The islands of Thailand are an earthly paradise for relaxation. Islands of Thailand

Thailand, famous for its rich history and culture, is also a true tourist paradise. Thanks to the features geographical location The country has a varied climate, allowing the tourist season to continue year-round, moving from one region to another. Thailand's islands, many of which were uninhabited until recently, are now famous tourist resorts.

History of the name of the state

Thailand, formerly known as the Kingdom of Siam, received its current name in 1939, following the 1932 revolution, when the country changed its government to a parliamentary democracy. The country's form of government is a constitutional monarchy, therefore the official name of the state is the Kingdom of Thailand. On the eastern side, the country borders with the Kingdom of Cambodia and Laos, in the south its neighbor is Malaysia, in the west - Myanmar. In Southeast Asia, only Thailand managed to avoid the fate of colonial subordination to European countries and remain independent. Therefore, it is not surprising that the Thai version of the name of the state (Muang Thai) contains the word “thai”, which translates as “freedom”.

Geographical location and climate features

Thailand is located on part of the territories of the Indochina and Malacca peninsulas. From the west, the shores of the kingdom are washed by the Andaman Sea of ​​the Indian Ocean, from the east - by the waters of the South China in the Gulf of Thailand. Thailand has a central position in the macroregion and the greatest extent from north to south among the countries of Southeast Asia. Therefore, the country's climate is varied. In the center - subequatorial, in the south - equatorial, in the north - tropical, humid. Such features are a very favorable factor for the development of resort tourism.

Thailand's islands number in the hundreds and are found in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Many have become popular resorts, but some remain uninhabited to this day. Although, most likely, this will not last long, since the proximity of the islands to the mainland makes them very attractive for the tourism business.

Thailand: Phuket Island

Phuket is the largest island of the kingdom and the main territory of the southern province of the same name. From Thai its name can be translated as “hill” or “small mountain”. The island is located off the western coast of the country and is washed by the waters of the Andaman Sea. It is adjacent to the provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi.

The island's topography is varied, but most of it is occupied by low mountains, which are the tip of the Phuket mountain range. In these places to this day there are areas of relict tropical forest protected by the state. The mountain peaks of Mai Thau Sipsong (529 meters above sea level) and Khuan Wa (545 meters above sea level) are considered the highest in Phuket.

Part of the center and south of the island are low-lying plains that are densely populated, built up and surrounded by coconut palm and rubber plantations. The northwestern coast is surrounded by green jungle. Here is the famous Siri Nath National Park, whose beaches are a nesting site. The northeast coast is in a tidal zone that turns into mangroves. The western coastline of the island looks like a series of beautiful bays with wide sandy beaches. With their purity and beauty they attract most tourists and are considered the best on the island.

The rainy season lasts from May to October, so best time For a beach holiday, the period from November to April is considered. The capital of the province is Phuket City. It is a large city located on the southeast coast of the island. Its attractions, as well as its developed economic and entertainment infrastructure, attract travelers regardless of the holiday season.

Phuket Islands

Not far from Phuket there are islands of Thailand that are part of the province. The largest are considered to be Lon, Sire, Racha Noi, Maphrau and Racha Yai. The latter is worth talking about as it is often called “Paradise Island”. Pristine rainforest covers the island's rolling hills and is surrounded by a coastline dotted with coves and pristine, secluded beaches. For discerning tourists a combination natural beauty and the minimum number of vacationers transported to the hotel by boat becomes a decisive factor when choosing a vacation spot. The other 27 islands are smaller, but almost all of them are inhabited thanks to the tourism industry.

Resorts in Krabi province

In the advertising catalogs of some travel agencies you can sometimes find the name of this province - Krabi Island (Thailand). This probably refers to the city of the same name, which is the capital of the province and is located on the mainland. The city boasts an entertainment industry and national identity, but not beaches. For this pleasure, you should go to the sparkling white sand shores of the Ao Nang resort, located a couple of tens of kilometers from the capital. Or to the picturesque Hat Rey Le. Where you can find both wide sandy beaches and rocky shallows with beautiful grottoes.

Krabi province and its islands

One of the most beautiful provinces of Thailand includes not only the mainland of the country, but also a group of islands located across a small strait opposite Phuket.

The islands of Thailand - Lanta Yai and Lanta Noi - make up the Lanta archipelago. Under this general name it is usually referred to beach resort Lanta Yai. It has become a favorite tourist destination relatively recently. The untouched beauty of the mangroves, the mountains covered with the greenery of the tropical forest, and the white sand of the beaches are the hallmark of this resort. The coral reefs surrounding the coast of the archipelago attract divers from all over the world. Lanta Noi Island is uninhabited, so only lovers of extreme recreation visit it.

