Koh Phangan is an island paradise destination in the Gulf of Thailand. With a number of white sandy beaches backdropped by palm trees and pristine blue waters – there’s plenty of great things to do on Koh Phangan. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or natural beauty, there’s something for every traveller to write home about.
Plus, one of Koh Phangan’s best sunset spots with an unsuspecting element – all detailed below!
Best Koh Phangan Sunset Spot – Top Rock Bar
Sitting around 2 kilometers out of town, the Top Rock Bar on Koh Phangan is a popular place for multiple reasons.
My main reason, the view is beautiful. Looking over the Gulf of Thailand, this scenic view only gets better as the sun sets and the sky turns a purple and pink hue. In the distance,
The Top Rock Bar is also known for selling “cigarettes”, one of the only places to sell marijuana on Koh Phangan. While it is readily available on the menu, I highly suggest taking precautions if you decide to take part in this recreational activity. Being drug searched in Thailand can have some pretty nasty consequences if found guilty. Be careful with weed on Koh Phangan, and Thailand in general.
Prices are a little steep, as is the stairs up to the bar. For around 500 Baht ($16 USD), you’ll get two beers and a plate of hot cups (fries).
Eat at Koh Phangan’s night market
A much cheaper alternative to eating out in Koh Phangan is the night market. There are so many tasty foods and drinks to satisfy your taste buds – and save your wallet.
Coconuts and coconut ice cream are both great choices. Apple and pineapple pastries are also worth the visit, plus they are only 20 Baht ($0.65 USD).
This is a small market. There aren’t many stores but have a wide range of treats and meals to choose from.
Where to stay in Koh Phangan
My favorite place to stay in Koh Phangan is the Red Boutique Hostel. Around 1.5km walk out of the main strip of the island. Like many accommodations in Koh Phangan, busy times like the Full Moon Party will definitely make beds book out everywhere and might also increase the price – so book a bit early.
Not only is this quieter place to stay on Koh Phangan comfy and clean, but the owners are also kind and helpful. I met the owners well before I slept at their hostel on Koh Phangan Island. On an overnight train and ferry from Bangkok to Koh Tao, the lady and co-owner gave me a full-sized meal because she had extra. Super nice!
What to know about Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is an island 12km north of Koh Samui. Being so close other islands, such as Koh Tao, island hopping is very easily done.
As you would expect with a Thailand island, beaches are a big part of the experience. Koh Phangan’s best beaches are scattered around the island. One of the most popular beaches, Haad Rin, is one of the main sites for the monthly renowned Full Moon Party. Some other popular, and quiet beaches on Koh Phangan are in the north, Hat Khuat and Hat Thian are two places to get tour fill of white sands.
Getting to Koh Phangan is easily reached from many islands and the mainland itself. Thongsala Pier and Songserm Pier are the most common destinations to dock at Koh Phangan.
Perfect Day Trip from Koh Phangan
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Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park is an unforgettable day trip from Koh Phangan (and also Koh Samui). Snorkelling and beautiful hiking is an activity in Mu Ko Ang Thong and will be a highlight of your Thailand travels.
To really appreciate the area, you can take the day trip from Koh Phangan mentioned above, but stay overnight either in a bungalow or tent. Tour companies will pick you up the next day and take you back to Phangan or Samui (you don’t have to return to the same island either).
It’s a magical sight watching the busy beach slowly empty speedboat by speedboat until the sandy shore is deserted and you have free roam of the secluded and picturesque island.
Alternatively, you can always book a tour of Mu Ko Ang Thong online ahead of time.
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Related Thailand reading:
- Koh Tao has some amazing hiking and snorkeling.
- Some amazing things to do in Thailand.
- An enormous travel tips post – travel better!
Thanks for reading!
Happy and safe travels
Ben – Horizon Unknown
