Koh Phangan lies in the Gulf of Thailand, with a lush interior ringed by white sandy beaches. It’s renowned for its full moon parties at the nightlife hub of Haad Rin, while a quieter family setting exists along the protected waters at Thong Nai Pan.

If you want to escape the crowds, jump aboard a long-tail boat to Haad Khuat on the northern coast of Koh Phangan. This secluded stretch of sand has a scattering of bungalows and restaurants, together with crystal-clear water for swimming.

Want a day away from the beaches? Travel inland to Phaeng National Park, where you can hike to the waterfall and Domesila Viewpoint and capture views towards Ko Samui from Wat Khao Tam.

For a local experience, visit the herbal sauna at Wat Pho within the Baan Tai temple complex. There are separate rooms for men and women to sweat it out, with the sauna at its hottest just after opening in the early afternoon.

Getting there

Ko Samui Airport is the closest to Koh Phangan, with daily ferries connecting the two islands. The best way to get around is by renting a motorbike or using local songthaew.