Thailand is now open to tourists, and I am listing out the most secluded islands that you can add to your travel bucketlist. I absolutely loved exploring them, and I feel you'd too. The hack here is to stay at these pristine islands as the tourist boat timings are limited from 1 to 4pm for visiting most of these islands.
SIMILAN ISLANDS :
Ko Similan is the largest island. The underwater world will leave you awestruck - as it is full of rock formations and coral reefs in several shapes and forms, resembling shapes as deer, leaves, brains, and mushrooms! On the land, you'll get to spot diverse species such as the Nicobar pigeon, mangrove monitor lizards, flying fox and more.
Getting here - The easiest way to reach here is by a speed boat from Khao Lak or Phuket, that takes around 1 hour. A fee of 200 Baht needs to be paid per person to enter the national park.
Where to stay? - The national park itself offers wooden bungalows or tents in which you can stay overnight. You can book here: www.similan-islands.com
KOH LIPE :
Ko Lipe is a Thai island in the Andaman Sea, near Malaysian border. It's a part of Tarutao National Marine Park, which is populated with small islands and known for its coral-rich waters.
Getting here - It'll involve a lot of hopping, but the journey will be quite picturesque (you need to take a bus + ferry or flight + van + ferry). The good news is that most of the companies, even airlines, sell the combined ticket. You can purchase one ticket that includes everything, the company takes you from point A to B without any extra booking or fee. Fly down to Hat Yai or Trang to connect to the island.
Where to stay? - The island is extremely small. I stayed at Anda Hotel at Koh Lipe which was a comfortable property just on the sea front. But there are various options to suit every traveller.
NANGYUAN ISLAND:
Located only 15 minutes from Koh Tao by speedboat, Nangyuan has one of the most beautiful beaches where you can sit and enjoy quiet sunsets, while sipping on your cocktail.
Getting here - Koh Tao is the closest island and you can take a speedboat to reach Nangyuan. You can also opt for a daytrip from Koh Samui if you wish to.
Where to stay? - While people come mostly here on a day trip, I would highly recommend staying back at this island for 1 night at least. You can book your stay at: www.nangyuan.com
KOH TAO:
KoH Tao is my favourite island in Thailand and offers some stunning sunset views with beachside restaurants, nightspots and dive shops in and around Mae Haad Beach and near Sai Ri Beach. Koh Tao is known for its tropical coral reefs, with species including whale sharks and sting rays.
Getting here - The easiest way is to take a speedboat or ferry from Koh Phangan or Koh Samui.
Where to stay? - Sairee Beach is one of the best areas to stay in Koh Tao to party! A backpacker's haven, this feisty beach town is always full of tourists looking to work on their tan during the day and checking out the party scene at night.
KOH HONG:
Koh Hong, or better known as Hong Island, is just off the coast of Krabi. Hong Island is part of the Than Bok Khorani National Park and you can travel to this pristine island from Phuket, Phang Nga or Ao Nang.
Getting here - You can take a speedboat from Krabi. Please note that the National park has an entry fee of 200 baht per person.
Where to stay? - Unfortunately, this island doesn't have a staying option.
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