Gulf Islands
The trio of islands in the Gulf of Thailand—Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao—each with a distinct personality. Samui is the upscale, accessible anchor with an international airport. Phangan is world-famous for its Full Moon Party but hides a tranquil, bohemian side in its northern coves. Koh Tao is a small, hilly island that is the undisputed diving mecca of the country, with a backpacker vibe and some of the cheapest PADI courses on Earth. Weather is best from late December to March, with a second peak in July and August.
Koh Phangan: Famed globally for its monthly Full Moon Party on Haad Rin beach, but that's only a sliver of its personality. Much of the island is an unspoiled, jungle-covered retreat with quiet, unbelievably beautiful coves like Haad Yuan and Bottle Beach. It's a center for yoga, detox, and spiritual retreats, especially around the laid-back Srithanu area, making it equally a party island and a wellness sanctuary.
Koh Samui: The largest and most developed of the Gulf islands, with a palm-fringed ring road, an international airport, and a profile that ranges from luxury spas and high-end dining to lively Chaweng Beach. The interior is mountainous and dotted with waterfalls, while the iconic Big Buddha temple watches over the northern coast. It's a versatile island where you can get a villa with a private pool as easily as a cheap pad thai on the beach.
Koh Tao: Tiny, rugged Koh Tao (meaning "Turtle Island") is one of the world's top destinations for learning to scuba dive, with dozens of dive shops competing to offer the most affordable certifications. Its compact size means beaches like Sairee and Tanote Bay are easily reached by scooter or songthaew. The island's nightlife is fun but relaxed, centered around beach bars and fire shows. Underwater, it boasts an abundance of sea turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant coral.
Things to do in Gulf Islands
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