13 Best Beaches In Koh Phangan
Are you looking for the best beaches in Koh Phangan to party your shoes off, get a nice tan, and get some peaceful time away from the hustle and bustle of the city?
Digital nomad and travel expert Aisha Preece, will share all the best beaches you can chillout in Koh Phangan!
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about the best beaches, the best places to stay in Koh Phangan, all the best sights, and more!
If you’re wondering how to get to Koh Phangan, check out this guide.
Located in the southern tip of Thailand, Koh Phangan is one of the best islands for solo female travellers, and is surrounded by beautiful, clean beaches with rich flora and fauna. With over 30 beaches surrounding the island, there’s no better place to get your beach vacation checked for the year!
This island is widely known for its Full Moon Party, an all-night beach party at Hat Rin Beach. However, there is more to the island than parties. Its stunning landscape that comprises the beach and mountainous terrain offers an array of exciting activities and beautiful sceneries for all walks of life to enjoy.
Are you ready to find out more about the beaches in one of the most beautiful islands in the world? We know we are, so let’s get to it!
1. Haad Chao Pao
One of the best beaches on the west coast of Koh Phangan, this roughly 1 km long beach is known for its calm atmosphere and cheap accommodations. With plenty of shade onshore provided by palm trees and fine, white sand, this beach offers a tranquil escape for anyone who is looking to have a quiet holiday away.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: From Thong Sala pier, head towards Srithanu via the coastal road until you pass the Laem Son Lake. It takes about 20 minutes to arrive and you can rent a bike, a car or get on a taxi to get there.
Where to Stay:
Luxurious Stays:
Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort and Spa
This beautiful resort with local esthetics and classic Thai decor offers panoramic sea views that will surely take your breath away. It is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan.
Offering a range of activities like kayaking, canoeing, and a large pool, be sure to also try the Ayurvana Spa that features a relaxing menu of heavenly body massages and calming facials to melt the stress away!
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Zee Luxury Boutique Hotel
This luxurious hotel offers a modern take to Thai-inspired decor with amazing attention to detail. This hotel offers a wide range of amenities and a great pool that stretches along with the property so everyone gets a view of the pool!
They also have great, attentive staff that is ready to help with anything you may need during your stay.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Mid-Range Stays:
Zama Resort Koh Phangan
A favorite among traveling couples, this hotel is also suitable for families and solo trips alike. Located approximately 4 minutes from Thong Sala pier. With views of the ocean all around the resort, this resort also has 3 pools and massage services for a little me-time at the beach.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Angkana Hotel Bungalows
Koh Phangan is famous for its bungalows by the beach, and this one is one of the best there is in Haad Chao Pa. Each bungalow offers a sea view that you can just walk out to any time you want as well as great local food served at the restaurant on site.
Some activities you should check out while you’re there include the Thongsala Walking Street and if you’re up for a little foodie adventure, check out the Phantip Night Food Market located 6 minutes away from the residences.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
Budget-friendly Stays:
Phangan Cabana Resort
This resort is located along Ao Chao Phao, on the west of Koh Phangan’s shores. Offering stunning views of the sea and coral reefs, it has a beachfront restaurant that offers scrumptious Thai and Western food in addition to beautiful sunsets by the beach.
Go for a snorkel in the sea or enjoy some volleyball with some new friends by the beach, there’s an activity for everyone to enjoy at the resort.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
Nice Sea Resort
This resort offers beautiful bungalows that are located 1.3 km from Haad Chao Phao beach and a 30-minute drive to Haad Rin Beach where the popular Full Moon Party takes place.
This resort also offers a shuttle service for travelers who are looking to explore the nearby attractions as well as great massages and good Thai and European dishes served at the restaurant at the resort.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
2. Leela Beach
Located in the southeast of Koh Phangan, Leela beach is on the opposite side of Haad Rin beach where the Full Moon Party takes place. The beach itself generally does not have a lot of people except guests of resorts and locals.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the Lighthouse parties located at the small lighthouse over the wooden bridge in the eastern end for a local party experience at one of the best beaches of Koh Phangan.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: From Thong Sala pier, you can rent a bike, a car, or get on a taxi or collective bus for 25 minutes to Leela Beach.
Where to stay:
Luxurious Stays:
Melati Beach Resort and Spa
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this resort is the place for you. The Melati Beach Resort and Spa offers rooms with private pools as well as outdoor bathtubs accompanied by stunning views for some time alone.
