50 Best Islands in Thailand: The Ultimate Guide to Paradise
Thailand is a nation of islands, over 1,400 of them, scattered like emerald stepping stones across two glittering seas. Each one feels like its own little world. Some are home to rainforest peaks and waterfall-cut jungles, while others are ringed by lagoons so clear you can count starfish beneath the surface. And many remain untouched: where quiet fishing villages, wooden piers, and coconut-lined shores still reflect the gentle rhythm of island life.
After a decade of traveling through Thailand, island-hopping from the Gulf of Thailand to the Andaman Sea, we’re still amazed by the diversity here. One week you might find yourself diving through coral gardens in the Similan Islands, the next riding scooters along the quiet roads of Koh Kood or sipping sundowners on Koh Tao’s west coast. Thailand makes island-hopping feel effortless, with ferries, speedboats, and day tours connecting even the most remote shores.
Whether you’re dreaming of beaches, adventure, marine life, culture, or simply the feeling of escaping reality, Thailand’s islands offer some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes on earth. This guide highlights 50 of the very best islands in Thailand - a mix of icons and hidden gems - written to help you plan the ultimate island-hopping journey through the Land of Smiles.
Top 50 Islands to Visit in Thailand
1. Koh Kood
Koh Kood sits in eastern Thailand near the Cambodian border, a peaceful island in the Koh Chang archipelago known for its beautiful beaches with swaying palm trees and clear, turquoise water. You can reach it easily by speedboat from Trat, and while tourism is slowly growing, the island still feels largely untouched, with small fishing communities and fantastic seafood that reflect its local roots. Travelers come for Secret Sunset Beach, Khlong Chao Waterfall, relaxed boat trips, and scenic roads ideal for scooter exploration. Accommodation ranges from quaint guesthouses to luxury boutique resorts tucked away in quiet bays.
Koh Kood
Koh Kood
2. Koh Ngai
Koh Ngai is a dreamy island in the Trang archipelago, easily reached from Koh Lanta or the Trang mainland. Its long stretch of beach with white sand is perfect for swimming and slow coastal walks, with beautiful views of nearby islands shimmering across turquoise water. With no roads or towns, it stays wonderfully peaceful, making it one of Thailand’s best islands for couples and honeymooners. With spectacular sunsets, excellent snorkeling right off the beach, and resorts like Thapwarin offering relaxed comfort in a natural setting, Koh Ngai is one island you’ll definitely want to add to your Thailand bucket list.
Read more: Koh Ngai, Thailand: The Dreamy Island You’ll Never Want to Leave
Koh Ngai
Koh Ngai
3. Nang Yuan Island
Nang Yuan Island, a trio of tiny islands linked by sandbars, is one of Thailand’s most iconic sights and easily visited on day tours from Koh Tao or Koh Phangan. Its legendary viewpoint is reached by a short walk along a coastal boardwalk and a gentle climb through jungle to a rocky platform where you can capture the island’s famous postcard photo. The surrounding sea is crystal clear, perfect for swimming in calm shallows. As a protected area, single-use plastics are banned, keeping the beaches pristine. Early mornings and late afternoons offer its most breathtaking moments.
Nang Yuan Island
Nang Yuan Island
4. Koh Rok
Koh Rok is easily visited on a boat trip from Koh Lanta, often paired with snorkeling at nearby Koh Haa. While the reefs here are great, the real highlight is the island’s stunning beaches: perfectly emerald water and flour-soft white sand. The beaches are quiet and shaded by tall trees, ideal for swimming and relaxing in between activities. Most tours include lunch on the island and free time to explore, soak up the scenery, and enjoy one of Thailand’s most pristine island settings.
Read more: Koh Rok & Koh Haa: Thailand’s Hidden Snorkeling Paradise
Koh Rok
Koh Rok
5. Koh Yao Yai
Koh Yao Yai is a peaceful escape just a short boat ride from Phuket. The island blends rice fields, rubber plantations, fishing villages, and long, quiet beaches, including Laem Haad Beach, famous for its stunning white sandbar that stretches into turquoise water at low tide. Small cafes and coastal roads make scooter exploring easy, while the views across Phang Nga Bay glow beautifully at sunrise and sunset. Resorts like Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa offer incredible hillside vistas, creating a tranquil, authentic island retreat.
