Which island to choose for a holiday in Thailand. Koh Samet - proximity to Bangkok, delicious food. Koh Samui - Beach Tourist Paradise
In today's review, consider exotic Thailand. The islands that are located in this country have become very popular holiday destinations. In Thailand, very clean beaches with exotic nature and good conditions are waiting for you, so that your vacation will be remembered for a long time.
Thailand has a very well developed tourism infrastructure. Here, every vacationer will find entertainment and relaxation for himself, whether it's just a beach holiday, spa visits, various excursions or diving. The islands of Thailand for recreation, how to choose your own, read on.
On different islands in Thailand there can be different and completely opposite conditions for recreation. On some more resorts, where you can relax in silence and enjoy nature, on others, on the contrary, there are discos and parties until the morning, and some "specialize" in trade, that is, there are a lot of shops.
First, some general information about the country.
Thailand is located in the area with tropical climate. In summer, the average temperature here is around the mark of 31-32 degrees Celsius, the water heats up to 29 degrees. In winter, when it snows in Russia, Thailand is a little “cooler”, the ambient temperature is around 28-29 degrees, the water temperature is up to 26 degrees. It is best to relax in this country, starting from December and ending in April, in the spring the so-called “rainy season” begins there, when it can rain for days and even weeks without a break.
The question that may come up is the islands of Thailand for holidays, do I need a visa. For citizens Russian Federation who come to rest in Thailand for up to one month, or 30 days to be more precise, a visa is not required. If you are going, for example, to live on an island for more than 30 days, then you will need to get a Thai visa.
The cost of a vacation depends on many factors, such as the level of the hotel and the number of services included. The farther the hotel is from the sea or the ocean, the cheaper the cost of the holiday, of course. The most popular destinations are Phuket and Pattaya, the cost of a vacation for two adults lasting 10 days will cost an average of 120 thousand rubles if the hotels are three stars, and 180 thousand if four and five, respectively. When traveling independently, you can save an impressive part of the required money - up to 70 percent.
Islands of Thailand where to go?
Phuket
This is the most big Island country, which is located in the south of the country. As a rule, a lot of tourists come here who speak Russian. Accordingly, the attendants are also different, that "at the very least" can speak it.
Menu in local restaurants also in most cases written on our mother tongue. Although there are always a lot of tourists here, nature in terms of ecology is in very good condition. The beaches here are clean, outlandish plants grow everywhere, there are a lot of marine life. You can start visiting the island for a vacation in the month of November, inclusive until April.
Prices here for vacation stay at a fairly high level. Rest can be combined with shopping.
Suitable for family, youth and outdoor activities, depending on the resort areas.
Phuket island map
Koh Samui ( Samui
By popularity this island is in second place among vacationers. It is the third largest in the country.
On the island more interesting nature virtually untouched by human activity. All this is combined with a very good service and infrastructure.
Most suitable for vacationers who want to relax in peace and tranquility.
There are several more islands near Koh Samui, in total about two dozen, excursions are offered for vacationers both on Koh Samui itself and on nearest islands with various programs.
The island has very beautiful waterfalls which reach a length of more than 50 meters. Diving and snorkeling are very popular on this island.
Fewer shops than Phuket. Prices are also slightly lower than on the largest island. Koh Samui is especially suitable for a relaxing holiday and recreation with children.
Koh Samui on the map of Thailand:
Ko Lipe ( Koh lips)
If you are looking for the Islands of Thailand for a holiday, check out this little known island. Not a very large island, which is located in the very south of Thailand.
On a boat, you can swim to another country - Malaysia in just an hour.
It differs from other islands in its beaches, on which lies absolutely white sand.
The island prioritizes waste recycling, the most modern enterprises operate here, therefore it is considered the “cleanest” among all available places in the country for vacationers.
The island itself is part national park. Many of the islands that are part of the park are uninhabited. They can be visited by using one of the proposed excursions. The tour lasts all day. Such excursions can be bought even from the local population, but, of course, be very careful in choosing.
The advantage is that there are far fewer vacationers here than in Phuket and Koh Samui.
The island is located 52 kilometers from the nearest airport.
Mid range prices. Most suitable for family vacation or solitary.
