Koh Phangan is probably best known for its famous Full Moon Party, but there is so much more to this Thai island than beach parties and nightlife.
From beautiful beaches and hidden viewpoints to waterfalls, relaxed beach cafés and social hostels, Koh Phangan has something for pretty much every type of traveller.
I spent time exploring the island and quickly realised that where you stay can make a big difference to your experience. Some areas are more social and busy, while others are perfect if you simply want to relax by the beach.
In this Koh Phangan travel guide, I’m sharing the places I enjoyed, the beaches I would recommend, where to stay, how to get around and a few practical tips to help you plan your trip.
Whether you’re visiting for the Full Moon Party, travelling around Thailand as a backpacker or simply looking for beautiful beaches, here’s what you should know before visiting Koh Phangan.
Is Koh Phangan Worth Visiting?
Absolutely!
Although Koh Phangan is famous for the Full Moon Party, I think it would be a shame to visit the island only for its nightlife.
There are so many beautiful beaches to discover, plenty of places to explore and different areas with completely different atmospheres.
If you’re a backpacker looking to meet people, there are social hostels and plenty of opportunities to make friends. But if you’re more interested in relaxing, swimming and exploring the island, you can easily find quieter areas too.
Personally, I really enjoyed the combination of beautiful beaches and the social atmosphere. It is one of those islands where you can spend the morning exploring, the afternoon at the beach and the evening having drinks with people you’ve met along the way.
Where to Stay in Koh Phangan
Choosing where to stay in Koh Phangan really depends on what you’re looking for.
Are you visiting for the Full Moon Party? Do you want to meet lots of other backpackers? Or would you rather stay somewhere quiet, close to beautiful beaches?
There are plenty of accommodation options across the island, but these are the areas I would consider.
Kohmunity Hostel: Best for a Social Backpacker Experience
If you’re travelling solo or simply want to meet other people, I would definitely recommend checking out Kohmunity Hostel.
I spent around two and a half weeks here and genuinely had such a good time.
There was always something happening, and it was very easy to meet other travellers. Whether you wanted to hang out by the pool, join activities or simply find people to explore the island with, there was usually something going on.
The facilities themselves are okay, but nothing particularly special. However, considering the price, I honestly think it’s great value for money.
For me, the biggest selling point was the atmosphere. It’s a really social hostel, and I always found people to spend time with.
Even if you’re not staying at Kohmunity, it’s worth knowing that you can still visit and join the social atmosphere. I met plenty of people who were staying at other hostels but came to Kohmunity for pre-drinks or to meet other backpackers.
So if you prefer staying somewhere a little quieter but still want to be social, that could be a good option too.
My recommendation: If meeting people and having a social backpacker experience is important to you, I would put Kohmunity Hostel on your list.
Staying Near Haad Rin: Best for the Full Moon Party
If the main reason you’re visiting Koh Phangan is the Full Moon Party, you might prefer staying closer to Haad Rin.
This is where the famous Full Moon Party takes place, and there are several hostels and accommodation options in the area.
Staying nearby can make getting to and from the party easier, especially if you don’t want to organise transport late at night.
However, you don’t necessarily have to stay in Haad Rin to enjoy the party. You can also stay elsewhere on the island and arrange transport for the evening.
Mae Haad and Thong Nai Pan: Best for Beaches
If you’re less interested in nightlife and more interested in beautiful beaches, I would look towards the northern part of Koh Phangan.
Mae Haad and Thong Nai Pan are two areas I would consider when choosing accommodation.
The northern part of the island has some lovely beaches and is a good option if you want to spend more time swimming, relaxing and exploring the coastline.
Overall, I would choose your accommodation based on the kind of holiday you want rather than automatically staying near Haad Rin because of the Full Moon Party.
How to Get Around Koh Phangan
Getting around Koh Phangan is something you should think about before arriving, especially if you want to explore different beaches.
Can You Use Grab on Koh Phangan?
No, I wouldn’t rely on Grab for getting around Koh Phangan.
Unlike some other popular destinations in Thailand, transport on the island is more limited. There are local taxis, but they can be surprisingly expensive.
My biggest tip is to contact your hostel or hotel before arriving and ask whether they offer a pickup service.
This can save you quite a bit of money, especially if you’re arriving at the pier and need to travel to accommodation further away.
I once had to pay 400 THB for a taxi ride that took around five minutes.
Yes, really.
So definitely check your transport options before simply getting into the first taxi you find.
Renting a Scooter on Koh Phangan
For exploring the island independently, renting a scooter is probably the easiest option if you’re comfortable and experienced riding one.
You can reach different beaches, viewpoints and attractions without having to organise a taxi every time.
