Thailand islands

Several islands in Thailand are surrounded by coral reefs and shipwrecks, so the tropical waters are teeming with exotic fish, rays, turtles and more. The smallest of the Gulf Islands, Koh Tao is famous for its snorkelling. The island has a number of nearby dive sites too, including Sail Rock. You can take a day trip to this remote spot, where you’ll find underwater caves and swim-throughs home to fish, crabs and barracuda. Sail Rock is also accessible from neighbouring Koh Phangan, if you’d prefer to use this larger island as your base – it’s just two hours away from Koh Tao.

Floating off the west coast of Thailand, just south of Krabi, Koh Lanta is another island with fantastic diving. On the edge of Mu Koh Lanta National Park, you’ll find world-class dive sites Purple Rock and Red Rock. As well as their colourful corals – from which they take their name – the sites boast anemones, rays and sharks. The world’s biggest fish, the whale shark, is also seen in these waters in the winter months. Want to explore further? Book a day trip out to the Similan Islands and discover some of the best diving sites in the world.

If you’re planning a romantic island getaway, you have a lot of choice. Most islands in Thailand have several adults-only resorts – or, at the very least, resorts with adults-only areas – where you’ll find peaceful pools, plush suites and therapeutic spas.

Couples searching for some serious beach time should consider going to laidback Koh Lanta or resort-peppered Koh Samui – both islands offer numerous sandy stretches and plenty of luxurious hotels.

But if it’s variety you’re after, look at Koh Phangan. With rich rainforests, rushing waterfalls and soaring mountains, this diverse island has plenty of things to see and do beyond the beaches – although you could be forgiven for never wanting to leave the untouched sands. Plus, you’ll just be a boat-trip away from sister islands Koh Tao and Koh Samui. You could visit for the day, or even consider combining all three into an island-hopping holiday – you are on honeymoon, after all. 

As the largest island in Thailand, Phuket is the best choice for families. The sheer variety here means there’s something for all ages, whatever you’re into. Take your pick from 30 beaches, where you can swim, sunbathe and try out all kinds of watersports. Admire the diverse architecture of Phuket Old Town, which showcases the island’s Chinese, Malay and Indian heritage. And take the kids to see the enormous Big Buddha, one of Phuket’s main attractions. The island also has a number of elephant sanctuaries. If you’re a family of animal-lovers, a visit to one of these is a must – you’ll be able to meet, feed and bathe Thailand’s gentle giants.

Alternatively, if you simply want to take some time out on your family holiday, consider Koh Samui. With several fantastic family-friendly resorts, and beaches offering watersports and snorkelling, this smaller island is a great choice for beach-focused families.

Thailand is famous for its nightlife, but Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party is the headline act. Once a month, an all-night extravaganza takes place in the town of Haad Rin, where the beach fills with fire-eaters, DJs and thousands of backpackers. If you want to experience Thailand’s biggest party, this is the place to be – but you’ll have to plan your holiday very carefully to align with the right date.

Alternatively, stay in Patong on Phuket. The life and soul of the party is Bangla Road, where you’ll find packed-out bars and huge clubs. Patong hosts plenty of festivals and beach parties throughout the year, too.

Last, but by no means least, there’s Koh Phi Phi. After starring in hit film The Beach, the Phi Phi Islands and their paradisiacal beaches shot to fame. Years later, backpackers and sun-seekers flock to the largest isle, Koh Phi Phi Don. You’ll find lots of bars, shows and parties here, centred on Loh Dalum Beach and Tonsai Bay.