Koh Lipe Thailand on the map
Phi Phi ( Phi Phi don)
This is not one island, but at once a whole group of islands, of which there are six in total. They are located in the area between Phuket and mainland countries.
The only way to get to the archipelago is by boat.
The road will take approximately two hours, at a cost of one ticket will cost from 500 to 1700 rubles.
Two islands from this archipelago are available for vacationers, they are called Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley.
The "main" island is Phi Phi Ley, these are two separate mountains, which are interconnected by a strip of land on which you can enjoy your vacation. The island is small - only 28 square kilometers.
In the "high" season, up to 5,000 people rest here, so think in advance whether it will be comfortable for you to relax in such conditions.
The island is located 40 kilometers from the airport.
Most of all, rest on this island is suitable for young people, as well as for lovers of outdoor activities and nightlife.
Phi Phi Thailand map
Koh Chang
In terms of area, it occupies the second position after Phuket. It is located in the east of the country in the Gulf of Thailand.
Considered the best for beach holiday. There are not many tourists on the island, but the infrastructure for visiting guests is very well developed. Local restaurants serve more than just food local cuisine but also European.
Hotels are the cheapest. Also, according to tourists, there are practically no drunk people and girls of easy virtue.
Holidays on the island are ideal for middle-aged and older people, as well as families with children. Shopping is less developed than on other islands.
From nearby airport The island is located at a distance of 40 kilometers.
Koh Chang island map:
Samet
This is the island that is closest to the mainland of Thailand, but the nearest airport is the farthest - 80 kilometers.
Despite the fact that it is not far from the mainland, there are not very many vacationers on the island. Nature here is untouched, almost 80% of the island is occupied by trees and plants of the rainforest.
Beaches sometimes act as a standard, that is, they strive for this level throughout the country. The island is located on the territory of the national park, which is protected by local laws. Especially the island is suitable for agritourism lovers, as well as people who are looking for environmentally friendly places.
The beaches of the island even have their own name - "Hat Sai Keo", "Ao Hin Khok" and "Ko Samet". There are even fewer vacationers on the southern part of this island; it is suitable for lovers of secluded relaxation. Even in the "high" season, you can find a secluded place here, which cannot be done on Koh Samui and even more so in Phuket.
It will also be an undoubted advantage that among all the islands of Thailand, here are the most low prices for holiday services.
Koh Samet island map:
Ko-Tao (Koh Tao)
The island is small, the size is only 7 by 3 square kilometers. Located near Koh Samui.
To get on it, you need to sail on a boat for about 65 kilometers. Before that, still overcome the same distance from the nearest airport. This is a minus of the island, but there is a plus in this.
Plus lies in the "not crowded" tourists, the relative cheapness of hotels.
Among the minuses, Russian-speaking travelers practically do not come here, power outages often occur, and not everywhere there is Internet.
Although, perhaps, these nuances, for someone on the contrary, will seem like a significant plus. This area is especially popular with divers and snorkellers. Here you don’t have to hire a special boat and sail hundreds of meters to see undersea world, all this is right there nearby, it is enough to sail a little from the beach.
There are practically no sights on the island, except for nature.
The island is also suitable for families.
Koh Tao island map
Phangan (Kho Phangan
If you are very fond of all kinds of parties, music until the morning and very carefully study the issue of the island of Thailand for recreation, this island will suit you 100%, as it is also called a "paradise for young people."
Koh Samui is located 8 kilometers from Koh Phangan. The island is removed from the mainland at a distance of 45 kilometers.
The island is quite large, with an area of 168 square kilometers, so not all of its parts have developed infrastructure. Most of the island is occupied by mountains and rocks, but this is also an advantage, here you can combine diving with relaxation.
Every month, the island hosts a world-famous party called the "Full Moon Party", which takes place on a beach called "Had Rin".
It is visited by up to 3 thousand people. It lasts three days, but the “warm-up” begins in a couple, three days, so in total almost a week.
Accommodation prices are in the middle range. From the nearest available airport 25 kilometers.
Koh Phangan island map
Tarutao (Ko Tarutao)
There are always a lot of tourists on the island, as the island has not only very beautiful and high waterfalls but also caves.
The water around the island is dirtier than the others, so this island is considered unsuitable for diving enthusiasts.
