Thailand's island worlds

Phuket


Phuket is Thailand's largest island with a length of about 50 km and a width of about 22 km. The total area of the Phuket Peninsula is approximately 543 km ². Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea and is connected to the mainland via the Sarasin Bridge.

 

Lined with long white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, the island is one of Thailand's most popular tourist destinations. A spectacular backdrop of huge limestone cliffs and the infinite hospitality of the local people make Phuket a tropical holiday paradise. Phuket is a cultural mix of Buddhists, Muslims and other religious communities. Large parts of the population live on tourism, others on agriculture and fishing.

 

Phuket's infrastructure is very well developed: several excellent star-rated hotels and guesthouses for every taste and budget can be found here. In spas and wellness temples, guests are pampered from head to toe and in countless restaurants and food stalls, culinary delicacies from all over the world can be tasted. Also many vegan dishes are offered.

 

Active tourism ranges from water sports (snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, kayaking and jet skiing) to elephant riding, bungee jumping, tennis or golf. Especially for golfers, a large selection of excellent courses is available. Numerous markets and many small shops in the tourist centers as well as modern shopping centers in Phuket Town or Patong Beach make Phuket a shopping paradise for everyone. For entertainment of all ages, there are a variety of recreational attractions such as the water park or the well-known theme park Phuket Fantasea with its breathtaking show of theater, dance, acrobatics and magic.

 

 

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Koh Lanta


Koh Lanta is located about 70 km south of Krabi province in the Andaman Sea. The island (Koh Klang, Hua Hin Ferry Pier) is approximately 850 km from Thailand's capital, Bangkok.

Koh Lanta consists of the two islands Lanta Yai and Lanta Noi. While Lanta Yai is larger (about 30 km long and about 15 km wide) and was already developed touristically in the 90s, Lanta Noi is a smaller, less developed island. Here there is mainly a little agriculture, livestock and plantations. Between the two islands (at the southern end of Lanta Noi) runs a 1 km wide, natural sea route. The islands are part of Mu Koh Lanta National Park. Here are more than 60 other small islands, which are well suited for snorkeling and diving excursions. Both islands have been connected by a bridge since 2016.


Baan Saladan is the island capital. Here is located next to the ferry port and the largest number of restaurants, some guest houses, markets, souvenir shops and other shops. In the village you will also find banks and some diving schools. The island center has mountainous landscape and is covered with rainforests. Here you will also find some waterfalls. Near the coast you will find some mangrove forests.

Because of the quiet and relaxed atmosphere, the island is also very popular with families.

 


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Koh Racha


The Koh Racha archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea about 20 km south of Phuket. It consists of the two islands Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. Yai means "big" and Noi means "small". The smaller island is completely uninhabited and there are no sandy beaches. Only Koh Racha Yai is inhabited and a little touristically developed. The small island archipelago is a hotspot for divers and nature lovers. On the island you can observe rare birds and monitor lizards. In the sea there is a fascinating variety of fish. Close to the island of Koh Racha Yai are the Lucy's Reef and the Staghom Reef very good diving areas.

 

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Coral Island / Koh Hae


Koh Hae - better known as Coral Island has the cherm of a small pirate island and is located in the Andaman sea about 9 km from Phuket's south coast. The island is a small natural idyll with dreamlike bays and beaches.

The water is crystal clear and very good for snorkeling and swimming. The underwater world is breathtaking. On the island there is a small bungalow hotel, a restaurant and a drinks shop. The island is only slightly shot. Due to its proximity to Phuket it is busy during the peak season from November to March. The main beaches are Long Beach and Banana Beach. Other bays can be reached by longtail-boat. In addition to monitor lizards on the beach there are some hornbills to see.

 

