Koh Phangan is one of the most visited islands in Thailand. It is a real tropical paradise with laid back vibes. Go on a scooter and explore the beaches, viewpoints and much more this island has to offer. We spent 2 weeks here and visited many beaches. These are the best beaches on Koh Phangan in our opinion.
How to get to Koh Phangan
Since Koh Phangan is an island without airport, there is only one way of getting here – by ferry. Nearest airport is on Koh Samui. We wrote a separate article about things to do on Koh Phangan where you can find more details about transportation, best time to visit etc.
TIP: Best way to explore the island is on a motorbike. The rental starts from 250TBH per day.
Destinations in Thailand
Best beaches on Koh Phangan
Before going through all the best beaches there’s something you should keep in mind when traveling to Koh Phangan. Most places around the world have 4 tides per day. Koh Phangan only has 2 tides per day. The high tide season is between December and March. High tide mostly happens during day. Some beaches might be too narrow with little space for laying down. On the other hand, in summer months there’s low tide season. That’s when it’s not really possible to swim on some beaches due to shallow water and many rocks.
If you book any of the tours below, we will earn a small comission. You still pay the same.
1. Bottle beach
Bottle beach is a secluded beach far from everything. There are some bungalows and one restaurant with refreshing drinks and food. It is the perfect paradise! Get away from all the hustle and bustle and spend a day in this peaceful area. The beach is not very long and good news is that there’s sand in the water! Many beaches on Koh Phangan are full of sharp rocks. Relax under the palm trees and enjoy a fresh coconut here!
The only way to reach Bottle beach is by walking or on a boat taxi. You will have to park your scooter 2km from the beach. The road is very steep and in terrible conditions. You can call a 4×4 taxi to come and pick you up. Regarding boat taxi you can surely ask in the area where you are staying. We are not sure about the prices.
TIP: When visiting Bottle beach we highly recommend adding a short 15 minute hike to the viewpoint to your plans! The panoramic views from the top are mind-blowing.
2.Chaloklum beach
Chaloklum beach is the perfect place for sunbathing, swimming and relaxing. It is great for families with kids, too. The water is not as shallow as in other areas (during low tide). And what we loved the most about this beach is the fact that there are almost no rocks in the sea. Since it is in one of the last villages on the island there aren’t many people. The beach is rather long.
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3. Mae Haad beach
Mae Had is certainly the most beautiful snorkelling spot we’ve ever visited! It is sooo full of life! There are literally hundreds of fish swimming around you with many beautiful colorful corals of different shapes. It was unbelievable! To get to the corals you can simply walk through the sandy passage in the sea. It will take you all the way to deeper water directly to corals. On windy days when sea is rough it might not be possible to snorkel here.
TIP: There might be strong underwater currents. Be careful when you go snorkelling and don’t go alone. Always let someone know where you’re going. If you start to feel a current turn around and come another time.
4. Zen beach
Zen beach is a very popular sunset spot. It gets really crowded and everyone gathers here to watch the sky turn orange. You can even see some people doing acro-yoga and there’s drum circle every evening. The right side of the beach is mostly nudist. There is one bar playing good music in the evenings. The water is shallow, not good for swimming during low tide.
If this sounds like something for you, check out more details about Zen beach.
5.Haad Salad
Haad Salad is another paradise for snorkelers. There is so much life under water. Salad beach is in a cove so the sea is really calm. Water is deep enough to swim in. There are rocks but you can also find clear passages with only sand. Follow the passage going out to the sea and get to the corals. It’s very relaxed and tranquil beach with not much happening. Perfect place to relax.
6. Haad Yao
Haad Yao is a bit longer. The part on the right end is perfect for swimming. The water is deep enough even during low tide and there are almost no rocks. The left side is much more shallow and full of rocks. There are some bars and restaurants on the beach where you can chill. You will find few different bungalows along the beach to stay in. There is a sandy passage on the right side of the beach going out to the sea. If you follow it there’s a good spot for snorkelling. There aren’t many corals but you can find some fish here.
7. Khom beach
Khom beach is not very visited beach. You will only mee a few people here. Park along the main road and walk 5 minutes to get to the beach. There are bungalows and a small bar with some refreshments. Trees and palms in the back add to the tranquil atmosphere of this place. The only negative is that during low tide it’s too shallow for swimming.
8. Haad Rin
Haad Rin is famous thanks to Full Moon party happening here every month. But it’s worth visiting even when there’s nothing happening. Haad Rin beach is perfect beach for swimming even during low tide. The sand is white and very fine. It is busier compared to other beaches around the island. Even when the Full Moon Party is not happening there’s loud music in the evenings. Some people recommend to avoid this beach right after the FMP beacuse of garbage. Apart from the parties and beach there’s not much happening in the area.
9. Haad Son (Secret beach)
Secret beach that’s not so secret anymore. Come in the morning when it’s less crowded. You will find one nice bar on the beach. There is fine sand where you can chill. Water is clear but there’s a lot of rocks. During hight tide season beach itself is very narrow. During low tide season we didn’t find it pleasant for swimming due to rocks and corals.
10. Haad Chao Phao
Haad Chao Phao is only separated from Zen beach by few rocks. There’s huge sandy part right at the entrance to water. During low tide season the water is not really too deep for swimming. In the back there are some corals and fish you can watch. The sand is clean and there’s not a lot of people here.
Other islands you must visit
Koh Tao
Koh Tao is known for its incredibly diverse underwater life. It has some of the best snorkeling spots not only in Thailand, but in the whole world! The most beautiful beach you can visit is Tanote Bay. There’s a wide array of different fish and rocks from which you can cliff jump. It was our favorite place on the whole island.
Phuket
Phuket is the largest island of Thailand. It’s one of the most popular destinations to visit. No wonder! The island offers many different activities for any type of traveler. You can visit Buddhist temples, incredible viewpoints, and lovely beach towns, or spend a night out on Patong Beach. Phuket is also home to the best beaches for families.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is popular among tourists as well as digital nomads. White sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and lush green jungle make this place a true tropical paradise. Enjoy a day discovering hidden beaches, visit different viewpoints, have a cocktail while watching the sunset, and end your day with a fire show.
Where to stay on Koh Phangan
First of all you should keep in mind that south of the island (Haad Rin) is more of a party hub. There are many clubs and events happen almost every day. If you are looking for something else, stay in the north-west. This part of Koh Phangan has rather laid back hippie vibe.
If you use the map above to book your stay you pay the same and we earn a small comission.