Best Islands to Visit in Thailand
The islands off the coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Siam are the most popular places to visit Southeast Asia. Some islands are famous for their beautiful beaches and party atmosphere, but the best islands in Thailand also offer many opportunities for entertainment, spiritual exploration and relaxation. In the face of numerous seashores and islands, many travelers have become entangled in difficult choices. Here are five top islands for any first-time traveler to Thailand. Have a look and see which island suits you best.
1. Phuket
Phuket, a tropical island and the largest island in Thailand, is known as the "Pearl of the Andaman Sea" for its fascinating scenery and rich tourism resources. With many beautiful islands around Phuket, the development of the island is also very mature, so Phuket has become the first choice for Chinese tourists.
The emperor island, coral island and egg island around Phuket are also great places for snorkeling, swimming and sunbathing. Phuket Island's inn, hotels, resorts, bar street, theme parks, performances and other entertainment facilities are perfect for family travel. If you are traveling to Thailand during the period from November to April, you must not miss the Similan Islands. The marine life and coral reefs here are well protected, making it a world-class deep dive site.
2. Koh Phi Phi
Phi Phi Island is a small island in Krabi Province in southern Thailand, which is a sister island consisting of Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh. Ko Phi Phi Don is the largest island in the group and the only island with permanent residents, while the smaller one is the location of the film "The Beach".
This is a place that is deeply loved by the sun. The soft white beach, the tranquil blue waters and the majestic Viking Cave make her stand out from more than 30 outlying islands around Phuket and become a hot resort in recent years. It is one of the most popular destinations due to its gorgeous beaches and jungles, the island is a party paradise for people who don't mind crowds.
3. Koh Samui
Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is the third largest island in Thailand. Due to the dense coconut palms on the island, it is often referred to as the "Coconut Island". The clean, narrow white sand beach on Koh Samui is the world's famous honeymoon destination.
Compared with Phuket, where the tourism industry has matured, Koh Samui retains more natural and simpler atmosphere, giving the impression that it still retains an original flavor that is independent of the city. The island of Koh Samui, which would rather reject the glory of Hollywood film selection and keep it pure and natural, must be the best choice for you to return to nature. However, the best travel time to Koh Samui is only from February to April.
4. Koh Tao
Koh Tao or Turkle island is quickly becoming the favorite destination for those who come to Thailand for entertainment. Most travelers are here to diving, rock climbing and hiking. The rich marine landscape in the sea, whether it is diving or snorkeling on the sea, or even getting up early to the beach to throw bread and feed the fish is a pleasure. Koh Tao is a great place for you to exile yourself. If you like spend your leisure time on the beach and a friendly atmosphere, Koh Tao could be the perfect spot for your next trip.
Koh Tao is the best diving spot in the Gulf of Siam. Koh Tao is well known for incredible scuba diving and because of the competition among dive shops has made it one of the cheapest places to learn PADI courses for those wanting to further their scuba skills. About 7,000 divers are certified by Koh Tao every year, making it one of the best places for diving destinations in the world.
5. Koh Chang
Located in the easternmost part of Thailand, Koh Chang is Thailand's second largest island and part of Trat. The island in named for its shaped like an elephant showing the back of the upper body when playing in the sea. It is also the most preserved island in the National Park of Thailand. 70% of the islands are unspoiled tropical rainforests, full of natural ecological beauty, and a paradise for adventure lovers.
There is also a tropical natural scenery, surrounded by the bay, where silver-white soft beaches and blue seas are everywhere. Whether you are free to play on the beach, fishing in the unspoiled sea, diving, sailing, or hiking in the jade rainforest, it is a very attractive activity in Koh Chang. Visitors can also enjoy camping and swimming in the waterfall area, while the peaceful traditional fishing village can not only experience the local folk customs, but also taste the delicious seafood.
