It is the epitome of paradise, with visitors coming here throughout the year. For many visitors, the primary motivation for their visit might be yoga or the party scene. However, if you are ready to explore, you can find some of the finest beaches in Thailand on Koh Phangan, making this island a must-see for everyone in Thailand.
If you have the opportunity, rent a motorcycle while on Koh Phangan. This will enable you to quickly travel between all of the beautiful beaches while also giving you complete freedom to explore. You can however rent a car or taxi to take you around if you don’t fancy a moped or cannot drive.
There are over 20 beaches on Koh Phangan, and that doesn't include the hidden treasures, small coves, and secret places we don't know about. They differ in terms of style, comfort, stone or sand, and aesthetics, but they are all equally lovely. You're very fortunate to have the opportunity to see this varied island and its beaches! You may go exploring and discover your own favourite beach, and as long as it isn't full moon season, most beaches are seldom crowded, unlike in other popular Thai locations.
The beach extends all the way from Thongsala to the Haad Rin Peninsula on the island's southern shore.
It is covered with beautiful white sand and is flanked by swaying coconut palm trees, making it the ideal location to unwind. Baan Tai Beach is lined with resorts, budget guesthouses, and backpacker hostels, making it an excellent choice for anybody searching for a cheap beachfront hotel.
The water is usually gorgeous blue, depending on the time of year, water currents, and weather. It is not the best beach for swimming as it stays quite shallow for a long time but it is very popular for water sports such as kiteboarding.
The southeast coast of Koh Phangan is home to Haad Seekantang, also known as Leela Beach (after the beach resort of the same name). The beach itself is typically deserted, except for a few resort guests, and provides a spectacular view of Koh Samui. The sand is fine and, in some places, extremely white. The water is very clean and suitable for swimming (except at low tide).
At the eastern end, you may stroll across a wooden bridge to Koh Phangan's tiny lighthouse, which hosts Lighthouse Parties from time to time. You may also have a great view of Leela Beach and Koh Samui from the jetty. The beach is particularly clean here, with a relatively level slope and an impossibly lovely atmosphere. The sea swings and hammocks that hang between the palm palms all around the beach are really beautiful. The blue water jetty, over which you may stroll deep into the sea, is also a feature.
Thong Sala beach (sometimes also called Ao Bang Charu) is a mudflat beach. During low tide in the summer months, you can walk through the shallow water all the way to the reef and take a bath in the little pools there. In the evenings the beach is a magnificent background for the sunset. Swimming is possible from December to April, but, of course, there are better alternatives on the island. Thong Sala town can easily be reached on foot along the beach.
Thong Sala Beach has changed a lot in recent years. Once a very undeveloped spot, it now has bungalows and bars pretty much everywhere. All in all, you will find a younger, more party-oriented crowd here than north of Thong Sala. However, the beach has its own charm which is best to be explored on foot.
Thong Sala Beach is very good for walking and running during low tide as you can cover quite a distance in both directions. Sunset here is very nice as everywhere on the West Coast, but lacking the big boulders on the beach you will find in abundance further up the coast.
One of the most or if not THE MOST FAMOUS beach on the island is Haad Rin. Because it is the place that holds the monthly Full Moon Parties, Haad Rin Nok Beach is also known as Full Moon Beach or just Haad Rin Beach.
The beach is situated on the island's east coast, near the municipality of Haad Rin, and boasts stunning white sand. On Koh Phangan, it has some of the whitest and purest sand.
The sea is very beautiful and inviting to swim in. The right side of the beach, however, is not ideal for swimming due to the presence of longtail boats. Tours to the east coast's neighbouring beaches, such as the Haad Yuan, are also available from there.
Contrary to popular belief, Haad Rin Beach is very clean. It's great for resting, swimming, and seeing a fire display in the evening at one of the beach restaurants. Of course, you may have a drink or two at one of the beach bars if you so want.
