KOH PHANGAN Travel Guide: Top Resorts, Beaches & Activities
Contents
Koh Phangan overview: Adventure, Tranquility, and Island Life
Navigating Koh Phangan: Transportation tips
Our stay at Anantara Rasanandra resort
Days 9 - 11: Arrival, and relaxation at the Anantara
Day 12: Exploring Koh Phangan on a Private Island Tour
Koh Phangan Overview: Adventure, Tranquility, and Island Life
Koh Phangan, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is an island renowned for its blend of natural beauty and diverse atmospheres, offering something for everyone—from serene beaches to lively party scenes. The island is best known for its monthly Full Moon Party (and half-moon parties also!) in Haad Rin, where travelers flock for a night of music and celebration. However, Koh Phangan has so much more to offer beyond its famous nightlife. We missed the full moon party by one night - conscious we may have been twice the age of everyone else there and wanting our beds by 9pm, however I think we’d definitely have given it a look had our trip coincided with it.
Island Layout: Koh Phangan is split into various areas, each offering a unique experience:
Haad Rin (South): Known for the Full Moon Party, Haad Rin is lively and bustling, ideal for those looking to experience Koh Phangan’s party culture. The area is filled with beach bars, clubs, and guesthouses.
Thong Sala (Southwest): This is the main port town and entry point to the island, with a good selection of markets, restaurants, and shops. It’s the most practical spot to stay for those who want easy access to amenities.
Sri Thanu (West): Known for its wellness community, yoga retreats, and health-conscious eateries, Sri Thanu has a relaxed, spiritual vibe and is a quieter alternative to the south.
Bottle Beach and Thong Nai Pan (North): These northern beaches, including Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai, are celebrated for their serene beauty and soft, sandy shores. This area is more secluded and offers a more luxurious, relaxed vibe, ideal for couples or anyone seeking a tranquil escape.
Navigating Koh Phangan: Transportation Tips
Koh Phangan is a relatively small island, but getting around can still be an adventure. With its hilly terrain, winding roads, and hidden beaches, it’s worth planning your transport options in advance to make the most of your stay. Here are the best ways to navigate the island:
Renting a Scooter
Scooters are the most popular way to get around Koh Phangan, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Rental shops are everywhere, with daily rates starting at THB 150-300, depending on the scooter type.
Things to Know:
International Driving License: Legally, you’ll need one to rent and ride a scooter in Thailand. Some rental shops might overlook this, but it’s best to follow the rules to avoid fines. If you’re based in the UK, check out the official UK Government website here on how to get one.
Road Conditions: Koh Phangan’s roads can be challenging, especially in hilly areas or after rain. If you’re not an experienced rider, it might be safer to consider other options.
Safety First: Always wear a helmet, drive carefully, and avoid riding at night when visibility is lower.
Taxis and Songthaews
Koh Phangan has plenty of taxi songthaews (shared pickup truck taxis), which are great for shorter trips or if you’re not comfortable riding a scooter. Prices are generally negotiable but can be a bit higher compared to other parts of Thailand, especially for late-night rides or trips to remote beaches.
Top tips:
Always agree on the fare before getting in.
For groups, taxis can be more cost-effective than renting multiple scooters.
Private Transfers
Many hotels and resorts on Koh Phangan offer private transfers or shuttles, particularly for transfers to and from the pier. These are convenient if you want a stress-free option upon arrival or for specific day trips. Prices vary depending on the distance and type of vehicle.
Walking
If you’re staying in a central area, like Haad Rin or Thong Nai Pan, walking can be a great way to explore the local surroundings. Many beaches, cafes, and shops are easily accessible on foot.
Boat Taxis
For harder-to-reach beaches, like Bottle Beach or Haad Yuan, boat taxis are a unique and scenic option. These traditional longtail boats operate from various points on the island and offer an exciting way to explore Koh Phangan’s coastline. Prices vary depending on the destination, so it’s worth confirming before setting off.
Our Choice
During our stay, we arranged a private car through our resort for a full day of exploring. Given it was booked directly through the resort, it was a little more pricey at THB 10,000, however it was the perfect option for comfort and convenience, especially since it allowed us to enjoy the sights without worrying about navigation or parking. We also appreciated having a local driver who could recommend hidden gems and take us to the best spots around the island. It also meant we could day drink on the beaches we visited - therefore worth every Thai Baht spent…..
No matter how you choose to get around, Koh Phangan’s charm lies in its mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re weaving through winding roads on a scooter or cruising along the coast in a boat taxi, getting there is half the fun!
