan is the Than Sadet Stadium, located in the north of the island. Tickets can usually be purchased at the stadium on the day of the event, or from any tour agency-just ask around!
If you fancy trying it yourself, there are several Muay Thai schools on the island that offer classes. These schools typically offer group classes as well as private lessons, and the instructors are usually experienced fighters who can provide you with a solid introduction to this popular sport.
16. Kayak Around Koh Phangan
Another fun thing to do around Koh Phangan is to kayak around! We love kayaking as it an activity you can do pretty independently. The West Coast of Koh Pha Ngan from Wok Tum to Koh Ma is said to have the calmest waters.
Koh Ma is a small island located just off the northwestern coast of Koh Phangan. In the section where we talk about the best beaches in Koh Pha Ngan, we mention Koh Ma and how to get there.
You can easily head to any beach in Koh Phangan as most of them have kayak rentals available.
17. Visit a Few Temples
Visiting temples in Koh Pha Ngan is a great way to learn about the local culture and see some of the island’s most beautiful landmarks.
Some of the must-see temples to visit include Wat Phu Khao Noi, a beautiful white temple located on a hill overlooking the island.
Another popular temple to visit is Wat Khao Tham, a temple within a jungle! This is a great spot and they also often run meditation classes / retreats.
No matter which temple you choose to visit, be sure to dress modestly (cover your shoulders with a sarong) and remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds.
18. Attend the Full Moon Party
No trip to Koh Pha Ngan would be complete without attending the infamous Full Moon Party. The Koh Phangan Full Moon parties are legendary in Southeast Asia. In fact, it’s almost a right of passage and is extremely popular amongst the travelers.
As mentioned, over the years, they have expanded their repertoire and have started celebrating the half-moon party, black moon party, and so on.
Nevertheless, it’s an incredible experience must-do experience in Koh Phangan that must be done at least once. As a word of caution, just have your wits with you when partying in Thailand (or anywhere in Southeast Asia). Don’t accept drinks from strangers and make sure you dispose of your beer bottles and buckets properly!
We’ve seen so many “day-after-full-moon-party” photos and it’s pretty grim seeing so much litter across the beautiful beaches!
19. Go Snorkeling in Koh Phangan
If you’re not a scuba diver but you still want to enjoy the vibrant marine life in Koh Phangan, don’t worry! Rent a snorkel and fins and enjoy the colorful underwater world.
Since Koh Phangan island is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. There are many spots around the island where you can go snorkeling, including Haad Rin, Mae Haad Beach, and Chaloklum.
Haad Rin is home to the famous Full Moon Party and has a beautiful reef just offshore. Mae Haad Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with a wide variety of colorful fish and coral to see.
Chaloklum is a more secluded area with a shallow reef that is perfect for beginner snorkelers.
Best Beaches in Koh Phangan
Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for its pristine beaches, which offer breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and soft white sand.
With over 30 beaches to choose from, there are plenty of options for everyone. In this section, of our Koh Phangan travel guide, I will share a few of the must-visit beaches in Koh Pha Ngan so you can make the most out of your trip to this beautiful island destination.
Haad Rin Beach
Haad Rin is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Pha Ngan, made popular by the infamous full moon parties that happen here every month.
It’s known for its lively atmosphere and nightlife, making it a great spot for travelers looking to party the night away. If you’re planning to attend one of the parties, I recommend looking for a hotel close to the area!
Be warned that during the half moon and full moon parties, accommodations tend to book up in advance! Honestly speaking, when there isn’t a party going on, Haad Rin is one of the nicest beaches in Koh Pha Ngan .
During the day, visitors can enjoy the soft white sand and clear blue waters for swimming and sunbathing. There are also plenty of water taxis nearby who can take you to one of the many coves and bays around the rea.
With plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops in the area, Haad Rin is the perfect place to spend the day and night.
Leela Beach
Want to enjoy some peace and quiet? We have the perfect secluded beach for you to visit. Leela Beach is one of the hidden gems of Koh Phangan, offering an escape from the crowds of the more popular beaches like Haad Rin beach.
