The Thai island of Koh Phangan, also known as Ko Pha-Ngan, is mostly known for its world famous monthly Full Moon parties, but this gem of an island has so much more to offer once than wild nightlife.
The island is also home to beautiful white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, plenty of tropical nature and activities and a growing reputation for yoga and wellness.
There’s so much choice when it comes to Koh Phangan accommodation options, there’s everything from basic budget beach huts, to backpacker party hostels, digital nomad hotels, serene yoga retreats and luxury beach resorts.
The island seems to be coming popular with everyone – not just party people, backpackers and yogis, and there’s something for everyone – you just need to know where the best places to stay in Koh Phangan are depending on what you are looking for.
I’ve been living in Koh Phangan for a whole and have been able to explore the whole island and stay in some of the best hotels. I discovered that each beach and area of the island is very different and has its very own distinct feel, so it’s important to know where to stay in Koh Phangan so that you can can find the perfect vibe for you.
To make it easy for you to plan an amazing trip I’ll guide you through the different places to stay in Koh Phangan, give you my recommendations for the best hotels, resorts and accommodation options. I’ll also give you all the tips you need to plan your trip in this blog.
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Where to Stay in Koh Phangan: The Best Beaches and Areas
Before you consider your Koh Phangan accommodation options, be aware that the island has many beautiful beaches and different areas that all have a different vibe. So you’ll want to find the best area to stay in Koh Phangan depending on what you are looking to experience when you visit and then find the best hotels in that area.
Are you heading to the island for the famous full moon party or looking for the best place to stay in koh phangan to experience the islands vibrant nightlife? Or do you want to spend your days practicing yoga and be immersed in the natural beauty of the island?
Are you a backpacker on a budget or visiting as a couple or family and want to enjoy the luxury resorts and secluded white sand beaches? Whatever you’re looking for you can find it on this paradise island.
You can make the most of your stay on Koh Phangan by carefully considering which area to stay in and choosing the best place to suit all your needs.
Map of Koh Phangan
But first, you need to do some research and get an idea of all the different places to stay in Koh Phangan. To help you get your bearings here’s a map of the island so you know where all the different areas to stay are located.
The Best Areas of Koh Phangan to Stay
There’s a diverse range of areas to stay on Koh Phangan. When you arrive on the island by ferry you’ll arrive at Thong Sala Pier. Thong Sala is the main town and hub of the island and the best place to experience the local culture of the island.
Thong Sala is a convenient place to stay if you want to be near the ferry port and the towns shops, services and lively night markets including the Pantip night market and the Saturday walking street market although Thong Sala beach isn’t the best on the island.
Now if you’re coming to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon party then the best place to stay in Haad Rin beach on the south east end of the island where the party is held. Baan Tai beach is also a good place to stay for nightlife and there are parties held all the time, not just at full moon.
If you’d like to sample a bit of everything on offer, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, have easy access to explore the rest of the island and want to frequent the Thong Sala night markets for snacks, then the best place to stay in Koh Phangan for you would be Baan Tai.
If you’re looking for the quieter, more relaxed side of Koh Phangan you may have heard about and things like yoga retreats and tantra workshops interest you then be sure to head up to the north west side of the island around Sri Thanu.
If you want to escape from it all and enjoy stunning and secluded beaches then head to the north of the island, Haad Salad beach, Haad Yao beach or Mae Haad beach are all great options.
Or, if you’re looking for luxury resorts and the best white sand beaches on the island head straight to Thong Nai Pan Noi beach and Thong Nai Pan Yai beach. These areas are great for couples or families and home to some of the best luxury resorts and hotels in Koh Phangan.
The Best Places to Stay in Koh Phangan
Haad Rin – For the Full Moon Party
If you’re heading to Koh Phangan for one thing, and one thing only – to experience the legendary Full Moon Party – then the best place to stay in Koh Phangan for nightlife is in the heart of all the action at Haad Rin beach.
