Updated: June 2024
Thailand is world-famous for its stunning beaches and tropical islands. With around 1,400 islands scattered along its coastline, some bustling with activity and others untouched and pristine within national parks, the country offers a paradise for every kind of traveler.
Here’s a list of the 10 most breathtaking islands boasting crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches—perfect places where your tropical dreams can come true.
KOH LIPE
SURIN ISLANDS
SIMILAN ISLANDS
KOH KOOD
KOH PHI PHI
KOH TAO
KOH WUA TA LAP
KOH KRADAN
KOH PHAYAM
KOH Mook
1. Koh Lipe
Located in the far south of Thailand near the Malaysian border, Koh Lipe is often called one of the most stunning tropical islands in the region.
The island is home to three main beaches:
Pattaya Beach — A beautiful stretch of shallow sand perfect for beachfront accommodations and relaxing massages.
Sunset Beach — A quieter, smaller beach on the northwest side of the island, ideal for peaceful evenings.
Sunrise Beach — The crown jewel of Koh Lipe, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. This beach is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming, offering some of the clearest seas in Thailand.
Though Koh Lipe is growing in popularity every year, it still retains a relaxed vibe. It’s an ideal destination for couples, families, or anyone looking to unwind by the sea.
Nightlife here is low-key, but you’ll find some great restaurants and a handful of reggae bars along the beach and on Walking Street, where you can enjoy good food and chill vibes after sunset.
How to Get to Koh Lipe
During the high season (November to April), speedboats run twice daily to Koh Lipe from Phuket, Phi Phi Island, and Koh Lanta, making travel convenient and relatively quick.
If you’re flying in, the nearest airports are Hat Yai and Trang. From either airport, you can take a transfer to Pak Bara Pier, where boats depart to Koh Lipe.
In the low season (May to October), buses run from Krabi and Phuket town to Pak Bara Pier, followed by a 2-hour boat transfer to the island.
Travel Tip: Best Time to Visit Koh Lipe
The best time to visit Koh Lipe is during the high season, between January and April, when the weather is sunny and the sea calm.
Be aware that during the monsoon season (low season), Koh Lipe is exposed to strong winds and rough waves. Some local businesses close temporarily as conditions become harsh, so planning your visit in the dry season ensures a much better experience.
2 Surin Islands
The Surin Islands are an archipelago of five stunning islands located about 40 km off Thailand’s west coast in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai-Myanmar border. They are widely regarded as some of the most beautiful islands in Thailand and boast some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling spots in the country.
The islands are fringed with vibrant coral gardens and teem with diverse marine life, making them a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
You can visit the Surin Islands on a one-day speedboat trip or opt for an overnight camping experience. From October 15th to May 15th, the national park offers bungalows and tent camping, allowing visitors to truly soak in the tranquil beauty of this remote paradise.
For dedicated divers, liveaboard trips provide an immersive way to explore the incredible underwater world surrounding the islands.
How to Get to Surin Islands
The nearest town to the Surin Islands is Khuraburi, which you can reach by bus from either Krabi or Phuket in about 4 hours. From Khuraburi, you’ll need to arrange your boat transfer—speedboats take around 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the islands.
Tip: If you’re staying overnight, bring comfortable shoes to explore the islands’ stunning viewpoints and trails.
3. SIMILAN ISLANDS
Heading south from the Surin Islands, you’ll find the stunning Similan Islands. This group consists of eleven islands that make up the Similan Archipelago.
Located in Thailand’s southern Phang Nga province, the islands lie about 70 kilometers off the mainland near Phang Nga town, in the clear waters of the Andaman Sea. The Similan Islands are famous for some of the clearest water and whitest sand in Southeast Asia.
Unlike the Surin Islands, overnight stays on the Similan Islands are not allowed. Visitors can explore the islands on day trips or, for diving enthusiasts, via live-aboard trips departing from Khao Lak.
How to get to Similan Islands?
The Similan Islands are best reached from the mainland town of Khao Lak, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive north of Phuket or Krabi. From Khao Lak, you can catch daily speedboat trips or join liveaboard diving tours to the islands.
Most day trips to the Similans depart early in the morning to maximize your time on the islands, as overnight stays are not permitted.
