Off the coast of Thailand, surrounded by white sandy beaches and blue sea water, there are countless small island groups that are suitable for Thailand island hopping and that could not be more contrasting. Off the west coast of the South Asian country, the islands of the Andaman Sea are quite scattered. It includes Phuket, Koh Lanta and Koh Libong. On the east side, in the Gulf of Thailand, other island groups are lined up, such as the famous holiday island of Koh Samui, which is known worldwide for its beautiful palm beaches. Close to the border with neighboring Cambodia are the islands of the Koh Chang Archipelago. Koh Mak is part of the archipelago – a real insider tip, away from mass tourism.
The islands of the Andaman Sea
Arrival in Trang
The exciting adventure of Thailand island hopping begins in the Thai city of Trang. From the airport, we continue by bus to the port. Here, the longtail boats typical of Thailand are already lined up. They transport hundreds of passengers every day to the small dream islands in the Andaman Sea.
Koh Hai
The first destination of this island hopping Thailand trip is Koh Hai. The small island has a four-kilometre-long sandy beach where countless coconut palms grow. A beautiful backdrop that gets you in the mood for the upcoming holiday. Relaxed, we continue to the neighboring island of Koh Kradan. There is a unique underwater world here that encourages visitors to snorkel and dive. The shimmering coral reefs are an indescribable sight that can be enjoyed to the fullest from aboard the ship. By the way, the community regularly organizes weddings under water.
Koh Mook
The next destination of the trip is Koh Mook. The island is known for its Emerald Grotto. The Emerald Cave is a 20-meter-long sea grotto that shimmers in the most beautiful shades of green. A unique sight that you can experience by swimming or kayaking!
Other dream destinations for island hopping through the Andaman Sea are: Koh Libong, Koh Taking and Koh Laolian. The latter is known for its twin rocks, which rise imposingly from the sea and are an often photographed holiday motif. They are part of Mu-Ko-Phetra Park, a national park spread over a total area of 500 km² along the coast. A successful end to the trip is the last destination, the 12 km² island of Koh Sukorn. Around 3,000 people live here, spread over four small villages. Immerse yourself in the tranquil everyday life of the hospitable islanders, who live mainly from fishing and vegetable cultivation. On the paradisiacal sandy beach of Koh Sukorn, the holiday ends in a relaxed way before boarding the plane back home.
The islands in the Gulf of Thailand
Ko Samui
The Gulf of Thailand is spread over a total area of 320,000 km², as a marginal sea in the Pacific Ocean. The Gulf is surrounded by the coasts of Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia and Vietnam. The Gulf of Thailand is home to popular holiday islands, including the world-famous holiday island of Ko Samui. Ko Samui is the second largest island in the country and delights visitors with palm-fringed beaches and a breathtaking rainforest. There are countless accommodations on the island, including some luxury resorts. Chaweng Beach is known for its distinct nightlife. Visit the Buddhist temple complex Big Buddha, which is one of the most modern in the world. The oversized Buddha towers over the complex and shines in the sunlight – a unique sight. Not far away is another temple complex. Plai Laem is also worth a visit!
If you prefer to explore the island culinarily, you should visit the nightly snack market in the Fisherman’s Village in Bophut. The shopping street is another top attraction on Ko Samui. From Ko Samui we continue to the surrounding destinations: Ko Tao, Ko Samet, Amphone Ko Chang and Phu Quoc. Each island is a dream in itself and sets its own accents.
The islands of the Koh Chang archipelago
The archipelago is located on the far east coast of Thailand. Koh Chang is the third largest island in Thailand and the largest in the archipelago. It is the first destination of the trip. Only half an hour from the mainland is the small port of the island. On Koh Chang you can expect a lush green jungle and azure blue sea. At White Sand Beach there are large holiday home complexes with direct access to the beach. Rent a scooter and explore the island on your own. The islands of the Koh Chang Archipelago are located in the Mu Ko Chang National Park. The island reserve has designated jungle hiking trails and several places for fantastic snorkeling tours. The island is just the right destination for active holidaymakers!
From the main island, excursions to the surrounding, smaller islands are possible. These include Koh Lao Ya, which is known for its crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs. The island is located 2.5 hours from Koh Chang and is visited daily outside the rainy season. A visit to Koh Khlum is steeped in history. Years ago, a bloody naval battle between the Thai and French navies took place on the island. But the detour to Koh Khlum is also worthwhile for diving.
The last destination of the trip is the distant island of Koh Kood. It is the fourth largest island in Thailand and is home to countless waterfalls, flowing streams, mountains and tropical forests. A special destination to complete your Thailandholiday island hopping. The most famous waterfall on the island is Nam Tok Klong Chao – a popular destination. The waterfall consists of three levels and is embedded in a wonderful landscape. The lake basin of the waterfall offers a refreshing cooling.