A scooter should cost around 200 THB per day as a rough price reference from my experience. I wouldn’t pay much more without comparing a few rental places.
Of course, only rent a scooter if you’re confident riding one. Koh Phangan has hills and winding roads, so don’t underestimate the driving conditions.
If you’re not comfortable on a scooter, you can still explore the island using local taxis and transport arranged through your accommodation. Just keep in mind that this can become more expensive.
Stay Connected on Koh Phangan with an eSIM
I use Holafly as my eSIM whenever I travel and honestly love how easy it makes staying connected abroad.
Having an eSIM means I can use Google Maps, check transport, look up restaurants, book accommodation and stay connected as soon as I arrive, without having to find a local SIM card or deal with changing SIM cards.
If you’re looking for an eSIM for your next trip, I definitely recommend Holafly. You can get 5% off with my code LIFEASSAAR.
Best Beaches in Koh Phangan
One of the main reasons I would recommend visiting Koh Phangan is its beaches.
There are so many different beaches around the island, from small hidden spots to larger stretches of sand with restaurants and beach bars.
Personally, I preferred the beaches in the northern part of the island. I found some of the beaches further south less impressive, with greener-looking water and areas that didn’t look as clean during my visit.
Here are the beaches I would add to your Koh Phangan itinerary.
1. Mae Haad Beach
Mae Haad was probably my favourite beach on Koh Phangan.
What makes it special is the little sandbank that connects the beach to a small peninsula. When the conditions are right, you can walk across the sand towards the little island, which makes the whole place look incredibly beautiful.
It’s one of those beaches where you can easily spend a few hours just enjoying the scenery.
While you’re there, you can also explore the nearby Lolok Lagoon and Ka Ma Rock.
If you’re only going to visit a few beaches on Koh Phangan, I would definitely put Mae Haad high on your list.
2. Secret Beach
Secret Beach is another lovely spot to add to your Koh Phangan beach-hopping day.
It’s a nice place to spend some time by the water and enjoy a more relaxed beach atmosphere.
Despite the name, don’t expect to have the entire beach to yourself, but I still think it’s worth visiting.
3. Malibu Beach
Malibu Beach is another beach I enjoyed on Koh Phangan.
It’s a beautiful spot to relax, swim and enjoy the tropical island scenery.
I would combine it with other beaches in the northern part of the island if you’re planning to explore the area.
4. Zen Beach
Zen Beach is another popular beach on Koh Phangan.
It’s a nice place to spend some time by the sea, and the atmosphere is a little different from some of the more traditional beach spots.
It’s worth adding to your list if you’re exploring the west coast of the island.
5. Ocean Vibes Beach
I also really liked the beach near Ocean Vibes.
What makes this spot stand out is the rocky coastline. The rocks give the beach a different look compared with the more typical sandy beaches around the island.
You can simply enjoy the beach without having to pay an entrance fee, which is always a bonus.
6. Chaloklum Beach
Chaloklum Beach is another beach worth checking out in the north of Koh Phangan.
It’s a nice option to combine with a visit to Mae Haad or Malibu Beach when exploring this part of the island.
7. Haad Khom Beach
Haad Khom is another beach I would add to your list.
If you’re exploring the northern coastline, it’s worth making a stop here as well.
There are also viewpoints around the area, so you can combine a beach visit with a little exploring.
8. Bottle Beach
Bottle Beach is one of the beaches to consider when exploring Koh Phangan.
It’s another option if you want to discover more of the island’s coastline rather than spending all your time around the more accessible beaches.
9. Thong Nai Pan Beach
Thong Nai Pan is another area I would recommend looking at, especially if you’re considering staying in the northern part of the island.
It’s a beautiful beach area and a good option if you’re looking for somewhere to relax away from the busier Full Moon Party atmosphere.
Beaches I Personally Didn’t Enjoy as Much
Not every beach on Koh Phangan impressed me equally.
Haad Yao and Salad Beach weren’t really my favourites during my visit. I found the water quite green and the beaches less beautiful than some of the other spots I explored.
They simply didn’t stand out to me in the same way as Mae Haad, Malibu or the beaches in the north.
Of course, beach conditions can change depending on the weather, tides and season, so my experience might not be exactly the same as yours.
Best Viewpoints on Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan isn’t only about beaches. The island also has plenty of viewpoints where you can enjoy beautiful views over the coastline and surrounding nature.
Some places worth looking into are:
- Haad Khom Viewpoint: A viewpoint around the northern part of the island, which you can combine with a visit to Haad Khom Beach.
- Phasawan Viewpoint: Another viewpoint to add to your list if you enjoy exploring the island beyond its beaches.
I would recommend checking the access and current conditions before heading out, especially if you’re planning to visit by scooter.
