Island hopping in Thailand is a dream come true: The feeling of drifting towards the horizon in a speedboat amidst limestone formations is simply unparalleled. We've had a wide range of experiences on the Thai islands – from short stays on individual islands to extended trips through different island groups, where the days blend seamlessly into one another. We never tire of pulling ashore on a secluded beach, digging our toes into the sand, and taking in the breathtaking scenery.

The good news: In Thailand, you're spoiled for choice – over 40 inhabited islands await you. The less good news (if you can call it that): The islands are scattered throughout the Gulf and deep into the Andaman Sea, making island hopping more complicated than expected. The biggest mistake travelers make is trying to cram too many remote islands into a single trip. Unless you have months to spare, it's advisable to choose one or two island groups and plan your itinerary from there.

We like to divide the Thai islands into five different groups, each offering a natural starting point for your trip planning. These are the Trat Islands in the east, including Koh Chang; the Gulf Islands around Koh Samui; the islands off Phuket; the Krabi Islands, with Ao Nang Beach as an ideal base; and the Trang Islands, easily accessible from Koh Lanta and stretching south to Koh Lipe. We'll explain this in more detail below.

5 of the best island hopping routes in Thailand

1. Trat Islands

The Trat Islands, also known as the Eastern Gulf Islands or Koh Chang Islands, lie east of Bangkok and are accessible from the ferry terminals in Trat. The three largest islands are Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak. There are also some hidden gems like Koh Wai and Koh Ngam, which are well worth a visit. We love this part of Thailand because it's so close to Kat's family in Chanthaburi, making it ideal for combining a family holiday with relaxing time on the islands. The journey to Chanthaburi by bus or minivan takes about four hours, and from there it takes a few more hours to reach the coast of Koh Chang.

For those who don't want to travel too far from Bangkok but still want to explore a beautiful little archipelago, the Trat Islands are a fantastic choice. The only downside: further island-hopping tours aren't possible in this region unless you fly back to the capital and on to Koh Samui, Phuket, or Krabi. But after experiencing the energy of Koh Chang, the tropical beaches of Koh Kood, and the laid-back atmosphere of Koh Mak – do you really need anything else?

  • Bangkok → Chanthaburi (4-5 hours by minivan or bus)
  • Chanthaburi → Trat (1-2 hours by taxi or minivan)
  • Trat → Koh Chang (30-40 minutes by ferry)
  • Koh Chang → Koh Mak (1 hour by ferry)
  • Koh Mak → Koh Kood (30 minutes by speedboat)

    • You can also fly directly from Bangkok to Trat, from where it's just a short walk to the pier. However, only Bangkok Airways offers flights on this route, and their prices are generally higher than those of low-cost carriers. We recommend adding a few nights to your journey in Chanthaburi to break things up. The city boasts a charming waterfront, a lively gem market, delicious seafood, and some hidden gems off the beaten track.

    Read more: How to visit the Trat Islands: Koh Chang, Koh Kood and more

    2. Gulf Islands

    The Gulf Islands usually refer to the trio of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao – all very different, yet each idyllic in its own way. The most direct connection from Bangkok is a flight with Bangkok Airways, which also operates Koh Samui Airport. However, most backpackers prefer the more affordable option of taking a bus or train to Chumphon or Surat Thani. Once on Koh Samui, numerous island-hopping opportunities await. You can visit the three main islands, take a day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park, and spend the night on Nang Yuan Island, famous for its sandbar.

    The diversity of the three islands offers something for everyone. Families will love Koh Samui with its numerous resorts and countless activities, backpackers are drawn to Koh Phangan with its Full Moon Parties and relaxed hippie atmosphere, and diving enthusiasts will find their paradise on Koh Tao. Combining the three islands on an island-hopping tour is a wonderful way to spend about a week – something we've done ourselves and thoroughly enjoyed.

    One advantage of the Gulf Islands is their different climate compared to other Thai islands. While most parts of Thailand experience heavy rainfall from June to September, the Gulf Islands remain largely sheltered from the wind and sunny (their rainy season doesn't begin until later, in November/December). Therefore, we recommend visiting the Gulf Islands during this period instead of the Trat or Andaman Islands.

  • Bangkok → Koh Samui (1 hour flight time)
  • Koh Samui → Koh Phangan (30 minutes by ferry)
  • Koh Phangan → Koh Tao (45-60 minutes by speedboat)

    • Ang Thong National Marine Park

    3. Phuket

    The entire Andaman Sea and Phang Nga Bay are right on your doorstep in Phuket, so island adventures are never far away. You can go on a diving safari or take a boat trip to the Similan Islands, travel to the Surin Islands, or even go as far as Koh Phayam (popular for its "old Thailand" feel) or island hopping to Koh Yao Noi/Koh Yao Yai.

    The great thing about Phuket is that the travel routes are well-developed, and there are numerous tour operators, ferries, and speedboats that conveniently take you to your destination. Many people start their island-hopping tour in Phuket, as the Krabi islands are easily accessible from there, and you can then travel on to the Trang islands. However, the only real downside of Phuket is the large crowds and the sometimes very touristy character of some areas. That's why we prefer the Trat or Trang islands.

