If you're planning a trip to Koh Phangan in Surat Thani Province, there are a few things you should know before you go. This island is full of exciting stories and activities, making it a paradise for party lovers. It's one of the most famous sea tourist destinations in Thailand, especially for the renowned Full Moon Party. It's on the bucket list of many Thai and foreign tourists who dream of visiting and joining the party at Koh Phangan. However, before you plan your trip, it's important to get to know Koh Phangan better.
Koh Phangan is situated in the Gulf of Thailand, specifically in the southwest of Thailand and is part of the Koh Phangan District in Surat Thani Province. Despite being the district with the least area in the province, it covers a total of 168 square kilometers and some parts of it are under the supervision of Than Sadet-Koh Phangan National Park. This place is internationally known for its Full Moon Party, held at Haad Rin every night of the full moon. However, Koh Phangan remains a popular tourist destination all year round, with visitors attracted by its mountainous terrain, flat beaches occupying only 1/4 of the total area, and intact sandbars and coral reefs that hold both natural and historical significance. These unique features continue to captivate both Thai and foreign tourists and contribute to Koh Phangan's charm.
Have you ever wondered about the origin of the name "Koh Phangan"? The name "Phangan" comes from a local dialect word "Langan," which means a sandbar that appears during low tide. The island was previously known as the island without a pool, but it was upgraded to a sub-district in 1970 and renamed Koh Phangan in 1977. The government added "pool" to the name "Phangan," and it has been called that ever since.
Stunning beach on Koh Phangan
If you're looking for a great spot to catch a beautiful sunset, Haad Yao is the place to go. This 1-kilometer long beach is located at Moo 8, Tambon Koh Phangan on the island's west side and is especially popular among foreign tourists. You'll find plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and bars in the area, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination.
Mae Haad Beach can be found in Village No. 7, Ban Chalok Lam, which is 15 kilometres away from the District Office on the northwestern side of the island. The beach stretches about 800 meters long with soft and fine sand. It's ideal for swimming from March to May when the sea water is clear. During low tide, a sandbar appears that is about 200 meters long, allowing you to walk across to Koh Ma, a popular snorkelling spot where you can admire Koh Phangan's stunning coral reefs.
Haad Rin is located at Mu 6, Tambon Ban Tai, about 12 kilometres from the district office on the island's west side. There is a beach about 2 kilometres long. It is a flat area connected by two rocky hills that protrude into Laem Rin. Caused the area to be divided into Haad Rin Nok and Haad Rin Nai, with the area in the middle being a marsh called Phru, which is Haad Rin Phru, Haad Rin is like an important highlight of Koh Phangan it is a beautiful beach and is a place to organize a full moon party or party on the night of the full moon. There will be thousands of tourists dancing happily. Until being famous all over the world
Haad Salad is a beach that earned its name from the group of pirates who used to dock their ships there and hide out. This stunning and peaceful beach is relatively secluded and attracts few visitors. It's safe to swim in the water between November and April when the water level is high enough. Additionally, there's a coral reef just 150 meters from the shore, making Haad Salad one of the top snorkelling spots in Koh Phangan.
Haad Son is situated in Moo 8, Tambon Koh Phangan and can be accessed via Long Beach. This secluded beach is ideal for shallow water snorkelling due to the presence of a cape. Visitors can enjoy diving with ease.
Thong Nai Pan Bay is a stunning beach located at Mu 5, Tambon Ban Tai, about 23 kilometres from the district. It is considered the second most beautiful beach after Haad Rin. You can reach Thong Nai Pan Bay by boat or car. Koh Phangan has many other beautiful beaches and bays that are popular with tourists, such as Ao Hin Kong, Ao Nai Wok, Ao Wok Tum, Chalok Lam Beach, and Thian Beach.
The full moon party, which originated in Thailand, is a must-see event on Koh Phangan. When people think of the most famous and popular moonlight party in Thailand, the first answer that comes to mind is the full moon party. It is regularly held at the Haad Rin area during the full moon of every month and is considered one of the most entertaining gatherings in Thailand, attracting both Thai and foreign tourists. The party features music, songs, drinks, food, and fun activities like eating, drinking, singing, dancing, and painting with reflective colors.