5 Hidden Thai Islands Off the Beaten Path
Far from Thailand's most popular islands, the kingdom still hides small paradises. Here are 5 southern islands to explore for wild beaches and a true sense of escape.
01 August 2022
For decades, Thailand's coastlines have grappled with overtourism. While local authorities have recognized the challenge and implemented measures to protect their lands, the country remains a highly sought-after destination. Fortunately, secret islands and forgotten archipelagos have been spared and have preserved their wild beauty! Are you eager to discover them and enjoy their tropical beaches far from the crowds? Discover 5 southern islands where you can escape mass tourism in Thailand.
1 - Koh Laoya: A Lesser-Known Archipelago Near Koh Chang
Koh Laoya is an archipelago of three islands located at the southernmost tip of Koh Chang. Inner Laoya Island, also known as Koh Laoya Nai, is the largest of the three. It is home to a white-sand beach bordered by lush forest. Attracting few tourists, it draws locals on weekends. The rest of the week? Its paradisiacal landscapes are nearly deserted! A chance to fully appreciate its beauty, far from the hustle and bustle (in a country nonetheless populated by nearly 69,000 inhabitants!).
The island has only one resort: Laoya Coco Island (a reservation is required to spend the night). The establishment organizes scuba diving excursions. The other two islets in the archipelago, Middle Laoya and Lower Laoya Island, are true desert islands, with no hotels or tourist facilities! What's on the agenda? Swimming in sparkling waters, boat rides, and exploring coral gardens… To access all three islands, you'll need to take a shuttle from Koh Chang.
2 - Koh Phayam: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the Mergui Islands
Bordered by the Andaman Sea, Koh Phayam is a wild island of 15 km². Located in Ranong Province, it is home to wonderful small white-sand beaches. Among them? Hin Talu Beach, considered the finest spot to watch the sunset!
Within this idyllic setting, you'll discover Moken Village. Named "The Village of the Sea Gypsies," this settlement is where a handful of locals live. Still authentically rooted, the village sits at the heart of the forest. To reach it, you'll need to trek through the jungle (where you can spot hornbills and numerous other bird species perched in Thailand's canopy). Note that the village is also accessible by beach at low tide. A tip? Bring insect repellent!
🇹🇭 Dreaming of exploring Thailand's southwestern coast? Head to Koh Phi Phi!
3 - Koh Khai: An Ideal Destination to Escape Mass Tourism in Thailand
The three Koh Khai islands are located about fifteen minutes (by speedboat) from Phuket. Little earthly paradises, they are renowned for their paradisiacal beaches and schools of colorful fish.
Accessible from Phuket or Koh Yao Yai: Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui are highly popular during the high season (December and January). To enjoy these natural jewels in peace, opt for the low season to avoid the crowds. The upside? Sea temperatures range from 25° to 30°C year-round!
4 - Koh Surin: An Authentic Land in the Heart of the Surin Islands
The five Surin islands form an archipelago located 60 km from the mainland. The largest are Koh Surin Nuea (North Island) and Koh Surin Tai (South Island). To preserve the natural beauty of the area, authorities limit and control visits. Thanks to these measures, you'll discover landscapes of exceptional purity!
Trekking enthusiasts can explore all their unique characteristics and treasures along the hiking trails, while divers can explore their marine depths (and their legendary coral reef!) through snorkeling. The world's most beautiful diving spot? Richelieu Rock! A rock formation in the middle of the sea, approximately 10 km southwest of Ko Surin.
🇹🇭 Thinking of exploring a secret island? Visit Ko Ngai!
5 - Koh Adang: A Thai Paradise Far From the Crowds
Ko Adang is a forested island known for its "Pirate's Waterfall." Very low-key in terms of tourism, you can fully enjoy this Eden and its freshwater cascade—which was once the only water source where pirates could quench their thirst! It's easily accessible after a short jungle expedition.
The second-largest island in Tarutao National Marine Park (which comprises 51 islets!), Koh Adang is also a magical spot for snorkeling. For those who simply dream of listening to the sound of waves (without a hoarse churro vendor or sand splashed on your face by inconsiderate travelers)… Enjoy!
What You Should Know
The island is accessible by water taxi or kayak.
Be aware that access to the island costs 200 baht (approximately €5.50—the entrance fee for Koh Tarutao National Park). It's also possible to reserve one of the 12 bungalows for the night (€15).
Audrey Denjean
Audrey DENJEAN
A SEO copywriter, Audrey Denjean puts her writing in service of English-speaking travelers. Through her blog articles, she explores what captures a country's essence—its iconic sites, cuisine, traditions, and history... Her goal? To convey far more than mere tourist information, but to describe an atmosphere, share anecdotes that make each country unique and inspire, after every read, a desire to explore the world.
