Koh Phangan
- Location: Southeast, on the Gulf of Thailand
- Nearby destinations: Koh Samui, Koh Tao
Koh Phangan for the traveler
Welcome to Koh Phangan Island, one of Thailand’s most famous islands, thanks in large part to the Full Moon Party that takes place there once a month, but not only. Koh Phangan Island is considered the “little brother” of Koh Samui, because of its proximity to Koh Samui Island, only about 15 km separate the 2 islands and of course because of its size, much smaller than Koh Samui, but it contains many magical places.
In contrast to developed destinations such as Phuket and Koh Samui, the island of Koh Phangan is much less developed and more natural and wild. This is also its secret, lots of secluded beaches accessible only by boat, impromptu lookouts and mountain views from every corner are just part of the island’s charm.
Despite the severe blow that the island received from a tourist point of view during the Corona crisis, the island developed in a different way, many families and digital nomads found their home on the island during this period, and the island is gaining a reputation as an excellent residential destination for relocation purposes for short and long periods. Lots of restaurants with healthy food and cafes that have opened in the island area make it an excellent “wellness” destination.
The destination gets a tourist boost once a month during the Full moon party, when thousands of tourists flock to the island to take part in the Full moon party that takes place on the HAAD Rin beach. During the rest of the period, Koh Phangan maintains its calm, even sleepy atmosphere, where the charm is the beaches, the views and the atmosphere of freedom.
Koh Phangan - how to get there?
The island of Koh Phangan is located in the southeast of Thailand next to the island of Koh Samui. The best way to get to Koh Phangan is by flying to Koh Samui and from there a ferry to Koh Phangan. Ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan leave from several piers around the island several times a day, it is recommended to check the times beforehand.
The weather in Koh Phangan
The weather in Koh Phangan is tropical like in all of Thailand. An average temperature of 30 degrees will accompany you during your stay on the island. You can reach the island without fear during the whole year. The ideal period for a vacation on the island is in the months of January – May. The relatively rainiest period is in October – December. Of course, the weather in Thailand depends a lot on luck, at any time it can rain as well as the sun. It is not recommended to plan a vacation in Koh Phanganbased on the weather forecast.
Car rentals
Even with less developed roads and infrastructure on the island, renting a car can enhance your vacation. As there’s no distinct central area, having a car allows you to explore places otherwise challenging to reach. Ensure you have an international driving license (Mamsi) and opt for reputable rental companies for a smooth experience.
Recommended beaches in Koh Phangan
HAAD Rin
The famous beach, the island where the Polemon party takes place once a month. A wide, long and beautiful beach in the south of the island.
Tong nai pan
A small and magical beach gang, located in the northeast of the island. Along the coastline, a series of charming resorts are artfully scattered, enhancing the allure of this idyllic destination.
Haad Salad
Located near Seritano, a beautiful beach with basic resorts and lots of digital nomads.
Haad Yuan
A small and magical stretch of beach in the south of the island, the access to the beach is with the help of a long tail boat only.
Bottle beach
Choose between a 20-step stroll along the riverbank to the beach or opt for a direct car service. Discover one of the island’s most stunning beaches—a broad, white expanse featuring a small resort with scattered bungalows and an authentic Thai restaurant. A 15-minute jungle walk leads to a breathtaking observation point with a unique view of the beach below, culminating at a massive black rock perched at the edge of a cliff.
Mae Haad
There you will find the famous Ku Ma – a small island that is connected to Maa Had by a thin and long strip of sand, there are also several resorts spread out there.
Srithanu
It’s where most of the local foreigners live, a cool and young area with a good atmosphere and lots of healthy restaurants and gyms.
Haad Sadet
Discover a pristine beach within a nature reserve, complemented by a charming restaurant for your tropical retreat. En route, make a pit stop at the Sadet Waterfall. Admission to the reserve is 100 baht per person. Journeying to northeastern beaches unveils enchanting roads adorned with breathtaking landscapes, nestled between mountains and waterfalls.
Recommended restaurants in Koh Phangan
Full Moon in Koh Phangan
The Full moon party is in Koh Phangan, Thailand, which takes place once a month during a full moon at the Hadrin Beach in Koh Pha Ngan.