This beautiful beach is divided into two sections – Haad Rin Nok (Sunrise Beach) and Haad Rin Nai (Sunset Beach). Sunrise Beach hosts the Full Moon Party, while Sunset Beach offers a quieter atmosphere just around the corner – perfect for recovering from the party!
There is also a smaller, very instagrammable, stunning beach nearby called Leela beach which is perfect if you want to stay on a peaceful, stunning, white sand beach but still be close enough to Haad Rin beach for the full moon party.
Beyond the infamous monthly Full Moon party, Haad Rin is also home to some of the islands best white sand beaches as well as lively bars, restaurants and adventurous activities too, so you’ll be right in the thick of it all here.
If you’re looking to laze the days away on the beach and party every night till the sun comes up, then this is the best place to stay in Koh Phangan.
Here’s a selection of the best places to stay in Haad Rin to suit all budgets:
Backpacker: Culture Club Backpackers
If you’re planning on heading to the Full Moon Party, Culture Club Backpackers is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for backpackers and party animals.
These guys will get you ready with UV paints, epic pre-party games and buckets ready to go! This hostel is well known for it’s super social, friendly atmosphere, perfect for those who want to dive straight into all the action.
Dorm beds at Culture Club are notably very clean and comfortable, and each bed has it’s own privacy curtain, reading lamp and power socket to charge your phone or laptop.
The best part of this place though has to be the free use of a neighbouring hotels amazing pool that overlooks the ocean, so that’s where you’ll find all your new roomies!
Click here to book your stay at Culture Club hostel.
Budget: Pearl Villa
This is one of the best hotels in Koh Phangan, perfect for party-goers who want to experience the Full Moon Party, but also want a little more privacy and comfort to return home to afterwards.
Pearl Villa is located conveniently just a short walk away from Haad Rin pier, the beach and many surrounding great bars and restaurants. Simple décor, private bathroom facilities within the rooms, an outdoor pool to relax by during the day, and there’s even a gym.
Location wise and value for money, this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for the full moon party for those who like a bit more comfort than the average backpacker hostel.
Midrange: Tommy Resort
This is by far one of the best midrange hotels on Haad Rin beach and one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for nightlife.
It’s located right on the beach front of beautiful Haad Rin beach and has a beautiful outdoor swimming pool and tropical gardens as well as a great beach club, bar and restaurant. What makes this hotel is the super amazing friendly staff and service, great breakfasts and perfect location.
If you’re here to check out the Full Moon party but would like a comfortable hideaway to retreat to when you’re done, this is the spot! Outside of Full Moon time it’s an ideal hotel for couples or families but it would be too noisy during the party.
Luxury: Cocohut Beach Resort
Watch sunsets from the resorts own private beach club area, Cocohut Reach Resort is hidden away on the stunning Leela beach and is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan.
This dreamy resort is perfect for those who wish to experience the best of both worlds. Stay close to all the party action in Haad Rin, but just far enough away to peacefully drift days away on this island Paradise.
The rooms are very spacious with very comfortable, large beds, and every little detail well thought out. There’s an beautiful beach bar, restaurant and outdoor pool area to eat and lounge around in too.
Click here to book your stay at Cocohut Beach Resort.
Something different: Le Palais – The Angkor Wat Themed Hotel!
For one of the most unique hotels in Koh Phangan consider Le Palais. This unique hotel themed as Angkor Wat is a Cambodian wonderland that truly is a must see when in Koh Phangan.
From every little detail aspect of the design, to the stunning views, to it’s prime location on the cliffs between Haad Rin beach and Baan Tai beach, the service and friendliness of staff.
Don’t miss the chance to experience Le Palais when you visit Koh Phangan! Rooms open up to decks with views over the amazing outdoor swimming pool and even all the way to neighbouring Koh Samui, what a perfect way to wake up!
Click here for more information on this unique hotel and how to book your stay.
Baan Tai – For The Best of Everything
For those who want to experience a little bit of everything this paradise island has to offer, then the area around Baan Tai beach is the best place to stay in Koh Phangan.
