Koh Phangan in Surat Thani

The nearest island to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan has earned a level of infamy over the years. Home to the now world-famous ‘Full Moon Parties’ (FMP) and its various off-shoots (Black Moon Parties, Half Moon Parties, etc.), Koh Phangan gained a reputation as a hedonist’s paradise of loud techno-music, dancing and raving in general. However, over recent years Thai authorities have made an effort to curb this aspect of the island’s activities, and although they still exist, they are more organized and more sanitized than in their heyday. Most parties take place on Hat Rin Beach and the FMP is still probably the biggest beach party on the planet. Aside from beaches like Hat Rin, Koh Phangan is not especially developed, and there are a host of quiet, secluded spots for you to enjoy. It has become a favorite haunt for visitors to Samui who often come over to Phangan to get away from the masses for a while. There is still plenty of activity on the island though; snorkeling is very popular, as are diving trips to Koh Ma and tours of the Angthong National Marine Park. Phangan is also home to Than Sadet National Park, a great venue for hikes and treks and visits to caves. There also countless beautiful waterfalls on the island, Nam Thok Tha Sadet, Nam Tok Phaeng, Nam Tok Than Prapat and Nam Thok Than Prawet of particular interest. Koh Phangan has changed, probably for the better. It’s no longer synonymous with less salubrious activity – although that does play a part in the island’s character. It is just a great place to visit if you can. Some people combine their trip with a meditation retreat to Wat Kaw Tam – well it’s that sort of place! You can even get your Chakra balanced!

Details: There is some budget accommodation on Koh Phangan but none of the big hotels you might be familiar with on other islands. The best time to visit this island is December to March. People often rent motorcycles to get around the island. Note: Do not take drugs on Koh Phagan or anywhere else in Thailand – you could end up with a long time available to write up your memoirs!

How to get there: Boats to Koh Phagan leave Na Thon pier on Koh Samui daily and the cost is 50 Baht for the 50 minute trip (60 Baht back).