Another caveat, it is quite difficult to get here, you can only do it during the season, which starts in November and lasts until March.
There are practically no shops for shopping lovers.
Suitable, first of all, for those who like to retire.
Denis
Thailand has over a hundred islands. Most of them do not have any infrastructure and, therefore, are not suitable for recreation. Therefore, we would like to list thai islands most popular among tourists. Phuket and Samui are not included here. Since they are the most favorite among tourists, separate categories are organized for them.
Before we start talking about them, I would like to note the important fact that islands in thailand considered the most beautiful in the world. Still would! Where else can you find these luxurious beaches, white sand, azure sea, wild jungle and amazing nature!
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Phuket - active beach holidays
Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. Amazingly beautiful coastline with caves and coves. It's beautiful here, sometimes calm, sometimes not so much 🙂 . Phuket has a huge number of different housing, beach activities, SPA - resorts and centers, fish restaurants, cocktail bars and clubs. Phuket is naturally geared towards mass tourism. Independent travelers most often stop in Phuket for a few days in order to get to know the island and the Phanga National Park.
Phuket, Thailand. Photo credit: Randy Tan RnD.de.Portraits, Flickr
Koh Samui - a pleasant atmosphere and a comfortable beach holiday
Koh Samui is big picturesque island V . This island with countless coconut plantations is known to the world for its long white beaches. On Koh Samui, you can find comfortable cottages and ascetic bungalows, large "party" and small remote beaches, trendy SPA and simple massage on the beach, gourmet restaurants and cheap eateries with delicious Thai food. Boat trips to small islands, snorkeling and fishing are available everywhere on the island.
Koh Samui, Thailand. Photo credit: Stefan Heinrich, Flickr
Koh Chang - nice atmosphere and great fishing
Koh Chang is an island that has always been a favorite destination for backpackers. Huge selection bungalows, magnificent white beaches, hammocks, cocktails, beer and an absolutely relaxing atmosphere, what else does a backpacker, weary from long journeys, need to be happy? Over the past few years, quite a few luxurious hotels have been built on Koh Chang, which are mainly accommodated by “package” tourists, but according to backpackers, this fact has not yet affected their desire to spend their lazy days and weeks of island life here.
Koh Chang, Thailand. Photo credit: Panoramix999, Flickr
Koh Phangan - picturesque bays and beaches, full moon parties
Koh Phangan is famous primarily among lovers of beach parties, because it is Koh Phangan that is the birthplace of the largest South-East Asia Fool Moon Party (Full Moon Party). Many travelers, however, agree that Koh Phangan is one of the best islands in Thailand for a relaxing and lazy holiday. This is one of those few islands that, fortunately, mass tourism has not yet reached. Phangan has many picturesque bays and beaches, untouched nature and a relaxed friendly atmosphere.
Koh Phangan, Thailand. Photo credit: Fabio Achilli, Flickr
Koh Lanta - nature and local culture
Koh Lanta is a mixture of long wide beaches, tiny coves, mangrove forests, small islands and incredible local culture and cuisine. Koh Lanta is simpler and more democratic than its neighbors, the atmosphere here is calm and lazy, which attracts mainly "non-party" travelers to the island. The island has a lot of different housing for every taste and budget, and a well-developed tourist infrastructure.
Ko Lanta, Thailand. Photo credit: Kamil Ghais, Flickr
Phi Phi - magnificent beaches and bays, diving and snorkeling
The Phi Phi Islands are one of the most beautiful places andaman coast. Two tiny islands are interconnected by a narrow strip of land, on both sides of which snow-white sandy beaches stretch - this is Phi Phi Don, the largest island of the archipelago. Today, Phi Phi is a favorite destination for young backpackers around the world who have chosen these Beautiful places. And, of course, diving reigns on the islands, which is a favorite form of relaxation here after lying in a hammock doing nothing.
Phi Phi Islands, Thailand. Photo credit: Miami Love 1, Flickr
Koh Tao - great diving and snorkeling
Koh Tao - "turtle island", the smallest (of the "inhabited"). It is a favorite spot for beginners and experienced divers in this part of the world. Excellent visibility, an underwater world rich in coral and marine life, and excellent diving-oriented infrastructure make Koh Tao a reputation as a "dive island". Koh Tao is also a great place for snorkeling or just a lazy democratic beach holiday. There are quite a few budget bungalows and several hotels on the island, however, it is better to book accommodation in advance, especially during the diving season (from October to April).