Baan Tai has a central location to just about everything, so you can easily get to any corner of the island from here. There are two beaches here – Baan Tai beach and Baan Kai beach. Both beaches are long and have plenty of activities, water sports, nightlife and accommodation to suit all budgets.
Baan Tai is also close to Thong Sala – the main town and commercial hub of the island where you’ll find the Pantip Food Market and Thong Sala markets and Saturday walking street night bazaar.
At Thong Sala’s markets you can treat your taste buds to an array of cheap Thai street food as well as food from all over the world including juices, sushi, ice creams, crepes, pizzas and so much more.
Pantip food market is one of my favourite places to eat on the island on a budget – the only problem is deciding what to have and how to fit it all in!
The Baan Tai area is also bustling with the islands top beachfront resorts, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. There are endless places to check out whilst you’re here, but it’s not as crazy as Haad Rin at full moon time, so it’s a great choice if you can’t decide where to stay on Koh Phangan as you can explore everything from here.
Here’s a selection of the best places to stay in Baan Tai to suit all budgets:
Backpacker: Phanganist Hostel
Phanganist is renown for it’s vibrant, fun, party vibes, and it’s definitely koh where all the action is at! So if you’re heading to Koh Phangan for one thing, and one thing only and that’s to party it up, then this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan.
The hostel is in a prime location, being in close proximity to some of the islands top beach bars and nightclubs, plus Phanganist regularly holds it’s own pool parties that are not to be missed. Dorm rooms are well maintained, clean and comfortable. The food and drinks here are also really great, so this place really has everything you need.
Click here to book a room at Phanganist hostel.
Budget: Seaesta
If you’re looking for a little more creature comforts, then the very affordable, private bungalows at Seaesta are a great option. Seaesta is perched right on the beachfront and has 20 bungalows, each with its own private balcony, hammock, A/C and Wi-Fi access.
There’s a lovely restaurant serving local dishes, and even a free shuttle daily to Secret Beach on the western side of the island, great for snorkeling or just watching the sunset. Guests also have access to Same Same cookery school located nearby!
Midrange: Le Divine Comedie Beach Resort
This beautiful boutique resort is perfect for travellers looking for something unique and different and is one of the most popular places to stay in Koh Phangan.
Le Divine Comedy is situated just outside of the main hustle of Baan Tai, so it’s perfect for those who want to relax, whilst still being close to everything.
There’s a large outdoor pool with a swim up bar. The resort also serves an amazing all day breakfast spread, so you can sleep in as long as you want without missing out on the best meal of the day!
Click here for more information and to book.
Luxury: Summer Luxury Beach Resort
This is a true luxury resort, nestled right on the beachfront and overlooking the surrounding turquoise waters. Summer is a luxury resort with a contemporary design, picture-ready pool & spa area, and an atmospheric restaurant with a tantalizing global fusion menu.
There’s even in-house cooking classes available here! Sunsets are amazing to watch from the private beach or pool area. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with everything you need. This is a place where you can really relax and enjoy your time on Koh Phangan!
Click here to book your stay at Summer Luxury Beach Resort.
Sri Thanu – Best For Yoga and Wellness
If you’ve recently been hearing about the other side of Koh Phangan, then that means this well –kept secret is finally out. Sri Thanu (also spelt Srithanu) is the hub of an ever growing yogi, spiritual, tantra, conscious community who come to Koh Phangan for anything but the Full Moon parties!
Sri Thanu is the best area to stay in Koh Phangan for yoga, wellness and spiritualty. It’s popular for it’s numerous vegan cafes and an ever expanding yoga & tantra community who like to stay for a while on the island.
This place also has vegan, vegetarian, health conscious cafes on every corner, and an abundance of workshops, courses, yoga classes to suit your every interest, and of course some beautiful beaches like Srithanu beach and Zen beach. You can also check out Hin Kong beach – a long stretch of beach with a sandbar just south of Sri Thanu.