Waterfalls and Nature on Koh Phangan
If you want a break from the beaches, Koh Phangan also has several waterfalls and natural attractions.
Than Sadet National Park
Namtok Than Sadet is part of the Than Sadet–Ko Pha-ngan National Park area.
It’s worth considering if you want to explore more of the island’s natural surroundings and get away from the beach for a while.
Khao Ra Waterfall
Khao Ra is another nature spot to look into when exploring Koh Phangan.
I paid around 40 THB to enter during my visit.
If you’re interested in exploring the island’s waterfalls and nature, it’s worth adding to your list.
Than Prawet Waterfall
Than Prawet Waterfall is another waterfall to look up when planning your Koh Phangan itinerary.
It’s a nice alternative if you want to explore more than just the coastline.
Thong Nai Pan Waterfall
You can also look into Thong Nai Pan Waterfall while exploring the eastern part of the island.
It’s worth combining nature stops with nearby beaches if you’re planning a day exploring this area.
Than Nam Rak Waterfall
Than Nam Rak Waterfall is another natural attraction to consider adding to your list.
As with the other waterfalls, check local conditions before visiting, as water levels and accessibility can vary.
Yang Na Yai Tree
The Yang Na Yai Tree is another interesting stop if you’re exploring the island.
It’s a different kind of attraction from the beaches and waterfalls, so it’s worth considering if you want to see a little more of Koh Phangan.
Party in Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is obviously famous for its Full Moon Party, but there are plenty of other parties happening around the island throughout the month. Whether you’re into techno, commercial music or dancing in the jungle until sunrise, there’s usually something going on.
Here are a few parties worth knowing about, including my own experience.
Waterfall Party
The Waterfall Party is a fun option if you want something a little different from the usual beach or jungle party. The venue is set around a waterfall, with multiple stages playing different types of music, including commercial hits and techno.
I thought it was a really fun night, especially if you enjoy moving between stages and discovering different music. Standard entry has been advertised at around 600 THB, although prices and ticket options can vary between editions. VIP tickets and special packages cost more.
Eden Garden Party
Eden is a little different from the other parties on the island. Located at Haad Yuan, it’s a more remote spot with an outdoor dance floor overlooking the sea. Expect house, techno and a crowd that often stays until sunrise.
The good news is that entry is free. The downside? Getting there isn’t particularly cheap or straightforward. You need to take a taxi boat from Haad Rin or a 4×4 taxi from Ban Tai. Depending on where you’re staying and how you arrange your transport, you can easily spend around 1,000 THB in total on transport.
Personally, I’d say it’s worth considering if you enjoy the music and atmosphere, but remember to plan your journey back as well.
OXA Jungle Party
OXA is a jungle party with three different stages, usually playing a mix of house, techno and other electronic music. There are fire shows, impressive lights and plenty of space to explore.
I went twice. The first night was really fun, while the second was a little less exciting. I think the atmosphere depends quite a lot on how many people show up. I visited in October, which is outside the busiest high season, so it wasn’t always particularly crowded.
Tickets start at around 400 THB when bought online in advance, while regular entry at the door can be around 800 THB. Prices depend on the event and ticket availability.
Halfmoon Festival
The Halfmoon Festival is another well-known jungle party on Koh Phangan. It usually takes place twice a month and combines electronic music, elaborate stages and a festival atmosphere in the jungle.
It’s a good alternative if you’re not visiting during the Full Moon Party dates, but personally, I wouldn’t automatically choose it over the Full Moon. It’s considerably more expensive, with night-party tickets generally costing around 2,300–2,700 THB. A two-day pass can cost around 3,500 THB.
That’s a lot more than the Full Moon Party, so I’d only spend the money if the lineup and festival experience are something you’re particularly interested in.
Full Moon Party
Of course, no Koh Phangan travel guide would be complete without mentioning the Full Moon Party.
The island is famous for this monthly beach party, which takes place on Haad Rin Beach and attracts backpackers and visitors from all over the world. Expect several sound systems along the beach, with everything from commercial hits and EDM to reggae, drum and bass and techno.
Entry costs 200 THB, paid at the entrance to Haad Rin. This is considerably cheaper than the Halfmoon Festival, although you’ll obviously spend extra on drinks and transport.
If you’re visiting Koh Phangan specifically for the Full Moon Party, staying near Haad Rin can make your evening more convenient.
However, you don’t have to stay there to enjoy the party. As I mentioned earlier, some travellers choose to stay at more social hostels elsewhere on the island and arrange transport to Haad Rin.
And if partying isn’t really your thing, don’t worry. There is plenty more to do on Koh Phangan.
Food and Drinks in Koh Phangan
I didn’t spend too much time searching for fancy restaurants during my stay.