With a modern take on Thai interior designs, this resort offers spacious rooms and gorgeous tropical views to wake up to every morning on your holiday to one of Koh Phangan’s best beaches.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
The Cabin Beach Resort
An industrial loft-themed resort, The Cabin Beach Resort offers beachfront views at the secluded Leela Beach as well as private pools in the villas for some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Located less than 1 km from Haad Rin Beach where Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party takes place, this resort also offers pick-up services from the nearby pier, the Haad Rin Pier located 1 km away.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Budget-friendly Stays:
Sarikantang Resort and Spa
Boasting a private beachfront and a large outdoor swimming pool, Sarikantang Resort is one of the best mid-range accommodations in Leela Beach. This resort is a 5 minutes walk to the Full Moon Party in Haad Rin, and transfers from the Haad Rin Pier can be requested at extra cost.
Be sure to try their fresh seafood barbeques available on request, and pamper yourselves with a traditional Thai massage and body wraps at the spa while you’re there!
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
3. Haad Khom
Located in the northern region of Koh Phangan island, this beach is often quiet and not too crowded. This beautiful beach boasts white soft sand and stunning blue waters; perfect for swimming or relaxing with a book by the beach.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: From Thong Sala, follow a small road to the right before the 7-Eleven and continue along the coast until you see a sign to the Coral bay Bungalows. Drive in and park. You can rent a scooter, or get a tuk-tuk or taxi to get there.
Where to stay:
Budget-friendly Stays:
Coconut Beach Bungalows
This idyllic place is a favorite among tourists for its remote location on the island which makes it peaceful. It also has great bars and restaurants in the nearby area along the beach and is only a 30-minutes walk to the closest amenities.
Coconut Beach Bungalows also offers bicycle rentals should you feel like going on an adventure to discover the nearby areas.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Silan Residence Koh Phangan
The Silan Residence is situated 200 m from Chaloklum Bay and offers a wide array of amenities such as a fitted kitchenette, a safety deposit box, and a microwave in every unit.
They also offer pool and seaside views with a fairly quiet atmosphere and good WiFi, perfect if you’re looking for somewhere to work remotely from! There are hammocks for you to relax in as well, or for a relaxing power nap by the beach.
4. Haad Yuan
Located just over two miles away from Haad Rin, the main party beach in Koh Phangan, Haad Yuan has comparatively much lesser crowds. This is because this beach is much harder and more challenging to access compared to the other beaches.
You can hike for two hours on a trail that takes you to the beach or get a quick boat trip! Keep in mind that there are weekly parties held on the beach every Saturday where it can get quite busy so be sure to plan properly before making your way there.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: The easiest way is by taking a taxi boat from the Haad Rin pier (between 200 and 300 Baht (USD 9) per person) or by foot.
Where to stay:
Luxurious Stays:
Pariya Haad Yuan Hotel
The first boutique hotel in Haad Yuan, this resort offers cozy bungalows located amid nature and various flora and fauna that surround the property with serenity.
Located only 10 minutes by boat to Haad Rin beach, this resort is sure to give you one of the most unique stay experiences in Thailand, especially when you’re at one of the best beaches in Koh Phangan.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Budget-friendly Stays:
Barcelona Resort
Perched on a little hill on Haad Yuan beach, Barcelona resort offers comfortable stays not far from Haad Rin beach. It is also located not far from the Than Sadet Waterfall National Park, a popular park in Koh Phangan.
While you’re there, be sure to get a massage session at the spa and check out the delicious local food at the resort and restaurants nearby.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
5. Haad Son
Popular with families, Haad Son otherwise known as Secret Beach is a relatively new beach developed just over a decade ago as a part of a larger resort situated on the coast. You can also find coral reefs as you take a short swim out into the waters.
This beach is relatively safe and is one of the top beaches in Koh Phangan to stay among travelers for its privacy and stunning views.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Rent a scooter, or take a taxi from Thong Sala’s main port to the Haad Son resort.
Where to stay:
Haad Son Resort
Offering a wide array of furnished villas and rooms with contemporary Thai designs, the Haad Son Resort offers a pleasant stay that is sure to keep you comfy and relaxed on your holiday by the beach.
