Koh Phangan

A favorite elevated sunset-drinks spot. The approach is extremely steep, so the authors suggest walking from the bottom if you are not confident on a scooter.

Recommended as a scenic viewpoint bar for sunset drinks.

Recommended as one of the authors' favorite island dining spots.

One of the authors' favorite cafe and restaurant recommendations on the island.

A remote stretch of powdery white sand with a wonderfully isolated feel. The difficult access is rewarded by a peaceful place to relax among swaying palms.

Included among the authors' favorite beachfront spots for sunset drinks and relaxed island views.

Recommended as a beautiful place to stay overnight by Haad Khom's white sand and shady trees.

Included among the authors' favorite accommodation options in southern Koh Phangan.

Listed as a favorite accommodation option in the island's north and west, areas the authors favor for their beaches.

A detour from the waterfall trail leads to panoramic island views. Sit on the huge summit boulders and watch butterflies around the canopy.

Listed among the authors' favorite places to eat and drink on Koh Phangan.

Soft white sand and shady trees make this a lovely northern beach for a day trip or overnight stay.

Recommended for travelers seeking parties, with events throughout the week as well as the famous monthly beach celebration.

A small eastern beach backed by a nature park with lush plants, wildlife, and a waterfall.

Visit at low tide, when a beautiful sandbank appears and the calm, clear water invites swimming. Nearby bars offer food and drinks.

A recommended food and drink stop from the authors' island favorites.

A challenging jungle hike reaches the island's highest summit at 627 meters. An exposed rock at the top rewards the effort with sweeping island views.

Included among the authors' favorite cafes and restaurants on the island.

This northwestern beach stands out for its sandbank, which lets you walk across to a neighboring island.

Perhaps the authors' favorite Thai destination, combining beaches, reef snorkeling, jungle temples and nightlife. They enjoyed two weeks here, although a shorter visit can cover several highlights.

The authors love its artistic waterfront setting, tropical plants, and access to clear water for snorkeling. Order a fresh mango juice, but expect higher prices and food that is less impressive than the atmosphere.

Colorful Chinese-style buildings, dragon sculptures, and golden Buddhas make this a standout temple. Its views extend over the forest toward Chaloklum Bay and, on clear days, Koh Tao.

Featured among the authors' favorite island hotels and illustrated as a recommended place to stay.

Choose these peninsula-edge bungalows for a remote, off-grid stay with the sound of waves around your cabin.

One of the authors' recommended Koh Phangan accommodation options.

Recommended among the authors' favorite stays in eastern Koh Phangan, where the setting is more secluded and natural.

A small, idyllic sandy beach with palm-tree swings and plenty of kitesurfers.

One of the authors' recommended favorites for eating on Koh Phangan.

Listed among the authors' favorite places to stay on Koh Phangan.

Included in the authors' shortlist of favorite restaurants and cafes on the island.

Listed among the authors' favorite places to eat and drink on Koh Phangan.

Recommended as a particularly good village for relaxing and escaping the island's busier areas.

This daily food market is a useful alternative when you miss the Saturday market. Its many stalls are also good for fresh fruit and vegetables.

The impressive waterfall at the bottom of the Phaeng trail is the island's tallest. Visit after rain, as it can dry up seasonally.

An uphill jungle walk leads to this smaller waterfall and its refreshing swimming pool. The authors found the upper path closed and in poor condition during their visit.

Suggested as a worthwhile organization to visit and support if animal welfare matters to you.

The authors' favorite of the Than Sadet falls has multiple levels, swimming pools, and attractive surrounding forest. It is only a short walk from the road.

A favorite accommodation pick on the quieter, less-developed eastern side of the island.

Recommended in the authors' shortlist of favorite places to eat on Koh Phangan.

Recommended for diving around a huge underwater rock, with the chance to encounter whale sharks, stingrays, and batfish.

A scenic beach with a distinctive hanging palm tree and good places to eat. Watch for sea urchins in the water.

Recommended as a great food stop while exploring Haad Rin and included among the authors' favorite island restaurants.

A compact, beautiful beach connected to Koh Raham, with interesting marine life. The authors spotted enormous shells washed onto the sand.

One of the authors' favorite viewpoint bars for a drink while watching the sunset.

Included in the authors' selection of favorite Koh Phangan stays.

A beautiful series of three waterfalls with forest scenery and a roughly three-kilometer route linking the falls. Water levels depend on recent rainfall.

Included in the final roundup of favorite Koh Phangan accommodations.

A favorite beach bar for relaxing with a drink as the sun goes down.

Recommended for peaceful white sand, turquoise water, and convenient nearby restaurants.

A lively weekly gathering of food vendors and artisans, with clothing and accessories to browse. Try veggie rolls, peanut chicken satay, or Thai curry with fresh lime.

A recommended viewpoint bar for enjoying sunset over the island.

Listed among the authors' favorite places to stay in the Haad Rin area.

Visit for the enormous serpent sculptures framing the staircase and the peaceful jungle surroundings. The authors recommend going in the morning.

Recommended as another beautiful Buddhist temple to explore on the island.

One of the additional temples the authors suggest for its beauty.

Included in the authors' recommended selection of island cafes and restaurants.