Being an unmissable destination, Thailand never fails to astonish every visitor with its breathtaking beauty. With over 300 islands, Island Hopping is one of the best ways for those who want to explore tropical Thailand. The climate directly influences the choice of destination. While the best time on the Andaman Sea (western coast) is from November to April, from January to September is the best time to visit the Gulf of Thailand (eastern coast). Here are 2 Island Hopping itineraries in Thailand for you.
Being an unmissable destination, Thailand never fails to astonish every visitor with its breathtaking beauty. With over 300 islands, Island Hopping is one of the best ways for those who want to explore tropical Thailand. The climate directly influences the choice of destination. While the best time on the Andaman Sea (western coast) is from November to April, from January to September is the best time to visit the Gulf of Thailand (eastern coast). Here are 2 Island Hopping itineraries in Thailand for you, or you can customize your own trip to Thailand here.
'Island Hopping' or "jumping from island to island" means visiting different islands in the same area during a vacation.
1. Andaman Bay Route
In addition to being known as the land of elephants, the Andaman Sea is a very popular area when it comes to Thailand. The two main islands not to be missed are Phuket and Krabi. Please note that ferry schedules between these islands change every year, so be sure to check the dates before planning your itinerary. Additionally, some ferries close during the monsoon season.
1.1 Phuket
.jpg)
Known as the pearl of Thailand, Phuket is a great starting point for your journey thanks to its tourist attractions and nearby islands. This place is easily accessible thanks to Phuket International Airport. Once in this area, do not hesitate to visit Mai Khao and Krabi, two absolute paradises to visit.
1.2 Mai Khao Beach
With a length of 11 km, Mai Khao Beach is one of the longest and least crowded paradises in this tropical country. Most of the area is deserted, devoid of massages, vendors, and drinks, so it is ideal for hiking and enjoying the natural wonders in a quiet atmosphere.
It is interesting to note that Mai Khao is part of Sirinat National Park, or Nai Yang National Park - a marine park with 13 kilometers of coastline in Phuket. There are mangrove forests, evergreen forests, clearings, and wildlife waiting for you, as well as mysterious marine creatures. This could be the unique opportunity to see the beautiful coral reef, turtles laying eggs, shells, and crabs that often appear on television screens.
1.3 Krabi
Krabi is an ideal place to escape the crowd and it would be a shame not to explore one of the most beautiful beaches in Krabi: Tonsai. Beautifully situated on the peninsula between Ao Nang and the city of Krabi, Krabi offers breathtaking scenery, a long coastline with about 200 islands, and beautiful white sandy beaches.
Moreover, the rainforest features exotic fauna, magnificent waterfalls, limestone caves, and cliffs. Of course, Krabi's ecosystem will entertain you with plenty of fun activities to do like hiking, snorkeling, cliff jumping, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the lights, the sun, and the relaxed atmosphere.
1.4 Tonsai
When you arrive at Tonsai by long-tail boat, you will be greeted by crystal-clear waters and a spectacular view of the towering rocky mountains. This tropical paradise is a perfect place for climbers, with breathtaking views and famous wandering currents worldwide. Rent equipment from nearby shops and maps to start your outdoor adventure.
If you're not a hardcore fan of extreme sports, look for a kayak to explore exotic attractions. You can visit Phra Nang Cave, Pohda Island, Railay Beach, Tub Island, or Chicken Island to bask in the sun and enjoy picturesque views. If you want to explore aquatic life, there are several diving operators on Railay Beach, just a 10-minute walk away.
2. Gulf of Thailand Route
2.1. Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is one of the islands located in Surat Thani province. Many reasons make it special, especially the monthly Full Moon Party, during which participants covered in neon paint dance until dawn. Most of the participants are in their twenties, so joining a beach party by moonlight with them will give you unforgettable moments. After the party, the beach returns to being an untouched area with sparkling waters and white sand.
2.2. Koh Mak
A travel itinerary in Thailand for beach lovers would be a great omission if Koh Mak were not mentioned, ideally situated in Trat province. It is one of Thailand's smallest and most underrated islands. So, you should not refuse this ideal opportunity to experience an authentic land and avoid mass tourism even during the high season. That said, Koh Mak is not the ideal place for lively nightlife. On the contrary, this place tends to be an oasis of tranquility. With an area of about 16 km², most of the island is easily accessible on foot. Meanwhile, there is a wide range of accommodations, from cozy bungalows to luxurious beach villas. The island is well-mapped with hiking and biking trails that allow you to discover hidden gems. It also has a rich and colorful history with its oldest houses, pristine beaches like Turtle Beach at the extreme north, Laem Son in the northeast, or erotic sculptures in the Kingdom of Somchai's affection.