The province includes another resort known as Phi Phi Island (Thailand). In fact we're talking about about the island of Phi Phi Don. Only it is inhabited and equipped for tourist recreation. Cozy bungalows built on a sandy spit stretching between two mountain peaks of the island, the greenery of tropical forests and beaches that promise heavenly pleasure, attract many vacationers with their beauty every year. The remaining five islands of the Phi Phi archipelago, including rocky Phi Phi Ley, are uninhabited. However, tourists are brought to the latter to admire the amazing caves and grottoes.

Koh Phangan Island

Thailand boasts its own Ibiza. It is with this that Koh Phangan, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is compared. Thanks to the beach parties held on the island, thousands of young travelers from all over the world come here. The tourist infrastructure here is not as developed as on the neighboring island of Koh Samui, which has long been a popular resort. However, Koh Phangan is distinguished by its charming nature. The mountainous island is covered with the greenery of tropical forests, decorated with waterfalls and snow-white beaches, and its water area delights with a variety of flora and fauna. The main historical attraction is the Buddhist temples.

Protected island in Rayong province

Among the popular resort areas of this eastern province are several islands. First of all, the island of Samet. Thailand takes good care of its nature, so there are state reserves even in popular resorts. Samet Island is just such a place. It is part of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet Conservation Park, so it is not crowded with tourists looking for entertainment. Because a fishing village and a couple of temples are the whole civilization. The nature of the island is protected by the state and maintained in its original form. Therefore, hotels in the form of small bungalows occupy only 20% of the territory. Everything else is untouched tropical jungle. This resort is popular due to its wide beaches with clean sand.

Moon Nork Island

A little gem of Rayong province is Moon Nork Island. It is located east of Samet. Have a nice one distinctive feature This island is that, apart from a few hotel bungalows, there are no villages or buildings on it. The entire territory is surrounded by virgin greenery. As a rule, couples in love come here to retire and soak up the clean sandy beaches. Mun Nork is also popular as a wonderful exotic place for wedding ceremonies.

Concluding the article, it should be noted that all travelers who have visited the Land of Smiles say that it is definitely worth visiting amazing Thailand. The islands, the photos of which are known to almost everyone from commercials, are much more beautiful in real life.

The islands of Thailand are extremely popular with tourists who escape from winter to summer in search of a budget holiday in the tropics. Phuket, Koh Samui, Phi Phi Le, Koh Chang, Koh Lipe, Koh Phra Thong and other islands are famous for their clean sandy beaches and clear turquoise water with lush palm trees. We present a list of the best, most beautiful and interesting islands in Thailand for relaxation.

Phuket is one of the main islands of Thailand, which is loved by Russian tourists (photo: @iaslan_28)

Phuket – noisy and family-friendly

Phuket is located in the southern part of Thailand, and its name means "mountain" in Malay. It really looks like a mountain that rises from the depths of the sea, in addition, it is the largest and most popular island in Thailand among tourists.

Here you can relax on a budget or arrange a luxurious luxury vacation in a famous five-star hotel. Tourists also love Phuket for its variety of nightlife - there are a huge number of bars, discos, nightclubs, as well as restaurants and cafes for every budget.

Koh Samui – Beach Tourist Paradise

Koh Samui is the second largest island after Phuket and the second most popular among tourists. The main advantage of Koh Samui over the other islands of Thailand is the combination of a developed tourist infrastructure with luxury hotels/restaurants and stunning natural beauty with picturesque bays, white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and beautiful waterfalls.

Phi Phi Le is the most cinematic

This Thai island owes its insane popularity to the film “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio, which was filmed in Maya Bay. The filming of the film was accompanied by scandals, and after the film was released, the film company 20th Century Fox was sued for violating the ecosystem of the island, which was dug up and significantly modified to create a more heavenly image in the frame.

Many tourists, inspired by the tropical shots of the film, came here to see the paradise beach with their own eyes and... were disappointed when they came across a different reality. However, Phi Phi Le remains one of the most beautiful and popular islands in Thailand, as can be easily seen by looking at the photographs.

Koh Pha Ngan (Phangan) – island with Full Moon Party

Tourists adore Koh Phangan for its idyllic tropical atmosphere with white sandy beaches and stunning untouched nature. This is where the world famous “Full Moon Party” or Full Moon Party is held, which takes place every month.

2018 Full Moon Party Schedule:

• January 2
• January 31
• 2nd of March
• March 31
• April 29
• May 30
• 27th of June
• July 29
• August, 26th
• September 24
• the 25th of October
• November 22
• December 22

Koh Lanta – with wide sandy beaches

Koh Lanta is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. It is located just off the coast of Krabi and its long coastline has about a dozen beaches, many of which are considered the best in the country. Koh Lanta is a popular destination for weddings.