While you’re there, enjoy rejuvenating massages and spa days at the resort and a refreshing cocktail now and then by the pool during your stay. If you’re feeling adventurous, get in touch with the front desk for some recommendations for activities you can do around the town.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
6. Mae Haad
This sandy and wide beach is connected to an island that is home to a national nature reserve and a marine park called Koh Ma. Koh Ma can be reached by foot via a narrow strip of land from Mae Haad.
This beach may not be the most popular beach on the island but it’s still worth visiting as you will have a chance to explore the local villages and go snorkeling in the crystal clear waters to your heart’s content.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Get on a ferry and head towards the Mae Haad pier. From there, you can rent a scooter or get a taxi to get around.
Where to stay:
Luxurious Stays:
Koh Ma Beach Resort
Koh Ma Beach Resort is located a stone’s throw away from Mae Haad beach and offers stunning beachfront stays for a relaxing holiday with a view.
It also has an open-air restaurant with some of the best Thai food you can find on the beach as well as a spa and a large pool to chill by with a cocktail in hand. The resort also offers transfers and day tours upon request for an additional charge.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Maehaad Bay Resort
Strategically located along Mae Haad beach, the Maehaad Resort offers stunning sea views and beautifully landscaped gardens for some time away from the city.
Located 12 km away from the Thong Sala Pier, it is located nearby the local attractions but without the bustling of the crowds which makes for a perfect getaway for you and your loved ones on one of the best beaches to stay in Koh Phangan.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Budget-friendly Stays:
Phangan Utopia Resort
Located on a hill at Haad Thong Lan Bay, this resort has an outdoor pool and rooms that come equipped with a balcony or little bathtubs facing the sea for you to soak in while you enjoy the views.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, be sure to check with the front desk about some of the activities they offer such as canoeing, cycling, and fishing with the local guides.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes
Wang Sai Resort
If you have an eye for aesthetics and interior design, this resort at one of the top beaches in Koh Phangan might tickle your fancy with its modern Thai interiors and colors.
This hotel is a 10-minutes walk to the Wangsai Waterfalls and a 1-minute walk to Mae Haad beach. Besides its stunning decor and ambiance, the resort also offers massages by the beach and a trip to local attractions can be arranged with the on-site tour desk at the hotel.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
7. Haad Yao
Haad Yao is a popular beach in Koh Phangan thanks to the live coral reef that you can find just beyond the shoreline, which makes it a famous snorkeling and diving spot in Thailand. In addition to this, it’s also well-known for its beautiful sunset in the evenings.
This impressive beach also has all kinds of amenities provided along the beach including great restaurants, souvenir shops, massage parlors, and some of the best beach bars in Koh Phangan, perfect if you’re planning for a longer stay and having a drink or two at sunset!
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Rent a scooter or take a taxi from the Thong Sala pier and travel 15 minutes towards Haad Yao beach.
Where to stay:
Luxurious Stays:
Mayara Pool Villas
This 4-star hotel is one the most beautiful resorts by the Haad Yao beach and offers views of the pool, the garden, and the beach from the patios in each room, so there are many options for you to choose from to suit your vacation vibe.
Minimalistic and stunning, Mayara Pool Villas is guaranteed to give you a great time in Koh Phangan with their perfect views, great hosts, convenient nearby amenities, and for some rooms, a private pool to enjoy the views from too!
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes
Mid-Range Stays:
Sun Moon Star Resort Koh Phangan
If you’re looking for a change of scenery while you’re in Koh Phangan, check out Sun Moon Star Resort for some of the nicest villas in Koh Phangan with garden views.
A fan favorite among solo travelers, this hotel offers basic amenities and transfers upon request with an additional charge. The food here is also highly recommended so be sure to try them out when you’re there!
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Baan Kiao Resort
Baan Kiao Resort is located on Haad Yao beach and is a great place to stay if you’re looking for somewhere comfortable, nice, and doesn’t burn your wallet when you’re in Koh Phangan.
The hotel provides various activities for you to try such as snorkeling, jungle trekking, and other exciting things to do while you’re there in addition to the stunning pool at the facility. The rooms also feature a balcony and lots of natural light for picture-perfect holiday poses.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
Budget-friendly Stays:
High Life Bungalow
These tropical wooden bungalows inspired by Thai and Balinese influences are stunning in their own accord. With steps leading to the beach, this residence is located on a little hill by the beach that offers great views to kill for.