Koh Tao, Thailand. Photo credit: alan duncan, Flickr
Koh Lipe - idyllic beaches and views
Thailand's southernmost and farthest island, Koh Lipe, was idyllicly calm until quite recently. But in recent years, there has been an active development of hotels on Koh Lipe, which naturally led to an increase in the number of tourists on the island (especially during the season). However, incredible atmosphere and white sandy beaches Koh Lipe has not gone away and the island is still one of the most beautiful and pleasant islands in Thailand.
Koh Lipe, Thailand. Photo credit: tlchua99, Flickr
Koh Samet - proximity to Bangkok, delicious food
Despite its small size, Koh Samet is one of the five most popular islands Thailand due to its proximity to Bangkok. Ko Samet is a popular weekend destination for Bangkok residents, which, by the way, is very beneficial for the quality of Thai food on the island, as restaurants are focused on the tastes of local residents and do not try to adapt the menu to the tastes of tourists. On the island you can find budget accommodation, good beaches, delicious food and inexpensive massage - ideal, for example, for a “couple of days” vacation before a long trip to Southeast Asia.
Candle Light Beach - Candlelight beach, Koh Samet. Thailand. Photo credit: Be&See, Flickr
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Alternate Islands
Koh Yao - gorgeous views, lazy relaxation
The islands of Ko Yao Yai and Ko Yao Noi are located in the incredible beauty of Ao Phanga Bay between Phuket and Krabi. The names Ko Yao Yai and Ko Yao Noi are translated from Thai as Big Long Island and Little Long Island respectively. Despite the fact that Noi is half the size of its large neighbor, it is on it that the tourist infrastructure of the islands is concentrated - hotels, cottages and bungalows. Kayaking, snorkeling and yoga are the main activities on the islands. Amazing beauty nature, a calm atmosphere and the lack of mass entertainment attract fans of a lazy beach holiday to the islands of Koh Yao.
Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi islands, Thailand. Photo credit: Angela Lobefaro, Flickr
Koh Mak - lazy beach vacation
The small island of Koh Mak is an ideal place for those who are looking for a quiet relaxing holiday in the backdrop of virgin nature. You will not find large hotels, noisy parties and nightclubs on the island of Koh Mak, but you will be pleased with the snow-white beaches, the quiet gentle waters of the bay and the calm, lazy atmosphere typical of such places.
Koh Mak island, Thailand. Photo credit: Erik Kronkalns, Flickr
Koh Jum (Ko Pu) - relaxed atmosphere
Jum Island (Ko Jum, whose second name is Pu - "crab") is located just 25 km from the coast. This little-known island compares favorably with its neighbors with a special relaxed atmosphere and the preserved traditional way of life of the locals. On the island you can find quite good options housing, in addition, there is electricity and the Internet (which is not typical for "not very touristy" islands). Fishing, diving, snorkeling, as well as exploring the island on a motorbike or bicycle are typical pastimes on the island. In the evening - a magnificent sunset overlooking Phi Phi and a delicious dinner ..
Koh Jum (Koh Pu), Thailand. Photo credit: Alain BKK, Flickr
Koh Bulon - the simple joys of island life
The island of Ko Bulon Le, located in the far south, is one of those places in Thailand that fans of eco-tourism adore. There are no hotels or entertainment on the island, and such a blessing of civilization as electricity is available for only a few hours a day. Holidays on the island of Boulogne Le are simple budget bungalows, snow-white beaches, beautiful tropical nature, friendly locals and authentic atmosphere"correct" island life 🙂
Ko Bulon Le (Thailand). Photo: Bulone Resort, Flickr
Ko Kut - a relaxing and comfortable stay
Ko Kut or Koh Kood is the most remote, sparsely populated by tourists and perhaps the most picturesque island. This mountainous island most of which is covered with impenetrable jungle boasts unrealistically beautiful beaches. There is very little entertainment on the island, but amazing beaches and a lazy atmosphere compensate for this “lack” in full ;-)…
Koh Kut island, Thailand. Photo credit: Ruggero La Rosa, Flickr
Koh Muk - democratic beach holiday
Ko Muk - small, very pleasant. The island is located between the islands of Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan. Unlike its neighbors, who were uninhabited before the construction of hotels on the islands, Koh Muk has a local community - a small Thai village. You can find pretty good accommodation on the island. different levels. In general, holidays on the island of Koh Muk are more budgetary, authentic and democratic than on neighboring islands, although in terms of picturesque beaches, it may be inferior to them.
