Visit Koh Phangan, Thailand

Koh Phangan, a short ferry ride north of Koh Samui, is known for one thing, the monthly Full Moon Party on Haad Rin beach. But most of the island has nothing to do with it. Away from Haad Rin you’ll find quiet bays reached by winding roads or by boat, jungle-covered hills and a relaxed, low-rise feel that Samui has partly lost.

Where to go

Haad Rin. The southern peninsula where the Full Moon Party takes over the beach once a month. Lively, crowded and loud on party nights; the rest of the month it’s a normal beach town.

The north and east coasts. Bays such as Thong Nai Pan and Bottle Beach are the island’s quiet side, with a few good resorts and calm water in season. This is where to stay if you want peace.

The west coast. Sunsets, shallow water and easier access from the main pier at Thong Sala, with a busy night market.

Ang Thong Marine Park. Day trips run to this archipelago of limestone islands west of Samui and Phangan, with kayaking, a viewpoint climb and an emerald inland lake.

Getting there

Ferries and catamarans run several times a day from Koh Samui, which has the nearest airport, and from Koh Tao and the mainland. See our guide to getting to Koh Samui.

When to go

Phangan is on the Gulf of Thailand side, with a different weather pattern from Phuket and Krabi: the heaviest rain usually falls around October to December, and much of the rest of the year is good. That makes the Gulf islands a useful choice in the months when the Andaman coast is in its monsoon. See Thailand’s weather by month.

Planning it with My Way Travel

We plan private Gulf island trips combining Samui, Phangan and Koh Tao, with boats, transfers and resorts booked for you. Have a look at our Thailand tours, things to do in Koh Samui, or tell us your dates.

Sources: My Way Travel’s Koh Samui and Thailand weather guides. Last checked October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is Koh Phangan only for parties?

No. The Full Moon Party is confined to Haad Rin, and the north and east coasts are quiet and relaxed.

How do you get to Koh Phangan?

By ferry or catamaran from Koh Samui, Koh Tao or the mainland. The nearest airport is on Koh Samui.

When is the best time to visit Koh Phangan?

Most of the year. The heaviest rain usually falls around October to December.

Photo: Christophe95, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.