Transfers, as well as activities, can be arranged for a price at the front desk. Its outdoor infinity pool also provides a great view while you sip on a cocktail and get a tan in on your trip!
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
8. Malibu Beach
Located in the village of Chalok Lam, Malibu Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Koh Phangan. This unique beachside area is special not only for its beautiful blue waters and striking white sand but also for the traditional villages that are situated on the beach.
In addition to this, you will also find unique, bright green trees that are round growing in the sand which is something you won’t find anywhere else. Because it is famous for snorkeling and sightseeing, the beach is usually packed with boats of different sizes.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: From the village, either with a scooter or with a taxi, take the small road going towards the sea that says “Malibu Beach”. Continue on that road until you see a sign that says Malibu Beach Bungalows with a big parking area nearby. Park there and enjoy!
Where to stay:
Luxurious Stays:
Chaloklum Bay View Villa
This luxurious villa can host up to 8 people and overlooks the tranquil blue waters of Malibu Beach. This villa has 4 rooms and 3 bathrooms equipped with a hot tub as well as an outdoor swimming pool, perfect for families and children!
You can also get car rental services at the residence if you’d like to go for a drive into the town or check out the local sights in Chaloklum.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Namreka Sanctuary Wellness Resort
This beautiful travel sustainable property is the best place for anyone looking for some zen and cosmic love at one of the best hotels in Koh Phangan. This unique resort offers a private beach area, a shared lounge as well as a terrace for each room.
Its unique and quirky decor in the rooms and around the property is sure to fascinate you and keep you staying longer especially when accompanied by stunning views the resort has to offer.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
Mid-Range Stays:
Padel Phangan Suites
If you think your pet needs a holiday too, this beachfront hotel is for you. It offers great amenities like an outdoor pool and a fitness center in addition to winning plus points for being pet-friendly too!
The Padel Phangan Suite also offers a private beach area and various activities to do such as snorkeling, fishing, and cycling which can be arranged at the front desk at your convenience.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
Budget-friendly Stays:
Malibu Beach Bungalows
This accommodation offers picturesque views from bungalows by the beach with big balconies. Sounds great right? It also has an outdoor pool and hot tubs as well as a spa to massage your troubles away while you’re there.
Located just an hour away from Koh Samui, the Malibu Beach Bungalows is the perfect place to enjoy your holiday – not too near or too far away from the party.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
9. Haad Rin Nok
Every once a month, during the full moon, Haad Rin becomes the busiest place in Koh Phangan due to the influx of thousands of tourists for the Full Moon Party. During a Full Moon Party, get ready for lots of dancing, drinking, and all-night music that goes all the way to the next day.
However, the rest of the month, Haad Rin is relatively quiet with the most happening activities being tourists on jet ski rentals, girls and boys getting a tan, and people swimming in the waters.
Pretty laid back, huh?
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Rent a scooter or hire a tuk-tuk and ride 30 minutes towards Haad Rin Beach from Thong Sala Pier.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Stays:
Phangan Bayshore Resort
Located within walking distance from Haad Rin beach, Phangan Bayshore Resort features an outdoor pool and private balconies in each of their specially designed rooms. Boasting a beachfront as long as 80m, guests can also enjoy kayaking or a game of volleyball while they’re there.
Another specialty here is the freshly brewed coffee from their plantation that is served at their in-house restaurant, Bayshore restaurant.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Palita Lodge
This family-run lodge is located 1km from the Haad Rin Pier and offers a wide array of activities to do at the hotel. Some of the activities include island boat trips, snorkeling, and diving tours which can be arranged by the hotel for you at your convenience
This lodge is recommended for its comfortable and spacious rooms as well as the hospitable hosts that run the place. Be sure to explore the local sights too and take a dip in the blue waters when you’re there.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
10. Thong Nai Pan Noi
Thong Nai Pan is made up of two neighboring resorts, one of which is called Thong Nai Pan Noi which is the smallest of the two beaches. Despite having a fair amount of infrastructure on the beach, there are still very few crowds that visit this beach.
The small village along the beach still retains its traditional, vintage vibes so you can expect a more relaxed pace of life and a more chilled-out holiday at this beautiful and quiet beach in one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Rent a scooter or take a taxi from Thong Sala Pier, and head to Ban Tai village. Then, continue for 3.4 km towards Thong Nai Pan.