Koh Yao Yai
6. Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most diverse island, a destination where every traveler finds their own slice of paradise. From the energy of Patong to the sunsets of Promthep Cape, the island spans nightlife, culture, cuisine, and nature. Beaches vary from long sweeping bays like Kata and Karon to hidden coves carved into headlands. Offshore, dozens of day trips lead to coral islands, dramatic bays, and marine parks. Yet Phuket’s charm goes beyond the beaches: the Sino-Portuguese Old Town, night markets, temples, viewpoints, and a thriving food scene help make it one of Southeast Asia’s most multifaceted islands.
Read more: Phuket Travel Guide: 24 Experiences Travelers Will Love
Phuket
Phuket
7. Koh Phi Phi Lee
Koh Phi Phi Lee is the wild, uninhabited jewel of the Phi Phi islands and most famous for Maya Bay, the iconic cove featured in The Beach movie with Leonardo DiCaprio. Most travelers visit on a day tour from Koh Phi Phi Don, which includes spending time at Maya Bay and snorkeling in the emerald waters of Pileh Lagoon, though tours also run from Phuket and Krabi. Sheer limestone cliffs rise vertically from bright turquoise water, creating one of the most dramatic seascapes in Thailand.
Koh Phi Phi Lee
Koh Phi Phi Lee
8. Koh Kradan
Koh Kradan is a simple, low-key island with very few amenities, yet it’s home to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. In 2023, it was featured as the world’s best beach by the World Beach Guide, and its eastern shoreline shows why: shallow turquoise water stretching into the horizon and flour-soft white sand, backed by lush jungle rising gently behind the beach. Days here are all about sun, sea, and snorkeling, with coral reefs close to shore. It’s an ideal stay on an island-hopping trip in Trang, or you can visit on a day tour from Koh Lanta or Koh Ngai.
Koh Kradan
Koh Kradan
9. Koh Ngam (Trat)
Koh Ngam is one of the quietest, most underrated islands in the Koh Chang archipelago. Famous for its twin peaks and narrow sandbar linking two halves of the island, it feels like a miniature version of Nang Yuan Island - but without the crowds. The beaches are peaceful, the water is clear, and its green hills and dense tropical vegetation gives the island a lush backdrop. With only day-trip access, it remains incredibly pristine. Travelers often visit from Koh Kood or Koh Mak, finding a secluded paradise of shady trees, shallow lagoons, and quiet moments far from the tourist trail.
Koh Ngam
10. Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are one of Thailand’s premier diving and snorkeling destinations, known for their world-class visibility and dramatic granite landscapes. The islands rise like smooth boulders from the sea, creating wind-sculpted viewpoints and bays of electric blue water. Beneath the surface, coral reefs are alive with manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, and colourful fish. Visitors can explore the archipelago on day tours from Khao Lak or Phuket, or join multi-day liveaboard trips for access to deeper, more remote sites. Above water, beaches like Donald Duck Bay shine brilliantly white. The Similans draw crowds, but their natural beauty makes them worth visiting.
Read more: Similan Islands: Thailand’s Most Beautiful Beach Awaits
Similan Islands
Similan Islands
11. Koh Poda
Koh Poda is a classic Krabi island: small, dazzling, and framed by one of the most iconic limestone stacks in the region. Its main beach is a long crescent of soft white sand backed by casuarina trees, offering postcard views across turquoise water toward Railay and Ao Nang. The shallow waters are calm and perfect for swimming, while snorkeling along the rocky edges reveals colourful marine life. Although popular on day trips, it still feels laidback, especially in the early morning when the island is quiet and glowing with soft light. It’s simple, beautiful, and unmistakably Krabi.
Koh Poda
12. Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is a slow-travel favorite - an island where long beaches, relaxed villages, and jungle roads create an effortless escape. Its west coast is lined with golden bays perfect for sunsets, while the south melts into Mu Ko Lanta National Park with its wild headlands and hiking trails. Koh Lanta offers a rare balance: peaceful enough for families and couples, yet lively enough for digital nomads and long-term travelers. Snorkeling trips run daily to Koh Haa and Koh Rok, and the island’s food scene blends Thai, Muslim, and modern cafe culture.