I mostly went to Thong Sala Market for food, which is a great option if you want to try different dishes without spending too much.
Markets are also a nice way to experience the local food scene and try a few different things in one visit.
If you’re staying at a hostel, I would also ask other travellers for recommendations. You’ll often discover little cafés and restaurants that way.
My Tips for Visiting Koh Phangan
Before visiting Koh Phangan, there are a few things I would keep in mind.
1. Choose your accommodation based on your travel style.
If you want to meet people, I would recommend a social hostel such as Kohmunity. If you’re visiting for the Full Moon Party, staying closer to Haad Rin might be more convenient.
2. Ask about transport before arriving.
Local taxis can be expensive, even for short journeys. Ask your accommodation whether they offer pier pickups.
3. Consider renting a scooter.
If you’re a confident rider, a scooter makes exploring the island much easier. Just make sure you’re comfortable with the roads.
4. Explore the northern beaches.
Personally, I preferred the beaches in the north of Koh Phangan, especially Mae Haad. Don’t spend your entire trip around one area.
5. Don’t plan everything around the Full Moon Party.
Even if you’re visiting for the party, leave some time to explore the rest of the island. There is much more to Koh Phangan than nightlife.
6. Bring cash.
It’s useful to have cash available for local transport, markets and smaller businesses.
How Many Days Do You Need in Koh Phangan?
I would recommend spending at least three to four days on Koh Phangan if you want to explore some of the beaches and attractions without rushing.
If you’re mainly visiting for the Full Moon Party, you might only need a shorter stay, depending on your plans.
However, if you enjoy beach-hopping, exploring waterfalls and viewpoints or simply spending time at a social hostel, you could easily stay longer.
I spent around two and a half weeks on the island, and there was always something to do.
Final Thoughts: Is Koh Phangan Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely.
I think Koh Phangan is one of those Thai islands that has something for almost everyone.
If you’re a backpacker, there are social hostels where you can easily meet other travellers. If you’re looking for nightlife, there’s the famous Full Moon Party. And if you’d rather spend your days exploring beautiful beaches, swimming and discovering waterfalls, you can do that too.
Personally, I really enjoyed the social atmosphere at Kohmunity Hostel and exploring the northern beaches, especially Mae Haad.
The island isn’t perfect, and transport can be surprisingly expensive if you rely on taxis. But once you have somewhere to stay and a way to get around, it’s a really enjoyable place to explore.
My biggest recommendation? Don’t visit Koh Phangan only for the Full Moon Party. Give yourself some time to discover the rest of the island too.
Planning Your Thailand Trip?
If you’re planning a trip around Thailand, I’ve also put together destination guides with things to do, practical advice and honest opinions based on my own experiences.
START HERE: Thailand Travel Guide
Koh Phangan Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Koh Phangan worth visiting?
Yes! Koh Phangan has much more to offer than the Full Moon Party. You can explore beautiful beaches, waterfalls, viewpoints and local markets, or enjoy the island’s social backpacker atmosphere.
Where is the best area to stay in Koh Phangan?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Haad Rin is convenient if you’re visiting for the Full Moon Party, while Mae Haad and Thong Nai Pan are good areas to consider if you prefer beautiful beaches. If you want a social backpacker experience, I would recommend looking into Kohmunity Hostel.
Is Koh Phangan good for solo travellers?
Yes. Koh Phangan has a social backpacker scene, with hostels and activities that make it easy to meet other travellers. I spent around two and a half weeks at Kohmunity Hostel and always found people to hang out with.
How do you get around Koh Phangan?
You can use local taxis or rent a scooter if you’re a confident rider. Grab is not an option I would rely on for getting around the island. I recommend asking your accommodation about transport from the pier before arriving.
How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Koh Phangan?
Based on my experience, scooter rental was around 200 THB per day. Prices can vary, so compare rental options before booking.
What are the best beaches in Koh Phangan?
Some beaches I would recommend visiting are Mae Haad, Secret Beach, Malibu Beach, Zen Beach, Haad Khom, Bottle Beach and Thong Nai Pan Beach. Mae Haad was my personal favourite.
What can you do in Koh Phangan besides the Full Moon Party?
There is plenty to do besides partying. You can explore beaches, visit waterfalls and viewpoints, discover local markets, relax by the sea and enjoy the island’s cafés and restaurants.
Is Kohmunity Hostel worth staying at?
If you’re looking for a social hostel, I would definitely recommend it. I stayed for around two and a half weeks and loved the atmosphere. The facilities are fairly basic, but I thought the price was great and there was always something happening.
How many days should you spend in Koh Phangan?
I would recommend at least three to four days if you want to explore several beaches and attractions. You can easily stay longer if you enjoy the island’s relaxed atmosphere and social hostel scene.
