The islands of Thailand's Andaman coast have plenty to offer adventure seekers and partygoers. Here are 10 highlights, recommended by influencer (and partygoer) Holly O'Sullivan.
1. Dive into the fray at LUB D's pool party and celebrate along Bangla Road in Phuket.
The famous pool party at the LUB D Hotel is the perfect starting point for an island-hopping adventure in Thailand. As a popular meeting place for backpackers, it offers a great opportunity to meet people you're likely to encounter again later in your trip through Thailand.
From here, you can immerse yourself in Phuket's vibrant nightlife on Bangla Road, which transforms into a huge, lively pedestrian zone at night. Here you'll find bars of all shapes and sizes, offering a variety of drinks – some a bit more daring, others in the style of a classic Australian pub.
2. Cocktails and climbing at Railay Beach, Krabi
Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, Railay Beach is only accessible by boat – ideally a traditional longboat. The cliffs attract climbers from all over the world, so those seeking adventure can venture onto the rock faces. Those who prefer a more relaxed experience can unwind on one of the beautiful white sand beaches or enjoy a refreshing cocktail at one of the beachfront reggae bars.
3. Go on a pub crawl on Phi Phi Island
Off the coast of Phuket lies Ko Phi Phi. The island may be small, but its nightlife is vibrant. A popular spot for backpackers, it offers beach bars, fire shows, and plenty of free drinks. Start your evening with a delicious Thai dinner and cocktails, then head out to the bars in the alleyways towards the beach.
4. Swim through an emerald cave on a 4-island tour in Ko Lanta.
A 4-island tour from Ko Lanta takes you to the islands of Ko Muk, Ko Kradan, Ko Cheuk, and Ko Ngai. The tour begins high above the island of Ko Muk: you glide through the enchanting Morakot Cave (Emerald Cave) to a hidden cove with a white sand beach nestled in the shade of the rainforest. From this fascinating cave, the island-hopping continues, taking in the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Ko Kradan, Ko Cheuk, and Ko Ngai.
5. Visit the famous beach of Maya Bay on Phi Phi.
Even if you're not familiar with Phi Phi Island, you've probably heard of Maya Beach, made famous by the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Maya Beach itself is currently closed to tourists indefinitely due to renovations, but until it reopens, you can explore the bay by boat.
6. Hike to the viewpoints of Ko Phi Phi
If you're looking for something different on Ko Phi Phi besides cocktail bars and white sandy beaches, you should spend a day hiking to the viewpoints. There are three viewpoints that can be climbed one after the other. To explore all three at a leisurely pace, a full day is recommended. The climb can be strenuous, but the breathtaking panoramic view from the summit makes it all worthwhile.
7. Take part in a Muay Thai boxing match on Ko Phi Phi.
On Ko Phi Phi, there's a dedicated Muay Thai boxing bar where you can compete against each other and win prizes. If you prefer something a little more relaxed, you can simply watch a few fights while enjoying a beer or two. This Thai martial art is also known as the "art of eight limbs" because it utilizes a combination of fists, elbows, knees, and shins. Its origins can be traced back to the 18th century, but it only gained wider popularity and international recognition in the late 20th and 21st centuries.
In every major city in Thailand there are Muay Thai bars, and if you don't happen to stumble upon one while walking down the street, the bars advertise daily with delivery vans announcing the time and place.
8. Climb the 1237 steps to the Tiger Temple (Wat Tham Suea) in Krabi.
Climbing 1,237 steps in the sweltering heat of the Thai tropics is strenuous, but the view from the summit over the Krabi mountain landscape is well worth the effort. The temple complex is a labyrinth of natural caves, with the main temple perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town below. Even the starting point of the hike is an experience in itself, as you make your way through a few cheeky monkeys. From here, the path is mostly uphill, but it levels out frequently, and there's plenty of space to rest in the shade at every turn.
Note: As this is a place of worship, appropriate attire is recommended (and required). If you are wearing shorts, you can borrow a sarong at the entrance.
9. Relax in the emerald pools and hot springs of Krabi.
The mineral-rich water of Krabi's hot springs is said to have healing properties and offers a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere beneath the shady canopy of the rainforest. You walk through a series of small pools with varying temperatures, which gradually become cooler from top to bottom.
A trip to the nearby, breathtaking Emerald Pool in Thung Teao Forest National Park is worthwhile for the fantastic photo opportunities alone. A 2.7 km long trail leads through beautiful, untouched rainforest before you reach the crystal-clear lake, which invites you to take a refreshing dip.
10. Indulge in the culinary delights of Thailand at the night markets of Krabi.
In Krabi Town there are two daily night markets. The first (and best) is located opposite the City Hotel on Soi 10 Maharat Road and offers excellent street food stalls with a wide variety of dishes, from Pad Thai and catfish curry to salads, soups, and sweets. Fresh fruit is also a good place to buy fresh fruit.
The second night market is more like an open-air food court. Along Khong Kha Road, next to the old Chao Fah Pier, small restaurants with plastic tables and chairs line the streets. They offer a huge selection of dishes, and you can put together your own meal and take a seat at any available table to enjoy it.
One of the best ways for partygoers to explore Thailand's islands is a busabout tour with like-minded travelers.

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