Island Retreats: 5 Thai Islands for that Quick Escape

Tara Abhasakun

22 Apr 2024


These Thai islands are great places to go when you need to unwind.

Sometimes, we just need a break from our hectic schedules. Island getaways can offer you that all important breather. Thailand boasts over 1400 islands and these five will give you the relief you crave when you need to recharge your batteries.

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Koh Muk

One of Thailand’s smaller islands, Koh Muk is off the coast of Thailand’s southern Trang province. It is home to the majestic Emerald Cave, or Morakot Cave. The emerald waters give it its name and tours of the Emerald Cave include snorkelling in coral reefs. Such colourful sights are exactly the right thing to de-stress your mind. Koh Muk is accessible from Trat via a ferry or longtail boat. Various tours of the Emerald cave range between 925 Baht and 1,165 Baht per adult. Hotels here range from 1,200 baht to 6,325 baht a night.

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Koh Chang

Koh Chang lies off the eastern Trat province coast. This island has plenty of beach resorts to choose from. The island also boasts several breathtaking waterfalls that you can hike to such as Khlong Phlu waterfall, which has a swimming hole to cool off in. Waterfall hikes and being pampered at resort spas will surely take your mind off of the daily chaos of life. Koh Chang is accessible via a ferry ride from Trat. Accommodation ranges from Baht 1,500 to Baht 10,000 per night.

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Koh Pha Ngan

Known for its iconic Full Moon Party, Koh Pha Ngan is a three-hour boat ride from the coast of Thailand’s southern Surat Thani province. The Full Moon Party takes place on the night of every full moon (but check exact dates as it changes with important public holidays). The party has been thrown since the 1980s. It includes fire juggling, and of course, lots of drinking and dancing. If you’re seeking an escape from daily life, dance the night away at the Full Moon Party at Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Pha Ngan is accessible via ferry from Surat Thani. The entrance fee for the Full Moon party is 200 baht. Accommodation ranges from around 900 baht a night to around 8,000 baht a night.

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Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is located in the Andaman Sea near Malaysia’s border. This remote island features many popular sites for divers, including the famous Yong Hua shipwreck, and several coral reefs. The reefs are home to many colourful, diverse fish species. Diving amidst these ocean wonders will make you forget all about the stress of the daily grind. Koh Lipe is accessible via speedboat from Satun province. Daily diving tours in Koh Lipe range from 1,600 baht to 2,800 baht per adult, depending on which company you go with. There is a wide range of hotels on Koh Lipe, with price ranges from around 2,100 baht a night to 17,000 baht a night.

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Koh Lanta Yai and Noi

The two Koh Lanta islands are located off the coast of Thailand’s southern Krabi province. They are known for their picturesque beaches and nature. Koh Lanta Yai is more popular with tourists, however, Koh Lanta Noi also offers beautiful beaches and scenery. One breathtaking attraction on Koh Lanta Yai is Ao Nui Beach. The beach has little development around it, creating a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. As you gaze out at the blue waters amidst the island’s greenery, your responsibilities will be the last thing on your mind. Koh Lanta Yai is accessible via ferry from Krabi, and the islands are connected by a bridge. Hotels here range from around 900 baht a night to a little over 3,000+ baht a night.