Read more: 15 Things to Do in Koh Lanta: Enjoy a Perfect Island Escape
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta
13. Surin Islands
The Surin Islands are one of Thailand’s most pristine marine environments, famed for crystal-clear water and thriving coral gardens. The reefs here are incredibly healthy, attracting snorkelers and divers who come to swim with sea turtles, rays, and swirling schools of fish. The islands themselves are lush and untouched, home to quiet beaches and the indigenous Moken sea community, whose traditions shape the cultural landscape. Most travelers visit on day tours from Khao Lak or Phuket, though camping through the national park offers a rare chance to wake up on a remote island surrounded by nature.
Read more: Surin Islands Day Trip: What to Expect When Visiting from Phuket
Surin Islands
Surin Islands
14. Koh Tao
Koh Tao is Thailand’s diving capital, drawing travelers from around the world to its warm, clear waters and beginner-friendly reefs. Dive schools line Sairee Beach, offering courses that lead straight into vibrant coral ecosystems where turtles, barracuda, and colourful tropical fish thrive. Beyond diving, Koh Tao is laidback and scenic, with clifftop viewpoints, quiet coves like Sai Daeng, and evenings filled with relaxed beach bars and fire shows. Kayaking, hiking, and longtail trips to Nang Yuan Island round out the experience. Koh Tao is small but packed with character: a place that keeps travelers coming back.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao
15. Ko Lao Lading
Ko Lao Lading, part of the Hong Islands group, is a tiny but striking limestone island known for its sheltered lagoon-like beach. Towering cliffs curve around a pocket of bright turquoise water, creating a naturally protected cove perfect for swimming and relaxing. The island’s dramatic rock formations give it a cinematic feel, while longtail boats dot the bay like colourful brushstrokes. Although often included on Hong Island group tours from Krabi, it offers a unique charm of its own on a private longtail trip, especially if you can arrive early before the crowds.
Ko Lao Lading
16. Ko Panyi
Ko Panyi is not your typical beach island - it’s a remarkable Muslim fishing community built almost entirely on stilts above the water. Surrounded by limestone giants, the village feels suspended between sea and sky. Travelers come to wander narrow walkways, sample local seafood, and admire the floating football pitch that has become a symbol of the island. Longtail boat tours to Ko Panyi weave through water canals, mangrove forests, and towering karsts, offering an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Phang Nga Bay.
Ko Panyi
Ko Panyi
17. Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is often called the “Maldives of Thailand” and for good reason: its shallow waters glow neon turquoise, and its beaches are soft, white, and endlessly inviting. Located near Malaysia in the Tarutao National Marine Park, it’s the southernmost island on this list and one of the most beautiful. Snorkeling is exceptional right from shore, with coral reefs stretching across multiple bays. North Point Beach is the island’s most striking stretch of sand, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water ideal for swimming, while Pattaya Beach offers lively cafes and beachfront dining. Despite growing popularity, Koh Lipe retains an intimate charm - a perfect blend of barefoot luxury and easygoing island life.
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe
18. Koh Siboya
Koh Siboya is a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking simplicity and authentic village life. Just south of Krabi, the island remains quiet and undeveloped, with wide beaches, local fishing communities, and rustic bungalows dotted along the coast. There are no large resorts or busy towns - just calm waves, friendly locals, and long, empty stretches of sand. It’s an ideal place for travelers wanting to slow down, read in a hammock, or cycle through rural roads without seeing another tourist.
Koh Siboya
19. Ang Thong National Marine Park
Ang Thong is a breathtaking archipelago of 42 islands: a maze of emerald lagoons, rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and panoramic viewpoints. The landscape feels almost prehistoric, with jungle-topped peaks rising sharply from the sea. Kayaking between the islands is a highlight, as is hiking to the iconic viewpoint at Koh Wua Talap. Snorkeling reveals vibrant marine life, and quiet bays offer perfect picnic spots. Many travelers visit on day trips from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, but overnight stays elevate the experience.
Ang Thong National Marine Park
Ang Thong National Marine Park
20. Koh Mook
Koh Mook blends local culture with stunning natural beauty, offering pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and one of Thailand’s most famous attractions: the Emerald Cave. Reached by swimming through a dark sea tunnel, the hidden beach inside feels surreal - a circular lagoon surrounded by towering walls of jungle-covered limestone. The island also has quiet fishing villages, warm hospitality, and beaches like Sivalai, where sweeping sandbars curl into turquoise water. Travelers looking for comfort often stay at Koh Mook Sivalai Beach Resort, one of the island’s most scenic stays. Koh Mook is peaceful, authentic, and a favorite among Trang’s low-key travelers.
