Koh Phangan is a stunning island in Thailand and has become a popular destination for all types of travelers, including backpackers, yogis, and luxury vacationers. It is known for its unparalleled paradise beaches, tropical waterfalls, picturesque temples, deep jungle, and breathtaking viewpoints.
The island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, 65 kilometers from the mainland, between Koh Samui and Koh Tao.
Koh Phangan is 125 km² and is part of the Samui archipelago, which has another 60 islands and islets. The island’s capital is Thong Sala, and the ferry docks here. The Full Moon Party in Haad Rin is famous, but the island has many quiet parts that are ideal for a relaxing vacation. Leela Beach is one of the most beautiful places on Koh Phangan.
It’s located in the south of the island and is known for its spectacular beach scenery. The beach has the finest white sand, turquoise sea colors, large coconut palms, and sea swings that create a heavenly ambiance.
You can find excellent accommodations for families and couples here, with the northern part of the beach being the most ideal. The Cabin Beach Resort is a true vacation dream, with a stunning prime beach location and a charming pool.
Leela Beach
Leela Beach is one of the most beautiful places on Koh Phangan. It’s located in the south of the island and is known for its spectacular beach scenery. The beach has the finest white sand, turquoise sea colors, large coconut palms, and sea swings that create a heavenly ambiance. You can find excellent accommodations for families and couples here, with the northern part of the beach being the most ideal. The Cabin Beach Resort is a true vacation dream, with a stunning prime beach location and a charming pool.
Explore Koh Phangan by scooter
Renting a scooter to explore Koh Phangan is one of the most popular activities. You’ll discover the stunning jungle scenery, mystical temples, hidden waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and paradisiacal dream beaches. Riding a scooter on Koh Phangan can be dangerous due to the steep roads, so be careful and drive slowly.
Haad Yuan Beach
Haad Yuan Beach is another highlight of Koh Phangan. It’s located in the southwest of the island, and the turquoise sea, tall palm trees, and huge round rocks make it unique. You can visit this dream beach on a day trip or spend your vacation in the small, simple bungalows directly at the sea.
Phaeng Noi Waterfall
Phaeng Noi Waterfall is the largest and most beautiful waterfall on Koh Phangan, and it’s part of Than Sadet National Park in the center of the island. You can easily explore and visit this picturesque waterfall via a short, easy hike through the jungle. It’s perfect for taking photos or just refreshing yourself in the waterfalls, and there’s no entrance fee.
Haad Rin Beach
Haad Rin Beach is in the south of the island, and the world-famous Full Moon Party takes place here. During this time, the hotels are fully booked, and the place is bursting at the seams. If you prefer peace and quiet, visit outside of this time and enjoy one of the most beautiful and quiet beaches on the island. You’ll also find taxi boats that will take you to other fascinating bays. For a relaxing vacation in this area, we recommend staying at the nearby Leela Beach.
Haad Salad Beach
Haad Salad Beach is a picturesque destination located in the western part of Koh Phangan. Known for its stunning turquoise-blue sea color and fine sand, the beach is one of the most popular on the island. One of the unique features of the beach is the iconic palm tree that diagonally juts into the water, which has become a symbol of Koh Phangan. There are also several cozy beach bars that place their chairs and lounges partly on the sea, creating a unique vacation ambience.
Salad Hut is a great accommodation option on Haad Salad Beach. It features wooden huts and hammocks, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
The Chinese Guan Yin Temple
The Chinese Guan Yin Temple is a must-see attraction on Koh Phangan. The largest Chinese temple on the island, it is located on a mountainside and offers a breathtaking view of the island landscape from its impressive pagodas and buildings. Visitors can discover a variety of interesting Chinese Buddha statues, as well as mystical images of Chinese warriors and dragons.
Than Sadet waterfall
Than Sadet waterfall is a natural wonder located in the national park of the same name. One of the most fascinating waterfalls in Koh Phangan, it is a popular stop on island tours. Its location in the dense jungle and countless cascades make it a picturesque destination. There are also many small natural pools along its 3-kilometer length that invite visitors to swim.
Bottle Beach
If you’re looking for a secluded paradise in Koh Phangan, look no further than Bottle Beach. Tucked away in the north of the island, this insider’s tip can only be reached by taxi boat, jeep, or a two-hour hike. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking white sandy beach and crystal clear turquoise water, surrounded by towering palm trees and lush jungle. You might even spot some monkeys playing in the trees!
Full Moon Party
Of course, Koh Phangan is perhaps best known for its legendary Full Moon Party, which draws up to 30,000 visitors from around the world each month. If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, it’s best to avoid the Haad Rin area during this time. There are also other cool, smaller events such as the Waterfall Party in the jungle and the Eden Party at dreamy Haad Yuan beach.
Ang Thong National park and scuba diving
If you’re up for an adventure, consider a day trip to Ang Thong National Park, a stunning collection of 42 islands and islets that offer plenty of highlights to explore. Snorkeling and diving are also popular activities around Koh Phangan, with breathtaking coral reefs and underwater scenery to discover. Nice spots for snorkeling can be found at Koh Ma, Haad Tien, Haad Yao, Haad Salad, and Secret Beach. Sail Rock, also known as “Hin Bai,” is a top diving spot that offers some of the most spectacular underwater scenery. Chaloklum Diving, a PADI-certified diving school, has been offering SCUBA diving, snorkeling, and courses on Koh Phangan for 25 years and is a popular choice among visitors.
