When it comes to beachy island getaways, few locations in Southeast Asia inspire travellers as much as Thailand’s islands. In fact, the Land of Smiles has approximately 1430 sun-drenched, jungle swathed islands. To help you plan your next island hopping adventure, we’ve narrowed it down to just four of the very best Thai islands. We’ve also included helpful information on Koh Kradan’s beaches and Koh Lipe’s best places to stay.
Koh Kradan: for “The Best Beach in The World”
Koh Kradan is a true tropical paradise and home to what World Beach Guide lauds as “Best Beach in The World”. Its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands make it one of the best Thai Islands for those seeking uninterrupted relaxation. Largely undeveloped and part of Hat Chao Mai National Park, the island remains blissfully free of crowds, giving you a sense of exclusivity. Snorkelling just off the shore reveals vibrant coral reefs, while sunsets on the western beach are truly breathtaking.
How to get there: The island can be reached by boat from Pak Meng Pier near Trang or Kong Ka Pier in Krabi.
Koh Lipe: for laid back nightlife
If you want the best of both worlds – idyllic beaches by day and a relaxed, lively atmosphere by night – Koh Lipe is the ‘Goldilocks’ island you’re looking for. Known for its relaxed vibe, this tiny island offers a range of nightlife options, from cosy beach bars to lively late night parties with live music and DJs. The nightlife here is a far cry from the chaos of party-heavy islands, making it ideal for those who want to sip a cocktail under the stars without the crowds of Thailand’s more popular islands. If you’re looking for Koh Lipe’s best places to stay, you’ll also find plenty of five-star resort options like Ananya Lipe Resort, Casa De Lipe and Bulow Casa Grand View Resort.
How to get there: Catch a ferry or speedboat from Pak Bara Pier or from Langkawi in Malaysia.
Koh Tao: for spectacular dives
For divers, Koh Tao is one of the best Thai islands because of its remarkable biodiversity. The island boasts vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including whale sharks. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, the island’s dive centres offer top notch PADI-approved courses and unforgettable excursions. With its crystal-clear waters and accessible dive sites, it’s no surprise that Koh Tao remains a firm favourite among divers. Like Koh Lipe, you’ll also find plenty of great places to stay and nightlife venues for post-dive unwinding.
How to get there: Ferries depart from Chumphon, Surat Thani, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan to reach Koh Tao.
Koh Lanta: for inland adventures
While Koh Lanta is renowned for its stunning coastline, it’s also an excellent spot for intrepid hikers, boasting over 23 hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Swap the beach for a trek through the lush jungle, where you’ll find hidden waterfalls and exotic wildlife. You can also explore the island’s impressive cave systems or enjoy a scenic bike ride along its quiet roads.
How to get there: The island can be reached by ferry or speedboat from Krabi, Phuket or the Phi Phi Islands.
Island hop with peace of mind
After planning your trip and picking places to stay on Koh Lipe or your favourite Thai island, it’s essential to make sure you’re covered for even the most adventurous activities. Pacific Prime CXA offers comprehensive international health insurance policies that include inpatient and outpatient coverage, medical evacuation, repatriation, direct billing and 24-hour emergency assistance. Coverage for extreme sports and diving are also available.
For detailed information on Pacific Prime CXA’s travel insurance coverage, click here.
