Island Hopping in Thailand: Our Favorite Tropical Escapes 🌴

After soaking in the buzzing streets of Bangkok and the peaceful mountain temples of Chiang Mai, we decided it was time to swap tuk-tuks for longtail boats and hit the islands. Thailand is home to over 1,400 islands, each with its own unique flavor. Whether you’re into dreamy sunsets, quiet beaches, wild parties, or underwater adventures — there’s an island for you.

Here are some of our favorite stops on our Thai island adventure:

🌅 Koh Phi Phi – The Instagram Icon

The views here are exactly what you’ve seen in travel magazines — except they’re real. Dramatic limestone cliffs, neon blue water, and that famous Maya Bay (yes, the one from The Beach). It’s touristy, but for good reason.

• Highlight: Hike to the viewpoint for an epic panoramic shot.

• Vibe: Lively, a little rowdy, but stunning.

• Pro tip: Do a sunrise boat tour to beat the crowds.

🌴 Koh Lanta – Slow Travel Bliss

Koh Lanta gave us the reset we didn’t know we needed. It’s way more chill than the party islands, with long empty beaches, amazing local food, and some of the friendliest people we met.

• Highlight: Renting a scooter and riding down the coast.

• Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, backpacker-meets-luxury.

• Pro tip: Stay in a beachfront bungalow for the full experience.

🎉 Koh Phangan – More Than Just Full Moons

Known worldwide for its Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan surprised us with its split personality. On one side: fire shows and paint-covered dancing until sunrise. On the other: yoga retreats, healing centers, and peaceful coves.

• Highlight: Snorkeling off Haad Yuan Beach.

• Vibe: Energetic by night, spiritual by day.

• Pro tip: Time your trip to experience both sides of the island.

🧘 Koh Tao – The Diving Capital

If you’ve ever thought about getting scuba certified, Koh Tao is the place to do it. It’s one of the cheapest and most popular places in the world to get your Open Water license.

• Highlight: Diving with turtles and reef sharks at Shark Bay.

• Vibe: Young, outdoorsy, dive-obsessed.

• Pro tip: Book dive schools in advance during peak season.

🐚 Similan Islands – Underrated Paradise

These islands aren’t as famous — but they’re a hidden gem. We joined a 2-day liveaboard boat trip and felt like we were on another planet. White sands, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal water. If you're looking for bucket-list snorkeling, this is it.

• Highlight: Swimming through massive granite boulders.

• Vibe: Remote, natural, protected.

• Pro tip: These islands are only open a few months a year (October–May).

Our Advice for Island Hopping in Thailand

• Pack light – You’ll be hopping on boats often.

• Book ferries ahead during busy seasons (December–March).

• Wi-Fi is spotty – Use it as an excuse to unplug.

• Respect nature – Many islands have strict eco rules to protect marine life.

Final Thoughts

The islands of Thailand offer more than just beaches. Each one has its own energy, its own magic, and its own lesson. We left with salty skin, full hearts, and stories we’ll tell forever.

If you’re planning a trip through Thailand, don’t skip the islands. Just… maybe don’t try to see them all. Take it slow. Let the islands come to you. 🌊