Koh Chang – the idyllic “Elephant Island”

Koh Chang is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, the third largest in Thailand. It owes its name (“Elephant Island”) to its shape in the form of an elephant’s head, which became its symbol. Unlike noisy Phuket or magnificent Samui, Koh Chang is suitable for tourists looking for a secluded holiday, because the island has many truly wild places without crowds of vacationers. At the same time, the local “wildness” is also reflected in leisure opportunities, of which there are not many on Koh Chang.

Koh Samet – many faces and diversity

The island gets its name from the Thai cajeput Samet trees, which grow here in abundance. Samet is very loved by tourists, because it has everything you need for a quality and fun beach holiday: the endless surface of the turquoise sea, crescents of bays with fine white sand, opportunities for water sports and pulsating nightlife.

Koh Tao (Tau) - for diving and inexpensive holidays

Koh Tao or “Turtle Island” is also called the island of divers and backpackers, that is, budget tourists who come to Thailand in search of an inexpensive vacation.

Ko Kood (Kut) – rocky jungle island

Kut is a large island, but it began to turn into a major tourist center in Thailand relatively recently. Previously, it was an almost virgin region, untouched by infrastructure. And before it turns into crazy Phuket or Pattaya, beloved by Russian tourists, many people come here in search of a secluded holiday surrounded by tropical jungles.

Koh Mak – calm and idyllic

A small tropical island of Thailand, which cannot boast of a developed infrastructure for tourists accustomed to comfort, but it has something to offer vacationers. Those who are in search of an idyllic pastime alone with nature come here: there are very beautiful sandy beaches with clean turquoise waters Gulf of Thailand and lush crowns of palm trees.

Koh Rang Yai - an island with a pearl farm

You may have heard that there is a famous old pearl farm somewhere in Thailand. So, it is located right here, on the island of Rang Yai, where you can also buy souvenirs made from real sea pearls at reasonable prices.

Koh Lipe - "Maldives of Thailand"

This island in the southern part of Thailand is called the Thai Maldives, and for good reason. Until recently, this was a place practically untouched by development, but the popularity of Koh Lipe among tourists led to the fact that hotels quickly “grew” here, and along with them, entertainment appeared. Despite the small size of the island, this is one of the centers of diving tourism in Thailand, for which vacationers from all over the world come here.

Ko Adang - protected Thailand

Ko Adang Island is a paradise for contemplators and connoisseurs of dazzling tropical nature. It is part of the Tarutao National Park, so you must take into account that accommodation here is only possible in bungalows and campsites that do not harm the local ecosystem.

Koh Phra Thong – sandy beach paradise

Ko Phra Thong is part of the Mu Ko Ra–Ko Phra Thong National Park, so here you will find a minimum of infrastructure and a maximum of the mesmerizing beauty of tropical nature with long sandy coastlines, turquoise waters and coral reefs.

Koh Sukorn – quiet and provincial

This small and quiet island is ideal for those who want to move away from the tourist centers and crowded beaches and immerse themselves in the slow life of real Thailand with its local residents, who are still more numerous here than tourists, unlike other popular places in the Kingdom.

Ko Mun Nork – for romance and meditation

The only private island resort in Thailand, accessible within 3 hours from Bangkok. Couples come to this island with a snow-white coastline for romantic solitude, as well as those who practice yoga and meditation, away from noisy beaches and chain hotels. This is another island in Thailand that is popular as a wedding destination.

A variety of beautiful islands and a lot of entertainment. The most popular tourist spots. Virgin nature and underwater kingdom - explore the unknown

Description and photos of the islands of Thailand

Phuket

Remembering the most beautiful islands of Thailand, the first thing that comes to mind is the island of Phuket in Thailand, a real find for a tourist who dreams of swimming, diving into the depths of the water or just relaxing on the white sand. It is located near Bangkok, is the largest island in the country, another name that was given to it by the people of Thailand is “The Pearl of the South”.

Tourists can enjoy many restaurants serving national Thai dishes, various excursions to the aquarium, a butterfly farm or an orchid farm, and numerous water activities. You can visit the Cultural Center or visit the Shell Museum.

Another wonder of the island is its zoo, home to mammals and birds from all over Africa and Asia. If you want, dive into the underwater world in a submarine, and unprecedented beauty will be revealed to your eyes. The ancient temples that abound in this amazing place will also amaze you with their beauty.

Krabi

For those who prefer silence, want to enjoy picturesque landscapes and an unforgettable vacation - then you should go to the Thai islands, or rather in, peace and tranquility reign here, this place is in great demand among tourists. Their attention is attracted not only by the snow-white beaches, but also by numerous attractions, including the famous Wat Htam Sua cave monastery, the “shell cemetery” Sunn San Khoi, colonies of sea turtles, national parks and nature reserves.