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Koh Phi Phi


The archipelago Koh Phi Phi is located in the Andaman Sea off the west coast of southern Thailand and consists of the main island of Koh Phi Phi Don and the opposite in view, smaller neighboring island of Koh Phi Phi Leh. While there are many hotels on the main island, you can only visit the side island by boat trip - without accommodation in the hotel. In the meantime, there is the possibility to spend the night in the tent.
Overall, the region is extremely popular with divers, as many smaller islands protrude from the sea and there are some coral reefs. For example, the smaller islands Ko Mai Phai and Ko Yung are only inhabited by a few fishermen. In the south of Phi Phi are the inaccessible rocky islands Ko Bida Nai and Ko Bida Nok. Bizarrely shaped limestone cliffs protrude up to 24 meters in depth here. These are known for their biodiversity and the surrounding coral reefs.
Together, all of these islands make up the 390 km² Hat Noppharat Thara Marine National Park in Krabi Province. The national park is an ideal environment for water and diving activities.
There are no roads or cars on the islands, everything is done on foot or by the traditional longtail boat. Loads are transported by means of sack carts.
The Phi Phi Islands have become a tourist attraction only in the last few years since the movie "The Beach" was filmed there with Leonardo Di Caprio. The number of tourists increased very strongly after the tsunami in 2004. Many guests are only day visitors, as many day tours are offered. The hotel capacity is quickly exhausted, especially during the high season (from November to March). The fragile ecosystem suffers greatly here because the islands are much too small for the mass tourism taking place here. Especially garbage gets a problem here, as it is transported by supply ships from the island. Also, the clarification of wastewater is difficult because there is only a small sewage treatment plant on the main island.
  
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Koh Yao Yai


In the southern Phang Nga bay about 42 km from the mainland and east of Phuket lies the Koh Yao archipelago, which consists of two very natural main islands, as well as some other, smaller islands. The main islands are Koh Yao Noi ("small, long island") and Koh Yao Yai ("big, narrow island"). They are very close to each other and form a common district. Both islands seamlessly join the group of Thailand's most beautiful islands, with white, palm-fringed beaches and breathtaking sunsets. In front of some beaches are in sight more smaller islands, so that you can really enjoy a fantastic view. There are about 8000 Muslim Thais living on the larger island of Koh Yao Yai and there is little infrastructure on this island. Both islands have so far been reserved for tourism. As a tourist concept here are quiet and natural recreation - off the beaten track mass tourism. Free-living monkeys and monitor lizards are just as much a part of the picture as are rare bird species. The nightlife is limited to the offer of beach hotels and beach restaurants. The activities on the islands are limited. Although there is a concrete road that leads from north to south through the island of Koh Yao Yai. However, this is limited by a mountain range in the east. You can rent a scooter right on the pier and explore the beaches of the islands. In addition, bicycles and kayaks are available for rent in the hotels.

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Koh Yao Noi


In the southern Phang Nga bay about 42 km from the mainland and east of Phuket lies the Koh Yao archipelago, which consists of two very natural main islands, as well as some other, smaller islands. The main islands are Koh Yao Noi ("small, long island") and Koh Yao Yai ("big, narrow island"). They are very close to each other and form a common district. Both islands seamlessly join the group of Thailand's most beautiful islands, with white, palm-fringed beaches and breathtaking sunsets. In front of some beaches are in sight more smaller islands, so that you can really enjoy a fantastic view. The smaller island of Koh Yao Noi is home to about 3,500 Muslim Thais, and the island has been better developed for tourism for a long time, although the great tourist flows have not yet arrived there. In 2015, Koh Yao Noi was the location for the casting show "Deutschland sucht den Superstar" with Dieter Bohlen. Filming took place mainly at Six Senses Resort and on the beaches of the island. Both islands have so far been reserved for tourism. As a tourist concept here are quiet and natural recreation - off the beaten track mass tourism. Free-living monkeys and monitor lizards are just as much a part of the picture as are rare bird species. The nightlife is limited to the offer of beach hotels and beach restaurants. On Koh Yao Noi, on the other hand, there are a few more hotels and the island is a bit more developed. While the southern part of the island consists of farm and pasture land and rubber plantations, the northern part is hilly and steeper and also covered with rubber trees. In addition to trekking, cycling or scooter tours worthwhile boat trips in the scenic Phang Nga bay north or east to the small island groups Koh Pakoh, Koh Phak Bia and Koh Hong, which also attract with small white sandy beaches.

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Koh Samui


Koh Samui was the first island we visited in Thailand. It is the third largest island in Thailand with an area of approximately 233 km². Koh Samui is part of the Samui archipelago, which includes several other islands, e.g. Koh Tao with Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Phangan as well as around 40 islands of the Ang Thong National Marine Park. Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 35 km from the mainland, in the province of Surat Thani.
Koh Samui is popular for its palm-fringed beaches: the most famous beaches of the island are Bophut Beach, Chaweng Beach, Chaweng Noi Beach and Choeng Mon Beach. But also the original inland lures with waterfalls and palm-covered hills; On the north coast, a huge Golden Buddha watches over the island and on the ring road you can comfortably circle Koh Samui by car or scooter. The island's capital Nathon with its bazaar atmosphere seduces to extensive shopping trips. Many authentic products, souvenirs and clothes are sold here. Likewise, there are numerous markets and many small shops in the tourist centers along the beaches to discover!
Koh Samui is family-friendly and offers culture as well as many entertainment options, water parks, Mini Golf, Butterfly Garden and more.

