Thailand offers countless itinerary options for island hopper and at times you run out of time to visit all. Thus it is absolutely important that your trip is preplanned and all the arrangements are made in advance.
Tips for Island hopping from Krabi
Krabi is the best because some of the most beautiful islands are connected including the Ao Nang, Railay, the Phi-Phi and the Koh Lanta. Ao Nang is a touristy hub to visit. The Railay or Tonsai beaches are surrounded by huge limestone cliffs. The place is easily accessible by boat, and you could also book a ferry ticket on BookAway.
On the other hand, the rock climbers can enjoy this place a lot. Tab Kak Hang Nak & Tiger Temple is spectacular hikes near Ao Nang boasting spectacular views over the limestone cliff landscape. The Tiger Temple is situated on a mountain top, and you will have to climb 600 steps.
Koh Lanta is a must to visit island, which is still not over crowded. The beaches are wide and long. Scooter-friendly tours can be enjoyed on the island. A perfect place to rejuvenate from enjoying a party is in Koh Phi-Phi.
You can book ferry tickets for island hopping from Koh Lanta to Koh Phangan from online websites like bookaway.com. Participate in moon parties and dance till you fall. Koh Phangan has 30 beaches within its perimeter of around 40km. You could enjoy water sports like kayaking, jet skiing, diving and even activities like beach volleyball, beach football, and bikini contests.
Tips for Island hopping from Phuket
Hidden gems like the Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi are a short speedboat ride from Phuket. You can enjoy the untouched Thai island-life because mass tourism has not reached here. The white sand beaches are pristine, the bays are deserted, the people are very friendly, the local restaurants are authentic, and you can explore the island on a scooter.
You can hop to the Similan islands, and it is a great place for scuba diving. Thai government protects this island and closes it for several weeks every year to help the islands recover from the setbacks of tourism. From famous spots like Elephant Head rock and Richelieu Rock rich with incredible marine life ranging from manta rays, whale sharks, and schools of barracuda are found here. Choose an overnight live board to check the sprawling reefs and marine life.
Tips for Island hopping from East Coast
There are no limestone cliffs, but green hilly islets within a 2-hour boat ride from Koh Tao to Koh Samui. Koh tao is a small island, where you can get a scuba diving certificate very cheap. Exploring viewpoints, hiking, and snorkeling are the things you can enjoy in Koh Tao.
Koh Samui is not as low-key as Tao and Phangan but is charming in its own way. You will need to go a little upscale because the island-life is luxurious.
Tips for Island hopping from the South
The best islands are situated in the south. This part has not yet come under the tourist radar. The beaches are still perfect. You can reach the southern islands from Koh Lanta. It is a seven-hour boat journey but keep in mind that the seas are rough in the rainy season. This doesn’t mean island hopping is not possible but it won’t be easy as several ferry services are closed.
