This specially curated Thailand Island Hopping Guide will help you unleash the splendid beautiful beaches of the west coast in the most efficient and affordable manner possible!
Our world is full of dream destinations that make up our travel bucket list. However, no list is complete without a trip to Thailand, a serene group of beautiful islands that deliver a breathtaking experience for each traveler in its own unique way. No matter what you come looking for, Thailand is a treasure trove of experiences that will remain etched in your memories forever.
Your Guide to a Fulfilling Thailand Island Hopping Trip!
What makes Thailand so special is the gamut of options it provides through island hopping. Be it Phuket, a paradise for global tourists, or Krabi island, a quaint island tucked away in nature’s pristine creations, Thailand island hopping is an experience you must plan for.
In this article, we will tell you just about everything you need to know to plan a perfect getaway that will leave your senses spellbound, an itinerary that will leave the traveler inside you completely satisfied.
The Ideal Thailand Island-Hopping Itinerary
When it comes to Thai islands, is difficult to say that one option is better than the other as each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Once you land in Bangkok, boats, and ferries are considered to be the most reliable and affordable options. Although you can fly down to some islands as well from Bangkok, it will cost you a lot more. If you are on a budget trip, taking a ferry or a boat is a much better option.
Day 1 – Start with Bangkok
Every Thailand trip begins with a touchdown at Bangkok, the main tourist hub. From here, you can choose the easiest and the most affordable way for island hopping, most of which comprises traveling by boats and ferries.
While in Bangkok, you can explore the Grand Palace, one of the city’s most important Buddhist temples, follow the trail on the canals of Thon Buri on the iconic long-tail boat, go shopping at Wat Arun, and then end your day by savoring some mouth-watering street food at Chinatown.
Time to Go, Island Hopping
Day 2 – Going to Phuket Island
Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island and easily the most popular one. It’s beautiful, full of tourist energy, and provides some breathtaking views of the sea.
Here, you can visit the two popular viewpoints at Cape Phrom Thep to enjoy a jaw-dropping view of the lovely sea. You can then visit the Big Buddha Statue, go see the old Phuket Town, experience its several pristine beaches like Kata and Freedom Beach, and later enjoy your evening at local breweries.
How to get there? You can reach Phuket by air, road, and water. The options are many, you can choose the one that fits your timeline and budget
Day 3 – Live it up at Koh Samui
Thailand’s second biggest island, Koh Samui is also popular for its sprawling palm-fringed beaches, tropical rainforests, and its untouched beauty.
You can go swimming in the turquoise waters, experience the rare marine life, dive at White Rock or go snorkeling at Coral Cave. This destination has something for people of all ages.
How to get there? It is rather easy to reach Koh Samui from Bangkok. There are options for traveling by air, water and land. Regular bus and ferry services are available from Bangkok
Day 4 – Head to Phang Nga Bay
The limestone karsts at Phang Nga Bay, its emerald green waters, the famous James Bond Island, and Koh Panyee are some of the must-visits here.
A day-long leisurely trip through Phang Nga, witnessing its natural beauty and serene atmosphere is just what you want.
You can also head to Samet Nangshe viewpoint for a panoramic view of this entire island. Limestone cliffs, Hongs, and other smaller islands are some of the other things you must not miss.
How to get there? There are a number of launching sites here from where you can either hire a long-tail boat or charter a speedboat
Day 5 – Embrace Nature at Phi Phi Islands
The natural beauty of Thailand just keeps getting better as you go island hopping from one to another.
The Phi Phi islands are just as beautiful and majestic as you can imagine and are a must to add to your island hopping adventure. Comprising Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley, the stunning rainforest-clas karst peaks and sparkling turquoise waters make Phi Phi islands a truly stand-out destination.
Destinations like Maya Bay, famous for the film The Beach, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach will completely satisfy the tourist within you.
How to get there? Ferries and speedboats are the most common ways of traveling to these islands. It takes around 2 hours to reach here from Phuket
Day 6 – Time for a ‘Wild’ Experience – Phang Nga Elephant Park and Khao Lak
You must interact with the elephants when you are in Thailand, an experience no other part of the world will provide.
However, it is also important to be responsible, and interacting with animals needs careful treading. Meet your mahout at the Phang Nga Elephant Park and see these majestic animals at their best. You can play with them, feed them and go for a long walk with them for a day that will be written with golden ink in your travelogue.
How to get there? It is the easiest to reach here from Phuket. You can either hire a long-tail boat or rent a self-drive car. Plan your visit in such a way that you are getting here from Phuket for the easiest transit
Day 7 – Take a boat to Similan Island
Now it’s time for you to head underwater. The Similan islands are famous for their underwater world.
You can go snorkeling and diving to witness the corals and aquatic life at its best. The island comprises an archipelago of nine gigantic islets complete with lush green tropical vegetation shining bright in contrast with white sand beaches.
The sheer beauty of this place will take your breath away. But do remember to hold your breath long enough to experience the marine life when you go snorkeling.
How to get there? Again, it is easy to reach this island from Phuket. It takes 70 minutes on a speedboat and 4 hours on a ferry. Choose the one that suits your requirements
Thailand is home to some of the best beach islands in the world. If you love the tropical climate and soaking in the sun on a beach, island hopping in Thailand is the next trip you must plan.