Located on the western side of the island, this secluded beach boasts soft white sand and clear blue waters, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. It is hands down one of our favorite beaches in Koh Pha Ngan .
The beach itself is surrounded by beautiful palm trees with rope swings, as well as a few beach bars with recliner beds.
There are also a few beachfront restaurants and bars in the area, serving up delicious local Thai food and refreshing drinks. While Leela Beach may not be as well-known as some of the other beaches on Koh Pha Ngan, it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Thong Nai Pan Beach
For those seeking a quieter and more secluded beach experience while in Koh Phangan, I recommend visiting Thong Nai Pan Beach.
Thong Nai Pan Beach is located on the northeastern side of Koh Pha Ngan and is known for its quiet atmosphere. The beach itself is divided into two villages or areas which are Tong Nai Pan Noi Beach (North) and Tong Nai Pan Yai (South).
You can walk from one area to the next (25 minutes) or drive 5 minutes on a scooter. Thong Nai Pan Noi has a cute little town center with a variety of restaurants and bars.
Both beaches are perfect for swimming and relaxing. There are also a few restaurants and bars in the area, making it a great spot for a quiet meal or drink with a view.
Insider Tip: I recommend checking out 2C Bar for gorgeous views of the beach.
Mae Haad Beach
Another beach in Koh Phangan worth going to is called Mae Haad Beach. Mae Haad Beach is located on the northwest coast of Koh Pha Ngan, and is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
The soft white sand and clear blue waters make it a great place to relax and soak up the sun, while the coral reefs just off the beach offer some of the best snorkeling on the island.
You can opt to spend the day here as there are a few local Thai restaurants and bars where you can grab a simple meal. If you time your trip to this beach, you can walk along the little sand bar to Koh Ma Island.
Koh Ma is connected to the mainland by a narrow sandbar that is only visible during low tide. It is a pretty popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
When you visit this beach, you can park your scooter by Wang Sai Resort and enter from there.
Salad Beach
Another popular beach in Koh Pha Ngan is called Salad Beach. Salad Beach is a pretty popular spot for families and couples, thanks to its calm waters and plenty of shade from the trees lining the beach.
The soft white sand and clear blue waters make it a great place for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing.
If you opt to stay here, make sure you keep in mind that it is a very quiet beach, with most places shutting at 11pm. No crazy parties here- but that’s okay as it is part of its allure.
There are plenty of beach bars like Spicy Salad bar which offer decent priced cocktails and fruit shakes.
Hiking in Koh Pha Ngan
Funny enough, even though it is a relatively small island, Koh Pha Ngan offers several hiking trails. For those who want to take on the challenge, expect to see tons of greenery and uphill trails to scenic viewpoints.
If you’re up for a few hours of exercise, hiking is one of the best things to do in Koh Phangan. Just make sure you come prepared. Takes lots and lots of water with you as some of the trails can be unforgiving, especially in the heat!
In this part of our in-depth Koh Pha Ngan guide, we’re sharing a few of our favorite hikes and trails on the island as well as some details on how to do them.
Khao Ra Hike, Koh Phangan
Khao Ra is the highest peak on Koh Pha Ngan. This challenging hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level. It offers incredible panoramic views of Koh Phangan from the top which is why it is frequented by hiking enthusiasts.
I recommend going very early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. The viewpoint of Khao Ra shows off the Northern part of the island as well as Chaloklum beach. On the eastern side, there is a huge boulder which you can climb.
To get here, drive to Khao Raa terrace and pay the minimal entrace fee.
Bottle Beach, Koh Phangan
Instead of trying to get to Bottle Beach by motorbike which turned out to be an absolute disaster for us, we recommend hiking there instead.
It is hands down one of the BEST beaches in Koh Pha Ngan. The hike to Bottle Beach can be challenging but rewarding.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit. Before you start, it’s important that you have comfortable shoes and breathable clothing, as well as enough water and snacks for the journey.
As you make your way down to Bottle Beach, the trail will become rocky and at times narrow. Take things slowly and watch your step. When you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with a pristine beach surrounded by lush greenery.
