Thailand Island hopping: Best routes and tips

Thailand’s islands, scattered across the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand, are a paradise for island hopping, offering pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back vibes. From the iconic Phi Phi Islands to the serene Koh Kood, each island has its own charm, making multi-island adventures a highlight of any Thailand trip. This guide details the best island-hopping routes for 2025, practical tips, and how to navigate Thailand’s tropical waters for an unforgettable journey.

Why go island hopping in Thailand?

Island hopping in Thailand combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. The country’s well-connected ferry network, affordable accommodations, and diverse islands cater to every traveler—backpackers, couples, and families alike. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal waters, hiking jungle trails, or savoring fresh seafood, hopping between islands lets you experience Thailand’s coastal diversity while avoiding the monotony of staying in one place. Plus, eco-conscious options and less-touristy islands ensure sustainable travel is within reach.

Best island-hopping routes

Thailand’s islands are split into two main regions: the Andaman Sea (west) and the Gulf of Thailand (east). Below are three curated routes, tailored to different durations and interests, with travel logistics and highlights.

Route 1: Andaman Sea Adventure (7–10 Days)

Start: Phuket
Islands: Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Ngai
Best for: Party vibes, snorkeling, and laid-back beaches

• Day 1–3: Phuket
  Thailand’s largest island is a hub for nightlife and water activities. Stay in Patong for vibrant bars or Kata for quieter beaches. Explore Phang Nga Bay by kayak (1,500–2,500 THB) or visit Big Buddha for panoramic views.
  • Cost: Hostels 300–800 THB; resorts 2,000–5,000 THB.
  • Ferry to Koh Phi Phi: 600–1,200 THB, 2 hours (Rassada Pier).
• Day 4–6: Koh Phi Phi
  Famous for Maya Bay (The Beach), Koh Phi Phi Don offers nightlife and stunning scenery. Snorkel at Bamboo Island (800–1,500 THB tour), hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint, or party at Slinky Bar. Stay in Tonsai Village for convenience.
  • Cost: Bungalows 500–1,500 THB; food 100–300 THB/meal.
  • Ferry to Koh Lanta: 600–1,200 THB, 1–2 hours.
• Day 7–9: Koh Lanta
  A chilled island with long beaches like Klong Dao and cultural gems like Lanta Old Town. Join a 4-island snorkeling tour to Koh Rok (1,000–1,500 THB) or visit Mu Ko Lanta National Park (200 THB).
  • Cost: Guesthouses 600–1,500 THB; scooter rental 200–300 THB/day.
  • Ferry to Koh Ngai: 800–1,500 THB, 1–1.5 hours (seasonal).
• Day 10: Koh Ngai
  A tiny, tranquil island with powdery beaches and excellent snorkeling. Relax at Thapwarin Resort or swim in coral-rich waters off Paradise Beach.
  • Cost: Resorts 1,500–3,000 THB; limited dining 150–350 THB/meal.
  • Return: Ferry to Trang (500–800 THB, 1 hour), then fly to Bangkok (1,500–3,000 THB).

Total Cost (per person): 10,000–20,000 THB (excluding flights).
Tip: Book ferries via 12Go.asia and stay longer in Koh Lanta for a relaxed pace.

Route 2: Gulf of Thailand Escape (5–7 Days)

Start: Koh Samui
Islands: Koh Phangan, Koh Tao
Best for: Party, diving, and wellness

• Day 1–2: Koh Samui
  A lively island with Chaweng Beach for nightlife and Lamai for relaxation. Visit Ang Thong Marine Park for kayaking (1,500–2,500 THB) or explore Na Muang Waterfall (free).
  • Cost: Hostels 300–800 THB; hotels 1,500–4,000 THB.
  • Ferry to Koh Phangan: 300–600 THB, 30–60 minutes (Bangrak Pier).
• Day 3–4: Koh Phangan
  Home to the Full Moon Party (January 13, 2025, and monthly), Koh Phangan also offers yoga retreats and serene beaches like Haad Yao. Snorkel at Koh Ma or trek to Bottle Beach.
  • Cost: Bungalows 400–1,200 THB; party buckets 200–500 THB.
  • Ferry to Koh Tao: 400–800 THB, 1.5–2 hours.
• Day 5–7: Koh Tao
  A diver’s paradise with affordable PADI courses (9,000–11,000 THB). Dive at Chumphon Pinnacle, relax at Sairee Beach, or hike to John-Suwan Viewpoint.
  • Cost: Dormitories 200–600 THB; dive trips 2,500–4,000 THB.
  • Return: Ferry to Chumphon (400–800 THB, 2–3 hours), then bus to Bangkok (500–800 THB, 8 hours).

Total Cost (per person): 8,000–15,000 THB (excluding flights).
Tip: Time your visit for the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan, but book accommodations early (1–2 months).