11. Thong Nai Pan Yai
The second half of the island is Thong Nai Pan Yai which is the bigger part of the two islands. Famous for its picturesque sunrises, this beach is perfect for travelers who are looking to have some quiet time on the beach but still be able to take a walk to the nearby natural attractions.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the waterfalls nearby or take a yoga class on the beach in addition to the great restaurants along the beach.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Rent a scooter or take a taxi from Thong Sala Pier, and head to Ban Tai village. Then, continue for 3.4 km towards Thong Nai Pan.
Where to stay:
Luxurious Stays:
PingChan Koh Phangan Beachfront Resort
This stunning beachfront resort is located along the Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach and offers private villas with an outdoor pool that overlooks the blue waters of the sea. With luxurious rooms and a view to kill for, this resort is sure to keep you relaxed throughout your stay.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Havana Beach Resort Phangan
Located along the Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach, Havana has great accommodation with 3 dining options and a swimming pool. Traditional Thai massages also await guests at the Havana Beach Resort Phangan in addition to the amazing Thai massage at the resort.
Great food is also offered at the hotel where you can find choices aplenty -Thai, Western, Indian are all found at the resort’s restaurants.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Mid-Range Budget Stays:
Thai Terrace Bungalow
This laid-back accommodation provides an experience like no other. A nice mix of comfort and natural beauty, these bungalows are one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan, with an addition – terraces where you can enjoy the sun in the day and for sunsets.
The amenities provided at the resort can also be helpful such as a cash machine and the onsite restaurants that serve some of the best food you can find.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Pen’s Bungalow
If you’re looking for simple, cozy rooms to have a great holiday at Thong Nai Pan Yai beach that is within budget, this is the place for you.
Bottle Beach is about 30-minutes away and Haad Rin beach is a 45-minute drive from Pen’s Bungalo. These furnished bungalows also offer a private balcony and massage treatments and laundry services for your convenience.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
12. Haad Salad
It can be hard to find a quiet beach with not many people in Koh Phangan but Haad Salad can be your best bet for a quiet atmosphere and natural beauty all at once. This gorgeous cove with white and sand and turquoise waters will be sure to sweep you away.
There are lots of great and cheap restaurants on the beach and you won’t be too far away from a local cooking school and one of the best yoga retreat centers on the island. Check them out if you have some time to spare!
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Head to the northwest part of the island of Koh Phangan towards the beach of Haad Salad. From the ferry terminal, get into a songthaew (a pickup truck with benches) or arrange for transportation from the accommodation you’ll be staying at.
Where to Stay
Luxurious Stay:
The Boathouse Villa
This luxurious villa overlooking the sea features a garden, a private pool, and a fully equipped kitchen in each room.
With its stunning views and beautiful rooms and an infinity pool that overlooks the beach, we guarantee you will have one of the best relaxing holidays when you head to Salad Beach in Koh Phangan.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
Mid-Range Stay:
Salad Buri Resort
The views at Salad beach are unbeatable, especially at the Salad Buri Resort where you can see great views of the cliffs and sea from the private balcony in your room or villa.
When you’re there, be sure to try out fresh seafood and Thai food served at the restaurant and have a sip of their signature cocktails at the Pool Bar.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : No
13. Haad Khuat
One of the least accessible beaches on the island, Haad Khuat, otherwise known as Bottle Beach is also one of the best beaches in Koh Phangan. You can head there using a longtail boat from Chalok Lam or hike for approximately 3 hours to get to Bottle Beach.
Bottle Beach’s name comes from the plastic bottles that serve as a hiking marker for the route leading to the beach. The beach is normally quiet as few people come here compared to the other beaches.
Location: Google Maps
How to get there: Get a local boat from Chalok Lam beach to Bottle Beach. Optionally, hike for 3 hours from Haad Khom Beach.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Stays:
Bottle Beach 1 Resort
This resort is made of comfy bungalows with views to kill for at an affordable budget, perfect for a long stay by the beach. The resort also offers an array of activities such as fishing, diving, and snorkeling that can be organized by the front desk.
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
Bottle Beach 2 Bungalows
Located strategically on Bottle Beach, this accommodation features various amenities such as a bar, restaurant, and a private beach area that is safe and quiet at one of Koh Phangan’s best beaches.
