Koh Phangan is a party animal, there’s no doubting that. Now, along with its infamous parties, there is a pretty good bar culture with all sorts of bar and pub establishments to choose from and even do a crawl one night! Drinking alcohol is typically a light-hearted occasion in Thailand, packed with laughter, food, and welcoming movements. You can experience a Thai way of drinking in the many local bars or a more Western-style in the newer places that have opened in recent years.
Drinking with Thais in local Bars
Thai people share everything. For certain times, you will be given beverages and snacks. If you see Thai people drinking together, they might have a beer tower or a bottle of whisky with soda to share, and a table full of food to share, of course. Sharing is the Thai people's way so it’s recommended you get involved this way and add something to the sharing.
You won't gain many Thai friends by being stingy and being loud or displaying a lack of discipline when drinking. In public, proper behaviour is quite necessary.
Where alcohol is available, there is food. Thais have it nailed when it comes to replenishing themselves with nutrition so alcohol will deplete it, contrary to the English form of drinking.
Many Thais do enjoy more of a western type of drinking when enjoying the bars on Koh Phangan and other towns. They frequent bars of the Western kind, go clubbing and enjoy hanging out at wine bars.
Areas for Bars
Most of the bars are located in Thong Sala and Baan Tai, being the centre of the island it’s where you would expect. But you can also find great, more local bars situated all over the island. If you come to stay in a certain place then you can find your very own local and meet ex-pats and Thais from that area. Sri Thanu, being the yoga and spiritual hub has the least bar culture yet you will still find some!
Featured
A classic style, high-quality bar and a party venue, and one of the most preferred by the short-term visitors and locals. The venue is located on the beach of Ban Tai on the south side of the island. The venue's decoration is a fusion of modern design and an island beach vibe. There is a big pool attached that can be most enjoyed during the day parties. The drinks and cocktails served are of good quality.
The music played is Tech-House and House, and it is being served by local and international DJs.
A beach bar opens every night and hosts a beach party at least once a week.
Sabaii Bay Facebook Page
Bluerama
Perched on the peak of a hill and with a 220 ° panoramic view of the Gulf of Thailand, it’s the perfect place to spend a nice time enjoying a cocktail for sunset. Surrounded by a tropical forest and traditional granite rocks, they also serve great food and have a pool.
Soho
In the heart of Thong Sala and a great place to watch the world go by. They serve a broad variety of beverages including foreign beers, local beers and ales. Good long happy hours for drinks too.
The Ugly Duckling
An authentic Irish pub in the popular Soi Krungthai street of Thong Sala. Classic homemade bar grub and Guinness on tap. A broad variety of whiskeys and other spirits and ciders with songs of Irish singing, TV games, and even live music.
Drop-in Bar
The iconic Drop In Bar is popular for its Full Moon Parties and insane fun environment on Haad Rin Beach. They are usually open daily as a bar also with music. All of the workers are like a huge family, they take care of their guests and they take care of each other.
BM Bar
The busiest lounge/bar in Koh Phangan perfect for anyone. Live some of the best moments of your life, drink drinks, meet awesome new friends, all while listening to talented live DJs and musicians. They have 2 professional pool tables at BM Bar for you to use at your leisure whilst enjoying the intoxicating setting!
The Whiski BAR
The dedicated WHISKY Bar of Koh Phangan, providing sampling and a variety of more than 20 varieties. Darts, Arcade Sports, Atari Pong, Tables at the American Pool. Screen Live Sports 70, Bar Grub and Thai Cuisine. Situated on Soi Krungthai in Thong Sala.
Freeway Bar
A popular place for sunset drinks located in Hin Kong. Thing typical bamboo thai rasta style but bigger and better. Lovely atmosphere on the beach with music and affordable drinks.
The Hub Sports Cafe
One of the first places you’ll spot getting off the boat on arrival. A sports bar showing games on screens with a pool table and good food served in cosy booths or tables.
Two Rocks
Authentic Thai beach bar of which most are dying out, Two Rocks remains one of these charming places on Baan Tai beach. Seating on the beach itself or in the comfortable wooden bar with hammocks to watch the ocean.
Reds Diner and Bar
You will find them just off Thong Sala Walking Street. They open with weekly offers for breakfast, lunch & dinner, bar grub with a twist and homemade classics. Showing all big sporting activities, helpful workers and cool music.
Escobar
Unique Bar on the main road to Thong Sala, Prison themed but warm and welcoming. Great drinks, pool table and live music nights.
Two Girls Bar and Restaurant
An unforgettable sea view with a pool table. Come and spend unforgettable nights and days in a cosy environment with a special drink, beer or bottle of their chosen wines.
The Flag and Four Toes
Popular with ex-pats who like a pint or five, a nice place to meet locals. Close to the pier, cheap drinks and free pool table.
The Last Waterhole
Opened in 2002 and known as a biker bar but with very friendly owners and lots of regulars. They love rock and blues music and perhaps have the coldest draft beer on the island.
Bonkers Bar
Nice bar on the way to Thong Sala often with theme music nights. Nice atmosphere with locals and great drinks.
Coral Bar
Located in Haad Yao with a famous pig called Dudkdik. The bar is right on the sand, and the environment is relaxed. They are open daily from noon until late and offer the finest mojitos on the island, a selection of shakes, juices, cold beer, cocktails and much more.
Swenglish Bar
Located on the Hin Kong road, a friendly bar that all people of all ages and cultures should share. They love an excuse for morning beers and have games events and cheap drinks.
Twisted village
A popular Bar in Chaloklum, a hangout for locals and adult-only environment. Pool table, changing food menu and lively atmosphere.