The tiny village of Ban Nai Wok, which is adjacent to Thong Sala and has just a few homes, is virtually unnoticeable when you drive or stroll past it. People who desire the comfort of Thongsala near them frequent Ao Nai Wok.
After the main pier, it's the lengthy bay that stretches north from Thong Sala. A number of resorts fill the beach at the upper end, walking distance from town but far enough away to never notice it, and rocks begin to break up the shoreline. Swimming is ideal during the high tide season since the water is quite shallow (November to April). There is a reef approximately 80 meters out where the sea shelf dips, which provides some good snorkelling opportunities. It’s a nice peaceful area which is lovely for sunset away from the crowds.
Ao Plaay Laem is located at the foot of Khao Hin Nok, a granite mountain that dominates the landscape and turns it into a fairy tale of rounded boulders and hillside views over Angthong National Marine Park.
In terms of Koh Phangan beaches, Plaay Laem Beach is somewhat of a hidden treasure. Plaay Laem beach has steadily grown as a tourist attraction, and although there are resorts, restaurants, and clubs on the beach, it is devoid of the huge crowds that may be seen on other popular beaches, particularly during the full moon party rush.
The beach is long and broad, and the sand is beautifully white. 80 meters from the beach lies a coral reef. When the coral reef is crossed, the swimming conditions are ideal. The magnificent Khao Hin Nok mountain, which dominates the landscape, is the most obvious feature of Plaay Laem beach. It rises over the tree line on the shore. Massive granite boulders may be seen strewn around the region and even in the sea. One option is to rent a kayak and go kayaking to explore the sea rocks.
The sunsets in Plaay Laem are often breathtaking. If you're looking for a nice beach on the west coast, Plaay Laem is a great choice. You can enter through a track from the main road opposite Amsterdam Bar or through one of the resorts.
Ao Wok Tum is the broad bay's southern end, where it meets Ao Hin Kong. The coral reef is approximately 300 meters off the beach and is only suitable for swimming during high tide season, thus much of the bay remains underdeveloped (November to April). The coral is closer to Wok Tum Bay resort, and the water is deeper, thus swimming conditions are better. Mangrove trees surround the beaches, giving the area an unspoiled air that's ideal for watching a sunset in peace.
Wok Tum then continues to Hin Kong Beach, where the whole area is extremely flat, and the reef is just around 280 meters away, therefore it isn't worth noting as a bathing beach. The water recedes entirely during low tide, allowing the Thais to gather mussels and tiny crabs from the bottom. There is always someone willing to explain what is gathered and how it should be prepared. The mangroves have been replanted for many years; as a nursery for a variety of marine animals, they are vital to the ecology - and they are also lovely to look at. Hin Kong's sunsets are especially spectacular! There are numerous modest homes to rent, in addition to the traditional bungalow complexes, which is appealing to long-term inhabitants. The area surrounding the Ananda Wellness Resort is the village's heart, and there are several great eateries here as well which are extremely popular for sunset including the well-known L’Alcove french bistro.
Happy beach is made of fine white sand and extends for approximately 200 meters from the fishing port to the northern cliffs. The beach is beautiful, with lots of forest beauty in the background. It's a fun spot to splash about as the tide comes in. Swimming in the sea is possible, although it may need a trek out to the water. Few people snorkel off this beach since the coral reef is more than 100 meters offshore.
On the beach, there are a few resorts and a bar. You can enter the beach through Phangan Cove Resort which is also a lovely spot to get food.
Most people are familiar with Zen Beach as a great spot to view the sunset. Acoustic musicians, spiritual beings, yogis, individuals in meditation, and others enjoying the water will surround you.
Because Zen Beach is near to Sri Thanu, the region with the most yoga schools on the island, and the saturation of where the spiritual people reside, it has a unique feel. In fact, it is one of the busiest beaches for sunset, so keep that in mind if you prefer a more tranquil setting.