Koh Muk, Thailand. Photo credit: Christine Wehrmeier | Photography, Flickr
Koh Phayam - deserted beaches and budget holidays
The rather small island of Ko Phayam is located on west coast Southern Thailand, near the border with Burma. Compared to most popular islands in Thailand, Koh Phayam is a laid back and lazy island. Beautiful deserted (so far) beaches, trips around the island on a motorbike and quite a large number of good, incl. budget housing attract fans of lazy rest to the island.
Ko Phayam, Thailand. Photo credit: Fabian Pitzer, Flickr
Koh Racha islands - calm atmosphere and snorkeling
Located close to south coast Phuket, two tiny twin islands of Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi are an absolutely idyllic getaway from a noisy neighbor. The landscapes of the Racha Islands are like pictures - emerald water, snow-white sand, mountains, palm trees .. The calm atmosphere of the islands and enchanting snorkeling along the coral reefs are the main trump cards of the Racha Islands.
Koh Racha islands, Thailand. Photo credit: Boots Almighty, Flickr
Koh Si Chang - authentic atmosphere
The island of Ko Si Chang (do not confuse with Koh Chang) is a little secret. Geographically, Ko Si Chang is located closest to Bangkok, but, nevertheless, remains one of the least visited islands in view of the underdeveloped tourism infrastructure. You can only get to the island local transport, accommodation offered - simple budget bungalows, wild beaches, only local food and no nightlife - the perfect destination for true adventure lovers 😉
View of Koh Si Chang. Thailand. Photo credit: Caitrin Griffin, Flickr
Koh Sukon - non-tourist south of Thailand
Ko Sukon Island in the province of Trat is one of the most popular island-to-island itineraries for travelers. A couple of days on Sukon Island will give you the opportunity to get to know the non-tourist side of Southern Thailand. The inhabitants of the island are very friendly and open. Cycling around the island, kayaking along the picturesque coast, delicious local food and authentic fishing with local fishermen are worth spending a couple of days on the island.
Koh Sukon island, Thailand. Photo credit: valentinatravaglio, Flickr
Almost wild islands
Koh Kradan - magnificent beach and coral reefs
Ko Kradan is one of the smallest and most isolated. The beach of the island, which stretches along the east coast and coral reefs, can be called the most picturesque in the region. The format of recreation on the island is "book - hammock - beach" with rare outings for snorkeling, fishing or kayaking along the coast to the small beaches of the island. There are only a few hotels of different levels on the island, there is no special infrastructure, restaurants and shops are only at hotels. Holidays on the island can be quite expensive, but no less enjoyable.
The islands of Thailand are very popular with tourists who escape from winter to summer in search of budget holiday in the tropics. Phuket, Samui, Phi Phi Le, Koh Chang, Koh Lipe, Koh Phra Thong and other islands are famous for their clean sandy beaches and clear turquoise water with lush palm trees. We present a list of the best for relaxation, beautiful and interesting islands Thailand.
Phuket is one of the main islands of Thailand, which is adored by Russian tourists (photo: @iaslan_28)
Phuket - noisy and family friendly
Phuket is located in the southern part of Thailand, and its name is translated from Malay as "mountain". It really looks like a mountain that rises from sea depths in addition, it is the largest and most popular tourist island in Thailand.
Here you can relax both on a budget and arrange a luxurious luxury vacation in a famous five-star hotel. Tourists love Phuket also for the variety of nightlife - there are a huge number of bars, discos, nightclubs, as well as restaurants and cafes for every budget.
Koh Samui - Beach Tourist Paradise
Koh Samui is the second largest island after Phuket and the second most popular among tourists. The main advantage of Koh Samui over the rest of the islands of Thailand is the combination of a developed tourist infrastructure with luxury hotels / restaurants and stunning natural beauties with picturesque bays, white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and beautiful waterfalls.