Koh Mook
Koh Mook
21. James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan)
James Bond Island is one of Thailand’s most recognisable natural landmarks, a needle-like limestone pinnacle rising from the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay. Typically reached on boat tours from Phuket or Krabi, it became famous after appearing in the 1974 James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun”. Today it’s a key stop on tours that explore the bay’s dramatic karst formations and sea caves. The island itself is small, with narrow beaches and viewpoints facing the iconic rock, Ko Tapu. It can get busy, but the unique scenery remains undeniably impressive.
James Bond Island
22. Koh Mak
Koh Mak is a tranquil, eco-conscious island in the Koh Chang Archipelago, known for being even more laidback than neighbouring Koh Kood. Its palm-fringed beaches and coconut groves set an easy rhythm, with roadside cafes and small family-run resorts giving the island its warm, local feel. Travelers can join boxing sessions at the island’s Muay Thai gym, enjoy sunset cocktails on the wooden pier at Blue Pearl Bar, or take a short boat ride to Koh Kham, famous for its black volcanic rock beaches and ghost resort. Slow-paced and friendly, Koh Mak embodies the charm of simple island living.
Read more: How to Spend 3 Magical Days in Koh Mak
Koh Mak
Koh Mak
23. Koh Haa
Koh Haa is a cluster of five tiny islands famed for their incredible snorkeling and diving. The sheltered lagoon in the centre is a natural swimming pool, with electric-blue water so clear you can spot fish from the boat. Underwater, the coral gardens are vibrant and full of life - soft corals, caves, and steep pinnacles that draw divers of all levels. Above water, the scenery is equally breathtaking - jagged limestone outcrops rising dramatically from the sea. Day trips from Koh Lanta make it easy to visit, usually paired with nearby Koh Rock.
Koh Haa
Koh Haa
24. Koh Phi Phi Don
Koh Phi Phi Don is the main hub of the Phi Phi islands, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and lively atmosphere. Despite its popularity, you can still find quiet corners - hidden spots like Wang Long Bay and Nui Beach make for great longtail trips. The island is car-free, making it easy to explore on foot, whether you’re wandering through Tonsai Village or hiking up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint for sunset. Phi Phi Don is a world-class diving destination, with colourful reefs and marine life suited to both beginners and certified divers. After dark, the island comes alive with fire shows, beach bars, nightclubs, and Muay Thai fights at Reggae Bar. And let’s not forget tours to Maya Bay, one of Thailand’s most iconic attractions.
Read more: 20 Best Things To Do in Koh Phi Phi (Beyond Maya Bay)
Koh Phi Phi Don
Koh Phi Phi Don
25. Hong Islands
The Hong Islands are one of Krabi’s standout coastal attractions. The main island, Koh Hong, features a dazzling turquoise lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs - perfect for swimming, kayaking, and exploring its shallow reef areas. Koh Hong also features a short trail that leads to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the entire archipelago, offering some of the region’s most impressive vistas. Smaller islands like Ko Lao Lading and Koh Pak Bia add even more dramatic scenery, with secluded coves and bright blue water. The Hong Islands are a popular stop on boat tours from Ao Nang or Railay (Krabi), and their beauty never fails to impress.
Hong Islands
Hong Islands
26. Koh Samet
Koh Samet is one of Bangkok’s favorite beach escapes, reached in about 3 - 4 hours by car and then a short 10 - 15 minute ferry or speedboat from Ban Phe Pier. The island is known for its powdery white sand and bright blue water, protected under national park status that keeps the beaches looking pristine. The quieter southern bays, like Ao Wai and Ao Kiu Na Nok, feel peaceful and intimate, while the northern beaches offer a livelier scene with bars and beachfront dining. With calm seas year-round and a relaxed, tropical vibe, Koh Samet feels surprisingly far from mainland life.
Koh Samet
Koh Samet
27. Koh Chang
Koh Chang is Thailand’s second-largest island and one of its most diverse, with misty mountains, waterfalls, and long sandy beaches shaping a dramatic coastline. Visitors can kayak through quiet mangrove channels, join snorkeling trips to nearby islands, or ride scooters along winding coastal roads. The west coast has lively beaches, a growing expat community, and plenty of bars and restaurants, while the east side remains quiet and traditional. With activities ranging from ziplining to scenic viewpoint hikes, Koh Chang feels more natural and adventurous than Phuket or Koh Samui, offering scenery, culture, and a welcoming island atmosphere.