However, Zen Beach is in the most perfect location to watch the sunset, since it is immediately on the West Coast, and the sunsets straight in front of you. The beach itself is soft and stretches for a long way giving you lots of space, the sea is ideal for swimming too.
Haad Chao Phao is one of the finest beaches on Koh Phangan's west coast. The beach stretches for approximately a kilometre. It's in a little harbour, and the sand naturally bends in a crescent shape. Behind the beach, there is lots of palm and tree protection. This provides the impression of having a lot of room. You don't feel confined in this space.
The sand is fine and light in colour. The tide runs out a long-distance here, as it does all along the west coast. The good news is that the water deepens rapidly, allowing for safe swimming on the coral reef's beachside. The reef is approximately 100 meters from the shore. Many people can't make it out here since it's too far away, but others do to snorkel the corals.
A volleyball net is put up, as one would anticipate on a beach on Koh Phangan, and hammocks are strung out in the tree line for those seeking sedentary bliss. Haad Chao Phao is one of the most idyllic of Koh Phangan's 20 or so beaches.
This 150-meter sand strip, also known as Haad Son beach, is located under a steep peninsula. It offers the impression of a secret beach since it is nestled in a secluded bay surrounded by palm palms.
Today, it is a well-kept secret, and as a consequence of this and its small size, the beach may become busy during the peak season and even popular on sunny days during the low season.
This lovely white sand paradise beach is a tiny bay that stretches for approximately 200-300 meters. The beach is ideal for tanning since there is a variety of natural shade and full sun. Although Secret Beach is no longer a secret, the atmosphere of this hidden treasure is ideal. The enormous palm palms offer pleasant shade, and there is usually a sea wind. The tranquil, clear turquoise seawater is ideal for swimming. A wonderful place to swim may be found if you go a little farther into the water. Secret Beach is also one of Koh Phangan's finest snorkelling locations.
Haad Yao is a lovely white sand beach that curves gently along Koh Phangan's northwestern tip. Haad Yao is dubbed "the ideal beach" on Koh Phangan. That's because it has everything you need for a fantastic beach visit.
The beautiful white sand gradually descends down to the clear, warm sea. Swimming is possible in the water. The tempting sea on one side and towering palms on the other border the white beach. Rather than a built-up region with an obtrusive road, there is more wilderness behind the beach. The beach is one kilometre long as well. This makes it perfect for choosing a spot on the beach to relax and tan or play frisbee. You will find many resorts and it is popular with families here.
The beach is a beautiful stretch of pristine white sand along the shore. The water is clean, and even at peak periods, it is hardly overcrowded. There were a lot of families on this beach, which is understandable given the resorts that back up to the shore.
Haad Salad Beach on Koh Phangan features its own strangely-shaped palm tree as well as some nice beach swings if you're searching for some romantic or even amusing photos.
Haad Salad Beach is a nice and peaceful place to spend a day with a good mood, friendly environment, and a few mid-range eateries.
At low tide, Mae Haad links to Koh Ma, making it one of the most well-known beaches on the island.
The beach is expansive, with many massage booths and motels along the shoreline.
There are beach swings, hammocks, and all the other typical paradise hangouts seen in Thailand.
The opportunity to stroll across to Koh Ma Island at low tide is one of the major attractions and a reason many visitors visit Haad Mae Haad.
On Koh Phangan, Koh Ma has become a popular picture location. It's a location that appears on numerous postcards and tourist information centres throughout the nation.
Koh Ma, surrounded by reefs, is a popular snorkelling location, and legend has it that you may go to the top for a spectacular view!
Hin Ngam Beach offers a number of distinguishing features.
There is no sand; instead, there are rocks and stones of different sizes.
It is excellent for swimming and snorkelling since it is surrounded by shaded trees.
There's a lot happening in this region, with boats coming in and out and a beautiful sunset.
The beach is sacred and sanctified, according to a Thai native, since it was visited by a particular Monk.
Malibu is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Phangan. Malibu Beach Bungalows is the only hotel in this rather quiet area. It’s located on a tiny islet in the western section of Chaloklum, with spectacular views of the bay and mountain background.