Our Stay at Anantara Rasananda Resort
With Koh Phangan offering everything from lively party scenes to untouched natural beauty, we knew we wanted a peaceful escape — somewhere to unwind in luxury while still having access to the island’s charm. Anantara Rasananda was the perfect choice, nestled on Thong Nai Pan Noi, often considered the most beautiful beach on the island. With powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere, this spot felt like paradise, far removed from the busy southern areas of Koh Phangan.
Arrival – A VIP Experience from the Start
Getting to the resort was an experience in itself. The Anantara provides a private speedboat transfer for its guests, and from the moment we stepped into their exclusive waiting lounge on Koh Samui, we knew we were in for something special. While waiting, we were asked to choose a welcome drink, which would be ready for us upon arrival at the resort. The journey was seamless — after a scenic speedboat ride across the Gulf of Thailand, we arrived in style, pulling directly onto the beach in front of the resort. Stepping off the private speedboat and onto the soft sands of Thong Nai Pan Noi felt like a scene from a dream, and also a little bit like something from the White Lotus….. Speaking of which, I’m sure we’re sure we saw Mike White at the resort while we were there. Luckily no mysterious deaths / tragic stories while we were there, other than Rom sharting in the bed - more on that later….. Anyhow, we were greeted with cold towels and the drinks we’d pre-selected at the pier, and from that moment, we knew we were in for something special.
Arriving at the Anantara Rasanandra Koh Phangan by speedboat
Our Ocean Garden Pool Suite – Beachfront Bliss
Our Ocean Garden Pool Suite was amazing. Designed for pure relaxation, the suite seamlessly blended Thai-inspired luxury with modern comforts, creating a private beachfront sanctuary.
Private Pool & Outdoor Lounge: Our secluded pool, set within a private garden, was perfect for lazy afternoon dips when we were too lazy to walk the 20 additional steps to the beach. It’s tough doing nothing.
Direct Beach Access & Private Beach Beds: Just steps from our villa, we had reserved sun loungers on the beach, making it effortless to transition between the comfort of our suite and the incredible shoreline.
Outdoor & Indoor Showers: The outdoor rain shower was a personal favorite, letting us shower under the open sky, and perfect for thirsrt-trap pictures, while the indoor bathroom was beautifully designed with a large soaking tub and premium amenities.
Outdoor Daybed: A shaded outdoor lounge area, complete with a daybed, gave us the perfect spot to relax while listening to the waves. It was also Rom’s safe space while dealing with his food poisoning.
Personal Concierge Service: One of the biggest highlights of our stay was our concierge, Tua, who made our experience completely seamless. She booked all of our excursions, from our private longtail boat trip and picnic to our elephant sanctuary visit and spa treatments. She even went out of her way to check in on Rom when he wasn’t feeling well, which was such a thoughtful touch.
Ocean Garden Pool Suite room tour at the Anantara Rasanandra Koh Phangan
Service That Went Above and Beyond
The staff at Anantara Rasananda were truly exceptional—some of the best hospitality we’ve experienced. Every little touch felt incredibly personal, making our stay feel special and unique.
On Phil’s birthday, the staff surprised him with a bellini at breakfast—a small but thoughtful gesture that made the morning extra special. They also had a birthday cake waiting for us in our room after breakfast. And who doesn’t like cake for breakfast?
They were constantly checking in on Rom while he was unwell, offering help whenever needed.
The service was warm yet never intrusive—it was the perfect balance of attentiveness and allowing us to enjoy our time in peace.
Resort Amenities – Where Luxury Meets Nature
Anantara Rasananda isn’t just about the incredible rooms — the entire resort is designed to elevate the island experience, blending natural beauty with luxury.
Infinity Pool with Ocean Views: Overlooking the stunning turquoise waters of Thong Nai Pan Noi, the main pool was the ideal spot to relax with a drink in hand.
Beachfront Restaurant & Bar: Every meal was made special with the incredible beachfront setting, where we enjoyed delicious Thai cuisine with the sand beneath our feet. There’s truly nothing like sipping cocktails on the beach while listening to the waves.
Spa Treatments in a Tranquil Setting: The Anantara Spa was phenomenal. We ended our stay with a luxurious couples’ treatment, which included a floral milk bath, coconut scrub, and oil massage—the perfect way to wrap up our island escape.
Excursions & Activities: Whether it was private boat trips, snorkeling, or water sports, Anantara handled everything, making exploring the island effortless. They can even book private Muay Thai lessons if you want to be that active. We didn’t.
