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Summer Escape With Top 9 Islands in Thailand!
February 28, 2024
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Ready, go! Enjoy an extended 5-day Songkran break; prepare tickets and swimsuits! Today, we're escaping to beautiful islands. Capture stunning photos and check in at the 9 trendiest islands. Don’t miss it!



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1. Koh Mun Nork

Cannot ignore the breathtaking beauty of Koh Mun Nork. Located in the province of Rayong, this small private island is just a 3-hour drive from Bangkok. Here, you can enjoy the pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The best part? It's quiet and secluded, making it a perfect private getaway. The accommodations are incredibly chill, ideal for those seeking relaxation. Sit back, relax, and watch the sunset; listen to the gentle waves lapping against the shore in serene tranquility.

How to get there:

  • Car: 3 hours drive from Bangkok to Laem Tan Pier. Board the boat before 1:00 PM, and it takes about 45 minutes to reach Koh Man Nok.
  • Public transportation: Take a minibus from Ekkamai Bus Terminal to Klaeng District, Rayong (3 hours). Then, get a taxi to Laem Tan Pier for approximately 250-300 Baht. Board the boat before 1:00 PM, and it takes about 45 minutes to reach the island.

Boat Schedule:

One round per day
Laem Tan Pier to Koh Man Nok: Departure at 1:00 PM.
Koh Man Nok to Laem Tan Pier: Departure at 3:00 PM.

Photo credits: https://pantip.com/topic/38599852 

 

2. Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is located in Koh Sarai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Satun Province, renowned for its powdery white sandy beaches and crystal-clear azure waters. It boasts a total of four beaches: Pattaya Beach, Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, and Karma Beach, with Pattaya Beach being widely acclaimed as the most beautiful.

How to get there:

  • Plane: Land at Hat Yai Airport, take Exit 7 or 8, then board a minibus to Pak Bara Pier.
  • Car: Park at Pak Bara Airport with a parking fee of 100 Baht, then take a boat to Koh Lipe.
  • Public transportation: Alight at the Amphoe La-ngu bus stop in Satun Province, then take a two-row minibus or a van to Pak Bara Pier. Alternatively, you can take a van, and the journey takes about 15-20 minutes to reach Pak Bara Pier.

Schedule from the Airport to Pak Bara Pier:

07:00 AM / 08:30 AM / 09:30 AM / 11:00 AM / 01:00 PM

Boat Schedule to Koh Lipe:

4 Rounds per day : 09:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 01:30 PM, and 03:30 PM. The journey takes approximately 1.5-2 hours.

3. Koh Tao (Turtle Island)

Koh Tao is situated 45 kilometers away from Koh Phangan. For those who have had their fill of lively parties in bustling Phangan and yearn for a peaceful retreat, Koh Tao is the perfect destination. With its beautiful beach and the unique coral reefs that define the island, Koh Tao is a popular choice among both Thai and international tourists who flock to enjoy its serene atmosphere throughout the year. Additionally, visitors indulge in activities such as snorkeling to witness the coral reefs and capture picturesque views of Koh Tao.

How to get there:

  • Plane: Fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani Airport or Koh Samui Airport.
  • Bus: Take a tour bus from Khao San Road, Bang Lamphu, Bangkok. The journey takes about 7-9 hours to reach the ferry terminal in Chumphon Province. From there, take a ferry from Chumphon to Turtle Island (referencing the pier at Ao Mae Haad). The ferry journey takes approximately 1.5 - 2.5 hours.
  • Train: From Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station, take a train to Chumphon Station. Proceed to the Thung Makham Noi Pier or the Lamphaya Pier to board the ferry crossing to Koh Tao.

Photo credits: https://bangkokattractions.com/

 

4. Koh Kham

When it comes to seeking a tranquil getaway with beautiful beaches near Bangkok, look no further than Chonburi. In addition to the well-known Koh Larn, Koh Kham is equally stunning, boasting white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located only in Sattahip, the journey from Bangkok takes just around 2 hours. Koh Kham is a peaceful island, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a serene environment without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.

How to get there:

  • Car: Drive from Bangkok to the Khao Ma Jor Pier, you can park at the Natural Marine and Coastal Resources Museum and the Royal Thai Navy's Construction and Development Base. The parking fee is 20 Baht per car.
  • Minibus: Take the minibus from Bangkok to Sattahip at Ekkamai Bus Terminal. Inform the driver to drop you off at 6 or 10 Kilometer from there, take a motorcycle or taxi to the Khao Ma Jor Pier to take a boat to Koh Kham.
  • Train: Take the train from Bangkok to Sattahip, Ban Plu Ta Luang station, Chonburi. The ticket price is 170 Baht, and it takes about 3 hours to the destination.

Boat Schedule:

Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays:

  • Khao Ma Jor Pier to Koh Kham: 09:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM
  • Koh Kham to Khao Ma Jor Pier: 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM, 03:00 PM, 04:00 PM

Weekdays:

  • Khao Ma Jor Pier to Koh Kham: 09:00 AM, 11:00 AM
  • Koh Kham to Khao Ma Jor Pier: 01:00 PM, 03:00 PM

Photo credits: https://thai.tourismthailand.org/  

 

5. Koh Kood

For those who have been to Koh Kood, it's easy to fall in love and want to go back again and again. Koh Kood is the second-largest island from Koh Chang, located in the Trat province. The island boasts beautiful beaches with clear greenish waters, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, there are plenty of water activities to enjoy. If you love stunning seascapes and prefer a tranquil retreat, Koh Kood is undoubtedly a must-visit destination.