Phi Phi Le - the most cinematic
This Thai island owes its insane popularity to the film "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio, which was filmed in Maya Bay. The filming of the film was accompanied by scandals, and after the release of the film, 20th Century Fox was sued for violating the ecosystem of the island, which was dug up and significantly modified for a more heavenly image in the frame.
Many tourists, inspired by the tropical footage of the film, came here to see the paradise beach with their own eyes and ... were disappointed when they came across a different reality. However, Phi Phi Le remains one of the most beautiful and popular islands in Thailand, as you can easily see by looking at the photos.
Koh Pha Ngan (Phangan) - an island with a Full Moon Party
Tourists adore Koh Phangan for its idyllic tropical atmosphere with white sandy beaches and stunning untouched nature. It is here that the world-famous "Full Moon Party" or Full Moon Party is held, which takes place every month.
Full Moon Party Schedule 2018:
- January 2
- January 31
- 2nd of March
- March 31
- April 29
- May 30
- 27th of June
- July 29
- August, 26th
- September 24
- the 25th of October
- November 22
- December 22
Koh Lanta - with wide sandy beaches
Koh Lanta is one of the most beautiful islands Thailand. It is located just off the coast of Krabi, and its long coastline has about a dozen beaches, many of which are considered the best in the country. Ko Lanta - popular destinations for weddings.
Koh Chang - idyllic "Elephant Island"
Koh Chang is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, the third largest in Thailand. It owes its name ("Island of the Elephant") to its shape in the form of an elephant's head, which became its symbol. Unlike noisy Phuket or the magnificent Koh Samui Koh Chang is suitable for tourists seeking solitary recreation because the island is full of truly wild places no crowds of tourists. At the same time, the local "wildness" is reflected in the opportunities for leisure, which are not so many on Koh Chang.
Koh Samet - many-sided and diverse
The island takes its name from the Thai cajeput trees "samet", which grow here in abundance. Tourists love Samet very much, because it has everything you need for a quality and fun beach holiday: the endless expanse of the turquoise sea, crescents of bays with fine white sand, opportunities for activities water sports sports and vibrant nightlife.
Koh Tao (Tau) - for diving and inexpensive holidays
Koh Tao or "Turtle Island" is also called the island of divers and backpackers, that is, budget tourists who come to Thailand in search of an inexpensive vacation.
Koh Kood (Kut) - rocky jungle island
Kut is a large island, but it began to turn into a major tourist center in Thailand relatively recently. Previously, it was almost a virgin region, untouched by infrastructure. And until he turned into crazy Phuket or beloved Russian tourists Pattaya, many people go here in search of a secluded vacation surrounded by tropical jungles.
Ko Mak - calm and idyllic
A small tropical island in Thailand that cannot boast of developed infrastructure for tourists accustomed to comfort, but it has something to offer vacationers. Those who are looking for an idyllic pastime alone with nature come here: there are very beautiful sandy beaches with clear turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand and lush crowns of palm trees.
Koh Rang Yai - an island with a pearl farm
You may have heard that there is a famous old pearl farm somewhere in Thailand. So, it is located right here, on the island of Rang Yai, where you can also buy souvenirs from real sea pearls at good prices.
Koh Lipe - "Maldives of Thailand"
This island in southern Thailand is called the Thai Maldives, and for good reason. Until recently, it was a place almost untouched by development, but the popularity of Koh Lipe among tourists led to the fact that hotels quickly “grew” here, and entertainment appeared along with them. Despite the small size of the island, this is one of the centers of diving tourism in Thailand, for which vacationers from all over the world come here.
Koh Adang - reserved Thailand
Koh Adang Island is a paradise for contemplators and connoisseurs of dazzling tropical nature. He enters national park Tarutao, therefore, it must be borne in mind that you can only stay here in bungalows and campsites that do not harm the local ecosystem.
Koh Phra Thong - sandy beach paradise
Ko Phra Thong is part of the Mu Ko Ra-Ko Phra Thong National Park, so here you will find a minimum of infrastructure and a maximum of fascinating tropical nature with long sandy coastlines, turquoise waters and coral reefs.
Koh Sukorn - quiet and provincial
It's small and quiet island ideal for those who want to get away from tourist centers and crowded beaches and immerse yourself in the measured life of real Thailand with its locals, who are still more here than tourists, unlike others popular places Kingdoms.