The Only Minor Drawback? The Gym
If we had to find one fault, it would be that the gym was a little small. That said, we barely used it - we were definitely getting more lazy towards the end of the trip - so it wasn’t really a dealbreaker. When you have one of Thailand’s best beaches at your doorstep, who needs a treadmill?
Final Thoughts – The Best Resort on Koh Phangan?
With its stunning beachfront location, exceptional service, and luxurious accommodations, Anantara Rasananda is hands-down one of the best resorts on Koh Phangan. It provided the perfect balance of tranquility and indulgence, making it an unforgettable part of our Thailand adventure.
Our five-night stay in the Ocean Garden Pool Suite cost around THB 87,000—and honestly, for the experience, it was worth every baht. If you’re looking for a truly special place to stay on Koh Phangan, Anantara Rasananda is the one.
Rom being slightly posey on the beach at the Anantara Rasanandra Koh Phangnan
Days 9-11: Arrival and Relaxation at Anantara
Our first day was all about settling in, and Rom was still feeling unwell after that spicy skewer from Chaweng Night Market on Koh Samui. After a warm welcome and check-in, we took some time to explore the resort and unwind in our suite. The hotel team had decorated our room for our beleated honeymoon, complete with a pride cake and personal touches that made us feel truly special. We spent the day enjoying the beachfront and the tranquil atmosphere, setting the tone for a relaxing stay. We of course dived straight into the mango sticky rice that was on offer - the Anantara’s was made extra tasty by including a scoop of coconut ice cream with it. Who knew perfection could be improved?
Day 10: Birthday Relaxation on the Beach
The next day was Phil’s birthday, and although we had initially planned a private boat trip around the island, Rom was STILL recovering from food poisoning. Really - who knew a skewer could do so much? Instead, we opted for a relaxing beach day at the resort. The staff at Anantara made the day special with a complimentary bellini at breakfast, followed by another birthday cake and message waiting in our room—a lovely touch. Rom was unfortunately too unwell to go out that evening. However it’s a tradition in Rom’s family to have noodles on your birthday. Knowing therefore that Phil’s life depended on having some noodles, we kept things simple with a delicious Pad Thai lunch at the hotel’s restaurant. That night, we reached the nadir of Rom’s food poisoning, with him sharting in the bed while sleeping. Happy birthday, Phil! Luckily this was the worst he got - with the magic yellow pills from the fantastic pharmacy in town starting to do their trick by the next day.
Day 11: Exploring the Local Town and Beachside Strolls
With Rom starting to feel better, we ventured out in the evening for a short walk to the nearby town, a charming area with everything you’d need for a relaxed stay on Koh Phangan. The town offers a variety of restaurants serving Thai and international cuisine, from casual street food spots to cozy cafes with beachfront seating. There are a couple of places we visited that we really liked:
Krua - a nice local restaurant serving up delicious, traditional Thai food at great prices. The setting was relaxed and unpretentious, perfect for an authentic dining experience away from the resort. While we can’t recall exactly what we ordered, every dish was flavourful and well-prepared.
Coco Loco, where we ended the evening, is known for its refreshing ice cream and is just one of several small eateries in the area that are perfect for a quick snack or dessert. We loved this place, and went back again during our stay. The popcorn coconut ice cream was everything….
For anyone planning an extended stay, the town has a few pharmacies and convenience stores where you can stock up on essentials. We noticed plenty of massage places as well, each offering traditional Thai massages and spa treatments at very affordable prices, making it easy to unwind without venturing far from the hotel.
If you’re interested in exploring independently, scooter rental shops are dotted throughout the area. Renting a scooter is a popular option for visitors who want to explore Koh Phangan at their own pace, with rates typically quite affordable. Just be sure to bring an international driving permit if you plan to rent.
With its laid-back vibe, the town near Anantara Rasananda offers a convenient mix of amenities while still retaining Koh Phangan’s relaxed island charm.
Day 12: Day 12: Exploring Koh Phangan on a Private Island Tour
With Rom fully recovered, we were ready to explore more of Koh Phangan. Tua helped us arrange a private island tour, giving us the chance to experience some of the island’s most scenic and cultural highlights:
Dom Sila Viewpoint: Our first destination was the Dom Sila Viewpoint, known for its breathtaking panoramic views over Koh Phangan’s lush hills and coastline. To get there, we took a winding path through the island’s tropical forest—a bit of a climb, but well worth the effort for the scenery that awaited us. Once at the top, we were rewarded with sweeping views that stretched over the island’s jungles, beaches, and the shimmering Gulf of Thailand. The viewpoint is a popular spot for photographers and those looking to capture the natural beauty of Koh Phangan from above, offering a peaceful setting to appreciate the island’s landscapes.