There are limited facilities here, so bring everything that you need for a day in the sun. Look for the “Trek for Bottle Beach” starting point on Google Maps which is located near Haad Khom Beach.
If you don’t fancy trekking, you can also opt to hire a water taxi to take you to this stunning place. Because it isn’t easy to get to, this is one of the quieter spots in Koh Pha Ngan and is an absolute favorite of ours!
Apart from these two beaches, other hikes that are worth doing are:
- Haad Yuan viewpoint from Haad Rin
- Haad Khom
- Phaeng Waterfall
Tips for Hiking in Koh Phangan:
If you’re planning to hike in Koh Pha Ngan , there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and breathable clothing, as the island can get quite hot and humid. I don’t recommend hiking in flip flops!
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you’re embarking on a longer hike. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go, as heavy rain can make some trails slippery and dangerous.
I personally recommend getting an app like All Trails or Maps.me ahead of time so you can download the offline version of the map to guide you.
If you’re not an experienced hiker, it’s best to stick to the more well-known trails or hire a local guide to show you the way. Last but not least, always take your trash with you when you leave.
On our last hike there, I carried a small plastic bag and picked up rubbish along the way!
Transportation: Koh Phangan to Other Islands
To get to the nearby islands from Koh Pha Ngan , click here to reserve tickets, see the timetable of ferries, and more. Sometimes certain boat trips get sold out which is why we recommend booking transport ahead of time.
We recommend using Bookaway or 12Go website to view bus, boat, and train schedules ahead of time. We’ve used these websites all over Asia and it saves us the hassle of lining up in travel agencies or bus stations.
If you’re coming from Phuket, check out our guide on how to get from Phuket to Koh Phangan.
Where to Stay in Koh Phangan
Looking for where to stay in Koh Pha Ngan ? Here are a few of our personal recommendations on the best places to stay in Koh Pha Ngan . Please take note that the island is HUGE!
There are different areas and beaches throughout the whole island so don’t forget to consider the location carefully when choosing where to stay.
If you want to stay in the quieter side ofKoh Pha Ngan but still attend the full moon party, you will need to make transportation arrangements.
Best Hostel for the Full Moon Party: Our House Hostel
If you’ve come to Koh Pha Ngan to partake in the debauchery, Our House Hostel is the place to stay. Although seemingly crowded, it is the perfect place to meet people to party with. They have 10,12, and 36-bed dorm rooms where you are guaranteed to meet a fun bunch to party with.
This hostel in Koh Phangan provides free paint so you can get in the spirit of partying and is located minutes away from the full moon party beach in Haad Rin. (Prices start at $6 a night for a dorm bed)
To compare prices and read reviews, check: Booking.com | Hostel World
Other Top Budget Hostels on Hostel World
Best Mid Range for Full Moon Party: Little Paradise
For those that really want to be right in the middle of all the action in Koh Pha Ngan without having to stay in dorm rooms, this place is a good choice for you. The bungalows on top of the hill are a bit further from the madness but the climb up there is quite steep.
The rooms are clean and comfortable and the location is unbeatable. They also have a pool which is perfect for lounging about recovering from the night before.
To compare prices and read reviews, check: Booking.com
Splurge: Cocohut Village Beach Resort & Spa
This resort and spa is conveniently located on the very tranquil Leela Beach, Koh Pha Ngan . Guests are able to enjoy many Thai and international dishes at the onsite restaurant, before heading to the bar for a nightcap.
Leela Beach is one of the most beautiful places in all of Thailand and the resort makes sure that they plan many fun activities for their guests. The breakfast is noteworthy and the rooms are well maintained, very spacious, and clean.
To compare prices and read reviews, check: Booking.com
Luxury: Kupu Kupu Phangan Beach Villas
The stylish villas at Kupu Kupu Phangan give guests the perfect place to unwind and relax during their stay. There is a private beach for guests as well as a concierge to assist with booking tours. Guests have plenty of outdoor activities to participate in that include snorkeling, scuba diving and windsurfing.
The rooms are luxurious and the day beds along their pool and beach are amazing. Their breakfasts in the morning is composed of a wide selection and is definitely worth every penny! They also provide a free shuttle to town during the day, but trust me-you really wouldn’t want to leave this place!
