Erin Hunter
As one of Thailand's top beach holiday destinations Koh Phangan is a breathtaking vacation hub for the masses. From popular areas to its top beaches Koh Phangan's best highlights are as follows.
Tipped to be among Koh Phangan's most picturesque beaches Thong Nai Pan Noi is a breathtaking beach area that sets itself apart from the resort lined confines of more congested beaches on the island. Located in the island's northern fringes Thong Nai Pan Noi is a tranquil and pristine beach area with a decidedly bohemian feel to its atmosphere and attitude. Those in search of a rustic seaside hamlet complete with fishing villages will also enjoy the confines of Thong Nai Pan Noi while Yai offers a more traditional beach holiday experience with all the trappings of a more populous beach hub.
Often regarded as one of the most idyllic areas of Koh Phangan, Chaloklum Bay is home to stunning Haad Mae Haad beach and its namesake beach Chaloklum. Occupying pride of place along the north-western shorelines of the holiday isle the area's top attraction is of course Chaloklum Beach. Sprawled across 2.5km Chaloklum Beach is a pristine stretch of tropical perfection with its own majestic pier and fishing village within close proximity. Perfect for those who wish to experience the local culture in a breathtaking beach hub surrounded by natural beauty a visit to Chaloklum Bay is another must-have experience when in Koh Phangan.
With its name denoting Long Beach in the native tongue it is little surprise that Koh Phangan's Haad Yao is a popular stopover for beachgoers. Stretching across a vast and seemingly endless expanse Haad Yao is renowned for its white, powdery beaches fringed by tropical foliage. Ideal for swimming activities the calm and shallow waters off the coast of the Haad Yao beach are one of its chief attributes. Haad Salad which literally translates to "pirate beach" is another treasure trove for marine life enthusiasts and coral fanatics as this shallow watered haven contains colourful coral reefs. Sprawled across 600m the beach is considered one of the most unspoilt beachscapes in Koh Phangan. Visitors based in luxury Phangan resorts such as the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa will enjoy easy access to both beaches.
Synonymous with Thailand's infamous Full Moon Parties Haad Rin is a party town like no other in Koh Phangan. Frequented by hundreds of party goers and revellers from across the world the beaches of Haad Rin are perfect for dancing the night away under the stars with DJ music streaming across the airwaves till the wee morning hours. A cultural hotspot which affords visitors a view of Thailand's well documented party scene a stopover at this party hub is a must-have experience for the young at heart.
Often regarded as Koh Phangan's second most popular party hub Thong Sala is another must-visit corner of the vacation island. As the gateway to other parts of the island most tourists miss out on exploring the local attractions in Thong Sala which included its fantastic choice of restaurants and bustling retail hotspots. The Thong Sala Night Food Market is one such highlight which offers diners the chance to sample local delicacies from a maze of food stalls in one location.