Wat Maduea Wan: Our next stop was Wat Maduea Wan, a serene Buddhist temple nestled in the forested area of Koh Phangan. The temple complex includes a large golden Buddha statue and several smaller shrines dedicated to various aspects of Buddhist belief. The temple is known for its peaceful ambiance and provides insight into local spiritual life. Wat Maduea Wan is also believed to hold historical significance for the local community, as monks here have maintained spiritual traditions for generations. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds, admire the intricate architectural details, and light incense as a form of respect.
Guan Yin Temple: Located nearby, Guan Yin Temple is dedicated to Guan Yin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. This temple is a blend of Thai and Chinese architecture, adorned with colorful statues and intricate carvings. It stands as a symbol of compassion and kindness, and many locals and visitors come here to pray for good fortune and blessings. The Guan Yin Temple is beautifully maintained and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy island atmosphere, with a scenic overlook that allows for quiet reflection and meditation.
Malibu Beach: After our temple visits, we made our way to Malibu Beach, one of Koh Phangan’s most picturesque and laid-back beaches. Located near the town of Chaloklum, Malibu Beach is famous for its powdery white sand and shallow, turquoise waters that stretch far into the bay, making it ideal for a leisurely swim or just wading in the shallows. The beach is framed by palm trees swaying in the breeze, adding to its tropical postcard-perfect vibe. Despite its beauty, Malibu Beach retains a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere, perfect for kicking back and soaking up the sun without the hustle of busier island spots. I think we only saw two other people there. Whether you’re lounging on the soft sand, taking a dip in the calm, crystal-clear water, or enjoying a drink from a nearby beach bar, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and appreciate Koh Phangan’s natural beauty.
Koh Raham: For lunch, we made our way to Koh Raham, a quirky, rustic beach bar and restaurant on Haad Son Beach. Koh Raham is famous for its unique layout — tree branches and ropes form shaded canopies and private seating nooks with pillows, giving it an almost fantasy-like ambiance. The decor has an eclectic, bohemian vibe with hanging lanterns, driftwood sculptures, and hammocks that stretch out over the water, perfect for a relaxed, immersive experience. Known as a hidden gem on Koh Phangan, Koh Raham also has a rock pool area where guests can swim and explore. The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the sea.
Right next door to Koh Raham is the not-so-secret Secret Beach—a small, peaceful cove with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Unlike some of Koh Phangan’s busier beaches, Secret Beach retains a hidden, untouched feel, making it an ideal spot for a post-lunch swim or sunbathing session.
Koh Ma Beach: After lunch, we headed to Koh Ma Beach, located on the northwest coast of Koh Phangan. Koh Ma itself is a small island connected to the main beach by a picturesque sandbar, which becomes visible at low tide. This unique feature allows visitors to walk directly from the main beach across the sandbar to the island, creating a stunning natural bridge. The beach is a snorkeler’s paradise, with clear waters and a rich marine ecosystem. The sand is soft and white, and the beach offers a calm, relaxing atmosphere, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the underwater coral reefs. Koh Ma Beach is considered one of the best spots on the island for snorkeling. Sadly the the visibility wasn’t that great during our visit, but we still had a lovely afternoon.
Pantip Market: On our way back to the resort, we made a stop at Pantip Market, a local food market in Thong Sala that’s popular with both locals and tourists. The market is filled with stalls offering a variety of Thai street food, from grilled skewers and fresh fruit to sweets and snacks. We sampled a few local treats and picked up some snacks to take back to the resort. Pantip Market is a great spot to experience authentic Thai street food and grab some affordable, tasty bites.
This private tour was a fantastic way to see Koh Phangan’s diversity, from scenic viewpoints and cultural sites to unique beach destinations, all while enjoying the flexibility to explore at our own pace.
Day 13: Discovering Hidden Gems via Private Longtail Boat
For our last full day on Koh Phangan, we arranged a private longtail boat trip through the Anantara. This quintessential Thai experience allowed us to explore the island's coastline and visit some truly stunning locations.