Route 3: Hidden gems in the Andaman (10–14 Days)

Start: Trat
Islands: Koh Chang, Koh Kood, Koh Mak
Best For: Offbeat beaches, eco-tourism, and tranquility

• Day 1–4: Koh Chang
  Thailand’s third-largest island, with White Sand Beach for liveliness and Lonely Beach for backpackers. Trek to Klong Plu Waterfall (100 THB) or snorkel at Koh Wai (800–1,500 THB).
  • Cost: Guesthouses 300–1,000 THB; food 100–250 THB/meal.
  • Ferry to Koh Kood: 500–800 THB, 1–2 hours (seasonal).
• Day 5–8: Koh Kood
  An untouched gem with Ao Yai Beach and mangrove kayaking. Visit Ao Salad fishing village for cultural insights or relax at Klong Chao Waterfall.
  • Cost: Bungalows 500–1,500 THB; kayak rental 100–300 THB/hour.
  • Ferry to Koh Mak: 300–500 THB, 30–60 minutes.
• Day 9–12: Koh Mak
  A flat, eco-friendly island with organic farms and quiet beaches like Ao Kao. Cycle around the island (50–100 THB/day) or snorkel at Koh Rang (800–1,200 THB).
  • Cost: Resorts 1,000–2,500 THB; limited dining 100–300 THB/meal.
  • Return: Ferry to Trat (200–350 THB, 1 hour), then bus to Bangkok (200–350 THB, 5–6 hours).

Total Cost (per person): 12,000–22,000 THB (excluding flights).
Tip: Stay in eco-lodges like Koh Mak Resort to support sustainability. Visit in November–April for calm seas.

Practical tips for island hopping

• Book transport in advance: Ferries and speedboats fill up during high season (November–April). Use 12Go.asia or local agencies for tickets. Confirm schedules, as low season (May–October) may have cancellations due to weather.
• Pack light: A 40–50L backpack is ideal for ferry travel. Bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a sarong, and mosquito repellent. Waterproof bags (200–500 THB) protect gear on boats.
• Budget wisely: Daily costs range from 800–2,000 THB (accommodation, food, transport). Save by staying in hostels, eating street food (50–150 THB), and booking group tours.
• Choose eco-friendly options: Support operators with sustainable practices, like BB Divers (Koh Chang) or Lomprayah ferries, which reduce plastic waste. Avoid littering and respect marine life.
• Stay connected: Buy an AIS or TrueMove SIM (300–600 THB for 30 days) for data and navigation. Wi-Fi is spotty on smaller islands like Koh Ngai or Koh Mak.
• Get around islands: Rent scooters (200–350 THB/day) for flexibility or use songthaews (20–100 THB). Walk or cycle on smaller islands like Koh Tao or Koh Mak.
• Stay safe: Check weather forecasts for rough seas, wear life jackets on speedboats, and avoid swimming during strong currents. Travel insurance (1,000–3,000 THB for 1–2 weeks) covers medical emergencies or cancellations.
• Respect local culture: Dress modestly in villages or temples (cover shoulders and knees). Support local vendors by buying crafts or dining at family-run stalls.

Sample itinerary (Andaman sea route, 7 Days)

• Day 1: Arrive in Phuket, explore Patong nightlife (drinks 100–300 THB).
• Day 2: Day trip to Phang Nga Bay, overnight in Kata Beach.
• Day 3: Ferry to Koh Phi Phi, hike to Viewpoint, party at Tonsai.
• Day 4: Snorkeling tour to Bamboo Island, relax at Long Beach.
• Day 5: Ferry to Koh Lanta, visit Klong Dao Beach.
• Day 6: 4-island tour to Koh Rok, explore Lanta Old Town.
• Day 7: Ferry to Koh Ngai, relax, then return to Trang for flight home.

Estimated Cost: 12,000–18,000 THB per person (excluding flights).

Challenges to watch for

• Weather: Low season brings rain and rough seas, affecting ferry schedules. Have backup plans, like staying longer on an island.
• Overcrowding: Popular islands like Koh Phi Phi can feel busy in high season. Opt for early morning tours or quieter beaches.
• Scams: Avoid touts selling overpriced ferry tickets or tours. Book through reputable platforms or piers.
• Environmental impact: Choose operators that avoid reef damage or overcrowding at sites like Maya Bay. Carry reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.

Beyond island hopping

Extend your adventure with mainland stops. In the Andaman, visit Krabi’s Railay Beach for rock climbing (1,000–2,000 THB). In the Gulf, explore Surat Thani’s night market for local flavors (50–100 THB). These add-ons complement your island journey with Thailand’s coastal culture.

Thailand’s island-hopping routes, from the lively Andaman Sea to the tranquil Gulf, offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re diving in Koh Tao, partying in Koh Phi Phi, or unwinding on Koh Kood, these islands deliver unforgettable experiences. Plan your route, book early, and travel responsibly to discover Thailand’s tropical treasures. Pack your sunscreen, embrace the sea breeze, and let the islands lead you to paradise.