'Malibu' is a jewel of a beach that shines at all hours of the day. If someone had created it, he would undoubtedly be accused of overusing clichés such as fine white beach, coconut palms, sparkling waves, and a brilliant blue sea.
The classic tropical beach, with palm trees and shaded foliage, white sand, and shallow water. It's northerly facing, so it may become crowded in peak season, but it's always quiet.
From November to May, the Malibu Beach offers crystal clear water for swimming, but it is not a swimming beach the rest of the year. In the shade, just next to the restaurant, there is a tiny massage tent that charges 300 baht per hour. There are no rental options for sunbeds so take your own towel to sit on.
Chaloklum Beach is beautiful, located via a lovely small village with cafés and restaurants spread around the sea. A large length of beautiful white sand and a relatively peaceful beach will welcome you. There are lots of pop-up eateries for lunch just behind the beach, and taxi boats wait in the water to transport visitors to and from Bottle Beach.
So, whether you're searching for a location to relax, go diving or enjoy the fishing village atmosphere, this might be the place for you.
Haad Khom Beach, also known as Coral Bay, is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy some sun and excellent snorkelling while on vacation. Haad Khom is an excellent leisure spot with its beautiful white sand beach and untouched natural beauty. The beach offers everything you might want in a picture-perfect tropical vacation spot — and more.
This peaceful eastern part of Ao Chaloklum Bay is near to the village's local eateries and bars and may provide budget-midrange lodging for long-term visitors seeking to get away. The most popular hotels are Coral Bay Bungalow and Haad Khom Resort.
Bottle Beach, also known as Haad Khuat, is one of Koh Phangan's most stunning beaches. The Bottle Beach's isolation and serenity are undoubtedly significant factors. While most people come to Bottle Beach for a day excursion, you may stay overnight and have the beach nearly entirely to yourself in the morning and evening.
You may purchase a ticket to the Bottle Beach immediately at the Taxi Boat sign when you arrive in Chaloklum. One way, this costs 150 baht per person. If you don't want to stay at Bottle Beach, the round journey is worth it. After that, you may schedule a return journey with the boatman.
The majority of the boats dock near the western end of the beach, where you will also embark on your return journey. The initial view is impressive: a brilliant blue sea, a white-sand beach, and really nothing else.
A few bungalows from Bottle Beach 1 and Bottle Beach 2 Resorts, as well as their affiliated restaurants, are located on the beach. There are also a few shaded areas, particularly towards the end of the second beach portion.
You may go to the magnificent viewpoint or simply eat something, rest, or go swimming. The Bottle Beach is renowned for its peace and quiet, and it is the ideal location for a peaceful day on the beach. You may also snorkel a little towards the beach's eastern end, where there are numerous rocks.
Koh Phangan Nature and Wildlife Guide
The most popular beaches on the east and sunrise sides of the island are Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai, which create a beautiful double bay. With gently curving white-sand bays flanked by mountains covered in lush tropical rainforest, both beaches are the epitome of beauty. There are no coral reefs on the island's east coast, and both beaches are swimmable all year, but Thong Nai Pan Noi is the finest since it is the deepest bay. There isn't much in the way of marine life, but there are some good body surfing waves. The more popular of the two beaches, Thong Nai Pan Noi, has a bohemian atmosphere and a tiny town that is known for its luxury resorts.
Thong Nai Pan Yai is the longest of the two beaches, with greater space between resorts and no town, making it calmer than its counterpart. There are several paths to stroll and waterfalls to see, and Thong Nai Pan Yai also offers a good set of rocky outcroppings for expert climbers. Thong Nai Pan Yai beach is well known for its soft white sands where it never gets overly crowded like other parts of the island. The view gazes out to the open sea, to the North and so nothing is in your way and it is enclosed on each side giving you that real escapism feel.