Sri Thanu is generally much more quieter than the other end of the island and you feel that truly relaxed vibe all around here. Plus, on Sri Thanu beach you’ll find interesting people from all corners of the globe who have been attracted to the island in their search for a way of life that’s a little different.
Check out my post of the best yoga retreats, and yoga teacher training courses in Koh Phangan for more on this.
Here’s a selection of the best places to stay in Sri Thanu to suit all budgets:
Backpacker: Laemson Resort
At this tropical oasis you’ll wake up with a view of your little piece of paradise! Laemson Resort is in a prime location, right on the best beach in the Sri Thanu area, with bungalows quite literally right on the beachfront, with waves almost lapping at your door!
The restaurants excellent food can be served right to your room, and an added bonus is the high speed internet, which is great for those want to be able to check their emails with breakfast on their balcony whilst they soak up the views.
The only downside is that I found the beds a little hard but that’s quite common in budget hotels in Asia.
Click here to book your stay at Laemson.
Budget: Seetanu Bungalows
You won’t want to leave this tropical jungle hideaway! Seetanu Bungalows are perched right on the beachfront of Sri Thanu beach and surrounded by beautiful lush tropical gardens and coconut trees, so you can feel like you’re truly escaping to a tropical paradise.
The hard part is choosing between the beautiful beach and the outdoor swimming pool area where you can peacefully lounge around for days. The staff are lovely and the award-winning in house restaurant, Belgian Beer Bar, has a top menu serving a selection of Thai and European dishes & beers.
This is my favourite place to stay in Koh Phangan for a beach front budget stay near the best yoga studios.
Midrange: Loyfa Natural Resort
These stylish bungalows are equipped with all you need, beautiful views from the private balconies, big comfortable bed, hot shower, and even free tea and coffee facilities in the room. A daily breakfast is included in the booking and has many vegetarian and vegan friendly options too.
Loyfa Natural Resort has a relaxed atmosphere and the staff here go out of their way to make you feel at home and get you anything you need.
Click here to book a bungalow now.
Luxury: Beyond The Blue Horizion
This is a pure luxury resort on at Haad Chao Phao beach on the outskirts of Sri Thanu with world-class views! Watch sunset from the infinity pool or from your private villa’s terrace.
All rooms at Beyond the Blue Horizon are fully equipped with everything you could possibly need down to the smallest well thought out details.
The exceptional service is beyond words here; staff will quite literally tend to your every need and will do anything to make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
Click here to book your stay now.
Haad Yao, Haad Salad, Mae Haad, Koh Ma, Chaloklum – For Laidback Island Life
If you’re looking for a secluded tropical island getaway, with stunning views from luscious jungle hilltops and deserted pristine white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, then the best places to stay in Koh Phangan are the stunning beaches in the North West of the island like Haad Yao beach, Haad Salad beach and the fishing village at Chaloklum.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Koh Phangan and one of my personal favorites is Mae Haad beach where a sandbar leads out to the tiny island of Koh Ma. It’s a great place to spend the day and you can also easily check out secret beach nearby when you stay in this area of Koh Phangan island.
From Chaloklum you can even get a small local boat trip over to the hidden, very secluded paradise, of the beautiful Bottle Beach.
Here you can really feel like you have the whole island to yourself at times, this region is a true gem of a hideaway – a totally different world from the crowds around Haad Rin and Baan Tai.
This part of the island is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for those who want escape the world and leave all their worries behind! It’s also a good choice for families or couples to want to avoid the party scene in the south of the island.
Here’s my recommendations for the best places to stay in North West Koh Phangan to suit all budgets:
Backpacker: Shirelea Backpackers Resort
If you’re a backpacker who’s not bothered about the Full Moon Party and just want to experience the natural beauty and serenity of the island then this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan. This is not just any hostel, this place is a backpackers resort, and feels like a tropical home away from home.