One of the most interesting will be your excursion to the Emerald Pool, which is filled with hot spring waters. The Ron Klong Thom waterfall falls nearby; if you wish, you can swim in its warm water.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang Island is the second largest island in Thailand, its pristine nature, waterfalls, rivers, endless beaches cannot but amaze with its magic. People most often come here for a beach holiday; all conditions have been created for this. Restaurants, hotels and guest houses are available to tourists. You can go to waterfalls or do water sports. Here, nature itself has created all the conditions for surfing, kayaking, and water skiing. If you want, you can even go out to the open sea on a boat, and in the evening, drive along the canals, at which time they are illuminated by colonies of fireflies, it’s just a mind-blowing sight.

Cycling along the mountain slopes is also popular. You can sign up for courses in national Thai cuisine, reiki and yoga, go into the jungle on an ATV or take a flight in a light helicopter. Children will be especially interested here; the Monkey School is open for them.

Samui

Coconuts, bananas, rocks, luxurious snow-white beaches and silence all around. This miracle will be given to you best islands Thailand, including the beautiful island of Koh Samui, the third largest in the country, it is located in Pacific Ocean. Koh Samui is surrounded by 60 islands, and impenetrable jungles spread out in its center.

On the island all year round The weather is wonderful, in April the air temperature rises to 45 degrees, and the rest of the time to 30, tropical heavy rains rarely occur, but they do not spoil the holiday at all. For tourists, there are many hotels, restaurants, and even an airport. By the way, this is one of the local attractions, because it was built from palm trees that were cut down to create a runway.

Tourists can not only relax on the beach here, but also explore local wonders. For example, if you go to one of the villages, here you will see an interesting sight: specially trained monkeys work on coconut plantations, doing most of the work.

Phi Phi

A favorite destination for divers all over the world, the Phi Phi archipelago consists of 2 main and 4 small islands. It became famous throughout the world after the film “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed here. leading role.

Tourists on the islands have many diving centers at their disposal, where beginners will be trained and professionals will try their hand. Climbing to the top of a steep cliff, you can see an amazing sunset and enjoy a wonderful vacation on the beach.

Koh Lipe

Amazing Koh Lipe is another small island in Thailand, it is located in the Andaman Sea. Everything here is created for have a wonderful holiday: and endless snow-white beaches, cozy hotels and a variety of entertainment. Avid divers will not miss this place either, because there are many excellent dive sites.

Koh Mak

Sometimes you really want to retire, dream, think about the eternal. For this there is perfect place– the small island of Koh Mak, separate bungalows have been built here for tourists to relax; many activities are offered: you can ride a bicycle, plunge into the depths of the water, or learn the basics of Thai cuisine. If you don’t want to do anything, this option is also possible: just enjoy the rays of the gentle sun, forgetting about everything in the world for a while.

Ngai (Koh Ngai)

Life away from the luxury of modern civilization is quite possible, even if only for a short time. To do this, you can go to Ngai Island, small and mountainous, it is covered with tropical forest, and modest hotels are provided for tourists. The island is filled with wild monkeys and monitor lizards, migratory birds live here, and part of the land is uninhabited. Here you will fully enjoy a serene holiday, touching virgin nature, with only white sand under your feet and the azure expanse of the ocean before your eyes.

Koh Muk

Uncrowded but so charming, Koh Muk, or “Pearl Island,” is located in Trang province. This is simply an amazing place, so far little explored by tourists; here you can still find untouched areas wildlife, stroll along endless snow-white beaches, enjoy the beauty of the sea surface. For those who are not used to sitting still for a long time, there are several options: you can go diving, go kayaking, or take an excursion to the Emerald Cave - this is a real miracle and a natural attraction of the country.

Ko Pha Ngan

If you are planning an inexpensive but fun holiday, go to Koh Pa Ngan island, where the “full moon parties” take place. Every night the sounds of music are heard here, inviting everyone to dance, and once a month, exactly on the full moon, several thousand people come here for a mega-party, this is something grandiose and unforgettable. There is also a place here for those who like diving and snorkeling, you can visit the National Marine Park located near the island, or explore local attractions.

Koh Lanta

Sunbathing, swimming, enjoying culinary delights - this is not all that you can do while on vacation. You can also touch ancient culture and untouched nature. This opportunity is also provided by the island of Ko Lanta, which is located in Thailand. This place seems to be created for those who want to escape from civilization and find peace in simple conditions life. Before the eyes of tourists there are only mountain landscapes, picturesque forests and endless snow-white beaches.

Islands of Thailand on the map

The southern part of Thailand is bordered by the Andaman Sea in the west and the Gulf of Thailand in the east. In these waters there is more than 250 islands. A quarter of them are well inhabited by locals and tourists, and the rest are uninhabited, but open to the public.