Between 5,000 and 20,000 tourists come to the island during the Pulmon period to take part in the party which turns into one big festival.
Along the beach are scattered several stages with improved sound systems and different styles of music, which combine with ultra-glamorous decor that is special to the Polemon party. Many DJs take part during the party. On the beach, thousands of revelers will dance barefoot until dawn, take part in attractions such as rotating fire ropes and share an act filled with alcohol – a bucket full of ice and alcohol (usually fake).
The Polemon party in Koh Phangan takes place once a month, you are invited to keep up to date with the party dates in the following link.
Half Moon Party in Koh Phangan
A half moon party held on the island is an elaborate production held in the heart of the jungle. This is an organized production and entrance to the party is paid. In the party complex you will find several dance floors and a special area with bars and food.
The cost of entering the party ranges from 1,500 – 2,500 baht per person. Tickets can be purchased on the party website.
The music played at the Half Moon party is mainstream music and the crowd that comes to the party is mixed, from backpackers to locals.
Recommended hotels in Koh Phangan
As you have already understood, in Koh Phangan you will not find too many luxurious resorts, the character and charm of the island is in its simplicity.
Despite this, in Thailand as in Thailand and in Koh Phangan, you can relax in several luxurious resorts along the coast.
Anantara Rasananda
Kupu Kupu
Koh Phangan Cabin
Koh Phangan with kids
The island of Koh Phangan does not offer too many attractions or large resorts for families with children. During the summer vacation, the destination is visited by families vacationing along its magical beaches for a belly-back vacation and relaxed sun. Please note that in the period between June and October, it is not recommended to enter the water because of deadly jellyfish, and you should only enter the area defined with safety nets.
When should you go to Koh Phangan?
If you are an adventurer at heart, then it is recommended to come on the dates when the Full Moon party takes place.
If you are more into beaches and landscapes, then Koh Phangan will smile at you during most of the year.
In the months of November-December, the weather can be a bit stormy, but it shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
What to do in Koh Phangan?
If you visit Koh Phangan outside of the Full Moon period, the island adopts a laid-back ambiance, inviting you to embark on exploration. Discover hidden gems like scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, mountains, secluded beaches, lush vegetation, and tucked-away restaurants and bars. The key to experiencing Koh Phangan’s charm is relishing the serenity of its exotic vistas—simply grab a map and set out for a leisurely stroll.
Koh Phangan - FAQ
Is it worth coming to Koh Phangan not during the Full Moon period?
It’s very up to you, if you’re looking for nightlife and action then probably not because many places close in the early evening, but if you’re into belly flops and beautiful beaches, good restaurants along the beach and a vacation atmosphere, Koh Phangan Island has a lot to offer.
When is jellyfish season in Koh Phangan
Jellyfish season, from June to January, sees an uptick during storms, especially in the eastern region of southern Thailand. Hadrin Beach in Ko Pha Ngan is the only beach with protective nets, as recommended by authorities. If venturing into the Ganam Sea within the netted area, exercise caution, as safety is your responsibility.
Where does the Polemon party take place in Koh Phangan?
The Polemon party takes place at the Hadrin beach in Koh Phangan.
How many people come to the Polemon party in Koh Phangan?
Between 5,000 and 20,000 people take part in the party every month, of course it depends on the tourist season in Thailand.
When does the Polemon party take place?
The Polemon party takes place once a month during a full moon, you can see exact dates on our Polemon page.
Is Koh Phangan recommended for families?
Depends on the family, if you are a family that loves attractions and action, then probably not. But if you are a family that loves peace and quiet, the island of Copenhagen is definitely suitable for you too.
Are there any family resorts in Koh Phangan?
There are no large resorts on the island with activities for children that are suitable for families, on the island of Koh Phangan you will find more small hotels adjacent to the beach for a relaxed vacation.
Koh Phangan maps
Koh Phangan in conclusion
Koh Phangan Island is one of the famous islands in Thailand and it is definitely one of the most beautiful, the Full Moon party sweeps away thousands of people every month, but even on calmer days the island retains its charm, the island is definitely suitable for couples and young people.