Use these maps to get an overview of Thailand's islands and choose the right island or multi-island itinerary for your trip.

Overview map of the Thai islands

These maps allow you to narrow down your selection of Thai islands based on pace, visitor numbers and target audience – and not just their location on the map.

The classic options for first-time visitors

If you want to minimize planning stress and make transportation uncomplicated, start here.

  • Phuket – the all-rounder of the Andaman Sea: Thailand's easiest island base with the best flight connections, largest selection of hotels and the most day trips to nearby islands.
  • Koh Samui – similar comfort, quieter atmosphere. A resort-oriented island with Phuket-level comfort, fewer crowds, and easier access to the nearby islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
  • Krabi – more active, more affordable: dramatic cliffs, sea kayaking, island hopping, and a close connection to nature. Generally lower resort prices than in Phuket or Koh Samui. Especially attractive for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

    • For diving and snorkeling enthusiasts

    If you like uncomplicated water fun,

  • Koh Phi Phi: Easiest access to snorkeling and famous sights like Maya Bay. Usually visited for a short trip or day trip from Phuket or Krabi.

    • For diving destinations

  • Koh Tao: Thailand's most beginner-friendly diving island. Calm conditions, numerous dive schools, and lower costs make it ideal for novice divers.
  • Similan Islands (mid-October to May only) Top open-sea diving spots for ambitious divers seeking pristine coral and minimal crowds.
  • Surin Islands (mid-October to May only): More secluded and less visited than the Similan Islands, the focus here is more on serious diving than relaxed sightseeing.

    • Quiet / sparsely visited islands

    Choose these options if open spaces, scenery and tranquility are more important to you than nightlife or a packed schedule.

  • Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai: Quiet, picturesque islands right next to Phuket, chosen more for their vastness and tranquility than for their activities.
  • Koh Racha (Racha Island): Clear water, pretty bays, few hotels. Often visited as a day trip, occasionally also with an overnight stay for pure relaxation.
  • Koh Lanta: A budget-friendly, quiet base for snorkeling around Koh Rok, Koh Haa, Red & Black Rock.

    • Those who prefer a particularly quiet atmosphere should take a look at the islands listed below – but only if they are willing to accept longer transfer times and fewer facilities.

  • Koh Lipe – Secluded, clear turquoise water, snorkeling directly from the beach, hardly any crowds.
  • Koh Chang – large, green, and far from Thailand's tourist hotspots. Ideal for jungle hikes, kayaking, and long, relaxing stays.
  • Koh Kood is even quieter and more secluded than Koh Chang. Expect fewer shops, no night markets, and hardly any tourists.

    • For a short trip from Bangkok

  • Koh Samet: An easily accessible beach paradise from Bangkok, ideal for relaxed recreation and less so for action-packed holidays.

    • For partygoers

  • Koh Phangan: The world-famous island of the Full Moon Party with relaxed beaches, jungle retreats and a laid-back, tropical atmosphere.

    • Popular island hopping routes in Thailand

    Those with a little more time can combine islands. Here's how to move seamlessly between them without having to backtrack or endure long transfers.

    1. Top choice: Phuket → Phi Phi → Krabi

  • Typical pace: 7–10 days, with 2–3 overnight stays per stopover.

    • This is the easiest way to experience Thailand's classic island highlights all at once.

    Easy island hopping straight out of a picture book with short transfers (approx. 1 hour), turquoise bays and legendary water sports opportunities.

    2. Relaxed yet simple: Koh Samui → Koh Phangan → Koh Tao

  • Typical itinerary: 6–8 days, including 2–3 nights on Samui, 2 on Phangan and 2–3 on Tao.

    • Enjoy the classic island experience in peace and quiet, without sacrificing comfort. Relax in a beach resort, experience a full moon party on Koh Phangan, and discover world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities on Koh Tao.

    3. Those seeking isolation: Bangkok → Koh Chang → Koh Kood

  • Typical itinerary: 8–10 days, including 2 nights in Bangkok, 3 on Koh Chang and 4 on Koh Kood.

    • Getting there is a bit more involved – and that's precisely what makes this route so special. Fewer tourists, quieter villages, secluded beaches, and a significantly more relaxed pace of life make this route ideal if you want to unwind and disconnect. (See the sample itinerary.)

    4. Detailed island exploration: Phuket → Phi Phi → Koh Lanta → Krabi → Koh Samui

  • Typical pace: 12–14 days, 2–3 nights per station.

    • This route offers you a comprehensive insight into the island diversity of Thailand on a single trip – with more stopovers and a faster pace.

    On the way there, you'll kayak in Phang Nga Bay, snorkel around Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, try street food in Krabi and relax on the beaches of Koh Samui.

    Tip: This coastal route is best suited from January to April, when weather conditions are stable on both sides.

    Customize your Thailand island trip with Thailand Highlights

    Not sure which islands best suit your style? Choose one of the routes above as a starting point – we'll create a smooth, realistic itinerary with the right times and connections.

    If desired, we can also create an immediately bookable plan that eliminates any guesswork.

    For further inspiration, see our carefully curated Thailand family tours listed below.

  • 10-day island-hopping tour: Phuket, Phi Phi and Krabi
  • 12-day island hopping tour through southern Thailand