Koh Chang
28. Koh Phitak
Koh Phitak is a unique community-led island in Chumphon. Once called Ko Phee Tak - “the ghost greets” - after fishermen saw mysterious figures onshore, it was later renamed for good luck as a small village took shape. Around 40 homestays now welcome visitors, offering an immersive glimpse into local island life. Despite its size, Koh Phitak offers kayaking, diving, fishing, and tree-planting activities. Travelers can wander past coconut plantations, sample fresh coconut juice made by local families, and learn about the island’s strong environmental efforts, including its giant clam conservation centre. A paved path circles the island, and a short hike leads to a scenic viewpoint with Koh Tao, Koh Samui, and Koh Phangan visible in the distance on clear days.
Koh Phitak
29. Koh Phangan
While famous for the Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan is far more diverse than its nightlife reputation suggests. Its northern and eastern coasts are wonderfully serene, with coconut groves, boutique resorts, yoga retreats, and beaches like Thong Nai Pan, Haad Yuan, and Bottle Beach, home to the scenic Phasawan Viewpoint. Inland, jungle-covered hills reveal waterfalls and hiking trails with rewarding panoramas. The island carries a relaxed, bohemian vibe, attracting digital nomads, long-term travelers, and wellness seekers looking for balance between nature and comfort. Peaceful in some corners and energetic in others, Koh Phangan is as multifaceted as they come.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan
30. Racha Islands
The Racha Islands (Racha Yai and Racha Noi) sit about 30 - 45 minutes by speedboat from Phuket, offering some of the clearest water and best snorkeling in the region. Racha Yai features white-sand beaches, gently curving bays, and hills covered in lush greenery, with a few upscale resorts tucked into the landscape. Racha Noi, uninhabited and more rugged, is known for deep, dramatic waters ideal for advanced diving, with frequent manta ray sightings. Rocky headlands, sweeping viewpoints, and luminous turquoise bays give both islands a striking, unpolished natural beauty. Quiet, scenic, and rich in marine life, the Rachas are a standout Phuket day trip.
Racha Islands
31. Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a cosmopolitan island wrapped in tropical beauty: a place where luxury resorts, family-friendly beaches, temples, waterfalls, and lively towns all coexist with ease. Chaweng and Lamai offer energy, shopping, and nightlife, while Fisherman’s Village and Maenam bring a more laidback charm. Inland, coconut plantations and jungle peaks create dramatic scenery, with viewpoints stretching across the Gulf of Thailand. Samui is also an excellent base for exploring Ang Thong National Marine Park or hopping to nearby islands like Koh Tao. With its mix of comfort, culture, scenery, and accessibility, Koh Samui remains one of Thailand’s most beloved destinations.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui
32. Khai Islands
The Khai Islands (Khai Nai, Khai Nok, and Khai Nui) are tiny, bright-water escapes about 15 - 20 minutes by speedboat from Phuket, famous for snorkeling and shallow, family-friendly beaches. The water here is exceptionally clear, making it easy to spot schools of fish right from the shore. Colorful umbrellas dot the sand, and longtail boats drift across pale blue water. These islands are perfect for half-day trips from Phuket, offering easy access to coral gardens and postcard-worthy scenery. Despite being popular, their compact size and vivid colours make them captivating, especially for travelers seeking simple, beautiful beach time.
Khai Islands
33. Koh Kham
Koh Kham is a stunning little island near Koh Mak, known for its black volcanic rocks contrasted against powder-white sand and surreal turquoise water. Its shallow waters are perfect for swimming, photography, and snorkeling. The island has a quirky, abandoned resort - unfinished structures slowly being reclaimed by nature - giving it a unique, dreamlike atmosphere. Visitor numbers are limited, preserving its peaceful feel. Many travelers come on short trips from Koh Mak, enjoying some of the clearest water in the entire Koh Chang archipelago.