Tours and packages

Phuket

Takes an honorable first place in the list largest islands of Thailand, since its area is 570 sq. km. It is also one of the five most popular resorts in the country.

This green island, with a rocky coastline dotted with coves, sandy beaches, grottoes, and karst caves - designed for mass tourism. Its main city is simply bustling with life: there are hotels, private accommodation for every taste, hundreds of bars and nightclubs, water parks, spas, restaurants and brothels.

It is worth noting that Phuket is the most popular resort in Southeast Asia for tourists from CIS countries. Many of them live here permanently, forming a Russian-speaking diaspora of thousands on the island. Price lists in the local service industry are often duplicated in Russian. And here you can hear your native speech literally at every step.

Mid-budget. High budget.

Where is?

In the Andaman Sea. 500 m from the mainland. Coordinates: 7.995775, 98.345561.

How to get there?

• direct flight from Russia;
• from mainland Thailand via road bridge.

Reviews

This is the most popular resort from the Russians. A sort of Thai Antalya.

Tourists' opinions about it were divided: some adore Phuket for its energy and cheapness, while others dislike it because large quantity compatriots.

Samui

A typical Pacific island paradise. Along with Phuket, it is one of the five most popular Thai resorts. His appearance is known to every inhabitant of the planet, because This is where the cover photo for the legendary Bounty chocolate bar was shot., as well as most of the commercials about him.

It cannot offer the same unbridled entertainment as Phuket; it is interesting for others - for its extended snow-white beaches and huge coconut plantations. These pastoral landscapes make for a relaxing family holiday.

Mid-budget. High budget.

Where is?

In the Gulf of Thailand, 20 km from the mainland. Coordinates: 9.506950, 100.004167.

How to get there?

• by domestic flight from Bangkok;
• by ferry or boat from Surat Thani province.

Reviews

He is described as, a paradise for a relaxing holiday. The only disadvantages of Samui in the eyes of tourists: the high cost of air tickets, the lack of cheap accommodation during the tourist season and the lack of energetic entertainment.

Ko Lipe

On the border with Malaysia, its outline resembles a boomerang. Part of the Tarutao archipelago.

Ten years ago about the existence of this island Only the most savvy tourists knew. The fishing village on its territory was home to backpackers, downshifters and winterers from European countries.

Then the village began to be actively built up with hotels and catering establishments, which turned Lipe into a budget eco-resort. True, the whole thing ended with the construction of several hotels and diving schools: except for these objects there is almost no tourist infrastructure on the island.

Budget.

Where is?

In the Andaman Sea, west of the province Satun. Coordinates: 6.488686, 99.304107.

How to get there?

• by domestic flight, train or bus to Trang province;
• by ferry or boat from Trang.

Reviews

The island, remote from the mainland, is ideal for long-term downshifting and budget holidays, but you shouldn’t count on any entertainment. In addition, it will take a long time to get there with transfers.

Phi Phi

- This tiny archipelago in the Andaman Sea. It includes a group of six tropical islands, with Phi Phi Don at the head (the largest in size and the only inhabited one of the entire group).

The main island of the group consists of two jungle-covered pieces of land connected by a sandbar. On this sand spit there is a small fishing village and hotel village with her.

This island gained worldwide fame after its release adventure drama "The Beach", with Leonardo DiCaprio starring. Almost all of the filming took place there.

Mid-budget. Budget.

Where is?

In the Andaman Sea, in the province Krabi. Coordinates: 7.742037, 98.778037.

How to get there?

• direct flight to Phuket, from there by boat;
• by domestic flight or bus to Krabi Town or Ao Nang, and from there by ferry.

Reviews

Paradise place. Not very cheap and energetic, but incredibly beautiful, calm and easily accessible. Many people dream of spending their holidays here.

Koh Samet

For a long time he appeared domestic resort for wealthy Thais, mainly for residents of Bangkok and Pattaya. Luxurious resorts and many elite catering establishments with Thai food were built here for them. The developed infrastructure attracted wealthy foreign tourists to the island, which further spurred the development of Samet. Eventually it entered the TOP 5 most popular islands in Thailand.

Partygoers have almost nothing to do here. The island is of interest only to those who want to spend a short weekend in a respectable stop.

High budget.

Where is?

In the Gulf of Thailand, near Pattaya. Coordinates: 12.560132, 101.451447.

How to get there?

• from Bangkok - by bus to the port of Ban Phe, and from there by boat;
• from Pattaya - by bus to Ban Phe or Rayong, and from there by boat.

Reviews

Overrated island with high housing costs. The local service sector is aimed mainly at Thais.

