With authentic local homestays in wooden houses surrounded by coconut groves, rice paddies and rubber plantations, Ko Yao Yai and Ko Yao Noi offer a traditional Thai experience. The islands of Ko Yao are twin islands tucked within the beautiful waters of Phang Nga Bay with its limestone rock formations and mangrove forests. Shop for souvenirs in Samet town center or simply relax with a beach massage – the choice is yours. Thrill-seekers are well catered to, with jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, diving, and motorcycling. Other decent beaches include the quieter Ao Hin Khok, secluded Ao Tubtim, and Mae Ramphueng Beach, home to various mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and marine life. Sunthorn Phu, a 19th-century poet, set some of his poetry here, and you’ll find statues of the main character from Phra Aphai Mani and a mermaid on the beach.

Haad Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) is the most popular, with bars and restaurants along its scenic stretch. Ko Samet sees much less rainfall than any of Thailand’s other islands, which makes it perfect for lazy beach days. Part of a national park – and named after the trees that grow here – this protected island has a surprisingly good nightlife scene, with everything from fire juggling to beach barbeques on the social calendar. Ko Samet, an island along Thailand’s eastern seaboard, is the perfect weekend getaway from Bangkok. Have a fresh seafood lunch at a Ko Phaluai, the largest island, discover the coral reef off Ko Sam Sao, and stay overnight in the rustic bungalows at Ko Wua Ta Lap – you won’t regret it. Explore Ko Paluay, the only inhabited island of the 40-plus archipelago (home to sea gypsies), or Ko Mae (the Mother Island) with its beautiful beach and glorious Emerald Lake. While most of the smaller islands are off-limits to tourists, some of the larger islands can be visited with a day trip from Ko Samui or Ko Phangan. Within the national park and the protected waters around it, you’ll find a plethora of creatures and birds, from langurs and otters to sea turtles and little herons. With endless waterfalls, hidden coves, and lakes to explore, the islands are a popular hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and diving destination. 19. Ang Thong ĭeclared a national park in the 1980s, the Ang Thong Islands (Golden Bowl Islands) are a group of isles characterized by limestone cliffs, coral reefs, wild jungle, and white sandy beaches. Eating out is a treat, especially for the diet-conscious, as Ko Phayam boasts a surprisingly good veggie food scene. Other activities include hiking, biking, yoga classes, diving, and scootering around the island’s dusty trails. Aow Yai (Big Bay) Beach is where the activities are– from boogie boarding to surfing – while Aow Khao Kwai (Buffalo Bay) is the quieter alternative, surrounded by mangroves and dramatic rock formations. Two beaches form the main attractions in Ko Phayam.

The friendly local community will welcome you with open arms and those famous Thai smiles. A little backwater with a tourism industry that’s just starting up, the island is home to just over 500 permanent residents. Ko Phayam is just a 45-minute speedboat ride from the port town of Ranong, within easy reach of Bangkok. Despite being the second-largest Thai island in the Andaman Sea, it’s still relatively undiscovered and offers deserted beaches and a laidback atmosphere: no cars, limited cell reception, just absolute, get-away-from-it-all bliss. If it’s true R&R you’re after, you’ll find it in Ko Phayam.

Hidden islands phuket