Tip: The Similan Islands are open for visitors only from mid-October to mid-May due to monsoon season closures, so plan your trip accordingly.
4. KOH KOOD
Koh Kood (also spelled Koh Kut) is one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, located near the border with Cambodia. This tropical paradise is lush with palm trees and pristine beaches, making it a favorite holiday destination for many Thai locals.
If you’re in the area, don’t miss the nearby island of Koh Mak, which is equally stunning and offers a peaceful retreat.
Tip: While island hopping, make sure to visit Koh Kham, a small island close by. You can reach it by kayak from Koh Mak or by boat.
How to Get to Koh Kood
The closest airport to Koh Kood is Trat Airport, which you can reach by flight or by bus from Bangkok or Pattaya. From Trat, head to Laem Sok Pier, where you can choose between a faster speedboat or a larger, more affordable boat that takes a bit longer.
If you’re coming from Koh Chang, you can book a boat transfer from Bang Bao Pier directly to Koh Kood.
5. PHI PHI ISLAND
It’s no surprise that Koh Phi Phi is on my top 10 list — I fell in love with this island almost 20 years ago and it has been my home ever since.
Phi Phi Island is stunning and attracts many visitors, especially during high season from November to March. If you prefer fewer tourists, try to avoid the peak months of December to March. The weather remains pleasant off-season, and hotel prices are much more affordable.
To truly enjoy a peaceful holiday, stay away from the busy main town. There are several quieter beaches like Long Beach, Loh Ba Kao Bay, and Leam Tong Beach that offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
While the main town is fully developed with plenty of restaurants and bars, choosing accommodation on the more remote beaches will give you that serene, deserted island feel.
Koh Phi Phi is absolutely breathtaking — if you don’t think so, you probably haven’t explored it fully yet.
Where else in Thailand can you snorkel with reef sharks right off the beach, spot turtles while kayaking, swim in crystal-clear waters, and admire some of the most spectacular limestone cliffs?
Amazing scuba diving, gorgeous beaches, and stunning sunsets are just the cherry on top of this island paradise.
How to get to Koh Phi Phi?
Koh Phi Phi is just a two-hour ferry ride from Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier) or Phuket (Rassada Pier), with ferries departing about four times a day. Alternatively, you can take a speedboat that takes around 1 hour and runs multiple times daily. For more detailed schedules and options, check out: How to get to Koh Phi Phi?
Tip: Avoid one-day trips to the island. You’ll be packed on a boat with around 40 other tourists, arriving at the busiest time of day alongside hundreds of others. This leaves little time to enjoy the beautiful beaches or viewpoints. Instead, plan to stay a few nights and truly discover the island’s natural beauty.
6. KOH TAO
Koh Tao is the smallest yet one of the most beautiful islands off the Surat Thani coast, located in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its laid-back vibe and affordable diving courses, Koh Tao attracts travelers looking for both adventure and relaxation.
The island boasts stunning beaches lined with overhanging palm trees and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Whether you’re lounging on the sand, exploring famous viewpoints, or discovering hidden gems, Koh Tao has plenty to offer.
With so many beaches, viewpoints, chill-out bars, and restaurants to explore, renting a motorbike is highly recommended to get around. Just be cautious—Koh Tao’s roads are famous for their sharp curves and steep hills, so drive carefully!
How to get to Koh Tao
If you’re planning to island hop, ferries run daily to Koh Tao from nearby islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.
You can also get there from Chumphon, which has a train station, bus terminal, and a small airport. One of the most reliable operators in this area is Lomprayah, offering comfortable speedboat services.
If you’re traveling from Bangkok, you can purchase a combined bus and ferry ticket for around 1200 THB per person—making the journey easy and convenient.
Tip: Avoid booking a flight out of Thailand or to another destination on the same day you leave Koh Tao. The Gulf of Thailand, especially around the Chumphon area, is known for big waves and unpredictable weather. Ferries can be canceled several times a year, so allow extra time to avoid travel stress.
7. KOH WUA TA LAP
If you’re dreaming of that true tropical island vibe, Koh Wua Ta Lap is your perfect match. This small island lies within the stunning Ang Thong National Marine Park, just south of Thailand, near Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.
