Top 10 Islands in Thailand

Thailand has always been one of the most popular destinations, seeing tourists from all over the world all through the year. It is quite true that a visit to some of the best islands in Thailand can be the highlight of any trip taken to the Thai kingdom. Visiting these Thai islands can be a great way to unwind. There are hundreds of islands in Thailand, and with a little research, you can find something for everyone along the miles of coastline.

Any list of the top 10 islands in Thailand will be rather subjective, but here are some that offer excellent beaches, tourist attractions, and just the right vibes. Before you plan a soiree to the country, make sure you remember these top 10 islands in Thailand:

1. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is one of the most well-known islands to visit in Thailand. The island is more of a cosmopolitan melting pot as it attracts not just budget travellers planning to live at Samui for a month or two, but even the wealthiest of holidaymakers who drop by for a stay at one of the luxury resorts on the island. In fact, Koh Samui features as one of the most romantic islands in Thailand. There is a lot for you to enjoy when here as the island maintains a broad appeal for everyone that visits. From beautiful beaches to serene waterfalls in the hills, Koh Samui truly has a lot to offer.

2. Koh Tao

Koh Tao literally translates to ‘the Turtle Island’ and the coast of this Thai island is lined with lantern-lit restaurants, sandy coves, and dive shops. In fact, a lot of people visiting this Thai island come here to dive. And in case you are not a diver, there’s still a lot that you can do on the island. The island has a certain charm and an excellent nightlife, which also includes some full-moon parties. There is no doubt that Koh Tao is one of the best islands to visit in Thailand.

3. Phuket

Another one of the most romantic islands in Thailand, Phuket is slightly different than most of the other Thai islands as it is the biggest and busiest island in the country. Phuket offers visitors every western convenience that they require, from celebrity chef restaurants to six-star resorts that have private butlers. If you want to experience a luxuriously comfortable vacation, Phuket may be the right place for you.

4. Koh Lanta

Next up in the top 10 islands in Thailand is Koh Lanta which is the perfect destination for you if you are unable to make up your mind, being a rather all-rounder island. Koh Lanta is made up of several islands, the most famous of them being Koh Lanta Yai. Kayaking through a mangrove forest, enjoying a drink at the beach bars, enjoying a great massage, or world-class diving, Koh Lanta truly has a lot to offer.

5. Koh Lipe

Another one of the top 10 islands in Thailand, Koh Lipe is said to have some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. Koh Lipe is one of the 51 islands in Thailand that make up the Tarutao Marine Park. With its picture-perfect beaches, Koh Lipe also offers tourists some seclusion as it has far fewer tourists as compared to Phuket or Samui.

6. Koh Chang

Koh Chang is one of the few islands in Thailand that are like a miniature form of the kingdom itself. While Koh Chang is not completely untouched by tourists, it is more tranquil than most. So, if you are looking for a quiet vacation, Koh Chang may just be the best island to visit in Thailand. Most of the interiors of the island are dedicated to a national park, which also makes it great for jungle trekking. At Koh Chang, you can head towards the Had Sai Noi Beach for a bohemian beach-bar experience or Salakkok Bay for a traditional fishing village ambiance. There is quite a lot to do here!

7. Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi happens to be one of the best islands in Thailand. In recent years, almost the entire island has been rebuilt after the tsunami had devastated it, but it is right back on track with some amazing activities to offer. Koh Phi Phi is also counted among the most popular islands to visit in Thailand for solo travellers. The island draws a young and energetic crowd and offers activities like cliff-jumping, snorkelling, diving, and more.

8. The Similan Islands

You will be hard pressed to find a list of the best islands in Thailand that does not mention the Similan Islands. These islands are a chain of nine islands that are numbered from one to nine (north to south) and form a national park. Here, the beautiful turquoise waters and untouched coral reefs make for the most beautiful beaches. However, when you plan your list of islands to visit in Thailand, keep in mind that the Similan Islands are closed to tourists from May to October.

9. Koh Si Chang

If your trip to Thailand is only for a few days, you will, of course, not be able to do a complete tour of the top 10 islands in Thailand. However, you may be able to squeeze in at least one! Being a two-hour ride away from the capital city, it is one of Bangkok’s closest beach destinations. With its green interiors and fishing villages, Koh Si Chang offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Little wonder it is a part of many Thailand honeymoon packages.

10. Koh Pha Ngan

Considered as one of the best islands in Thailand by many, Koh Pha Ngan is popular all over the world for its full moon parties that are held at Haad Rin’s Sunset Beach. If your idea of fun includes three-day parties on the beach, then Koh Pha Ngan is definitely the best island in Thailand for you. And if you miss out on the full moon, the island also hosts half-moon and black moon parties, and there is always action every night at the beach and cocktail bars of the island.

Thailand has a lot to offer, from an interesting culture to some delicious food, and the islands that dot the sea each boast of unique experiences for visitors. When planning a vacation to the country, make sure you include some of the best islands to visit in Thailand to your itinerary to ensure that you can enjoy a perfect vacation.