Koh Chang

Entirely overgrown with jungle. Is a favorite place for recreation and residence for downshifters and backpackers from Russia. The first ones like to rent shacks here for $100 a month and wait out the winter in Europe in them. The latter come to the island for a few days, arriving from Bangkok or during a trip from Cambodia to Thailand.

Recently in Chang you can see ordinary package tourists checking into new hotels that are actively being built on the island. Is it true Packagers will get a little bored here: They will miss the entertainment outside the hotels.

Budget.

Where is?

In the Gulf of Thailand on the border with Cambodia. Coordinates: 12.119410, 102.309790.

How to get there?

• by plane or bus to the city of Trat;
• by ferry or boat from Laem Ngop pier in Trat to Koh Chang.

Reviews

Cheap and beautiful place for those who want to escape from reality or like to travel light. Chang is also suitable for package tourism, but only for a relaxing family holiday.

Phangan (Koh Phangan)

located near Koh Samui and is slightly smaller in size than its neighbor. It has an ideal balance of wild holidays, package holidays, and noisy youth parties - which is not observed on any other Thai island besides Phuket.

Once a month, during the full moon, the island holds giant beach party "Fool Moon Party"", which attracts young tourists from all over the country's resorts. The rest of the time, guests of the island lazily relax in package hotels or in cheap rental housing, swim on uncrowded beaches and do yoga.

Budget. Mid-budget.

Where is?

In the Gulf of Thailand. Coordinates: 9.746539, 100.015201.

How to get there?

• by plane to Samui, and from there by ferry;
• by ferry from Surat Thani province.

Reviews

It's very atmospheric here cheap housing and one of the coolest parties in Thailand, but the island is difficult to get to.

Koh Tao

one of the three inhabited islands of the Samui archipelago. There is nothing outstanding about it, so it tries to attract the attention of tourists with low prices for diving in local coral reefs.

Almost the entire infrastructure of the island is designed to serve beginner divers, as well as diving enthusiasts with a small budget. For them there are 60 dive spots here, as well as hundreds of bungalows, private housing, budget and mid-budget hotels. As for parties, you will have to swim to Koh Phangan Island.

Budget. Mid-budget.

Where is?

In the Gulf of Thailand. Coordinates: 10.098076, 99.840970.

How to get there?

• ferry from Chumphoni;
• by ferry from Surat Thani;
• by plane to Koh Samui and by ferry from it.

Reviews

This is one of the largest diving centers in Thailand. It’s true that it’s difficult and expensive to get to. It is also difficult to find cheap accommodation here during the high season, when thousands of divers from all over the world come to Tao.

Tarutao

Tarutao is the largest island of the archipelago of the same name and a part-time national reserve. In past centuries, it was a haven for sea pirates and exiled criminals, who gave the island a bad reputation.

These marginalized people were expelled from there only in the 1980s. However, local residents are still in no hurry to populate the island, considering it the abode of evil spirits. However, fear of otherworldly entities does not prevent the Thais from keeping Tarutao campsites and eco-hotels for tourists.

The island will be interesting for lovers of wild tourism, eco-tourism and trekking. For them, there are dozens of routes that lead to the jungle, forest lakes, waterfalls, high hills and beaches. There are also several cafes and food stalls, as well as a bicycle rental service.

Budget.

Where is?

In the Andaman Sea. On the border of Thailand and Malaysia. Coordinates: 5.278188, 101.507217.

How to get there?

• domestic flight, railway, bus to the city of Trang;
• from Trang to Pak Bara Pier, and from there by ferry to Tarutao.

Reviews

One of best places for a wild holiday in Thailand. Clean, open and very cheap. Local bike trails strewn with gravel will greatly appeal to mountain biking enthusiasts.

Lanta

is a small archipelago, located off the coast. It consists of two large islands: Lanta Yai And Lanta Noah, as well as from fifty smaller islands. All of them are part of the national reserve, which is a bizarre mixture of mangrove jungle, small coves and many kilometers of sandy beaches.

The entire tourist life of the archipelago is concentrated in a village on the island of Lanta Yai– when they say “Lanta” they mean him. The only entertainment here is beaches, as well as excursions around the reserve and diving and swimming tours to neighboring islands. You can swim to Krabi Town, the capital of Krabi province. It is very close.

Budget. Mid-budget.

Where is?

In the Andaman Sea.

How to get there?

• direct flight to Phuket, from there by ferry;
• by domestic flight to Krabi, from there to the ferry terminal in Lanta Noi, where there is a boat to Lanta.

Reviews

The island of Lanta is spoken of with restraint, but with great sympathy. Holidays on it are suitable for almost all categories of tourists, except those who go to Thailand to have fun in nightclubs.

