Koh Phangan is known world wide for its Full Moon parties which transform the south of the island into a heaving two to three day party once a month when up to 30,000 visitors flock to Had Rin Beach. As the evening of the full night moon progresses, the beaches around Had Rin explode into a dancing frenzy as different MCs and DJs take the stage at the various bars and restaurants. The music caters to everyone, from reggae to trance, techno, drum and bass, everything is played.
But there are many other attractions to this unspoilt island in the Gulf of Thailand. Located only about two hours from the mainland and just half an hour from Koh Samui, which is served by an international airport, the island is easily accessible and welcomes a wide variety of travellers - from local Thai tourists to backpackers and high-end travellers, families and singles alike.
Koh Phangan is known for its beautiful beaches, which are plentiful and scattered all around the island. Some of the more well known are Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi, which is the most popular of the two beaches at Thong Nai Pan. The beach has a bohemian vibe to it, partially due to the low key restaurants and bars in the area. Ban Kai and Ban Tai beaches offer good party opportunities, while Ao Chaloklum on the north side of the island is popular with families partly due to the availability of long term rentals.
For visitors looking for a bit more exertion than laying on the beach everyday, Koh Phangan also boasts some excellent trekking tracks, on foot or the back of an elephant. There are also plenty of waterfalls and viewpoints around and for visitors into health and wellness the island offera a wide variety of spas and wellness centres. The most popular is probably The Sanctuary, on the south east side of the island not far from Had Rin. This well known centre offers multi-day detox programmes, as well as a day spa and excellent raw food cuisine.
The waters around Koh Phangan are clear and rich in marine life and most beaches offer good snorkelling opportunities. In the larger towns and beach areas, visitors can also join group snorkelling and sailing tours or rent a long tail boat with a private driver for the day.
|
