Which Thailand Island to Visit?
Thailand Holidays
When you ask people what their perfect holiday would be – or the sort of luxury travel experience they dream of – it’s highly likely the answers will vary greatly. Thailand’s island could well feature in many replies though, as this is a ‘once in a lifetime’ holiday destination that keeps drawing people back for more!
Apart from the amazing climate and reputation for superb customer service, holidays to Thailand’s diverse islands offer an incredible variety of backdrops, activities and adventures. There are secluded places to meditate and commune with nature at its most beautiful, romantic hideaways on glorious beaches, and family-friendly places to visit in Thailand.
You could be backpackers or solo travellers, or large groups travelling for a Thai island wedding, and you can visit this country confident that there’s something to fall in love with. Particularly as it is possible – and popular – to island-hop in Thailand, moving around the tempting choice of luxury hotel resorts or affordable places to stay.
Perhaps most commonly, holidays to Thailand include luxurious all-inclusive accommodation on one of the islands. If you’re going to travel to this stunningly unspoilt destination, why not do it in style! Your options for activities when staying on any Thai island are equally beguiling. You have nature’s rich bounty and local heritage and culture combining to offer lifelong memories.
Which Thai island is best for holidays? Here are some of the options for luxury holidays.
Krabi Thailand
Krabi Thailand
We could start each description of islands in Thailand with the words ‘stunning natural beauty’. However, it would never be truer than for Krabi. This area boasts beguiling beaches with pristine waters, lush mangrove forests, and fascinating limestone cliffs and caves.
This part of Thailand – on the western coast – is packed with unforgettable sights and experiences, including Railay and Koh Poda, which feel like undiscovered havens only accessible by boat. It’s highly recommended that you take trips to the breathtaking Thung Teao Forest Natural Park or Mu Ko Lanta National Park.
Koh Phi Phi Thailand
Koh Phi Phi Thailand
Within the Krabi region of Thailand is the Phi Phi islands. This is possibly the country’s best known and most photographed piece of coast. It features on countless bucket lists, especially remote Maya Bay made famous by the film The Beach
Keep in mind that due to its popularity, Koh Phi Phi (made up of Phi-Phi Don and Phi-Phi Leh) is relatively well developed. That also means there is a lot to do here, including fun speedboat trips, beach parties and hiking into the dense interior jungle.
However, there are still plenty of quiet places to explore too in the Phi Phi islands, with isolated coves and infinity pools to punctuate perfect sands shaded by iconic palm trees.
Phuket Thailand
Phuket Thailand
More of Thailand’s best beaches can be found on and around Phuket, sometimes referred to as the ‘pearl of the Andaman Sea’. Situated on the southwest coast, it is Thailand’s largest isle and home to the country’s fascinating, colourful and bustling regional city. Yet is still offers seclusion and utter peace, on wide stretches of untouched beaches.
The coast is so dramatically lovely, that Khao Phing Kan island was used for a James Bond movie. It’s a popular place to visit, as is the long and entrancing Karon beach south of the busy Patong.
If it’s the Thai party scene and nightlife that appeals most, Phuket is ideal. Conversely, it’s often the best stopping off point for island hopping in Thailand if you want to find your quiet seafront paradise on holiday.
Koh Samui Thailand
Koh Samui Thailand
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, and possibly the destination featuring the most luxurious holiday resorts, as well as fabulous beaches, coconut groves and water sports options. It’s a melting pot of holiday experiences for all ages and budgets, from fishing villages where backpackers feel welcome, to high-end hotels with superlative spa facilities.
Must see places on Koh Samui include the grandma and grandpa rocks (Hin Ta & Hin Yai), the giant golden Big Buddha, Ang Thong Marine National Park and monthly full moon parties on nearby Koh Phanghan. More local flavour comes from night markets and superb diving excursions.
Planning holidays to Thailand’s islands
These are just a few of the top island destinations in Thailand. If you count the smaller islets this country has 1,430 to choose from! The best idea for luxury travel experiences could well be to find the resort that appeals most, as you can be assured of wonderful beaches wherever that is.
Doing thorough research into your choice of luxury holiday destinations can be part of the fun! If you need help with this, get in touch, as we love sharing our passion for Thailand and helping people find the perfect holiday island for them.