Some of the activities available at the hotel are billiards and hiking, a famous activity at Bottle Beach so be sure to join in the fun and meet some new friends while you’re there!
Location: Google Maps
Is an airport shuttle available? : Yes, upon request.
How To Get Around In Koh Phangan?
Now that we know which beaches to go to and where to stay, it’s time to address the million-dollar question – how to get around the island without being lost or stranded anywhere you’re not familiar with?
Surprisingly, it’s quite simple to get around Koh Phangan island without having to break the bank or get lost.
One of the best ways to explore the island is with scooters, which start at around 150 Baht (USD 4.50) per day to go on your wild adventures to the best beaches in Koh Phangan. Make sure to check the condition of the scooter and have your documents ready before renting.
Most hotels or accommodations would be able to help you find scooters for hire but we highly suggest asking the hotel beforehand so that you’re not overcharged when you arrive on the island for your trip.
Another option you can consider is by using tuk-tuks to get around the island – a popular option but can add up as you go as you will be paying for each trip as opposed to paying a one-off payment for the day.
See if you can find tuk-tuks that are available for a full-day rental. This way, you can save more time and money as you won’t have to flag down a tuk-tuk everywhere you go and pay for each trip.
If you’re short on time or prefer organized trips, consider going on tours to maximize your trip and the sights you want to see. This way, you can book your activities ahead and plan your holidays more effectively. Be sure to check out Viator for exciting tour deals in Koh Phangan.
What Is The Best Beach In Koh Phangan?
If you’re heading to Koh Phangan but not sure where to start, let us help you! We’ve highlighted some of the best of the best beaches in Koh Phangan for anything specific you may be looking for, be it for a party, sunsets, or many others.
Best Beach in Koh Phangan for sunsets: Haad Yao Beach
A postcard view of one of Thailand’s best sunsets can be found in Haad Yao, where you will find a mix of open spaces and local development but not without the stunning waters that frame the sun when it sets.
If you’re looking to enjoy some drinks while the sun goes down, head to Haad Yao on Wednesdays where all the expats gather for a night out with house music and booze under the moonlit sky and tiki torches lighting up the beach.
Best Beach in Koh Phangan for snorkeling: Koh Ma Island
One of the best places in Koh Phangan for snorkeling is in Koh Ma island where it connects to the Mae Haad beach. This location is quite secluded and has lesser crowds compared to the other locations on the island for snorkeling.
The best spot for snorkeling is on the side of the island at high tide for clearer visibility. You are also less likely to injure yourself against the corals in the water at high tide so make sure to plan accordingly before you go.
Best Beach in Koh Phangan for parties: Haad Rin Nok
Undoubtedly Haad Rin Nok takes the spot for the best beach in Koh Phangan for parties as it is most famous for its Full Moon Party that takes place on the night of, before, or after each full moon of the month.
It is not recommended that you head to this beach a few days before or after these parties as the beach gets crowded and dirty. However, do check it out outside of this period as it is one of the few beaches in Koh Phangan that has waves.
Best Beach in Koh Phangan for families: Malibu Beach
Perfect for families with young children, Malibu Beach is one of the best beaches for families to experience in Koh Phangan. Clear waters and shady palm trees at this beach is the perfect picture for a laid-back family holiday with the kids.
Its soft, white sand and stunning turquoise waters are a sight to behold and perfect for children as the waters are quite shallow on one end of the beach and for adults, there’s a deeper side too where you can swim and chill.
Which Beach Hosts The Full Moon Party In Koh Phangan?
The Full Moon Party is an all-night beach party held every month during, before, or after the full moon. This party has gained fame through word of mouth over the years since its inception in 1983 and now draws approximately 5,000 to 30,000 people every evening with a full moon.
Different types of music can be heard all night on Sunrise Beach of Haad Rin ranging from reggae to R&B, house as well as psychedelic trance music.
Safety Considerations
While it’s not unusual to find lots of alcohol during these parties, drugs are not uncommon too. Despite being consumed by many partygoers, there are strict laws in Thailand that are against drug use and distribution.
Oftentimes, police go undercover to enforce these laws at Full Moon Parties, and sometimes, even the dealers themselves may report users or buyers to the police. Break-ins at bungalows and hotels by the beach during this time are a common occurrence as well.
In recent years, reports of harassment have also been reported during these parties so if you’re traveling alone, especially if you’re a woman, be sure to take extra precautions when traveling to Haad Rin for the Full Moon Party.
