9 Best Islands to Visit in Thailand

The perfect island escape will immerse you in limited amenities that disconnect you from the bustle of daily life. Picturesque beaches reflect a tropical paradise accentuated by a slow, inviting pace. Rugged pathways weave through rubber plantations and breezy forests to give you access to the natural ambiance and delicate beauty. Snorkel off the beaches of small islands, visit the unique setting of the island temple, or kayak through the mangroves as you step away from the fast pace of life.

The sibling Koh Yao islands have a reputation for comfort and charm, with enough rural beauty to reflect remoteness and infrastructure to provide local luxuries. Traditional wooden homes stand over the water on stilts. Mangrove trees create a perfect maze in which to wind through on a kayak. Honeymooners can escape to the idyllic views and pools of remote beaches. Whether looking for golden sands next to rocky bays or rock climbing onto magnificent boulders, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai bring the dream of Thailand islands to life.

Koh Tao is a paradise for sunbathers and scuba divers. As a pristine destination eager to showcase the colorful array of marine life, from scorpionfish to clownfish, coral to whale sharks, Koh Tao throws new experiences at visitors. Find beaches blanketed with soft white sands. Venture into the inland tropical vegetation. With crystal-clear waters and enveloping sunsets, you can indulge in the iconic majesty of Thailand’s islands when on Koh Tao.

Phuket is one of Thailand’s largest islands and blends Western convenience, contemporary luxury, and tropical beauty. Glorious beaches create an enticing escape to the crystal-clear waters or places to lounge in the soft sands, while cosmopolitan streets offer a diversion into eclectic designer stores. World-class restaurants take inspiration from their surroundings and elegant resorts provide a comfortable way to indulge in the natural island splendor.

A serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of larger islands and city life, Koh Lanta embodies relaxation in a tropical paradise. Beaches and bays fade into the clear waters and drop-offs provide incredible opportunities for swimming. Find impressive limestone formations, silky sands, mangroves, and hills blanketed with forest. Visit the diverse communities to meet sea people, free-dive to view tropical marine life, or simply soak into the calm sea to enjoy the warmth of island living.

A popular destination for beachgoers, Koh Phi Phi is a marvel of natural wonder. The beauty emanates from limestone karsts covered in greenery and tropical trees spread to the edge of the white sands. Verdant mountains, crystal-clear waters, and incredible vistas demonstrate the reasons the island remains popular. A narrow isthmus creates a stunning panorama as two curved sandy bays nestle between the mountains. With shopping, dining experiences, and soothing sunlight, you can enjoy the remarkable diversity of the cosmopolitan ambiance on the small island.

With thick jungle, gorgeous beaches, and rugged mountains, Koh Chang is a delightful discovery day and night. Interior beauty stems from the protected jungle landscape, where you can trek in search of wildlife or stunning views of the secluded archipelago, find waterfalls or embrace the canopy. Traditional fishing villages retain their daily life, mangrove trees provide endless kayaking possibilities, and its proximity to the Cambodian border makes it an easy stopover before venturing further afield to Siem Reap or other destinations.

Incredible sunsets, an enticing variety of birdlife, and wonderful diving or snorkeling can immerse you in the beauty of island life on Koh Similan, from stretching out on the white-sand beaches to searching for whale sharks. A boat can take you around the island or sailing amidst the archipelago, while boutique accommodations can immerse you in the surrounding natural beauty. Untouched coral reefs in dreamy turquoise waters only add to the splendor of Koh Similan and the connected island archipelago.

The small and idyllic island can give you deep jungle experiences and untouched nature. Small villages provide a view into authentic life and the coast turns from verdant palm trees to striking cliffs and stunning coastline. Snow-white beaches offer a touch of paradise and the Emerald Cave offers a distinct perspective of the natural wonder. The tranquility offers an immersive ambiance that sweeps from tropical reefs brimming with clownfish to circling trails that unveil the island like a hidden pearl, protected by Chao Mai National Park.

With the promise of exotic jungles and pristine sands, Thailand is the perfect destination for an island escape for any kind of traveler. From dramatic karsts rising out of the tropical sea to the hidden mysteries beneath the water on a scuba excursion, searching for a secluded stretch of beach or uncovering an exciting network of caves, Thailand offers endless adventures for you to enjoy. Zicasso’s Thailand Tours & Vacations offers sample itineraries to help inspire your Thailand trip. Fill out a Trip Request or call our team at 1-888-265-9707 to speak with a Thailand travel specialist.