The Best Islands in Thailand to Experience Heaven on Earth

A stunning archipelago in the Andaman Sea, the Similan Islands is the crown jewel of southern Thailand. One of the world’s most gorgeous diving destinations, travellers here can frolic about on idyllic white sand and explore verdant jungles. But the best thing to do here is uncovering the stunning marine life in the area, from observing adorable turtles to swimming around schools of parrotfish and tuna.  

If you’re holidaying at Phuket or Krabi, then a day trip or even an overnight stay at Phi Phi Islands worth your while. The islands are most known for being the setting of Leonardo Di Caprio’s The Beach. But don’t expect secluded beaches that you’ll enjoy all to yourself. These beautiful islands are well-trodden for a reason. And tourists flock here all the time. However, you will enjoy stunning lagoons, beautiful bays, and majestic limestone cliffs that will take your breath away.

With its coral reefs and picturesque palm trees, Koh Tao is a haven for the large number of turtles that call this island home. Koh Tao translates directly to Turtle Island, so you have a good chance of spotting shelled critters like nesting hawksbill and green turtles. A great way to explore this spot is to hop on a speedboat. Once the sun sets, the island takes on another life, transforming into a party place that offers some of Thailand’s best nightlife.

One of Phuket’s most famous islands, James Bond Island, became famous after 1974’s The Man with the Golden Gun. Limestone towers dominate the landscape, and beyond being a popular drop-off spot for tourists, the island is fabulous for canoeing, caving, or just going for a swim. We suggest spending a day here, so you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or check out Koh Panyee, a floating village in Phang Nga Bay.

Is it your first time in Thailand or island-hopping? Then Koh Samui is an ideal place to start, with its palm-fringed beaches, rugged hillside, and luxurious resorts, making it great for families or even honeymooners. Once you properly acquaint yourself with the island, cruise around the Ang Thong National Marine Park for a day trip on a speedboat. Spend your day kayaking, snorkelling, or just lazing the day away on the beach for a relaxing time.

Day-trippers from Koh Samui looking for something more tranquil should make a beeline for Koh Tan and Koh Mudsum. These islands, not yet on the mainstream tourist trail, offer a great escape from the mainland. The only way to reach Koh Tan is via boat. And this remote island is every beach bum’s dream made reality – secluded beaches superb for swimming and snorkelling, while Koh Mudsum is known for its coral reefs and wild pigs on the coast.

Hidden gems are increasingly difficult to find when island-hopping in Thailand, although Koh Rok is still undiscovered. For now, that is. Situated near Koh Lanta, the remote islands of Rok and Haa are incredible places to sit back, relax, and unwind as your soul reconnects with the beauty of nature. One of the best things to do here is swim with colourful tropical fish, meeting sea turtles and venturing around some of the most untouched islands in Thailand.

A car-free island that is one of the best diving and snorkelling spots in Thailand, Racha Island (also known as Raya Island) is only accessible by boat from Phuket. But coming here is cheap and easy. While the bays are busy with boats in the afternoon with tourists, the beaches are pristine, and the waters are crystal clear, so don’t worry about over-tourism yet. Beach bum to your heart’s content or navigate the deep blue on a snorkel, diving, or fishing tour.

Equidistant from Krabi and Phuket, the picturesque Koh Yao Islands varies wildly from more developed cousins like Koh Phi Phi. For instance, you find thriving nightlife, multiple restaurants, or overcrowded beaches here. One of the best ways to explore this secluded paradise is to head to Laem Had Beach, known for its white dunes. Other things you can do include visiting an underwater fish farm as part of the village communities.

With pure white sand, stunning blue waters, and all the peace you can’t get in neighbouring Phuket, Koh Hey (Coral Island) is untouched by over-tourism, making it the ideal island-hopping spot to add to your itinerary. Spend a day of fun in the sun with water activities like banana boating or just lazing about on the beach and feeling the gentle sea breeze caress your skin with a delicious coconut in hand