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Koh Phangan


Koh Phangan is the second largest island in the Samui archipelago with 125 km² to Koh Samui. It is located 15 km southwest of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. The island is still much more original than Koh Samui. Especially the more secluded beaches in the north, which are located on the unpaved part of the road, are very popular with backpackers. The beaches in the south of the island are very well developed and here you will find accommodation from small bungalows to luxury resorts. Koh Phangan's capital is called Thong Sala and is also the island's main port. From Thong Sala there are regular ferry connections to the mainland to Surat Thani, the neighboring island of Koh Samui, as well as a connection by catamaran to Koh Tao. Another port for crossing to Koh Samui is in Hand Rin. Koh Phangan is world famous for its monthly Full Moon Parties, which attract tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world each time. In the north of the island you can still find quiet beaches, while in the south especially at the times of fullmoon parties there is a lot of activity.

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Koh Tao


Koh Tao is one of the dive hotspots of Thailand and is located about 45 km north of Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand. It is with 21 km ² the third largest island of the Samui archipelago and also belongs to the province of Surat Thani. Koh Tao is very popular among young travelers: after dives and water sports you will meet in the evening on the beaches for sunset. There are plenty of restaurants and bars, some with live music or DJs, and spectacular fire shows. During the day the beaches are quiet and idyllic. The name Koh Tao means "turtle island" and comes from a time when many sea turtles were still to be found in the sea. In various projects, mussels and turtles are reared on the island today, and later exposed to the surrounding reefs again. Also, an artificial reef was created on the Saire beach. On the northwest coast is the small island of Koh Nang Yuan, which is privately owned by a resort and a diving school. Several dive centers can also be found along the beaches in Mae Hat, Sairee Beach and others. and offer diving trips for beginners and advanced.

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Koh Chang


Koh Chang is an island in the province of Trat in eastern Thailand on the border with Cambodia. The island is a bit off the beaten track and is much quieter than Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. Koh Chang literally means "elephant island" and lies in the Gulf of Thailand. With 215 km² Koh Chang is the second largest island in Thailand, after Koh Samui. Koh Chang is about 13 km wide and 30 km long. The island is part of the Mu Koh Chang Marine National Park, which in addition to Koh Chang itself 46 more islands and a total of 192 km ² land area and 450 km ² sea surface includes. The national park offers fantastic snorkeling and diving grounds, untouched island worlds, fascinating underwater worlds, idyllic bays and caves. Koh Chang is surrounded by white sandy beaches and coral reefs and is therefore a magnet for many divers. The green interior of the island offers waterfalls, untouched rainforest with lush wildlife and plant life and its mountainous landscape an interesting addition to the beautiful beaches of the island. From the small harbor you can make wonderful snorkeling trips to the surrounding small islands and explore the colorful underwater world. Koh Chang is perfect for relaxed scooter tours and trekking trips. Here my just can relax and enjoy the beautiful nature.

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Koh Mak


The small dream island of Koh Mak is located in the eastern part of the Gulf of Thailand, not far from the Cambodian border. Koh Mak is about 40 km away from the mainland in Trat. From the south coast of Koh Chang island is only about 20 km. The island belongs to the province of Trat and has a total area of approximately 16 km². The center of the island is covered with tropical forests and palm trees. The beaches are beautiful and very quiet. The island offers a natural flair with a very relaxed atmosphere. Part of the island is used by the residents agricultural, especially with rubber and coconut plantations. Koh Mak is the perfect island for all peace seekers and nature lovers. Kayak tours can be made along the beaches, and the crystal clear waters of the sea are great for swimming, snorkeling and diving. At low tide you can walk from Koh Mak (Ao Suon Yai Beach) over a sandbank to Koh Kham.