Koh Moon Nork - for romance and meditation
The only private island resort in Thailand that can be reached within 3 hours from Bangkok. Couples come to this island with a snow-white coastline for a romantic retreat, as well as yoga and meditation practitioners away from noisy beaches and chain hotels. This is another island in Thailand that is popular as a wedding destination.
It is not surprising, but the question “which islands of Thailand to choose for vacation?” is still relevant, despite the fact that it would seem that a clear answer has long been given to it on the network:
- for a civilized beach holiday - Phuket
- the best island - Koh Samui
- for lovers of beauty and untouched nature- "Island" Krabi
But is it really so? We will try to answer this question based on our personal impressions received from each of the places described below.
It is likely that in many respects this is true, but we will allow ourselves to disagree with this. We agree with the first point, but only partly. Phuket is civilized - that's for sure, let's even say that it is too civilized and this is one of its disadvantages. There are not many tourists here, but a lot, with all the ensuing consequences - high prices, bustle, noise, local population you are not too happy, etc. We don’t know about you, but for us personally, flying across half the world in order to plunge from one city bustle into another is somehow not very good.
Well, to call the beaches of the island the best in Thailand can only be a stretch, there can’t be any talk of exotic beauty here. One of the most civilized and "tourism" - yes. originality and exotic beauty nature here does not shine anyway, and even mass tourism has done its dirty deed, practically burying it under its service. 
What else did mass tourism bring here - the notorious "Western values" and culture. The result of this was that the local population, for the most part, puts money at the forefront, in any case, does everything to "squeeze out the loot" to the maximum. Yes, a tourist in Phuket is a money bag that does not deserve any respect. And we ourselves are to blame for this. 
Excuse me, but such everyday rudeness, snobbery and lack of culture on the part of vacationers can hardly be found anywhere else in this country, unless Pattaya does not yield. But Phuket itself and its beaches are not so bad, however, everything about the island is in this section. 
Popular hotels in Phuket
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is many times better than the previous place. Going through the islands of Thailand, deciding where to go, it should be preferred over many others. It can be called a universal island, here everyone can find a rest to their liking - civilized and almost wild beaches, parties and deserted silence, urban civilization and rural wilderness, all this coexists here. 
As for nature, it is simply magnificent. Of course, not a bounty, but tropical exoticism is present here. Again, purity and transparency sea water not comparable to Phuket. You can tolerably snorkel and see some underwater beauty. However, you should not expect something supernatural from snorkeling on Koh Samui. More about beaches. 
Prices on the island are not the cheapest, but because. it is quite large, and the tourism business densely "occupied" only the northeast and East Coast, then in other areas they are more humane. There are many shops, including several supermarkets. In the latter, besides the fact that you can buy everything you need, you can also eat tasty and inexpensive. About the shops and markets of Koh Samui. 
Koh Samui Hotels
"Island" Krabi
No matter how regrettable and surprising it may sound to some, we will be forced to disappoint - Krabi is not an island, but one of the provinces of Thailand and it is located on the mainland. With untouched and exotic nature, there are also problems, to put it mildly, and the beaches are not very suitable for swimming - shallow, cloudy water. It is likely that when they talk about the luxurious nature of Krabi, they mean the numerous islands located nearby and belonging to the same province. 
They are the main objects of numerous one-day sightseeing tours, and most often their photographs are cited as proof of the beauties of Krabi. Almost all the islands are small and uninhabited, only a few have hotels, but not everyone can afford the prices of living in them. In general, everything here would not be too fun for independent budget travelers, if not for Koh Lanta.
Best hotels of Krabi
Koh Lanta
Strictly speaking, these are not one, but two islands - Ko Lanta Noi and Ko Lanta Yai. The first is inhabited exclusively by Thais and has absolutely no tourist infrastructure. The second is almost ideal for tourists looking for a relaxing holiday, clean sea, beautiful beaches and nature. But we note right away, for those who are interested sightseeing vacation and all sorts of sights, it’s not worth going here, this is not here. 
Well, lovers of a beach holiday in all its variants will like Lanta. It seems to us that the island is somewhat similar to Koh Samui, but at the same time much more calm, provincially cute and very cozy. Briefly review it the best beaches. 