What makes this place is the super social yet relaxed atmosphere, the huge pool where everyone’s always hanging out, the awesome food & drinks, and the epic service from the friendly staff. This is one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan for backpackers, budget travellers and solo travellers who want to meet people and have a good time.
Click here to book your stay at Shirelea.
Budget: Tantawan Bungalows
Tantawan Bungalows are superbly positioned on the perfect hilltop in Haad Yao for the most beautiful panoramic sunset views you can imagine. The resort is also a short walking distance to the infamous Secret Beach and Haad Yao Beach and is one of the best budget places to stay in Koh Phangan.
Every room has it’s own private balcony and hammock for you to relax on and be awe-inspired by the views! Staff here are always smiling, super friendly and helpful, they’ll even treat you to a welcome drink on your arrival!
Click here to book your bungalow with epic views!
Midrange: Seaboard Bungalows
Positioned just above the stunning Haad Yao beach, this little private piece of paradise is everything you need. This place is perfect for couples, families, groups or solo travellers, there’s something for everyone here.
The restaurant area is a lovely spot to hang out, have a bite to eat and enjoy the views and sometimes they put on music and parties. Staff here are very tentative too, so you’ll feel right at home as soon as you arrive.
Click here to book a bungalow here.
Luxury: Mae Haad Bay Resort
If you’re looking for luxury and seclusion for your stay on Koh Phangan check out Mae Haad Bay Resort. This brand new beach resort is located on pristine, secluded Mae Haad beach where you can snorkel right from the beach and walk out along the sandbar to tiny Ko Ma island and relax on Ko Ma beach.
The location alone makes it one of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan but the views from the stunning extra large pool, 5 star service, food & drinks, and spacious rooms with luxurious amenities are also hard to beat.
Click here to book a room at Maehaad Bay Resort.
Thong Nai Pan Beach – For Best Beaches and Luxury Resorts
If you’re wondering where to stay in Koh Phangan for a relaxed luxury beach holiday away from crowds and noisy nightlife then just head to the north of the island.
Thong Nai Pan beach consists of two beaches – Thong Nai Pan Noi beach and Thong Nai Pan Yai beach. These stunning white sand beaches are a remote slice of heaven, about a 40 min drive through the lush jungle and mountains from Baan Tai. There’s just a few resorts here so you’ll often feel as though you have your own private beach.
I’ve explored all over the island and my award for the most stunning beaches in Koh Phangan goes to these two. The village area is quiet and peaceful, and there’s a small string of beautiful beachfront bungalows and luxury resorts. It’s a great place to stay for couples, families and anyone that wants to get away from it all and relax on the most stunning beaches Koh Phangan has to offer.
The views and the vibe here is absolutely magical – be warned, you may never want to leave!
Whether you want to spend your days reading a book under the shade of the palm trees, snorkeling right off the beach or trying out some stand up paddle boarding, you could easily float away days on end here without going anywhere at all.
If you want a luxury stay and pristine beaches then look no further. This is the best place to stay in Koh Phangan for families, couples and anyone who wants to get away from it all with a good choice of upscale accommodation options. However if you want to party – it will be a bit of a trek to the nightlife.
Here’s my recommendations for the best places to stay in North East Koh Phangan to suit all budgets:
Budget: Thongtapan Resort
Most places on these beaches are more upmarket but Thongtapan Resort on Thong Nai Pan Noi beach is one of the very best places to stay in Koh Phangan on a budget.
This is a heavenly peaceful place, sounded by lush nature, a very special experience indeed. This place feels like you have escaped the touristy vibes, and instead you will feel as though you have found a truly, untouched slice of paradise.
Situated on one of the best beaches on the island for swimming, and only a 5-minute stroll to the local village. The simplistic beachfront huts are comfortable, clean and secure, and I highly recommend getting a massage whilst you’re here, it’s the perfect place to really unwind.
Mid Range: Buri Rasa
This is the perfect island getaway and one of the very best places to stay in Koh Phangan! A contemporary style hotel with beach bungalow vibes, in a European Thai fusion that uses key design elements like reclaimed timber walls with traditional thatched roofing.