Our first stop was Chaloklum Beach, located on the northern coast of Koh Phangan. This picturesque beach is known for its relaxed fishing village atmosphere, where traditional longtail boats are moored along the shoreline. The town itself is charmingly quiet, with a mix of local seafood restaurants, small shops, and cozy cafes. We took a short walk through the village and stopped at Kaif, a laid-back café offering refreshing juices, great coffee, and a welcoming vibe. It was the perfect spot to take in the views of the bay and enjoy a slower pace of island life.
Next, we made our way to Bottle Beach, or Haad Yuan, often considered one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on the island. Nestled on the northeastern coast, Bottle Beach is difficult to access — reachable only by boat or a challenging hike through the jungle. The effort to get there though is well worth it, as visitors are rewarded with soft, powdery sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a peaceful, untouched atmosphere. If you’re not on a boat tour, you can hire a longtail boat from Chaloklum or Thong Nai Pan to take you there, making it a perfect escape from the more crowded areas of the island. Swimming and sunbathing here were absolute highlights of the day, as the serene surroundings made it feel like our own private paradise.
We were supposed to do a snorkelling stop as part of the longtail tour, however the sea was fairly choppy and we were advised that the visibility therefore wasn’t that great. No bother though, as it just meant we got to spend longer on Bottle Beach, we really was an absolute treat.
The overall tour lasted about four hours, and we were back at the resort in the earlt afternoon.
Koh Phangan Elephant Sanctuary
In the afternoon, we visited the Koh Phangan Elephant Sanctuary. Opened in 2019, this sanctuary is dedicated to the ethical care and rehabilitation of elephants rescued from the logging and tourism industries. Unlike traditional elephant attractions, the sanctuary provides a safe, nurturing environment where these gentle giants can live freely without being ridden or forced to perform.
As part of our visit, we had the opportunity to prepare food for the elephants. Using rice, bananas, and other ingredients, we created healthy snacks and learned more about their dietary needs. Feeding them and watching them enjoy their meals was an unforgettable experience. The staff explained the sanctuary’s mission and the backgrounds of the elephants, many of whom had endured years of hard labour or poor treatment before being rescued. Seeing the care and effort that goes into their rehabilitation reassured us that the sanctuary is genuinely dedicated to their well-being.
This visit was particularly meaningful for me as years ago, during my first trip to Thailand, I visited an "elephant sanctuary" that I now realise wasn’t a sanctuary at all. At the time, I was younger (in my 20s) and unaware of the cruelty these animals endure in the name of tourism. I still to this day regret riding that elephant, knowing now the immense physical and emotional toll it takes on them. Visiting the Koh Phangan Elephant Sanctuary felt like a way to begin making amends for that mistake.
Seeing these rescued elephants roaming freely in a safe environment, cared for with dignity and respect, gave me hope that the tide is turning. Ethical sanctuaries like this remind us of the importance of responsible tourism—how our choices as travelers can make a difference, not just for the places we visit but for the lives we touch along the way.
To go, bookings have to be made in advance, and numbers are limited for each session. See the link here.
Spa and Farewell Dinner
After a full day of exploring, we returned to the Anantara to unwind with a luxurious couples’ spa treatment. The experience began with a relaxing floral milk bath, followed by a rejuvenating coconut scrub and a soothing oil massage. It was the perfect way to reflect on our time in Koh Phangan and prepare for the journey ahead.
For our final dinner, we dined at the resort restaurant, enjoying delicious Thai cuisine as we reminisced about the incredible experiences we had during our stay. Koh Phangan had truly been a magical blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery—a destination we’ll never forget.
Day 14: Farewell and Trip Summary
The next morning, we bid farewell to Koh Phangan, using Anantara’s private speedboat service to make our way back to Koh Samui. The journey across the sparkling waters was the perfect chance to take in one last view of the island’s lush coastline and reflect on the incredible memories we’d made — from relaxing on secluded beaches and exploring hidden temples, to indulging in spa treatments and discovering the island’s unique charm. Once we arrived at Koh Samui, the resort had arranged a private car to whisk us off to the airport, ensuring our final moments on the islands were as smooth and stress-free as the rest of our trip.
We flew from Koh Samui to Singapore with Bangkok Airways, officially bringing our island-hopping adventure to a close. Koh Phangan had offered the perfect blend of serenity, adventure, and authentic Thai culture, leaving us with memories of pristine beaches, welcoming locals, and unforgettable sunsets. But while our time in the islands was over, our journey wasn’t finished just yet — Singapore awaited, with its urban energy and cosmopolitan charm, ready to add a new chapter to our travels….