You are ready to explore the two fabled islands in Thailand but need help determining where to go, what to eat, and where to stay. Let’s find out what makes Koh Samui and Koh Phangan two uber-popular tourist destinations.
Wind yourselves up to discover the unhidden beauties of Thailand. Off you go!
Day 1 at Koh Phangan
It is a compact but beautiful island famous for its Full Moon Party, but Koh Phangan has much more to offer. Delve into the craziness, swim through the deep water beaches, thrilling activities, lush green jungle, and authentic cultural experiences. Let’s find out what Koh Phangan has for you!
Things to do:
1. Haad Rin
Haad Rin is our top tip if you love some crowd and a little more craziness. It is one of the most prominent beaches in Koh Phangan, known for the Full Moon Party and backpacker crowd. Swim through its stunning water and rock your night while enjoying wine and dancing with your better half.
2. Ang Thong National Marine Park
The second best thing you can do on your trip to Koh Phangan is to head towards this natural wonder of Thailand. Ang Thong park is an archipelago of 42 small islands with white sand beaches, hiking trails, and palm forests. Meander through the marine park via a government-approved tour boat.
3. Scuba Diving
You are at Koh Phangan and haven’t experienced scuba diving? Actually, your trip still needs to be completed. The island is a paradise for divers. It is dotted with multiple small islands, but the best for scuba diving is Sail Rock. Packed with beautiful marine life, the Gulf of Thailand is a haven. Whether you are a pro or a novice, Koh Phangan cares for everyone. There are schools to facilitate you with diving gear.
What to eat?
Stop by Yukinoya for heavenly Japanese food. You get to dine in an ambiance of rustic wooden settings while taking in views of the Andaman Sea. The menu includes teppanyaki, upscale Japanese specialties, and high-end drinks.
Want to try some seafood fresh from the ocean? Let’s have a bite at Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar. After having some local seafood, sip some wine and cocktails from the best taste developers at Fisherman. For an extraordinary experience, you can dine in a modified long-tail boat.
Where to stay?
Coconut Beach Resort is a mid-range resort located in the bustling heart of Haad Rin. It has numerous beach bungalows with immaculate ocean views. The resort’s on-site fitness center, spa, bar, and pool make your stay extraordinary.
Anantara Rasananda Villa is our top favorite if you are up for something luxurious. It is situated on Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach and exudes luxury in every way. From private plunge pools and balconies to Apple TVs to espresso machines. For off-the-beach exploration, free SUP boards and kayaks are available.
Baan Manali resort is another mid-range resort where I stayed at, located at Lamai beach. Only 12 secluded bungalows, and 3 rooms are located on the peaceful lagoon just a 10-minute walk from the authentic and welcoming village of Thongsala.
Day 2 at Koh Phangan
On day 2 at the Koh Phangan, have some hiking experience and sour through the air at Slip N Fly. A perfect Thai massage at the end of your tiring day will be a cool option.
Things to do:
1. Bottle Beach
With a tiring one-hour trek experience to Bottle Beach, explore Thailand’s true gem. A beautiful beach encircled with white sand gives panoramic vibes. Laid-over palm trees and clear turquoise water are perfect for a relaxing dip. To get the most out of the visit, snorkel at the rocky end of the beach with some gorgeous fish.
2. Slip N Fly
Slip N Fly opens 2 to 5 days twice a month, usually at the full moon and half moon parties. Grab the once-in-a-lifetime chance if you are there when it is not closed. The entertaining tourist destination features twin water slides, pool games, a bar, and a restaurant. Enjoy to the fullest while flipping into the water slides.
3. Thai Massage
After a day of hiking and flipping in the water slides, a relaxing Thai Massage is a must. It is a highly cherished local tradition you should try if you are traveling to Thailand– the leading wellness spa destination.
Where to eat?
For a memorable food experience, try out the best eateries in Koh Phangan.
Day 3 at Koh Phangan
The last day in Koh Phangan deserves a visit to the best places. Let’s unveil the things you can do here.