The resort is laid out as a little village of its own and isolated from other resorts on the southern tip of Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach. Staff are super professional but personal in their service, and there’s a multitude of activities to cater to all interests, such as pampering massages, Thai language & dancing classes and plenty of beach activities.
Luxury: Anantara Rasananda Resort
Anantara Rasananda is truly a heaven on earth just waiting for you to arrive. The resort is situated front and center of Thong Nai Pan Noi, one of Koh Phangan’s top beaches, and staff will cater to your every need from your beach lounger.
Rooms are elegantly designed in modern Thai style, with luxuriously big comfortable beds, many with ocean views. The sunset view from the infinity swimming pool is spectacular and some rooms even have a private pool.
There are lots of complimentary extras such as daily yoga classes, use of SUPs or Kayaks, and a huge pool and a steam room. When hunger strikes choice between the beach bistro, the amazing Japanese restaurant, room service, the champagne and wine lounge or even romantic beachfront dining.
Anantara is part of a group of luxury hotels spread across some of the most spectacular destinations across the globe so it’s of no surprise that Anantara Rasananda is by far one of the most luxurious and best places to stay in Koh Phangan.
Click here to book your stay at Anantara Rasananda.
Tips for Planning Your Trip to Koh Phangan
As you can see, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to Koh Phangan accommodation, whether you’re looking for crazy parties or relaxing on a peaceful, beautiful beach – you’ll find it in Koh Phangan if you know where to look.
So hopefully now you know where to stay in Koh Phangan here’s all the other essential travel tips you need to help you plan your trip.
Best Time to Visit Koh Phangan
In general, the best time to visit Koh Phangan is during the dry season between December and April. This is also the peak tourist season as it offers the best weather conditions for enjoying the island’s beaches, outdoor activities, and events.
Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and what weather you can expect when visiting Koh Phangan:
Dry Season (December to April)
- December to February: This is the peak tourist season with pleasant weather, sunny clear skies, and cooler temperatures. It’s a great time for outdoor activities, beach days, and water sports.
- March to April: The weather starts to get hotter, and the island becomes less crowded. This is a good time to visit if you prefer quieter beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Rainy Season (May to November)
- May to June: The rainy season begins, but showers are generally short-lived and sporadic. Prices for accommodation and activities tend to be lower during this time, and the island is less crowded.
- July And August: Koh Phangan is a great choice if you are looking for a sunny Thai island getaway during the summer holidays. While this is the rainiest time in Phuket and the West coast, the Eastern coast islands like Koh Phangan and Koh Samui are still relatively dry but can be hot and humid and some thunderstorms.
- September to November: This is the most rainy time on the Eastern coast and the island see more consistent rainfall, with occasional heavy downpours. Some businesses may close temporarily. The sea conditions can still be a bit rough, affecting boat travel and water activities. However, the lush landscape can be quite beautiful, and you might still have some sunny days. By November the rainfall starts to decrease, and the island begins to transition to the dry season.
Full Moon Party Dates
If you’re interested in experiencing the famous Full Moon Party, which takes place on Haad Rin Beach every month, it’s important to plan your visit around the full moon dates. These parties are especially wild during the peak tourist season (December to February), but they also happen during other months.
If you can’t time your visit for the Full Moon don’t despair – there are parties on Koh Phangan at all times of the month, including the Half Moon party and Black Moon party.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Koh Phangan depends on your preferences. If you want the best weather and parties then the peak dry season months are ideal.
But if you prefer fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or even early in the rainy season. Just be prepared for some rain and occasional disruptions to outdoor plans if you choose to visit during the rainy season.
How to Get to Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is an island situated on the Eastern coast or Gulf of Thailand next to the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao.
So to get to Koh Phangan first you’ll need Thailand. The largest airports with the most connections are in Bangkok so you’ll probably have to fly into Bangkok and then get a flight, bus, train or boat to Koh Phangan.
