Unexplored Islands In Thailand You Need To Know About

Thailand, a country nestled in Asia and home to hundreds of islands and islets, is a paradise when it comes to exploration. From serene beaches and mountains to shopping places and more, there’s a lot that travelers can look forward to in Thailand. In fact, there are a staggering 1430 islands in Thailand that offer a holiday experience like no other to visitors.

Wish to explore this paradise? Well, here are some of the top islands in Thailand that offer a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to visitors. Each island listed below has been picked based on the rating given by travelers.

Top 12 Thailand Islands That One Needs To Know About

Thailand is one of the finest destinations as far as island holidays are concerned and when it comes to top islands here, here are some of the best ones to consider for your next vacation.

1. Koh Similan
2. Koh Phi Phi Don
3. Koh Phayam
4. Koh Yao Yai
5. Koh Phi Phi Le
6. Koh Lanta Yai
7. Koh Khai
8. Koh Adang
9. Koh Lipe
10. Koh Rok
11. Koh Mak
12. Koh Ngai

1. Koh Similan

Rich in biodiversity of marine life, Koh Similan is one of the most popular island groups in the Andaman sea. There is no better place for diving than this island in Thailand. The vibrant coral growth here is one of the most amazing and breathtaking in the world. One can take a yacht and boat tour. The western and southern shores are filled with huge rock boulders that make it an interesting contrast against the white sand beaches. An array of birdlife is found on this island and the sunset is incredible to watch. It is one of the ideal islands to explore some of the gorgeous attractions like Sail Rock, Sunset Point, and Similan Viewpoint.

Best Time To Visit – December to January Famous For - Sail Rock, Sunset Point, and Similan Viewpoint

Things To Do - Scuba Diving, Bird Watching, and Snorkeling

2. Koh Phi Phi Don

Koh Phi Phi Don is one of the best islands to visit in Thailand that is home to the fast-paced life of Phuket. It is about 90 minutes away from Phuket and has some of the most amazing beaches, breathtaking rock formations, and saturated blue waters filled with marine life. It gives people the feeling of stepping into another world. It is one of the most famous islands in Thailand and the best retreat from the concrete jungles of metropolitan cities. One of the most spectacular views that one should see is the limestone karsts covered with greenery rising from the sparkling waters.

Best Time To Visit- November

Famous For - Marine Life, Rock Formations

Things To Do - Scuba Diving and Sunrise tour

Suggested Read: Where To Stay In Thailand: Your Complete Guide To The Top Cities And Hotels?

3. Koh Phayam

Another of those best Thai islands that travelers need to know about is the Koh Phayam. Nestled off the coast of Ranong and close to the Burmese border, this is one of the best places to Go in Thailand if simple living is what you're after on your vacation. One will find a number of creatures here while internet connectivity remains hit in the region. The best part about the island is that there are a number of beaches that one can explore. Likewise, one can even go hiking, take a motor ride, and through the rubber plantations and forests on the island. Since there isn't much development on the island, travelers can feel close to nature while staying here. So, what's the delay? Visit Koh Phayam on your next vacation in Thailand and spend time away from urban life.

Best Time To Visit - December to March

Famous For - Simple Life, beaches, rubber plantations, and forests

Things To Do - hiking, take a motor ride, relax on beaches

4. Koh Yao Yai

Now here's a thought, Koh Yao Yai may not be one of the best islands near Phuket but it certainly offers a lot of things to do in Thailand to visitors. One can find this place developed enough to get luxury accommodation but underdeveloped at the same to offer you rustic charm. This is, in fact, a place that provides an escape from the busy urban life. One can explore the serene beaches, dense patches of mangroves, traditional wooden homes, and so much more. Interestingly, much like Koh Phayam, Koh Yao Yai too has rubber plantations that visitors can explore here. So, visit the island and spend time relaxing in a calm environment here.

Best Time To Visit - January to April

Famous For - Beaches, dense patches of mangroves, traditional wooden homes

Things To Do - Relax on the beach, explore mangroves, etc.

Suggested Read: Best Holiday Villas In Thailand Known For Offering Panoramic Views

5. Koh Phi Phi Le

Familiar with the movie "The Beach"? Well, it's the same movie that made the Koh Phi Phi Pe island famous amongst travelers. Easily one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand, the Koh Phi Phi Le promises a day full of fun and excitement to visitors. The island remains virtually inhabited today while there are no options of accommodation here that travelers can opt for. However, what the island does have is the Maya Beach, one of the most famous of Thailand beaches today. There are day trips organized to the island so that people can come here and enjoy. With jungles and picturesque locations to uncover, there's a lot to look forward to here.

Best Time To Visit - January to March

Famous For - Maya Beach

Things To Do - Head to the beach, explore the jungle, rock climbing, etc.

6. Koh Lanta Yai

If there's one beach that screams beauty, it's the Koh Lanta Yai beach in Thailand. one of the best Thai islands nestled in a picturesque location, the Koh Lanta Yai features rugged forested hills and mangroves alongside a wide range of other attractions. One may not find the best hotels in Thailand here but the place certainly makes up for it with its serene beauty. There is a wide stretch of soft sand that one gets to enjoy while there are multiple locations that are worth a picture here. Interestingly, the local Moken community finds its home here on the island. This is a group that is widely popular for its free-diving abilities and travelers coming here are certainly welcomed.

