Koh Phangan or Koh Tao: how the islands near Samui differ
Koh Phangan and Koh Tao compared: full moon parties, quiet bays and diving, the best months and how to get to each island.
Koh Phangan and Koh Tao lie in the Gulf of Thailand next to Samui and often share one trip. The islands are different: the first is known for the Full Moon Party and coconut palms, the second is considered a diving center. If you have not decided about Samui yet, start with Koh Samui: when to go and what to do.
Koh Phangan
The island is roughly halfway between Samui and Tao. According to Wikivoyage, the best time to visit and the high season is December to March, when the water is clear, there is no rain and the temperature is pleasant. A second peak falls in July and August.
- The famous full moon party takes place here. On those days ferries are packed, so book your ferry ticket in advance.
- Besides the parties, Phangan has quiet bays and places for yoga and relaxation.
- Choose a beach by the kind of holiday you want: on one the noise goes on until morning, on another it is quiet.
Koh Tao
The "Turtle Island" is small, about 21 km², but receives more than 100,000 guests a year. The island is aimed more at divers than at travelers on a small budget: there are almost no cheap street food stalls. Currents are weak, and there are many dive sites and schools, so it is one of the popular places to get a first diving certificate. Besides diving, other activities are developing, and the food and nightlife are among the best in the Gulf of Thailand.
Getting there
- The nearest airport for Phangan is Samui (USM), then a ferry. The next option is Surat Thani (URT) on the mainland, then a ferry.
- For Tao the nearest airports are Chumphon, Samui and Surat Thani, then fast catamarans and ferries.
- The airline Nok Air sells a combined ticket from Bangkok (Don Mueang) to Chumphon with a catamaran to Tao.
What to choose
- You love parties and beaches: Phangan.
- You want diving and the underwater world: Tao.
- First time in Thailand: take Samui as a base and visit one of the islands for a day or two.
Do not forget travel insurance, especially if you plan to dive: check whether the policy covers diving.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for a first time, Phangan or Tao?
If you want diving, choose Tao. If you want beaches and variety, Phangan.
Do I need to book the ferry in advance?
Yes, especially on the days of the Full Moon Party, when departures fill up quickly.
Can I learn to dive on Tao from scratch?
Yes, there are many schools on the island, but pick proven centers and read reviews.
When is the best time to go?
From December to March, and July and August are also decent.
How do I get there from Bangkok?
Usually with a flight to Samui or Surat Thani and then a ferry.
Cover: photo by Tom Lorber on Pexels
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