Read more: Koh Kham: A Hidden Paradise Near Koh Mak (The Complete Guide)
Koh Kham
Koh Kham
34. Koh Libong
Koh Libong is Trang’s largest island and one of Thailand’s best places to spot dugongs grazing in coastal seagrass meadows. Remote and authentic, it offers long beaches, fishing villages, and an intimate connection to local culture. The landscapes are rugged yet calming: sweeping sands, mangrove forests, and limestone headlands that glow orange at sunset. Tourism here remains low-key, with simple bungalows and eco-lodges blending quietly into nature. Koh Libong is ideal for wildlife lovers and travelers seeking solitude, authenticity, and the gentle rhythm of island life untouched by mass tourism.
Koh Libong
35. Coral Island (Koh Hey)
Coral Island, known locally as Koh Hey, is one of Phuket’s most accessible tropical getaways (reached in 15 - 30 minutes by speedboat). Its two main beaches, Long Beach and Banana Beach, offer bright turquoise water, soft sand, and excellent snorkeling close to shore. The island is lively, with water sports, shaded restaurants, and colorful beach chairs lining the coast. Yet step away from the central sections and you’ll find quiet corners perfect for swimming and relaxation. Coral Island is ideal for families, first-time visitors to Thailand, and anyone looking for a fun, easy day trip from Phuket with plenty of sunshine and clear blue seas.
Coral Island (Koh Hey)
36. Koh Jum
Koh Jum is a peaceful island sitting between Krabi and Koh Lanta, known for its relaxed atmosphere and long, golden beaches. Villages are quiet, locals are friendly, and development is minimal, creating a wonderfully authentic feel. Mountains rise to the north, jungles stretch inland, and the western beaches offer fiery, unforgettable sunsets. A handful of travelers come here to unwind, ride scooters down quiet roads, and enjoy a slower, more traditional lifestyle. With rustic bungalows and a handful of boutique retreats, Koh Jum appeals to those seeking nature, solitude, and understated beauty without the crowds of neighbouring islands.
Koh Jum
37. Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi sits peacefully in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, offering dramatic views of limestone karsts and an atmosphere that feels untouched by mass tourism. It strikes a perfect balance between luxury and local life: rice fields, rubber plantations, fishing communities, and a scattering of elegant resorts woven into the landscape. The island’s roads are perfect for scenic scooter rides, while kayaking through mangroves and hidden coves offers even more adventure. Quiet, friendly, and deeply scenic, Koh Yao Noi is a favourite for travelers seeking tranquillity and a taste of authentic island living.
Koh Yao Noi
38. Koh Larn
Koh Larn is a popular, easy-access island near Pattaya, known for its bright blue water and long sandy beaches ideal for swimming. Despite its popularity, several beaches (especially Tien and Samae) maintain a clean, inviting atmosphere with clear water and soft sand. Viewpoints offer sweeping panoramas back toward the mainland, while cafes and water sports give the island a fun, upbeat vibe. Koh Larn is close enough for a stress-free day trip but beautiful enough to justify an overnight stay.
Koh Larn
Koh Larn
39. Bamboo Island
Bamboo Island is one of the most beautiful islands surrounding Koh Phi Phi, a pristine patch of white sand surrounded by glowing aquamarine water. Unlike its dramatic limestone neighbours, Bamboo Island is flat and ringed entirely by beach, creating a perfect circle of sand and sea. Snorkeling along the reef edge reveals vibrant marine life, and the island’s simplicity adds to its charm. It’s a popular inclusion on boat tours, but visiting early morning or late afternoon reveals its true tranquillity.
40. Koh Wai
Koh Wai is a quiet, forested island in the Koh Chang archipelago, known for its shallow coral reefs and tranquil beaches. The island has no roads and only a handful of laid-back beachfront bungalows, giving it a castaway vibe. The water is incredibly calm and sheltered, making it perfect for snorkeling straight from the sand. Its simplicity is its greatest charm: hammocks, warm water, leafy shade, and long afternoons with almost no noise except the sea. Koh Wai is one of eastern Thailand’s best hidden gems.
Koh Wai
Koh Wai
41. Koh Phayam
Koh Phayam, located in Ranong Province near the Myanmar border, is Thailand’s bohemian hideaway - reminiscent of Thailand in the 1970s. It’s an island of surf beaches, cashew plantations, and rustic bamboo bungalows. Reached by a 45 - 60 minute speedboat from Ranong Pier, it feels wonderfully remote. With no cars and a laid-back creative community, Koh Phayam moves at its own gentle rhythm. Aow Yai stretches wide and wild along the west coast, while Aow Khao Kwai offers calm, scenic waters framed by forest. Cafes and small restaurants dot the island, yet everything remains charmingly simple.