Similan Islands

(the number 9 in one of the dialects of the Thai language) is a group of 9 small islands in the Andaman Sea, in a province with an unpronounceable name - Phang Nga. All of them belong to the national reserve and are uninhabited, but you can freely visit them by booking a boat tour or just a boat in Phuket.

People come here for eco-tourism, wild tourism and diving.

Of 9 islands, Only Koh Miang (No. 4) is suitable for an overnight stay) And Koh Similan (№8) .

There are several reasons for this:

• On their territory there are campsites where you can rent a tent or bungalow;
• it is there that the only beaches of Similan accessible to the public are located.

Other islands are bare rocks or miniature patches of land, lushly overgrown with trees, or are closed to visitors due to rare animals nesting there (island No. 1).

ATTENTION! The islands may be closed to visitors between March and December. Also, to visit them you will have to pay an additional 200-400 baht - tax for visiting the reserve, depending on the season.

Mid-budget.

Where is?

In the Andaman Sea, 100 km north of Phuket. Coordinates: 8.699957, 97.647552.

How to get there?

• direct flight from Russia to Phuket;
• Buy a diving tour or a boat ticket to the islands from tour operators in Phuket;
• order a boat from local residents.

Tickets are not sold on the piers! They must be purchased in advance through tour operators.

In today's review we will look at exotic Thailand. The islands that are located in this country have become very popular holiday destinations. In Thailand, you will find very clean beaches with exotic nature and good conditions to make your vacation memorable for a long time.

Thailand has a very well developed tourism infrastructure. Here, every vacationer will find entertainment and relaxation to their liking, be it just a beach holiday, visiting spa salons, all kinds of excursions or diving. Islands of Thailand for holidays, how to choose yours, read on.

Different islands in Thailand may have different and completely opposite conditions for relaxation. Some have more resorts where you can relax in silence and enjoy nature, others, on the contrary, have discos and parties until the morning, and some “specialize” in trade, that is, there are a lot of shops there.

First, some general information about the country.

Thailand is located in an area with a tropical climate. In summer, the average temperature here is around 31-32 degrees Celsius, the water heats up to 29 degrees. In winter, when there is snow in Russia, in Thailand it is a little “cooler”, the temperature environment is around 28-29 degrees, water temperature is up to 26 degrees. The best time to vacation in this country is from December to April; in the spring, the so-called “rainy season” begins, when it can rain for days or even weeks without a break.

A question that may come up is the islands of Thailand for holidays, do you need a visa? For citizens Russian Federation Those who come to Thailand on holiday for up to one month, or 30 days to be more precise, do not require a visa. If you are planning, for example, to live on an island for more than 30 days, then you will need to obtain a Thai visa.

The cost of a holiday depends on many factors, such as calving level and the number of services included. The further the hotel is from the sea or ocean, the cheaper the cost of the holiday, of course. The most popular destinations are Phuket and Pattaya, the cost of a vacation for two adults lasting 10 days will cost on average 120 thousand rubles if hotels are three stars, and 180 thousand if four and five, respectively. When traveling on your own, you can save an impressive portion of the required money - up to 70 percent.

Where is the best place to go to the islands of Thailand?

Phuket

This is the largest island of the country, which is located in the south of the country. As a rule, a lot of tourists who speak Russian come here. Accordingly, the service personnel also differ in what “at the very least” they can speak.

The menu in local restaurants is also in most cases written in our native language. Although there are always a lot of tourists here, nature in terms of ecology is very good condition. The beaches here are clean, strange plants grow everywhere, and there are a lot of marine life in the water. You can start going on vacation to the island in November, inclusive until April.

Prices for holidays here are kept at a fairly high level. Rest can be combined with shopping.

Suitable for family, youth and active recreation, depending on the resort location.

Phuket island map

Samui ( Samui)

In terms of popularity, this island is in second place among vacationers. It is the third largest in the country.

The island has more interesting nature, practically untouched by human activity. All this is combined with very good service and infrastructure.

Most suitable for vacationers who want to relax in peace and quiet.

There are several more islands near Samui, about two dozen in total; vacationers are offered excursions both around Samui itself and around the nearby islands with various programs.

The island has very beautiful waterfalls that reach a length of more than 50 meters. Diving and snorkeling are very popular activities on this island.

Fewer shops than in Phuket. Prices are also slightly lower than on the largest island. Samui is especially suitable for a relaxing holiday and holidays with children.

Koh Samui on the map of Thailand:

Ko Lipe ( Koh Lipe)

If you're looking for a Thailand island getaway, check out this little-known island. Not a very large island, which is located in the very south of Thailand.

By boat you can reach another country – Malaysia in just an hour.

It differs from other islands with its beaches, which have absolutely white sand.

The island gives priority to waste recycling, the most modern enterprises operate here, so it is considered the “cleanest” among all the accessible places in the country for vacationers.

