Thailand Best Islands for Real Traveler
This list of Thailand spots from cntraveler.com about Thailand Best Islands for Real Traveler.
Off of its two coasts, there are literally hundreds of islands to choose
from on a trip to Thailand. There’s something for just about every type
of tourist, too; the trouble is in knowing the difference between
carefully developed areas that could host picturesque weddings and the untamed isles ripe for the adventurer. Here’s a primer on the Thai islands for every type of traveler.
Between the Six Senses's peerless infinity pool and the Four Seasons's
eclectic range of carefully choreographed experiences—everything from a
private beach picnic to fine rum flights paired with ripe seasonal
fruit—it's hard to blame anyone for hiding from the rest of humanity
here. Do check out Wat Plai Laem before you return to reality, though;
it's about as colorful and campy as Thai temples get.
The island that popularized “Full Moon Parties” (a.k.a. no-holds-barred
all-night raves) and inspired similar love-or-loathe affairs in such
exotic locales as Goa,
Zanzibar, and Zadar. Come for the striking white sands of Haad Rin
beach; stay for the Red Bull-and-rum-fueled examples of what not to do
in this widely documented Facebook age. Perfect for people watching.
Thanks to tireless campaigns about the "Pearl of the Andaman Sea" and ample flights from Bangkok
that take less than 90 minutes, Thailand's largest island has been one
of its biggest draws since the '80s. This means it's a microcosm of
what's both good and groan-inducing about tourism. To experience the
former (and avoid the latter) skip the long overcrowded west coast
(including the sordid leanings of Patong Beach) and head to a quieter
corner like Cape Panwa. Luxury accommodations around these parts include
the private oceanside penthouses and pool villas at Sri Panwa. One of the country’s most acclaimed rum distilleries is also about 30 minutes away by car if you’re looking for something truly local.
Most of Ko Lanta is flat and can be explored on motorbike without
feeling like you're going to be run off the road. Tons of short-term
accommodations on the west side offer both luxury and mid-range options,
too, attracting couples and families looking for all the right
amenities and a weeklong retreat . (One immaculate spot that earns high
marks across the board is Alanta Villa
near Khlong Khong Beach.) For a more local experience, take a break
from the cushy hotels in favor of a homestay in the Old Town area on the
east coast, a fishing village free of any overeager salesmen or
haggle-fueled hassles.
Even the beaches are undeveloped on Golden Buddha Island, making it an
all-too-rare break from the tourists and touts that vie for one
another's attention elsewhere. Not to mention it’s also the ideal spot
for sea turtles to nest in peace. The barren landscape further inland
could almost classify as savannah—full of desolate sand dunes and
dazzling birds you’ll need a comprehensive field guide to identify. It's
not the most luxurious beach landing unless your choice of welcome
drink is a self-bought two-liter bottle of water, but if your idea of
fun is riding a bike for hours on end without seeing a single other
person, this'll be your happy place.
This is one of the most popular sites in Southeast Asia for seasoned and newly certified divers,
sporting clear and compelling waters that are home to everything from
elusive moray eels to territorial trigger fish. The peak tourist period
is between July and September, but if you're looking for mild weather
conditions, smaller crowds, and the distinct possibility of a whale
shark sighting, June is an even better option. Just don't breach these
shores during monsoon season (November, usually), as it's liable to
leave you stranded, Robinson Crusoe style.
Considered Thailand’s most naturally beautiful island by many, Ko Kut
fulfills many tropical getaway tropes—soft white sand on its western and
southern coasts; towering coconut trees; lush jungles further inland;
resorts with Peter Pan references like (Tinkerbell and Captain Hook)
in their names. More importantly, it is not a haven for hedonists. It's
perfect for hammock dwellers, maybe, but not anyone looking to crush
buckets full of Chang beer all day.
To strike a balance between a relaxing stay and seizing the day, spend a
little time on Sunrise or Pattaya—Ko Lipe’s most popular beaches—and
then branch off into one of the national park islands (Ko Adang, Ko
Rawi, Ko Tarutao) nearby. They promise serene stretches of white sand
and jungle terrain that’ll appeal to adventurous types who want to do
more than just sunbathe and sleep. In other words, this is an example of
Thai development that still keeps some of that wild magic alive.