Best Time To Visit - December to April

Famous For - Rugged forested hills and mangroves, local Moken community, beaches

Things To Do - Enjoy diving, explore the forested area, relax on the beach

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7. Koh Khai

Another significant island that offers multiple wonders to travelers is the Koh Khai. Being part of the Tarutao Islands and nestled off the coast of Satun Province in Thailand’s deep south, this is amongst the top Thailand islands for obvious reasons. One can find pale sand here along with crystal blue waters that are an absolute joy to watch. With more than enough serene locations to uncover, this is an island that has gained popularity for the right reasons. In fact, Koh Khai is located in close proximity to the Phuket International Airport in Thailand by a speedboat. Although travelers won't find any good hotels here, there's enough beauty left to uncover which makes it one of the Thailand islands to visit on a holiday.

Best Time To Visit - December to April

Famous For - Pale sand, blue waters

Things To Do - enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, sunbathing

8. Koh Adang

Another famous island in Thailand that may not offer the best of places for staying or shopping in Thailand but is certainly picturesque in every sense is the Koh Adang. The island is part of Saturn’s Tarutao National Marine Park and is a fine place to experience wildlife scenes up close. One can head over to the serene beaches that feature a white stretch of sand or spend time watching the amazing viewpoints of the place. What is interesting is that the Koh Adang has a stretch of black sandy beaches as well where one can sit, relax and admire the majestic views around.

Best Time To Visit - January

Famous For - White and black sandy beaches, amazing views, wildlife

Things To Do - Relax on the beach, explore the Tarutao National Marine Park, etc.

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9. Koh Lipe

A picturesque Thai island located in the Andaman Sea in proximity to Malay peninsula, Koh Lipe is best known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystalline blues, and vibrant coral reefs. You can unwind in the best possible way since it's enriched with a relaxing and serene atmosphere, which will lure you with its calming effect. Discover the Koh Lipe Island, one of the best islands in Thailand by taking a stroll on the Walking Street brimmed with exclusive stores, cafes, restaurants and bars for an enriching cultural tour. Often considered a paradise for the ones who are high on adrenaline, can immerse themselves in the water adventures by snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking amid the lucid blues.

Best Time To Visit: November to April

Famous For: Sunset, Sea Beaches, Fresh Seafood

Things to Do: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Beach Hopping, Boating, Kayaking, Shopping, Yoga Classes, Hike to Koh Lipe Viewpoint, Camping, Watch Sunrise & Sunset

10. Koh Rok

A miniature island located towards the southernmost part of Koh Lanta Island near Krabi, Koh Rok is a less touristy island destination which often draws the attention of nature enthusiasts. If you are seeking peace and solitude, Koh Rok will let you encounter with one of the best beaches in Thailand. One of the best islands for snorkeling, it attracts millions of tourists during the peak season since it is the home to colorful corals and exotic marine life. While planning a day trip to Koh Lanta & Koh Rok Islands, never miss out on visiting the Koh Lanta National Park to immerse yourself in its wilderness and discover its rich wildlife. Moreover, take a long stroll all along the seashore and soak yourself in nature’s melody.

Best Time To Visit: December to February

Famous For: Corals & White sandy beaches, Water activities

Things to Do: Scooter Ride, Beach Walk, Explore Koh Lanta National Park, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Scuba Diving, Practice Yoga

11. Koh Mak

Located in the Trat province of Thailand and towards the south of Kh Chang, Koh Mak Island has emerged a tropical retreat for families and honeymooners. Best known for the deserted yet tranquil beaches, you can tour around the entire island and admire its unparallel beauty either by taking up a scooter ride or a bicycle ride. Koh Mak Beaches, namely Suan Yai and Ao Kao boast of their luxurious resorts sprawling all around which cater to the needs and preferences of every traveler. Never forget to watch out for the mesmerizing sunset or sunrise over the sea to experience a surreal moment for a lifetime. You can also go on a local village tour to gain deeper insights into their history and local culture at one of the glorious islands in Thailand.

Best Time To Visit: November to April

Famous For: Pristine beaches & water activities

Things to Do: Beach Hopping, Snorkeling, Diving, Visit the local villages,  Muai Thai Training

12. Koh Ngai

Situated in the Krabi Province, Koh Ngai Island is one of Thailand’s famous islands which will insist you splurge on adventure incessantly. This island is known for its crystal and clear turquoise water and luxurious resorts that stand out for top-notch hospitality. Take up day trips to picturesque Trang Islands, hike through the wilderness to reach Paradise beach, take up beach strolls, snorkel to explore the rich corals, dive into the blues, etc., which should be added to the list of things to do in Thailand to create some joyful memories with your beloved and family. If you don’t feel like doing any activity, you can just sit and relax on the beach. Kayaking and Paddleboarding are the common activities people often carry out here.

Best Time To Visit: November to April

Famous For: Hiking, Birdwatching, Wildlife, Corals

Things to Do: Snorkeling, Island Hopping, Kayaking, Sun basking

There are many islands in the world today that promise a vacation of a lifetime for visitors. However, not many match the serenity and natural wonders of the islands in Thailand. Land of 1430 islands, Thailand ensures there are no dull moments as you go on to indulge in a wide range of activities here. So, are you someone longing to experience life at its very best? Well, how about doing so amidst the serenity of Thailand? Book your Thailand plane tickets today and come explore the wonders of this country.

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