Things to do:
1. Paradise Waterfall
Seeking some time to refresh yourself with nature and tranquility. Paradise Waterfall is a perfect spot. Covered with beautiful trees and surrounded by boulders, the Paradise Waterfall is a picturesque destination. Swim through the flowing water, plan a picnic, and snap some Instagrammable photos.
2. ATV Jungle Adventure
Every trip demands a tremendous adventure. This 2.5-hour ATV Jungle adventure trip is surely going to fulfill your wish. The amazing ride is suitable for all age groups. Discover Koh Phangan’s coconut groves by traveling along its natural routes and scenic views.
The adventure begins as you go off-road through farmland, plantations, and jungles with a trained tour guide.
3. Thong Sala Night Markets
Besides soothing natural excursions, exploring a culture is a must. Stroll through the famous street markets in Koh Phangan and gorge on delicious food. You will see numerous stalls selling clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs at the Thong Sala night market. Grab a quick bite of your favorite food from the Phantip night market, which serves the best Thai food.
Where to eat?
The famous restaurants on the Island are;
Day 4 at Koh Samui
The cosmopolitan beach attracts tourists from all over the world. It is home to mesmerizing beaches, perfect cocktails, palm-lined shorelines, and coconut and fruit plantations.
Things to do:
1. Lamai Beach
Lamai Beach is a gorgeous crescent of fluffy white sand surrounded by palm trees, making it the ideal place to sunbathe. The water is equally enticing, with a center area perfect for swimming and other aquatic activities. The most-favorite tourist activities you can do are jet skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and parasailing. At night, enjoy a cocktail under the stars.
2. Khun Si Waterfall
The beautiful views of clear waters flowing majestically from above and smashing the rocks below are the ultimate reward for the thrilling and adventurous hike to this waterfall. Plan a picnic with your family close to Khun Si waterfalls, hidden in the dense, vibrant jungle and beside a durian orchard.
3. Coco Tam Beach Bar
It’s the perfect tropical getaway with beanbags on the beach, swing seats at the bar, and sheeshas. The theme of the cocktails is a tropical idyll, and there is a selection of over two dozen beverages that are offered and presented in jar-like glasses. You can savor traditional favorites like a Mai Tai or distinctive concoctions like the Dark Passion, possibly the best cocktail on the island by Coco Tam’s Beach Bar.
Where to eat?
These two restaurants are unarguably the best places to eat in Koh Samui.
Where to stay?
Are you wondering where to stay? Check out our top picks.
- Kamalaya Koh Samui
- Four Seasons Resort
- Sandalwood hotels, Lamai Beach: Sandalwood Resort’s luxurious villas occupy a prime hillside location. Featuring 9 private infinity pools and one communal pool with stunning sea views
Day 5 at Koh Samui
Day 5 of our travel itinerary to Koh Phangan and Koh Samui is filled with entertainment and beach-ing. Let’s unwind.
Things to do:
1. Chaweng Beach
Chaweng beach is the stretch of pristine white sand on Koh Samui with the most visitors. The wide bay has served as the island’s tourism industry’s main development hub for many years. The beach offers great swimming with a wide variety of water activities, dining options, and lodging. During Koh Samui’s peak seasons, it offers a festive, fun environment with many sunbathers relaxing on the sand.
2. Santiburi Golf Club
Santiburi Samui is a championship golf course beautifully landscaped on a mountain. It is unquestionably one of the most extraordinary golf courses in Thailand. Created in line with its surrounding topography and ornamental features, which includes steep uphill and downhill slopes, twisting fairways that cut through the coconut grove, cliffs, and mountain creeks. If you seek the ultimate golf experience, do not miss a visit.
3. Tarnim Magic Garden
Tarnim Magic Garden, or The Secret Garden, is a gorgeously planted garden with plants local to Thailand and Koh Samui. It has numerous Buddha statues with various meanings in settings representing different principles. Meander around the miniature waterfalls throughout the garden. There are many stops along the journey to take in the island panorama and the breathtaking views from the gardens and the road going up to them.
Where to eat?
Are you looking for the best dine-in options? Scroll down.
Goodbye Note
Here we conclude our short 5-Day itinerary to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. If you are still trying to plan a trip to these beautiful Islands in Thailand, we have covered for you by bringing our best guide for ease.
