Thailand, as a whole, is a traveler’s dream. From the sweaty, frenetic, urban jungle of Bangkok to the vibrant rainforest landscapes of Khao Sok, adventure has endless potential. But there’s nowhere quite like its coastal delights.
There are over 1,400 islands in Thailand, and these little lumps of paradise draw millions of visitors every year. Idyllic sandy beaches, legendary nightlife, and world-class luxury fuse the regions into something of a pilgrimage for every breed of traveler.
Backpackers swarm the full moon parties of Ko Pha Ngan, while high-end revelers pack Phuket’s exclusive luxury hotels. Wherever you fit in on that scale, one of the islands in Thailand is for you.
Here’s where to stay on the best islands in Thailand.
Tree House Villas Koh Yao
Location: Koh Yao Noi
Price: $263+
Vibe: Off-the-beaten-path splendor
The rundown: The Koh Yao Islands are a group of 44 islands, all with their own unique atmosphere. They’re a little beyond the scope of most travelers, and visiting almost any of them is a lesson in true escapism. The most popular island is Koh Yao Noi, but don’t assume it’ll be any less peaceful.
While the island is home to big names like the world-class Six Senses, we think you should opt for the remote Tree House Villas in the north of the island. A half-hour drive from the nearest town, these sumptuous treehouses are spectacular and can cost as little as $263.
Anantara Bophut
Location: Koh Samui
Price: $144+
Vibe: Thai first-timers and family fun
The rundown: Koh Samui has undergone something of a transformation over the last few decades. Once a required stop on the backpacker trail, the island has shifted its focus to a broader, more affluent demographic. Where cheap beach huts once stood are now world-class beach bungalows and some of the world’s best resorts.
An attractively affordable one of these is Anantara Bophut. Steps from the beach, the impeccably designed resort is a breath of fresh air. Geared at couples and families, it’s the perfect place to take a measured step into Thailand.
Buri Rasa Village
Location: Koh Phangnan
Price: $100+
Vibe: A slice of respite
The rundown: Legendary in the backpacking sphere, Koh Phangnan is equal parts beautiful and chaotic. Thousands of budget travelers descend upon its sandy brilliance every week, fueling its famous full moon parties (or half moon, or black moon, or basically any moon). The party doesn’t stop here, but it’s certain you’ll never forget your time on one of the most famous islands in Thailand.
If you delve into the world of Koh Phangan, you may need some respite. Book into Buri Rasa Village. It’s simple, elegant, and affordable—but importantly, too expensive to take in hoards of gap-yearing teens. There’s no better place to sleep off the impending hangover.
Amanpuri
Location: Phuket
Price: $900+
Vibe: Iconic luxury
The rundown: Phuket is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you can stay in some of the greatest resorts on the planet. On the other, it’s the most westernized of the islands in Thailand, dulling the excitement of a new country ever so slightly. But it’s all about what you want.
Hotels are wide-ranging, but a chance to stay at Aman’s flagship property, Amanpuri, can’t be missed. The first hotel in the now renowned brand’s portfolio, it still sings with luxury. Fusing its trademark holistic angle with the idyllic coconut palm-lined setting, it’s an outstanding stay. And despite being expensive, it’s still more affordable than most of its hotels.
Zeavola Resort
Location: Koh Phi Phi
Price: $181+
Vibe: The middle man (and all the better for it)
The rundown: If Koh Phangan’s relentless party vibe is too much for you, but you’re still craving the energy, Koh Phi Phi could be the perfect fit. It balances youthful energy in the form of sophisticated bars and energetic nightlife with a laid-back and luxurious hotel scene to ensure its visitors get the best of both worlds.
Zeavola has earned its reputation as one of the best hotels in Phi Phi. Its delightfully spacious guest cabins are nestled among the greenery, offering a feeling of seclusion, while its onsite amenities are vast, well-structured, and high-quality. For $181, it’s a steal.
Paree Hut Resort
Location: Koh Si Chang
Price: $150+
Vibe: Laid-back, long layover
The rundown: If you find yourself with a long layover in Bangkok and feel the call of the islands, you don’t have much choice. Koh Si Chang is the only island within striking distance of the big city. Thankfully, it’s still a knockout. Popular with Bangkok locals looking for a weekend escape, there’s more than enough reason to spend a day or two relaxing here.
Paree Hut Resort offers a beautiful little getaway to match your purposes. You won’t find high-end luxury here, but there’s no denying these cliffside huts are wonderful.
Ban’s Diving Resort
Location: Koh Tao
Price: $64+
Vibe: Divers’ delight
The rundown: Koh Tao is renowned as one of the best islands in Thailand to dive. If you’re already a certified diver or looking to go under anytime soon, there are few better spots to hone your skill. It’s also wonderfully affordable if you’re hoping to learn the ropes, thanks to the vast number of dive shops on offer.
Staying in one of the Dive Resorts, like Ban’s, is a great one-stop shop decision. It’s a beautiful resort with affordable prices and easily ties in your lessons and gear. They’re equipped with their own dive center, an excellent gym, and a pool with a view for more relaxing moments.
by travelers, for travelers.