Despite being a tiny, quiet beach situated some distance from the rest of the island, Than Sadet is the perfect spot for a stress-free vacation in a beautiful highland environment among friendly locals. When it comes to this incredible location, beautiful beaches and natural marvels are the order of the day.
Haad Than Sadet (Royal River in Thai) is a holy site as well as a famous tourist destination. The beach also has historical importance dating back to the 18th century, when it was visited by many Thai monarchs, including their Majesties Rama V, VII, and IX, who etched their initials on the adjacent massive granite cliffs. This area was visited 14 times by King Rama V, who was particularly struck by the mystical powers and majesty of nature.
Than Sadet - Koh Phangan National Park is also situated on the beach, near the entrance of the valley Khlong Than Sadet River and waterfall, which flows between towering green hills and forms the island's biggest waterfall. The park is a popular attraction and is a wonderful location for hiking and exploring the flora and wildlife of Koh Phangan.
Commonly known as Paradise beach, it is a beautiful isolated cove on the east coast of Koh Phangan that stretches southwards from a rocky headland. Nature has created a lovely cove with pristine white sand and crystal blue seas in this section of the island, giving the impression of being on an isolated island.
Haad Yao East is one of the island's most unspoiled and picturesque beaches; expect to encounter just a few residents on the gorgeous sandy coastline. Lost Paradise, which has a few bungalows and a tiny Thai restaurant, is one of just two resorts here. Lost Paradise also throw amazing parties here during high seasons.
The best way to get to Haad Yao East is by boat from Haad Rin Beach, however, the beach now has an unpaved road that is only suited for 4WD vehicles and experienced drivers/riders. If you like trekking, the mountain path from Haad Rin is 8 kilometres long and goes through tropical mountain forests, so you should be able to fully indulge your desire.
Because the water is deeper and there are no sandbanks near to the beach, swimming is possible all year. At the bay's northern edge, there's a great snorkelling spot where you may see gorgeous tropical fish and corals.
It's one of three tiny white sand beaches along this length of the east coast, the others being Had Tien and Had Yuan, which are approximately a half-kilometre apart. All three have long been refuges for Haad Rin fugitives and have an authentic Phangan atmosphere. The lack of a coral reef and a substantial drop-down allows for year-round swimming in these isolated coves.
The only way to get there is via boat, or by hiking up the mountain route for experienced hikers. On the east coast, the weather may be severe, so be cautious not to get stranded if boats are unable to run. Again, you can find “alternative” party gatherings happening here on occasion.
If you've just arrived in Haad Yuan, you'll be stunned by the breathtaking beauty of the beach. The whole bay is really beautiful, like something out of a magazine, and it is also rather uncrowded. However, this beach gem is not only great for swimming, but it's also a photographer's dream. Amazing photography may be done here due to the tremendous beauty!
The atmosphere on the beach is very nice and relaxing. You could spend an eternity here, taking in the vista and the pristine sand. It's breathtaking. In addition, if you feel like being more active, you may hire a kayak and explore the nearby beach, Haad Tien. Also, only 100 meters away, the Haad Yuan provides some excellent reefs for snorkelling.
These two beaches are also famous for the Eden Party and Guys Bar (Haad Tien) which happen over the weekends. It makes a good trip to book a bungalow for the duration, part by night and relax by day.
Koh Phangan offers a diverse range of beaches and experiences, attracting visitors with its stunning landscapes and tranquil atmospheres. From the bustling Haad Rin Beach, renowned for its Full Moon Parties, to the secluded Secret Beach with its pristine sands and turquoise waters, there's something for every traveler. Explore the serene Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai for a bohemian vibe or visit the historical Than Sadet Beach, steeped in royal heritage. For those seeking adventure, Haad Yao East provides an isolated cove accessible via boat or a scenic mountain trek. Discover the hidden gems of Koh Phangan's beaches, each offering unique charm and natural beauty. For more ideas on what to eat and where to go on Koh Phangan and beyond, check out the related articles below.
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