Where To Stay For The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan?
There are many hotels and accommodations for all sorts of budgets catered to tourists in Koh Phangan. However, if you’re planning to head to the Full Moon Party, be sure to find a place nearby to avoid getting lost after a long night out partying.
As hotels get booked fast, we suggest staying closer to the southern part of the island such as Leela Beach or in Haad Yuan, and book them early too! It would be best to book your accommodation 3 to 5 days before your trip to ensure that you get yourself a nice, safe, and clean place to stay for your trip.
Note that the closer you get to the date of the party, the more expensive the rooms become so make sure to make all your arrangements ahead of time to avoid stressing out on a great beach holiday in one of the top beaches in Koh Phangan.
Is The Full Moon Party In Koh Phangan Free?
It is not, but it isn’t too expensive either. Due to the mess that tourists leave after each party, the locals have implemented a 100 Baht (USD 3) entry fee to get access to the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan.
Some other extra costs you should take into consideration when planning your budget for the party include:
Food: A Thai meal would cost about 70 (USD 2,40) to 90 Baht (USD 2.70) whereas a European or American meal can cost up to or more than 200 Baht (USD 6).
Alcohol: Beers bought at the bar can cost somewhere around 100 (USD 3) to 120 Baht (USD 3.60) and cocktails at 150 (USD 4) to 200 Baht (USD 6). A bucket of beer can come to about 150 (USD 4) to 300 Baht (USD 9).
What Other Activities Can You Do In Koh Phangan?
There is more to the island than just parties and beaches. When you’re there, be sure to explore some of the other attractions that this beautiful island has to offer, we’re sure there’s something for everyone!
1. Thong Sala Night Market (Panthip Market)
If you love food, you will love this night market in Koh Phangan! The perfect place to find traditional and authentic Thai cuisines and snacks, this night market will be sure to feed your appetite and a lot more.
The seafood dishes at this night market also come highly recommended for their freshness and how tasty they all are! It is open from 4 pm to late at night every Saturday.
Location: Google Maps
2. Koh Phangan Waterfalls
Besides stunning beaches and crazy parties, the island is also home to 7 beautiful waterfalls which are some of Koh Phangan’s best attractions.
Some accessible waterfalls you can explore are Paradise Waterfall which is quite close to Chaloklum Bay as well as Than Prawet Waterfall and Than Sadet Waterfall, both located close to Thong Nai Pan Beach.
3. Challenge Phangan
This one is for the adventure junkies reading this article right now. Or anyone who’s looking to do something different while they’re on the island – check this thrilling activity out!
Challenge Phangan is an epic, heart-pumping water obstacle course that comprises various activities like zip lines, monkey bars, balance beams, swinging shapes, and the infamous big red balls. There’s something for every fitness level so be sure to check them out while you’re there.
Location: Google Maps
Cost: 500 Baht (USD 16)
4. Hike Khao Ra
Located in the middle part of northern Koh Phangan, Khao Ra is the highest peak of the island at 627 meters above sea level. It’s a refreshing change of scenery from the blue waters and is a really enjoyable activity to try while you’re there.
The hike takes about 3 hours in total going up and coming down and is easy to hike in terms of orientation and difficulty. Begin at Khao Ra retreat and make your way following the marked path along the way. Remember to bring lots of water with you as well!
5. Diving in Sail Rock
Known as the best diving site in Thailand, Sail Rock is located in between Koh Phangan and its sister island, Koh Tao and the best time to go is from April to October.
Approximately 1 hour by boat from the island, this diving spot doesn’t disappoint. Be ready to see majestic sea creatures like whale sharks and manta rays as well as occasional turtle sightings in addition to other beautiful marine creatures.
Price: 1,200 Baht (USD 36) to 3,000 Baht (USD 92) depending on how many dives you want to do and location. Tours are available here.
Conclusion
We hope we’ve helped you find the best beaches in Koh Phangan for your next holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city to this beautiful island in the south of Thailand.
We’d suggest you spend some extra time on the island and explore all these top beaches and the local sights while you’re there. If you’re heading to a Full Moon Party, remember to be safe and keep your belongings with you at all times, and always keep your drinks close!
We hope this guide helps you find out more about some of the things to do and explore that the beaches of Koh Phangan have to offer for your next holiday in the sun!