How to get there:

  • Bus: Take a bus from Ekkamai or Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Trat Bus Terminal and transfer to a boat to Koh Kood.
  • Car: Drive from Bangkok, and it takes around 4 hours to reach Laem Sok Pier. Can park your car at the pier.
  • Plane: Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport, it takes about 1 hour. Then, take a taxi to Laem Ngop Pier.

Boat Schedule:

Round Trip:

  • Laem Sork Pier to Koh Kood: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
  • Koh Kood to Laem Sork Pier: 09:00 AM - 01:50 PM

 

6. Koh Phangan

Party enthusiasts, this place is for you! If you love party beaches with a laid-back vibe, you must go to Koh Phangan. The island is renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, offering a lively atmosphere, especially during the famous Full Moon Party – a globally renowned event. This monthly beach party is a must-attend for those who enjoy the vibrant seaside scene. To ensure a spot, be sure to book your flight and accommodation well in advance to avoid missing out on this unforgettable experience.

How to get there:

  • Car: Drive from Bangkok to Thung makham noi Pier in Koh Phangan. If you prefer to bring your car across, there is a ferry crossing fee of 420 Baht.
  • Bus: Take a bus of Lomprayah at Khaosan Road. There are two departures from Bangkok at 06:00 AM and 09:00 PM. The bus will take you to Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan after crossing the ferry.
  • Plane: Fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani Airport or Koh Samui Airport. From there, you can take a shuttle bus to Koh Phangan Pier. Shuttle bus are available at 09:30 AM and 12:30 PM, ticket price is around 800 Baht. Alternatively, you can take a minibus from the airport to Don Sak Pier or Seatran Pier and ticket price is around 700 Baht.

Ferry Schedule - Round Trip

Don Sak Pier - Koh Phangan:

  • Departures: 6:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM

Koh Phangan - Don Sak Pier:

  • Departures: 6:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM
     

Photo credits - https://thai.tourismthailand.org/     

 

7. Koh Mak

When talking about Koh Kood, one must not forget Koh Mak. Situated between Koh Chang and Koh Kood, Koh Mak is a tranquil island that feels like having a private beach. Besides its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sandy beaches, Koh Mak is an island with no entertainment venues – only fruit orchards and rubber plantations, maintaining its original charm. It is expected to appeal to those seeking a slow-paced, peaceful getaway. If you're looking for a serene and laid-back experience, Koh Mak is the place to be!

How to get there:

  • Car: From Bangkok, head to Laem Ngop Pier. Koh Mak is not allowed to bring a car, so you need to park your car at the pier for 50 Baht per day.
  • Bus: Take a bus from Ekkamai Bus Terminal to Trat Bus Terminal. Then, hire a taxi at around 400 Baht to Laem Ngop Pier.
  • Plane: Fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport, takes about 1 hour. Then, get a taxi to Laem Ngop Pier.

Photo credits https://thai.tourismthailand.org/

8. Similan Islands

The paradise for sea lovers, the Similan Islands, consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful seas. Located in Phang Nga, the Similan Islands have maintained their pristine beauty over the years. The Similan Islands feature coral reefs and beautifully arranged rocks; the crystal-clear blue waters and soft white sandy beaches are their signature. The Similan Islands also boast stunning and well-preserved coral reefs. 

The Similan Islands will be open for visiting only from October 15, 2566, to May 15, 2567, and only for day trips. If you want to see the stunning sea at the Similan Islands, hurry up!

How to get there:

  • Car: Drive from Bangkok to Thap Lamu Pier in Phang Nga, you can park your car at the pier.
  • Plane: Fly from Bangkok to Phuket Airport. You can rent a car to drive to Thap Lamu Pier, or take an airport bus to Phuket town and then take a bus to Phang Nga province. Alternatively, you can hire a van for around 1,500 Baht or a car for around 1,200 Baht directly to Thap Lamu Pier.
  • Bus: Take a bus from Bangkok to Thap Lamu Pier. Then, board a speedboat to the Similan Islands. The ticket price is 1,000 Baht. Recommended to buy a tour package from various companies because the package includes snorkeling and meals.

9. Phi Phi Islands

If you visit Krabi and skip the Phi Phi Islands, you've missed out! With its breathtaking beauty and convenience, the Phi Phi Islands are a top destination for both Thai and international tourists. The large-sized island is renowned for its emerald green sea and pristine white sandy beaches. It's perfect for water activities and water sports. Those who love snorkeling should definitely consider visiting, as the Phi Phi Islands are so beautiful and have diverse underwater ecosystems.

How to get there:

  • Plane: Fly from Bangkok to Krabi Airport. Then, take a shuttle bus to Klong Jilad Pier for 90 Baht or take a taxi.
  • Car: Drive from Bangkok to Klong Jilad Pier. You can park your car at the pier for 50 Baht per day.
  • Bus: Take a bus from the Southern New Bus Terminal (Borommaratchachonnani Road) to Krabi Bus Terminal. Then, take a red car taxi (Songthaew) or a taxi to Klong Jilad Pier to reach Phi Phi Islands. The journey from Klong Jilad Pier to Phi Phi Islands takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Ferry Schedule:

Round Trip

Klong Jilad Pier to Phi Phi Islands: 10:15 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:00 PM.
Phi Phi Islands to Klong Jilad Pier: 09:45 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM.

Photo credits: https://thai.tourismthailand.org/

 

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