  • Phuket → Similan Islands (2 hours by van + 90 minutes by speedboat)
  • Phuket → Surin Islands (2 hours by van + 2 hours by speedboat)
  • Phuket → Koh Yao Yai (30-40 minutes by speedboat)

    • Even though it's not an island, a multi-day trip to Khao Sok National Park can add a truly special touch to your Phuket vacation. The journey by shared taxi takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, but the reward is breathtaking: floating bungalows, ancient rainforest, and a vast lake surrounded by limestone cliffs. In our opinion, this is a Thai adventure you shouldn't miss.

    Read more: The 10 most beautiful islands near Phuket: Where to travel and how to visit them

    4. Krabi

    Krabi is Phuket's main competitor, boasting an international airport and proximity to other island groups in the Andaman Sea, including the popular Koh Phi Phi, the laid-back Koh Lanta, and the hidden gem Koh Jum. On the mainland, you'll also find the beaches of Ao Nang and Railay, which are both popular tourist destinations and transport hubs, offering daily excursions to Koh Poda and the Hong Islands.

    Our favorite island here is definitely Koh Phi Phi – a true classic for good reason, and even the tourist attractions don't deter us. One moment you're gliding through Wang Long Bay in a longtail boat, surrounded by limestone cliffs, and the next you're witnessing a Muay Thai fight in a lively reggae bar. We also love Koh Lanta with its expansive beaches, vibrant local life, and lively digital nomad scene – a place where you could easily spend a few weeks.

    Koh Lanta also offers fantastic day trips to the Trang Islands, such as the snorkeling adventure to Koh Rok and Koh Haa (highly recommended) and the 4-island tour, which gives you a glimpse of some of Thailand's most pristine and spectacular beaches. We recommend spending two weeks island hopping in Krabi and, if you have the time, adding an extra week to explore the Trang Islands of Koh Ngai, Koh Mook, and Koh Kradan.

  • Bangkok → Krabi (90 minutes by plane)
  • Ao Nang Beach → Koh Phi Phi (50-60 minutes by ferry)
  • Koh Phi Phi → Koh Lanta (30 minutes by speedboat)

    • 5. Trang Islands

    Anyone seeking tranquil, unspoiled paradises shouldn't miss the Trang Islands. These small, secluded islands are famous for their crystal-clear, turquoise waters and powder-white sand – some of the most beautiful in all of Thailand. Koh Kradan, in particular, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. In our opinion, however, the main beach of Koh Ngai is even more captivating – with breathtaking views of three small islands.

    Koh Mook offers an authentic, local atmosphere with a lively village just waiting to be explored – and the must-see Emerald Cave. Koh Libong is also worth a visit and is especially popular with Thais for its wild dugongs. For those seeking a real adventure, it's even possible to travel from the Trang Islands all the way to Koh Lipe in the south – many consider this archipelago "Thailand's answer to the Maldives".

    Prices rise significantly once you leave Koh Lanta and head to Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan – there are only a few resorts and bungalows available, which book up quickly during peak season. However, it's a wonderful experience for a few relaxing nights. To get directly from Bangkok to the Trang Islands, simply fly to Trang Town (AirAsia is a good option) and take a taxi from there to Pak Meng Pier.

  • Koh Lanta → Koh Ngai (30-40 minutes by speedboat)
  • Koh Ngai → Koh Kradan (20-40 minutes by speedboat)
  • Koh Kradan → Koh Mook (10-15 minutes by speedboat)
  • Koh Mook → Koh Lipe (1-2 hours by speedboat)

    • Frequently asked questions about island hopping in Thailand

    When is the best time for an island hopping tour in Thailand?

    November to April is the best time for island hopping in Thailand – and for good reason. The sun shines almost every day, and the sea is calm, ideal for boat trips. However, there are also worthwhile destinations during the rainy season: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao are relatively dry from June to September, and Koh Samet (near Bangkok) can be visited year-round thanks to its unique microclimate. If none of these destinations appeal to you, but you still want to travel during the rainy season, we recommend Phuket. There are plenty of indoor activities there, and you can enjoy local life if the weather isn't cooperating.

    How much does island hopping cost in Thailand?

    Anyone planning to visit several islands, for example from Phuket to Koh Lipe, should expect some expenses. Speedboat tickets, boat tours, and hotel stays (especially on remote islands) can quickly add up. But as is often the case, quality comes at a price. However, there are some islands in Thailand that are easier on the wallet: Koh Chang, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phangan offer good value for money if you know where to look. Those traveling on a tight budget can book simple bungalows and eat at local markets – that's what most backpackers do.

    What are the most beautiful islands in Thailand?

    This is, of course, very subjective, but for us, Koh Kood, Koh Ngai, and Koh Phi Phi are the most beautiful islands in Thailand. We've listed our personal favorites and arranged them in the correct order in the following article. Read it if you're looking for more inspiration for your island-hopping adventure in the Land of Smiles.

    Read more: 15 of Thailand's most beautiful islands: The ultimate travel guide to paradise