The island itself is part of a national park. Many of the islands that are part of the park are uninhabited. You can visit them using one of the offered excursions. The excursion lasts the whole day. Such excursions can even be purchased from the local population, but, of course, you must be very careful in your choice.

The plus is that there are much fewer vacationers here than in Phuket and Koh Samui.

The island is 52 kilometers from the nearest airport.

Mid-range prices. Most suitable for a family holiday or a secluded one.

Ko Lipe Thailand on the map

Phi Phi ( Phi Phi Don)

This is not one island, but a whole group of islands, of which there are only six. They are located in the area between Phuket and the mainland.

You can only get to the archipelago by boat.

The journey will take approximately two hours; one ticket will cost from 500 to 1,700 rubles.

Two islands from this archipelago are available for vacationers, they are called Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley.

The “main” island is Phi Phi Ley; these are two separate mountains that are connected by a strip of land where you can enjoy your holiday. The island is small - only 28 square kilometers.

In the “high” season, up to 5,000 people vacation here, so think in advance whether you will be comfortable vacationing in such conditions.

The island is located 40 kilometers from the airport.

Holidays on this island are most suitable for young people, as well as for lovers of active recreation and nightlife.

Phi Phi Thailand map

Koh Chang

It ranks second in area after Phuket. Located in the east of the country in the Gulf of Thailand.

It is considered the best for a beach holiday. There are not many tourists on the island, but the infrastructure for visiting guests is very well developed. Local restaurants serve not only local cuisine, but also European cuisine.

Hotels are the cheapest in price. Also, according to reviews from tourists, there are practically no drunk people or girls of easy virtue here.

Holidays on the island are ideal for middle-aged and older people, as well as for families with children. Shopping is less developed than on other islands.

The island is located 40 kilometers from the nearest airport.

Koh Chang island map:

Samet

This is the island that is closest to the mainland of Thailand, but the furthest from the nearest airport - 80 kilometers.

Despite the fact that it is not far from the mainland, there are not very many vacationers on the island. Nature here is untouched; almost 80% of the island is occupied by trees and plants of the tropical forest.

Beaches sometimes act as a standard, that is, they strive for this level throughout the country. The island is located within a national park, which is protected by local laws. The island is especially suitable for holiday lovers of agritourism, as well as people looking for environmentally friendly places.

The beaches of the island even have their own names - “Hat Sai Kaew”, “Ao Hin Khok” and “Ko Samet”. The southern part of this island has even fewer vacationers; it is suitable for those who like a secluded holiday. Even in the “high” season you can find a secluded place here, which cannot be done on Koh Samui and especially on Phuket.

Also, an undoubted advantage will be that among all the islands of Thailand, here are the lowest prices for services for vacationers.

Samet island map:

Koh Tao Tao)

The island is small, measuring only 7 by 3 square kilometers. Located near Koh Samui.

To get there, you need to sail about 65 kilometers by boat. Before that, you still have to cover the same distance from the nearest airport. This is a minus of the island, but there is also a plus.

The advantage is that tourists are “sparsely populated” and hotels are relatively cheap.

Among the disadvantages, Russian-speaking travelers practically do not come here, power outages often occur, and the Internet is not available everywhere.

Although, perhaps, these nuances, for some, on the contrary, will seem a significant advantage. This destination is especially popular among divers and snorkelers. Here you don’t have to hire a special boat and swim hundreds of meters to see the underwater world, all this is right there, just swim a little from the beach.

There are practically no attractions on the island, except for nature.

The island is also suitable for a family holiday.

Ko Tao island map

Koh Phangan (Kho Phangan)

If you really love all kinds of parties, music until the morning and very carefully study the issue of a Thai island for relaxation, this island will suit you 100%, as it is also called “a paradise for young people.”

Koh Samui is located 8 kilometers from Koh Phangan. The island is located 45 kilometers from the mainland.

The island is quite large, with an area of ​​168 square kilometers, so not all parts of it have developed infrastructure. Most of the island is occupied by mountains and rocks, but this is also an advantage; here you can combine relaxation with diving.

Every month the island hosts a world famous party called the Full Moon Party, which takes place on a beach called Had Rin.

Up to 3 thousand people visit it. It lasts three days, but the “warm-up” begins a couple or three days later, so in total it’s almost a week.

Accommodation prices are in the average range. From the nearest accessible airport 25 kilometers.

Phangan island map

Tarutao (Ko Tarutao)

There are always a lot of tourists on the island, since the island has not only very beautiful and high waterfalls, but also caves.

The water around the island is dirtier than others, so this island is considered unsuitable for diving.

One more nuance, it is quite difficult to get here; you can only do this during the season, which begins in November and lasts until March.

There are practically no shops for shopping lovers here.

Suitable primarily for those who like privacy.