If you’ve made the choice to visit Thailand, the next task is to select the islands for your epic Thailand-hopping adventure.
We understand that this can be quite overwhelming because they all sound absolutely amazing right?! Well, allow us to help you with that – we’re here to make that decision-making process a whole lot easier for you.
This article will describe what each island offers in terms of activities and ambiance. We will offer some vital island-hopping tips and even give you an example island-hopping itinerary to work from.
By the end, we assure you that we’ll cover all the bases and address any questions you may have.
If you have never visited Thailand before, then learn more about one of our favorite countries in the world – 15 Thailand facts you need to know.
The Best Islands for Thailand Island Hopping
We spend a lot of our time on the Thai islands during our “breaks from travel”, and we consider Thailand as our home away from home – yes, we are aware of the large difference between Thailand and Ireland!
If tropical paradise islands are your cup of tea, then make sure you check out our other favourite group of islands – Indonesia’s Gili Islands.
The point being, we have a great deal of experience and knowledge of Thailand and it’s islands.
We have compiled a list of our favourites:
Phuket: Thailand’s largest island, known for vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and proximity to other popular destinations. Find all you need to know for Phuket here.
Koh Phi Phi: Famous for its stunning scenery, including Maya Bay, and offering vibrant marine life for snorkeling and diving.
Koh Samui (We got engaged here!): Known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, cultural attractions, and a range of water activities.
Koh Phangan: Famous for the Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach, a mix of lively and tranquil beaches, and natural attractions.
Koh Tao: Renowned as a diving and snorkeling paradise, with a relaxed atmosphere and vibrant coral reefs.
Koh Lanta (Our Favourite!): Known for its laid-back vibe, serene beaches, and diverse marine parks suitable for diving and snorkeling.
Koh Jum (Ko Pu): A hidden gem and easily accessible from Krabi, Koh Jum offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a very chill atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
These islands were chosen as they offer a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, offering a complete and authentic experience for one Epic Thailand trip.
If you need even more information in deciding which islands suit you best, make sure to check out the article below.
How do you Travel Between Islands in Thailand?
Traveling between islands in Thailand typically involves a combination of ferry services, speedboats, and, in some cases, domestic flights.
Many islands are connected by regular ferry services. For example, ferries operate between Phuket and Phi Phi Islands, as well as between Krabi and Koh Lanta.
Speedboats are often used for private transfers between islands or for more exclusive tours. They are faster than ferries and can be arranged for specific routes.
Islands like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi have airports with domestic flights connecting them to mainland cities like Bangkok.
12go will be your best friend in Thailand. This is your go-to site or app for booking your transportation online with convenience and at the best prices.
What is the Best Base for Island Hopping in Thailand?
Phuket and Krabi emerge as top choices for island hopping in Thailand due to their accessibility, with Phuket’s well-connected international airport providing convenient access to nearby islands.
Krabi, particularly Ao Nang, offers proximity to popular islands and stunning landscapes. The choice between the two depends on specific island preferences, but both serve as excellent bases for exploring the beauty of Thailand’s islands.
Even better, why not make island-hopping part of your Ultimate 3-Week Thailand Itinerary?!
Thailand Island Hopping Tips
Island hopping in Thailand can be an amazing adventure, and here are some top tips to make an already unbelievable experience even better:
Research and Plan: Research the islands and plan your itinerary based on your interests. You are already reading this article as part of your research so well done!
Weather Considerations: Be mindful of the weather, as it can affect sea conditions and activities. The high season for island hopping is typically from November to April. Find out more information on the Best time to visit Thailand here.
Diverse Experiences: Include a mix of islands to experience different atmospheres, from lively to serene. We have this covered in the itinerary below!
Transportation: Utilize a combination of ferries, speedboats, and flights for efficient island hopping. Book transportation tickets in advance on 12go, especially during peak seasons.
Island Events: Check for local events, festivals, or Full Moon Parties happening on specific islands.