To compare prices and read reviews, check: Booking.com
Click the yellow button below if you want to read the full article on where to stay in Koh Pha Ngan with all our hotel and hostel recommendations!
There you have it, folks! While there are literally lots more to do while in Koh Pha Ngan , our suggestion is to explore it on your own and find your little slice of heaven where you can relax and unwind.
FAQ on Koh Phangan
Wondering if Koh Phangan is worth visiting? In our opinion, 100% yes. Even if you do not want to join in any of the full moon festivals, there is plenty of other things to do like visit the night market in Thong Sala, or go beach hopping. Koh Phangan has one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Thailand for sure!
Koh Phangan is known for its wild Full Moon parties and has earned a reputation as a party island, but it’s important to note that there is so much more to the island than just partying.
As proven in this article, there are tons of things to do and see on Koh Phangan. The island is home to numerous beautiful beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and cultural experiences.
Koh Phangan has no airport so if you want to fly, you need to fly to Koh Samui then take a boat over. Alternatively, you can also take a train or a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani. From Surat Thani, catch a boat to Koh Phangan.
Koh Phangan is pronounced as “ko pang-ngan” with emphasis on the second syllable “pang”.
The best time to visit Koh Phangan is between February and September, when the weather is dry and sunny. The high season in Koh Phangan is from December to February, when the weather is cooler and less humid, but also more crowded and expensive. The monsoon season is from October to January, when there may be heavy rainfall and some businesses may be closed.
Want more of our awesome things to do guides? Check these out:
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Quite a fabulous place. KP has been on my travel list for a minute.
I have been to Thailand twice and chose both times not to visit Koh Phangan, because i was afraid it would be busy with partying eighteenyearolds..
but your photo’s look lovely and i feel i need to check out koh phangan someday.
Hahaha! I thought the same but there is plenty of other things to do in the area apart from drunken partying!!
Good to know 🙂
I’m going to Thailand in November and a cooking class is what I’m most excited about! I love love love Thai food, though I’m a terrible cook, so we’ll see how it goes! (BTW- I appreciated your TLC reference 😉 )
Hahahaha. *nerdhighfive @disqus_P8kfrPa49P:disqus
We loved the quieter side to Koh Phangan – but I wish we had known about the Challenge when we visited a few years ago – that is easily my idea of a perfect day out!
The challenge Phangan is SUPER fun!
I love any place where one can hike to multiple waterfalls. The food looks amazing and would love to take a cooking class.
It’s always nice when you can discover the quieter and more intimate parts of places that have a”party” reputation. Great list of suggested activities. Would have loved to see a picture of the food market 🙂 The cooking classes sound great. Great resource 🙂
Cooking classes sound like it’s right up your alley!
I love boat trips and adding snorkeling is so perfect. I want to get my diving certification, I don’t want to miss out on exploring the ocean again.
While the Full Moon Parties are fun (I’ve been twice) my tastes have changed and now I’d definitely be seeking out the quiet side of Koh Phangan. I stayed on a quiet side of the island for a few days and loved it.
We were never into the party scene, but this list has definitely made me want to visit Koh Phangan! I’d love to visit the night markets and take a cooking class there! I think cooking classes are such a great way to learn about the culture (and eat yummy food along the way!)
I’d definitely skip the crazy party scene to take in the amazing nature in Koh Phangan.
Again, great tips! I’ve never tried cooking class before – as I don’t really cook at home – but it’s something that I’ve been thinking about doing more and more lately because I think it’s probably one of the best things to bring home from overseas, something that you can relive and enjoy again and again, years after a trip.
Definitely need to try it so you can instantly bring yourself back to your favorite travel destinations.
I have only been to Thailand one time, and to the tiny island of Koh Lipe way down by Malaysia! It was so peaceful and tranquil I loved it! If I ever visit Koh Phangan I will be like you and skip the whole party scene! I would love to go “chase waterfalls” (totally got the reference) and trek and motorbike and dive and do it all! Thanks for sharing!
Hahaha. Glad someone did! LOVE Koh Lipe!