Koh Phayam
Koh Phayam
42. Tarutao National Marine Park
Tarutao National Marine Park is one of Thailand’s most remote and protected regions, a wild archipelago of dense jungle, dramatic coastlines, and untouched beaches. Koh Tarutao, the main island, offers rugged hiking trails, historic sites, mangrove estuaries, and wildlife ranging from monkeys and hornbills to giant sea turtles. Although it feels far from polished tourism, it’s surprisingly accessible, sitting just north of Koh Lipe, where you can easily organise boat tours or day trips into the marine park. Camping through the national park also allows visitors to stay near empty beaches and experience true solitude.
Tarutao National Marine Park
43. Coconut Island (Koh Maphrao)
Coconut Island sits just off Phuket’s east coast but feels surprisingly peaceful and secluded. Small resorts and village communities share the island, creating a blend of comfort and authenticity. Mangrove forests line the shoreline, while longtail boats drift through calm channels. The beaches are gentle and quiet, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and unwinding. Despite its close proximity to Phuket, Coconut Island offers a refreshing escape from crowds, with luxury villas and family-run bungalows giving travelers plenty of choice.
44. Koh Rawi
Koh Rawi is one of the jewels of the Adang–Rawi archipelago near Koh Lipe, boasting some of Thailand’s clearest water and most untouched beaches. The island is uninhabited, with dense forest, bright white sand, and offshore reefs ideal for snorkeling. Many visitors arrive on day trips that include nearby Koh Adang, but Koh Rawi’s tranquillity stands out - no resorts, no restaurants, just nature. Its remote feel and pristine environment make it a highlight for travelers who crave raw, unfiltered beauty.
Koh Rawi
45. Tean Island (Koh Taen)
Tean Island is a small, quiet island south of Koh Samui known for its calm beaches, mangrove boardwalk, and laidback atmosphere. It’s an easy trip from Koh Samui but feels far less developed, offering excellent snorkeling and peaceful swimming conditions. The island’s coral restoration areas are a highlight, showcasing community-led conservation efforts. Visitors often pair Tean Island with nearby Koh Madsum (Pig Island) for a relaxed half-day adventure.
46. Koh Bida Nai & Koh Bida Nok
These two small limestone islets south of the Phi Phi Islands are among Thailand’s top diving sites. Sheer walls, caves, and colorful coral gardens create dramatic underwater landscapes teeming with life, including sharks, rays, and swirling schools of fish. Since they’re uninhabited, the Bidas offer some of the most thrilling marine experiences in the region. Divers and snorkelers come on day trips from Koh Phi Phi Don, drawn by the islands’ combination of clear water, abundant wildlife, and unique geological formations. Remote and rugged, the Bidas are a paradise for underwater explorers.
47. Koh Ngam Yai & Koh Ngam Noi
These twin islands in Chumphon are known for their steep cliffs, vibrant reefs, and incredible visibility. The waters around them are a haven for marine life, making them a favorite among snorkelers and advanced divers. Whale sharks are occasionally spotted during migration seasons, adding to their allure. The islands themselves are uninhabited, but boats regularly bring visitors from Chumphon for day trips focused on underwater exploration.
48. Koh Khlum
Koh Khlum is a quiet, rugged island near Koh Chang, often visited for laidback snorkeling, fishing trips, and peaceful coastal scenery. The shoreline is rocky in many places, but the island’s solitude is its main appeal. With no major development and limited access, Koh Khlum feels remote and untouched, offering an escape for travelers seeking silence and simple natural beauty. Clear waters and surrounding reefs attract snorkelers, while photographers appreciate its dramatic coastal views.
49. Koh Kra (Koh Kla)
Koh Kra (Koh Kla) is a tiny islet just off Sunrise Beach on Koh Lipe, easily reached by kayak or a short longtail ride. Despite its size, the surrounding water is rich with marine life: healthy corals, giant clams, clownfish, and schools of colorful reef fish thrive here, making it a favorite spot for casual snorkeling right from Koh Lipe’s main beach. Kayakers often circle the little limestone outcrop, enjoying bright, shallow water and clear views of the reef below. It also makes for fantastic photography, especially from aerial views.