Most visitors come for a day trip, but staying overnight here offers a truly unforgettable experience. The main beach stretches about 250 meters of pristine white sand and crystal-clear water. On the island’s opposite side, you’ll find two more secluded beaches waiting to be explored.
Accommodation is simple but cozy—offered by the national park in five bungalows about 100 meters from the main beach, plus several tents available for rent. There’s a restaurant serving tasty, affordable meals, and a small kiosk where you can grab water and snacks. Keep in mind, alcohol is prohibited within the national park.
Don’t miss hiking up to the island’s viewpoint—one of the most breathtaking views in Thailand! The trail is challenging, with steep, slippery sections and rocky paths, so be sure to wear proper shoes.
For more adventure, rent a kayak to explore the nearby small island of Koh Phi and visit the famous Emerald Lake viewpoint.
How to Get to Koh Wua Ta Lap
To reach Koh Wua Ta Lap, you’ll need to join one of the day trips departing from nearby islands like Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. These trips are available on larger boats or faster (but more expensive) speedboats. The boats usually drop you off on the island, and you can arrange your pick-up for the following day if you’re staying overnight.
Tip: Most visitors arrive between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM and head straight to the viewpoint. To avoid the crowds, plan your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
8. KOH KRADAN
Koh Kradan is a small hidden gem with just a few resorts and a couple of restaurants. The island hasn’t changed much in the past ten years, making it perfect for those seeking quiet beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
Located in the Trang area, Koh Kradan is one of the smaller islands and an ideal base for exploring nearby islands like Koh Mook and Koh Ngai, which are equally stunning.
Don’t miss the famous Emerald Cave on Koh Mook. For the best experience, choose a private tour or an early morning trip to avoid the crowds of one-day visitors coming from Krabi and Koh Lanta.
How to get to Koh Kradan?
During high season, you can take a boat transfer from Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, or Koh Lanta directly to Koh Kradan. The island is also accessible from Trang via a minivan transfer to Khuan Tung Ku Pier, followed by a boat ride.
Tip: From late morning to mid-afternoon, several one-day tours drop visitors near Koh Kradan Beach Resort, making it busier during these hours. For a calmer and more private experience, consider staying in the northern part of the beach where fewer tourists go.
9. KOH PHAYAM
Koh Phayam remains one of the undiscovered gems of the Andaman Sea. This stunning island is known for its long deserted beaches and laid-back, backpacker vibe. It offers a glimpse of what many Thai islands looked like 30 years ago.
Be sure to visit during the high season from October to May, as most restaurants and bungalows close during the low season. Koh Phayam is a peaceful retreat—perfect for those looking to escape city life and reconnect with nature.
Besides relaxing on the beach, you can also join yoga classes to enhance your experience.
How to get to Koh Phayam?
Koh Phayam is accessible by a two-hour boat ride (or 45 minutes by speedboat) from Ranong. You can reach Ranong by bus, train, or fly from Bangkok with Nok Air (flights operate twice daily).
Tip: There are no ATMs or banks on the island, so be sure to bring enough cash. Also, electricity is not available 24/7 in most budget accommodations, as the island relies on generators. Power is usually available only during certain hours, so plan accordingly to charge your devices. Some higher-end hotels provide continuous power with 24/7 generator operation.
10. KOH MOOK
One of my favorite places to visit in Thailand, perfect for a 4-day trip. Koh Mook is an unspoiled island with narrow dirt roads leading to stunning water caves and secluded beaches where you can experience some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the country.
The island remains largely “non-touristy,” offering a peaceful atmosphere where you can truly relax and unwind.
Don’t miss visiting the famous Emerald Cave, as well as nearby islands like Koh Kradan and Koh Ngai. Enjoy some hiking, delicious local food, and the island’s natural beauty.
You can find my ultimate guide to KOH MOOK here
How to get to Koh Mook?
During high season, you can take a boat transfer to Koh Mook from Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, or Koh Lanta. The island is also accessible from Trang — just take a minivan to Khuan Tung Ku Pier, then hop on a boat to Koh Mook.
Tip: If you want a hidden gem beyond the top 10, check out Koh Rok. Located nearby, it’s a stunning island you can visit on a day tour or, even better, stay overnight camping in the national park tents to experience its beauty fully.