Prices are not the lowest, but definitely lower than in neighboring Phuket and Krabi. There are no supermarkets, but there are many small shops and several large markets. With food, as in any part of Thailand, there are no problems. 
To some minus can be attributed a small number of private housing, rented for a long stay. But there are plenty of hotels - from bamboo bungalows to multi-star ones. The sea is clean, the water is clear, but it’s not necessary to take a mask with flippers here, there is no snorkeling, however, as in all of Krabi. 
Who cares about our budget for a month-long vacation in Phuket and Koh Lanta this year, you can. All information about Lanta - in.
Top hotels in Koh Lanta
Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi, thanks to active advertising from travel agencies, many associate almost with the Maldives. What can I say, the island is really beautiful and interesting, but it is clearly "overhyped" and overpopulated with tourists, including package tourists. Personally, we liked it, but we would hardly have stayed on it for more than 5-7 days, it was too crowded. 
By the way, there is an opinion that the island is very expensive to live in, both in terms of housing itself and in terms of food. We do not know, it seemed to us that there are different price categories. Of course, more expensive than in neighboring Koh Lanta, but not more expensive than in Phuket in Karon and definitely cheaper than in Lipa. 
Phi Phi Hotels
Koh Lipe island
Koh Lipe is one of the smallest tourist islands in Thailand, but at the same time one of the best, in any case, it was so not so long ago, it is painfully quickly gaining popularity. It is located within the boundaries of the Tarutao Marine Natural Park, which already says a lot. 
The size of Ko Lipe is not at all large, no larger than any of the Gili Islands in Indonesia (by the way, we highly recommend visiting them) and one hour is enough to get around its perimeter. But this does not mean at all that there is nothing to do there, lovers of beach holidays and nature have something to please themselves. 
There are enough hotels here, and since. the island is small, then from any of them, just a few steps to the sea. But, if you are going to this paradise, book your accommodation in advance via the Internet.
The sand on the beaches of Lipe (there are 4 in total) is coral and snow-white, which means that the water is very transparent, with beautiful turquoise and emerald hues, which is the best way to spend the whole day on them, from dawn to dusk. 
Well, fans of snorkeling will definitely not be bored here, a mask and fins are a must. Read more about Koh Lipe and how to get to it in this section. 
Once, while making a kayaking trip through the uninhabited islands of the reserve, among other pleasures, we got an unforgettable vivid impression of snorkeling in these waters. In our opinion, the underwater world here is one of the most beautiful in Thailand. 
As for nature - deserted beaches with white coral sand, crystal clear warm waters, coconut palms and Robinson's life in a tent, on uninhabited islands Yes, even with Friday. What else do you need for a paradise holiday? 
Best hotels of Koh Lipe
Koh Phangan island
For our taste, Koh Phangan is one of the best islands in Thailand. Not to say that it is big, but perhaps one of the most versatile, so to speak. Everything is here - beaches (many and very different, choose depending on preferences), elephant safaris, fishing on mountain rivers, temples, yoga centers and much more. 
And, of course, the famous FuLL Moon Party - one of the most grandiose beach parties in Asia, taking place every month on the night of the full moon. However, fans of such events will not get bored on other days of the month. A little more about Koh Phangan and its beaches can be
If you are looking for good beaches, clear sea and bounty landscapes, some dashing wind brought to Pattaya and you are full of despair, looking at the surrounding reality, do not be discouraged, you can still save your vacation - go to the island of Koh Koodlocated nearby. 
Of course, if you arrived by buying a tour, then everything is more difficult, because the money for the hotel has already been paid, but even in this case you can please yourself, at least a little - you can buy at least a two-day excursion, they are offered everywhere in Pattaya. Koh Kood is a tiny, quiet island with wonderful beaches and tropical nature. Travel business gradually "takes it in hand" and the island is not changing for the better, but we found it still like that. 
Of course, these are not all the islands of Thailand, but only the most popular ones. In addition to them, there are many others, no less interesting, beautiful and worthy of attention. For example, we really want to visit Koh Tau, we hope this little dream of ours will come true someday.
Hotels in Koh Kood
And finally, a calendar of cheap flights to Thailand, perhaps the best tool for finding tickets known to us.
