GULF OF THAILAND ISLANDS
This region encompasses a trio of iconic islands—Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao—each offering a distinct, perfect slice of paradise.
From luxury resorts and full-moon parties to world-class diving and secluded beaches, this guide helps you navigate the turquoise waters and tropical landscapes of Thailand’s central gulf coast.
Why Visit The Gulf of Thailand Islands?
World-Class Diving: Koh Tao is a global hub for scuba diving certifications, boasting affordable courses and beautiful coral reefs.
Ultimate Island Hopping: Easily travel between the three main islands, each with a unique atmosphere, from party-centric to laid-back and family-friendly.
Stunning Marine Park: Explore the Ang Thong National Marine Park, a spectacular archipelago of 42 islands with limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons.
Smart Travel
Peak Season (December–March, July–August): This is the driest and coolest period with calm seas, making it the most popular time. Expect higher prices and crowds, especially around Christmas/New Year and the Full Moon Party.
Shoulder Season (April–June): Weather is still largely excellent with high temperatures, but with fewer crowds than the peak season. It’s a great time for diving and beach relaxation.
Deep Off-Season (September–November): This is the monsoon season, particularly wet in October and November. Seas can be rough, and some smaller businesses may close, but you will find the best value on accommodation.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Koh Samui
As the largest and most developed island, Koh Samui offers a mix of luxury resorts, busy beaches like Chaweng, and quiet retreats. Attractions include the Big Buddha statue and the Na Muang Waterfalls. It acts as a major transport hub for the other islands.
Your Smart Tip: To experience authentic local life and avoid the major tourist crowds, visit the Fisherman’s Village in Bophut for a charming beachfront dinner.
Koh Phangan
Famous globally for the Full Moon Party on Haad Rin beach, Koh Phangan is more than just a party island. Much of the island is covered in jungle, offering quiet bays, yoga retreats, and stunning viewpoints for a more bohemian and natural escape.
Your Smart Tip: If you’re visiting for the Full Moon Party, book your accommodation at least a month in advance on or near Haad Rin. Otherwise, check the north for a quieter, more peaceful stay.
Koh Tao
Meaning “Turtle Island,” this small gem is a mecca for diving and snorkeling. Its compact size, crystal-clear waters, and numerous dive schools make it easy and affordable to get certified. The neighboring island of Koh Nang Yuan is an iconic day trip destination.
Your Smart Tip: Take a PADI Open Water Course here; it’s one of the cheapest and most reputable places in the world to learn to dive.
Ang Thong National Marine Park
A stunning cluster of 42 protected islands, this marine park is famous for its limestone karst cliffs, hidden lagoons, and lush jungles. It’s primarily visited via day trips or multi-day tours from Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.
Your Smart Tip: Book a day trip that includes kayaking through the sea caves and a climb up to the viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama of the whole park.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is tropical, generally hot and humid year-round. Unlike the Andaman Coast, the rainy season here is typically from October to December, with heavy but often short downpours. Temperatures average between 25°C and 32°C.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Respect the Monarchy: Thais hold their King and Royal Family in very high regard. Always show respect for the Monarchy.
Buddha Images: Treating all images of Buddha as sacred is mandatory. Do not climb on or take disrespectful photos with them.
Wai: The traditional Thai greeting is the Wai (a slight bow with hands pressed together). As a tourist, a simple nod or smile is acceptable, but always Wai to show respect when greeting a Thai person who has Wai-ed you.
Heads and Feet: Never touch a Thai person’s head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. Conversely, do not point your feet at people or objects, especially Buddha images, as the feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($10–$20), mid-range bungalows/hotels ($30–$60), luxury ($100+). Prices are significantly higher around the Full Moon Party and during peak season.
Food: Street food/local stall meal ($2–$5), fixed-price lunch menu ($5–$10), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($15–$30 per person), fine dining ($40+).
Transport: Inter-island ferry ($10–$25 per trip), Songthaew (shared taxi) ride ($1–$5 depending on distance/negotiation), scooter rental ($5–$10/day).
Activities: Basic PADI Open Water Course ($300–$400), day snorkeling tour ($25–$40).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $35–$60 (hostels, street food, public transport).
- Mid-range: $70–$120 (hotels, local restaurants, attractions).
- Luxury: $150+ (boutique resorts, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
By Ferry/Speedboat: This is the primary way to travel between the islands (Samui, Phangan, Tao). Several companies offer frequent, reliable services.
By Scooter/Motorbike: Scooter rental is common and offers the most freedom for exploring. Caution: Be very careful as roads can be challenging, especially in the hills of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
By Songthaew/Taxi: Songthaews (converted pick-up trucks) act as shared taxis and are the main form of public transport on the islands. Negotiate the price before getting in.
Must-Try Food
Tom Yum Goong: The quintessential Thai spicy and sour soup, often featuring large fresh shrimp (Goong) caught locally.
Pad See Ew: Wide, flat rice noodles stir-fried with dark soy sauce, Chinese broccoli, egg, and a choice of meat, a slightly sweeter and milder alternative to Pad Thai.
Khao Pad Talay: Simple but delicious fried rice (Khao Pad) with fresh seafood (Talay) like squid, shrimp, and crab, a staple on all the islands.
Gaeng Som Pla: A very spicy Southern Thai sour curry, often with fish (Pla) and vegetables like coconut shoots or green papaya, known for its intense tang.
Hor Mok Talay: A steamed fish and seafood curry custard, mixed with red curry paste, coconut milk, and basil, traditionally served in a banana leaf cup.
Khao Man Gai: A simple, comforting dish of boiled chicken served over rice cooked in chicken fat and broth, with a flavorful dipping sauce and broth on the side.
Massaman Curry: A rich, mild, and relatively sweet Thai curry with an Indian influence, often containing potatoes, peanuts, and a whole chicken leg or beef.
Roti Gklaoy: A popular street food snack where a thin pancake (Roti) is fried, topped with sliced banana (Gklaoy), and drizzled with condensed milk.
Kluay Tod: Deep-fried banana fritters, a warm, crunchy, and sweet dessert.
Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niao Ma Muang): Sweet glutinous rice served with slices of fresh, ripe mango and drizzled with thick, sweet coconut cream.
Must-Try Drinks
Local Thai Beers: Singha, Chang, and Leo are the most common lagers, perfect for a hot day.
Bucket: A ubiquitous island party staple, a small plastic bucket filled with a potent mix of local spirits, energy drink, and mixer.
Mekhong/SangSom: The local Thai spirits, often referred to as “Thai rum,” though technically sugar-cane and rice-based.
Fresh Coconut Water (Makhlao): Served directly from a chilled coconut, it’s the ultimate tropical refresher and hydrator.
Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen): A creamy, sweet, and strong black tea mixed with condensed milk, giving it a distinct orange color.
Fresh Fruit Smoothies: Available at almost every street stall, particularly with mango, pineapple, or passion fruit.