Joanna James
As an integral part of the Samui Archipelago, few islands encapsulate the beauty and majesty of Koh Phangan. While it may be popular as a Full Moon Party hub, here are 7 water-related activities holidaymakers can enjoy during a stay in this stunning beach paradise.
As an activity tourists can pick up during a getaway in Koh Phangan, seasoned water skiers will find that the wind and water conditions of the island are ideal for their favourite pastime. Accessible via local tour operators and luxury resorts, the best time to go water skiing in Koh Phangan is during the peak travel season.
Koh Phangan's strategic and advantageous location in the Gulf of Siam makes it the perfect destination for stand-up paddleboarding. Although first-timers must be able to swim to take part in this activity, those with a passion for surfing and similar wave-riding sports will find it an exhilarating water-based alternative. As a popular hub for paddleboarders from around the world, the dry season in Koh Phangan brings countless water sports enthusiasts to the island's pristine shores.
Travellers based at Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas or any similar hotel in Koh Phangan will also find that the island is a dream come true for snorkellers. As a water sports activity that does not require any special skills, it is a great way to uncover the underwater coral gardens off the coast of the beach paradise. Teeming with marine species, some of the best snorkelling spots in Koh Phangan include Haad Salad, which occupies the western shoreline of the island. Occupied by angelfish, damselfish and butterfly fish, the hard and soft corals snorkellers will encounter in this area are just as impressive as what they will come across in Had Yao. Mae Haad Beach is another must-experience snorkelling hub in Koh Phangan due to its rich marine life heritage.
Scuba divers bound for Koh Phangan should ideally time their trip to coincide with the May to September period as this is deemed the best time to go diving in the area. Ranked among the world's finest diving destinations, Koh Phangan also boasts idyllic conditions for learning the basics of diving. There are a large number of diving centres and diving schools where tourists can hone their skills and secure a PADI certification.
The coastlines of Koh Phangan are also likely to entice jet skiers to take a spin. Those who are not familiar with the mechanics of driving a jet ski can always sign up for a tour with a local water sports centre and bob along the waves in tandem with an instructor.
The Challenge Phangan Waterpark is perhaps the best splash centre in Koh Phangan, especially for holidaymakers travelling with small children or family members. This sprawling enclave full of exciting activities, water-based attractions, wave pools and thrilling rides is the perfect stopover on a warm, sunny day.
Travellers with a penchant for chasing waterfalls will find that some of Koh Phangan's biggest cascades also allow visitors to splash around the natural pools at their base. The Than Sadet Waterfall is perhaps the finest spot for a dip in a freshwater pool after a hike across the jungles to reach the venue.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