Snorkeling and Diving: Pack or rent snorkeling gear for the stunning underwater landscapes. Consider a diving course if you’re interested, as some islands such as Koh Tao are renowned for diving.
Pack Essentials: Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a good pair of flip-flops. Keep a waterproof bag for your valuables and electronics. For even more travel tips click here.
Cash and ATMs: Some smaller islands may have limited ATMs, so carry enough cash, especially in remote areas.
Cultural Respect: Respect the local culture and customs, especially when visiting temples or traditional villages.
Local Cuisine: Sample local cuisine on each island to experience the diverse flavors of Thai food. Find out how we save money while travelling full-time here.
Safety First: Be cautious with water activities and adhere to safety guidelines.
Flexible Itinerary: Keep your itinerary flexible to adapt to unexpected changes or discoveries. Allow time for relaxation and spontaneous exploration.
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Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering potential medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Connect with Locals: Interact with locals to learn more about the culture and get insider tips. Support local businesses and markets to contribute positively to the community.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most of your island-hopping adventure in Thailand and create unforgettable memories.
Find all the other information you will need for your Thailand trip here.
Thailand Island Hopping Itinerary
Here’s a sample itinerary that we feel offers you the “best-of” when it comes to an Ultimate Thailand Island Hopping trip.
Day 1-3: Phuket
- Start your journey in Phuket, Thailand’s largest island.
- Explore Patong Beach for its vibrant nightlife and water activities.
- Visit the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Old Phuket Town for cultural experiences.
- We highly recommend a day trip to James Bond Island.
Day 4-6: Koh Phi Phi
- Take a ferry to Koh Phi Phi, known for its stunning scenery.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phi Phi Don.
- Explore Maya Bay, featured in the movie “The Beach.”
- Enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Day 7-9: Koh Lanta
- Travel to Koh Lanta and enjoy its laid-back vibe.
- Explore the beaches, especially our favorite, Klong Nin Beach.
- Visit the Lanta Old Town for its charm and local culture.
- Take a boat tour to the nearby islands for snorkeling and relaxation.
Day 10-12: Krabi (Railay Beach)
- Travel to Krabi and explore Railay Beach, known for its towering limestone cliffs.
- Try rock climbing or enjoy a relaxing day on Phra Nang Beach.
- Take a boat tour to the nearby Four Islands for snorkeling and swimming.
Day 13-15: Koh Samui
- Fly or take a ferry to Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand.
- Relax on Chaweng or Lamai Beach.
- Explore the unique rock formations at Hin Ta and Hin Yai.
- Visit the iconic Big Buddha and Fisherman’s Village.
Day 16-18: Koh Phangan
- Take a ferry to Koh Phangan, known for the Full Moon Party.
- Explore the island’s serene side, such as Bottle Beach or Thong Nai Pan.
- Visit the Phaeng Waterfall and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Day 19-21: Koh Tao
- Take a ferry to Koh Tao, a diving paradise.
- Explore the vibrant marine life through snorkeling or diving.
- Relax on Sairee Beach and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
- Consider a boat trip to Koh Nang Yuan for its stunning viewpoints.
This itinerary is completely adjustable depending on your time frame and interests. For example, if full-moon parties aren’t your thing, you can skip Koh Phangan and if diving is not for you, then consider skipping Koh Tao.
Thailand Island Hopping Tours
There is no particular “Island Hopping Tour” per se, not one which includes all the islands mentioned in this article. Most of the island hopping tours are day tours.
The best way is to follow the itinerary above by booking your transport through 12go. Once on a new island use GetYourGuide to book the day tour that suits you best.
Tours range from budget-friendly group tours to the MUCH more luxurious private tours. There are plenty of options to choose from so we are certain you will find the tours that suit you.
Which ever you choose is completely dependant on your own style, preferences and especially your budget!
Enjoy Paradise!
Ultimately, each of the Thailand Islands has its own charm, and honestly, we don’t think you can make a wrong decision in which ever ones you choose. They are all stunning!
Now all that is left to do is enjoy your time on some of the most tropical paradise islands in the world!
We would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
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