Here’s the best ways to get to Koh Phangan:
By Air
The absolute quickest way to get to Koh Phangan is to fly to Samui Airport (USM) and then take a ferry to Koh Phangan.
The nearest airport to Koh Phangan is on the neighboring island of Koh Samui. After you land you’ll need to go Bangrak Pier, which is near to the airport, and get a ferry across to Koh Phangan island where you ‘ll arrive at Thong Sala Pier.
Samui Airport receives domestic flights from Bangkok and other places in Thailand and a few international flights from other cities in Asia, but flights can be pricey.
Another, cheaper, option is to fly to Surat Thani Airport (URT) which is the closest on the mainland and take a bus and ferry combination to the island. Check out Skyscanner to find the best routes and deals.
By Bus and Ferry
If you’re backpacking Thailand on a budget, or just don’t want to fly, you can take an overnight bus or train from Bangkok to Surat Thani and then catch a bus and ferry to Thong Sala in Koh Phangan.
Many travel agencies offer combined bus and ferry tickets. You can book these easily online with 12GoAsia.
If you’re visiting Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party, definitely book your tickets and accommodation in advance.
Visas for Thailand
As Koh Phangan is part of Thailand you’ll need to ensure you meet the requirements to enter Thailand which depend on your passport.
For most nationalities it’s very easy to enter Thailand as you can get either a visa exemption or visa on arrival for stays of up to 30 days.
This can also be extended by a further 30 days by visiting the immigration office in Thailand.
Getting Around Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is a relatively small island but you’ll still need to give a bit of thought into how you are going to get around when choosing where to stay.
The options for getting around Koh Phangan once you’ve arrived include:
- Taxis: Taxis are available in Thong Sala and go all over the island, but they can be relatively expensive compared to other modes of transportation. Make sure you agree on the price before getting in.
- Songthaews: Songthaews are shared pickup trucks that function as a form of public transportation. They follow set routes from Thong Sala town and are a cost-effective option for getting around. You’ll find both taxis and songthaews waiting to meet the ferries at Thong Sala Pier, or you can ask your accommodation if they can provide a transfer from the ferry port to ensure you get to your hotel smoothly when you arrive.
- Motorbike or Scooter Rentals: Renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular and convenient way to explore the island. However, ensure you’re comfortable riding one, wear a helmet, don’t drive drunk, get your international drivers license and ensure your travel insurance covers you for this.
Where Next After Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is a great destination on it’s own right but, if you have time, why not explore the other gorgeous islands nearby like Koh Samui and Koh Tao.
Or, if you want to experience more of Thai culture and history, don’t miss the chance to visit the glittering Buddhist temples and steamy jungles of Northern Thailand too. Check this post out for help planning the ideal 2 week Thailand itinerary which shows you how to fit in the best of both into only two weeks.
I hope you’ve found my tips and recommendations for the best places to stay in Koh Phangan useful.
Check out my other blog posts on Koh Phangan and Thailand and if you’ve stayed in a great hotel in Koh Phangan let me know in the comments below and your recommendations can help out other travellers!
By the way – this post contains affiliate links. This means that if you find my recommendations for the best places to stay in Koh Phangan useful and choose to book through the links I provide I can earn a tiny commission at no extra cost to you which helps me to keep traveling and to keep this site going. Thanks so much for your support! 🙂
Read More Thailand and Koh Phangan Blogs:
- Koh Phangan beyond the full moon party
- How to rent a house on Koh Phangan
- My Cost of Living in Koh Phangan
- Best Yoga Retreats in Koh Phangan
- Yoga Teacher Training in Koh Phangan
- Confession – I hated the Full Moon Party
- 6 Best Backpacker Hostels in Koh Phangan
- The Ultimate Thailand Itinerary and Backpacking Route
- The Ideal 2 Week Thailand Itinerary
- The Best Places to Stay in Phuket
5 comments
Very much excited to visit after looking at these scenarios!!!!
AWESOME PLACE!
THANK YOU FOR SHARING…
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