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Koh Kood (Koh Kut)


The dream island of Koh Kood (or Koh Kut written) is located in the eastern part of the Gulf of Thailand, not far from the Cambodian border. From the mainland in Trat Koh Kood is about 40 km away. From the south coast of the island Koh Chang is only about 30 km. The island belongs to the province of Trat and has a total area of about 113.5 km ². The center of the island is overgrown with tropical forests and palm trees. Here are some smaller mountains and elevations and small rivers and waterfalls. The beaches are beautiful and very quiet. The island offers a natural flair with a very relaxed atmosphere. Nightlife, shopping and bustle are in vain: a part of the island is used by the inhabitants agricultural, especially with rubber and coconut plantations. The rest of the population lives from fishing. Along the beaches are some bungalow resorts. Koh Kood is the perfect island for nature lovers. Kayaks are available for tours and the crystal clear waters of the sea are great for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

 

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Koh Kho Khao


Located in the province of Takua Pa is the small, only approx. 70 km ² island Koh Kho Khao, which is definitely worth a visit for nature lovers. There are only a few hotels on deserted beaches. The center of the island is pastureland. On bountiful green meadows many buffaloes graze here. These can move freely on the island and cross the streets there. There are very nice beaches with some small bungalow resorts. For a day trip from Khao Lak from the island is highly recommended.

From May to the end of September is on the island low season. Then it is really quiet here and most hotels close or have only limited operation.

The island can be reached by ferry boats or longtails from the fishing port in Baan Nam Kaem. The crossing by boat or ferry takes only a few minutes, as only a 500 m wide estuary must be crossed.

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Koh Lipe


In the far south of Thailand (only about 30 km from the Malaysian island of Langkawi) is the island Koh Lipe. The island is located about 60 km from the mainland and belongs to the province of Satun, which is directly adjacent to Malaysia in the south. Although the island is located in the Tarutao National Park, it does not belong to this park. The Chao Leh sea nomads (formerly Malay settlers) settled in the islands of today's national park at the beginning of the 19th century. In 1974, the Thai government eventually provided the sea nomads with land on Koh Lipe. But they had to leave the surrounding islands. Since then, all islands of the Adang archipelago - except for Koh Lipe - are subject to the National Park Administration. Because Koh Lipe is located outside the park, it is also possible to build accommodation for tourists here. Since the end of the nineties the tourism on the island has continued to develop steadily and rapidly. Although Koh Lipe is outside the National Park, a 200 THB entrance fee to the park plus a service charge of 20 THB is required. From Koh Lipe you can reach many of the smaller islands of the park. The island is a kind of "pivotal point" to continue on the islands of the Tarutao National Park.

The island is especially interesting for divers and snorkeling. The offshore reefs are largely intact and were relatively spared by the tsunami in 2004. However, it is also to be noted here, the more tourism takes place on such small islands, the more endangered are the reefs.

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Koh Mook (Koh Muk)


The island of Koh Mook is located in the Andaman Sea in front of Trang and is about 4 km from the mainland. It belongs to the Had Chao Mai Marine National Park. The island is about 5.5 km ² area very small and very quiet: you will find beautiful beaches and a small village. Most of the approximately 1,000 islanders are Muslim and live mainly from fishing and small shops or restaurants in the village of Baan Koh Mook. The island is still very little developed, spread over the beaches there are a few resorts and bungalows. The main attractions of Koh Mook include the Morakot Cave on the west coast (a cave with a collapsed ceiling, through which the sun's rays color the sea in a magical emerald glow) and Silvalai Beach. At the latter one finds a large sandbank, which falls flat into the sea. Similarly, surrounding islands such as Koh Kradan, Koh Ngai (Koh Hai) and Koh Sukorn can be reached in a few minutes by boat.

Koh Mook is the perfect island for sun worshipers and peace seekers. Bars and nightlife are in vain.

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Koh Jum / Koh Pu

The island of Koh Jum / Koh Pu is located in the district of Nuea Khlong in Krabi province. It is called a crab island and can be found on maps under both Koh Pu and Koh Jum. Koh Jum is geographically located in the Andaman Sea about half way between Krabi (in the north) and Koh Lanta (in the south). The island is quite small and measures only about 19 km ². From Krabi Town is the island just under 30 km or just under an hour's boat ride away. It also takes about 1 hour from Koh Lanta to reach Koh Jum. The island has three villages: Baan Koh Jum in the south, Baan Koh Pu in the north-east and Baan Ting Rai in the south-west (about the middle of the island). The approximately 1500 islanders are mostly Muslim settlers who live from fishing, plantations and agriculture as well as a bit from tourism. Only since 2008, the island is permanently powered. So far, there is no ATM ATM here. For shopping, there are only a few small mom and pop shops and a few souvenir / clothing stores in the villages.

Nightlife is hardly found on the island. There are a few small restaurants, bars and caffees, mostly along the beaches and in the small villages. In addition to the approximately 400 m high Mount Pu, there are mainly nature and beautiful beaches to experience. The island is perfect for those seeking peace and nature lovers.

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