1. Mu Ko Similan National Park
Mu Ko Similan National Park is known as the Paradise Island by all and ranked one out of the ten most beautiful islands in the world. Hin Rueabai Scenic Viewpoint located at Ko Paet is a must-see landmark and a symbol of Mu Ko Similan that every visitor must take photos with. The highlight activity at the national park is, undoubtedly, diving (shallow dive and deep dive) to take in the stunningly gorgeous underwater world and marine life. Mu Ko Similan National Park is open from November to April and close during the stormy season.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/k6uCoKyWhdc1T9DGA
How to get there: From Bangkok, use the national highway no. 4 to get to Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Ranong. After arriving at Thap Lamu three-way junction, turn right to go to Thab Lamu Pier and board a speedboat crossing the ocean.
2. Ko Kut
Ko Kut is the fourth largest island in Thailand. The island known as the “Andaman of the East” is extremely rich in beautiful nature— crystal-clear ocean, fine white sand beach, and gorgeous underwater coral reefs surrounding the island. Many beautiful beaches await your visit, for example, Bang Bao Beach, Tapao Bay, Khlong Yai Kee Waterfall, Khlong Ta Tin Bay, Prao Bay, Chak Bay, and Yai Koet Bay. The highlight of Ko Kut is Anamkok Waterfall or Khlong Chao Waterfall where the King of Vietnam used to take refuge during the King Rama I era. Another interesting highlight is diving to see the abundant coral reefs and marine life. All in all, Ko Kut is a great choice for those who are looking for a serene holiday.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QbRpFasUp4jz6tcA6
How to get there: By car, use the motorway no. 7 and go to Ban Bueng – Klaeng – Chanthaburi – Trat (332 kilometer). By van, you can board a van at Ekkamai Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal. Then, board a ship to cross the ocean and go to Ko Kut.
3. Ko Lan
Ko Lan is a popular tourist destination of both Thais and foreigners because of how easily accessible it is, located only 7 kilometers away from the mainland. The island can also be visited all year round due to its calm and fine weather. Tourists can rent a motorcycle to ride around the island and visit many beautiful beaches, for example, Ta Waen Beach, Nuan Beach, Ta-Yai Beach, Thonglang Beach, Tian Beach, and Sangwan Beach. Apart from the gorgeous beaches, there are many scenic viewpoints in Ko Lan worth a visit, for example, Windmill Viewpoint, Khao Na Yak Viewpoint, and Samae Wooden Bridge. Recommended activities to enjoy at Ko Lan are mostly marine activities such as water sports and diving. After enjoying your time, many local restaurants and souvenir shops wait for your visit on the shore.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DgptR9XLXEdjtbXp8
How to get there: From Pattaya City, drive on the Sukhumvit road to North Pattaya – Central Pattaya – South Pattaya. You can also go by van (New Mo Chit Bus Terminal) or bus (Ekkamai Bus Terminal). After that, board a speedboat to go to Ko Lan.
4. Ko Chang
Ko Chang (Elephant Island) earns its name from its archipelago that resembles a herd of elephants. Ko Chang is the largest island located in the Gulf of Thailand. The island is well-known for the pristine nature; fine sandy beach, clear water, abundant marine life and coral reefs, etc. There are many engaging activities to do at Ko Chang, covering the land and the underwater. Some activities are riding an elephant, swimming, taking a stroll on Kai Bae Beach or Tha Nam Beach, sightseeing at a waterfall, mountain climbing, trekking, sailing on a gondola, catching squids, and the most recommended one, diving to experience the beautiful underwater world where abundant various species of marine life and coral reefs welcome you. In conclusion, Ko Chang is a perfect destination for anyone who seeks relaxation on holidays.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pkLqsbjryK98hVMu7
How to get there:
First route: Bang Na – Chonburi – Ban Bueng – Klaeng – Chanthaburi – Trat (315 km.)
Second route (Motorway): Rama VIIII or Srinagarindra – Ban Bueng – Klaeng – Chanthaburi - Trat
Third route: Bang Na – Chonburi – Rayong – Chanthaburi – Trat (385 km.)
Van: Victory Monument
Bus: Ekkamai Bus Terminal and New Mo Chit Bus Terminal
Speedboat: Center Point Pier and Ao Thammachat
5. Lipe Island
Surrounded by unparalleled scenery, Lipe Island is an abundant island rich in natural resources. Be impressed by a stunning sandy beach and crystal-clear ocean. Visit beautiful beaches frequented by tourists such as Bundhaya Beach, Sunrise Beach, and Sunset Beach. Popular activities to do at Lipe Island are diving to see the gorgeous underwater world, fishing, and taking a stroll at Lipe local market. Don’t forget to buy souvenirs as keepsakes for your trip!
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1NJLmPk7djXmrCjZ7
How to get there:
By car, use the national highway no.4 from Bangkok to Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon. After that, continue to the national highway no. 41 to go to Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phatthalung. After that, drive to Rattaphum District in Songkhla. Use the national highway no.4 and turn right to the national highway no. 406 to go to Satun. It takes 973 kilometers in total.
By bus, board a Bangkok-Satun bus at Bangkok Bus Terminal Southern (Sai Tai Mai).
6. Samet Island
The popular phrase “Everyone will fall in love with Samet” is by no means an exaggeration because Samet Island is truly magnificent, be it stunning beaches, beautiful ocean, or a variety of accommodation and tourist attractions. There are many beaches to visit at Samet Island. If you are looking for a lively place, Sai Kaew Beach is your answer. Phai Bay is perfect for swimming. Meanwhile, diving lovers should visit Wong Duean Bay, Saeng Tien Bay, and Noi-na Bay where abundant coral reefs wait for you. Apart from the pristine nature, Samet Island also offers many engaging activities to enjoy, for example, diving, sunbathing, kayaking, camping, or partying. However, Samet Island doesn’t only offer exciting activities, but it also offers peaceful activity such as paying respect at Ko Samet Temple.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/biqRMuFr8P74Lj7n9
How to get there:
By car, use motorway-Pattaya route but go to Rayong-Klaeng. After passing Tapong Temple, drive along a beach to go to Ban Phe. After that, board a ferry to cross the ocean.
By bus, board a bus at Ekkamai Bus Terminal.
7. Samui Island
Samui Island is a popular island that many tourists have heard of. The island is extremely rich in beautiful nature, with a range of coconut trees situated along a beach as the highlight. Samui Island is also rich in great accommodation and facilities. Recommended tourist attractions to visit at Samui Island are Hin Ta-Hin Yai, Lad Ko Scenic Viewpoint, Na Mueang Waterfall, Phra Yai Temple, and Bo Phut Walking street. All in all, Samui Island is a great destination for tourists who look to let go of all the worries in life.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RAasHskhapDKdJbS7
How to get there:
By car, use the national highway no. 35 (Thonburi – Pak Tor) and continue to the southern national highway no. 4 that leads to the national highway no. 41 in Surat Thani (about 644 km. in total). After that, drive to Don Sak pier in Don Sak District to board a ferry.
By bus, board a bus at New Southern Bus Terminal or Mo Chit Bus Terminal.
Ferry service: Seatran Ferry and Raja Ferry