Koh Kra (Koh Kla)
Koh Kra (Koh Kla)
50. Koh Sukon
Koh Sukon is a peaceful, rural island in southern Trang Province, home to a slow-paced Muslim community where agriculture and fishing shape daily life. A handful of travelers come here to unwind, cycle or scooter the 17 km ring road, wander through coconut groves and rubber plantations, and enjoy quiet beaches with beautiful sunsets. The island isn’t known for turquoise water or luxury resorts, but for its homestays, local culture, and gentle rhythm, where goats and buffalo often outnumber visitors. A viewpoint overlooks the mainland and nearby islands, and boat trips can reach the pristine national park isles of Koh Lao Liang and Koh Phetra.
Which Thai Island Is Right for You?
Thailand’s islands are incredibly diverse, and choosing the right one depends on the type of trip you want. Some islands are made for adventure - places where jungle trails, sea caves, and coral gardens fill your days. Others are all about serene beaches, romantic sunsets, family-friendly comforts, or high-energy nightlife. There are islands perfect for remote workers seeking long stays, and others ideal for divers chasing world-class reefs. Grouping them by travel style makes it easier to plan the perfect island-hopping trip, whether you’re dreaming of hammocks and calm seas or exploring the most dramatic landscapes in the country.
Adventure & Culture
Koh Chang
Koh Mook
Surin Islands
Ko Panyi
Tarutao National Marine Park
Ang Thong National Marine Park
Beach Life
Koh Phi Phi Lee (Maya Bay)
Nang Yuan Island
Koh Kradan
Koh Kham
Koh Poda
Hong Islands
Koh Samet
Racha Islands
Khai Islands
Bamboo Island
Family-Friendly
Phuket
Koh Samui
Coral Island (Koh Hey)
Koh Larn
James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan)
Honeymoon & Romance
Koh Kood
Koh Ngai
Koh Lipe
Koh Yao Yai
Koh Yai Noi
Coconut Island
Off the Beaten Path
Koh Phayam
Koh Sukon
Koh Libong
Koh Siboya
Koh Phitak
Koh Jum
Koh Wai
Koh Rawi
Tean Island
Koh Khlum
Koh Ngam (Trat)
Ko Lao Lading
Party Islands
Koh Phi Phi Don
Koh Phangan
Remote Work
Koh Lanta
Koh Mak
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
Koh Tao
Koh Rok
Koh Haa
Similan Islands
Koh Bida Nai/Nok
Koh Ngam Yai/Noi
Koh Kra (Koh Kla)
Our Top 5 Favorite Thai Islands
Koh Kood: This island in Trat tops our list as our favorite island in Thailand. It’s the very definition of a tropical paradise - beautiful palm-fringed beaches with crystal-clear azure water, waterfalls nestled in dense jungles, delicious seafood, quiant local fishing villages, and just enough resorts and amenities without ever feeling touristy. It’s peaceful, authentic, and perfect for riding scooters along rolling hills and quiet coastal roads.
Koh Ngai: For us as a couple, Koh Ngai is Thailand’s most romantic island. Its long sweep of white sand, dotted with just a handful of boutique resorts, feels intimate and serene. We loved swimming at high tide in emerald green waters, walking the shoreline at low tide, and watching gorgeous sunsets from rustic little beach bars. There’s not a lot to do, but for a short 3 or 4 night stay, it makes for a super relaxing and visually stunning escape.
Koh Rok: While the snorkeling is fantastic at Koh Rok, the beaches here were definitely the highlight. Koh Rok is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the world. Its emerald green water and flour-soft sand is the very definition of paradise. Visiting on a day trip from Koh Lanta, including a stop in Koh Haa, feels like escaping to a hidden corner of Thailand.
Similan Islands: Despite becoming popular in recent years, there’s no denying the allure of the Similan Islands. Swimming around granite boulders in unbelievably blue waters, climbing Sail Rock to overlook the famous Donald Duck Bay and snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens makes this destination the ultimate day trip from Phuket. Liveaboard trips take the Similan Islands to the next level - with extraordinary sunsets over the sea’s horizon and world-class diving.
Koh Phi Phi Don: Busy, lively, energetic and endlessly fun, we always have a great time in Koh Phi Phi Don. For us, arriving here signals the start of a new island-hopping adventure, and that feeling never gets old. It’s probably the only super touristy island in Thailand that we still love.
Koh Kood
Koh Ngai
Koh Rok
Similan Islands
Koh Phi Phi Don
