Thailand has more than 1,400 islands. That’s a lot of coastline to explore. You’ll find everything from quiet fishing villages to buzzing beach towns. Some islands are easy to get to. Others feel completely off the grid.
But here’s the thing, not every island is worth your time.
You need to know where to go and why. Maybe you want soft sand and calm water for the kids. Or you’re planning a romantic trip and want the best island in Thailand for couples. Maybe you’re just trying to narrow down the islands to see in Thailand without wasting days figuring it out.
This guide will help you choose. You’ll get real advice on which islands to go to, what makes them stand out, and how to pick one that fits your trip. Whether you’re planning a full island-hopping itinerary or just want one perfect stop, you’re in the right place.
How Many Islands Are in Thailand?
Thailand has over 1,400 islands, and no two are the same. Some are tiny, uninhabited patches of jungle and rock. Others are full of resorts, restaurants, and beach bars. You’ll find quiet corners where time slows down, and busy hubs where every hour offers something new.
These islands are spread across two main regions, each with its own vibe:
- Andaman Sea (West Coast): This is where you’ll find dramatic limestone cliffs, clear water, and some of the most photographed beaches in Thailand. Think Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta. If you want postcard views and access to world-class diving, start here.
- Gulf of Thailand (East Coast): Warmer, calmer waters and a laid-back feel define this side. You’ll find Koh Samui (great for families), Koh Phangan (famous for full moon parties), and Koh Tao (a diver’s paradise). It’s a solid choice if you’re chasing sunsets, soft sand, and a mix of chill and adventure.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, knowing about the different islands helps you match your travel style with the perfect destination. With so many options, the hardest part is choosing where to begin. But once you know what kind of trip you’re after, the right island becomes clear.
Top Islands to See in Thailand
If you’re wondering which islands to see in Thailand, start with the ones that offer the best mix of views, access, and activities. You don’t need to visit them all. Just pick the ones that match your pace. These spots are easy to reach and ideal if it’s your first time island-hopping. They’re also some of the top islands to go in Thailand if you want variety without feeling overwhelmed.
Koh Phi Phi – Iconic Scenery and Snorkeling
Koh Phi Phi Island
You’ve seen the photos. Dramatic cliffs. Bright turquoise water. Longtail boats drifting near the shore. That’s Koh Phi Phi. Maya Bay made it famous, but the real draw is how compact and scenic the island feels. You can snorkel just off the beach. Hike up to the viewpoint. Catch a quiet sunset or dive into the nightlife. It’s busy, yes. But it’s popular for a reason.
Koh Samui – Beaches, Waterfalls, and Temples
Koh Samui gives you a little bit of everything. White sand beaches, easy roads, plenty of hotels, and a wide range of food options. You’ll find temples to explore, waterfalls to swim in, and quiet corners away from the main tourist stretch. It’s one of the best islands in Thailand for families, thanks to its convenience and kid-friendly beaches. If you want variety without too much hassle, this is your spot.
Koh Samui Island
Similan Islands – Marine Life and Diving Paradise
Looking for something wilder? Go west. The Similan Islands are known for crystal-clear water and rich marine life. This is where divers go to see manta rays and sea turtles. It’s a national park, so it’s only open a few months a year, usually from October to May. There’s no big party scene here. No resorts. Just reefs, fish, and some of the best diving in the country. If you want to see another side of Thailand’s coastline, this is worth the extra planning.
Similan Island Island
Underrated Islands Worth Visiting
You don’t have to follow the crowds to find beauty in Thailand. Some islands fly under the radar, and that’s exactly what makes them special. These lesser-known spots offer peace, natural charm, and a slower pace that’s hard to find on the popular routes.
Koh Kood – Secluded Beaches and Waterfalls
If you’re craving quiet, Koh Kood delivers. It’s one of the least developed large islands in Thailand, with long stretches of empty beach, clear water, and lush jungle inland. You won’t find big resorts or nightlife here, and that’s the point. You’ll have space to breathe, swim, and explore waterfalls without the crowds.
Koh Kood Island
Most visitors rent a scooter and take their time discovering the island’s small fishing villages and wooden piers. It’s ideal if you want to disconnect and spend a few slow days in nature.
Koh Mak – Eco-Tourism and Laid-Back Vibes
Koh Mak is tiny, family-run, and serious about sustainability. It’s one of the few islands in Thailand that’s remained committed to low-impact tourism. You’ll find quiet beaches, organic farms, bike trails, and small guesthouses powered by solar energy.
Laid back in Koh Mak
There’s no rush here. Swim, read, nap in a hammock, or kayak around the coastline. It’s a solid pick for travelers looking to support local communities and avoid mass tourism while still enjoying the beauty of island life.
Best Island in Thailand for Families: Why Koh Lanta Tops the List
Planning a family trip and wondering where to go? Koh Lanta is often considered the best island in Thailand for families, and for good reason. With over 1,400 islands in Thailand, it stands out for its peaceful beaches, calm waters, and kid-friendly atmosphere. If you’re choosing islands to go in Thailand with little ones, this is one you’ll want to consider.
Safe, Clean Beaches and Laid-Back Vibes
You won’t deal with heavy crowds or loud nightlife here. Beaches like Klong Dao and Long Beach are known for being wide, clean, and gently sloping. The waves are mild, making them safe for children to splash and play. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, giving families space to enjoy quality time without the chaos.
Koh Lanta is perfect for your family trip
Family Resorts and Activities
Koh Lanta has plenty of accommodations designed with families in mind. You will find beachfront resorts with kid pools, on-site restaurants, and friendly staff who go out of their way to help. Activities range from beginner-friendly snorkeling trips to Thai cooking classes that welcome young learners. If your trip includes a few days in the capital before heading south, you might also want to explore options for where to stay in Bangkok with family to make the most of your city stop.
“Koh Lanta is ideal for family travel. It’s peaceful, practical, and far less chaotic than places like Phuket,” says Richard Barrow, a Thailand-based travel journalist.
Among all the islands to see in Thailand, Koh Lanta offers one of the smoothest, most rewarding experiences for families. But its appeal doesn’t stop there. It’s also a solid option for couples looking to reconnect in a relaxed, scenic setting.
Best Island in Thailand for Couples: Why Koh Yao Noi Is a Romantic Escape
If you’re planning a romantic getaway, you’ll want more than just a pretty beach. You’re looking for privacy, beautiful views, and that sense of being away from it all. That’s what makes Koh Yao Noi one of the best islands to go in Thailand for couples. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and full of charm.
Tucked between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi feels worlds apart. You won’t find big beach parties here. Instead, you’ll discover peaceful mornings, hidden coves, and long walks under palm trees. It’s one of the lesser-known gems among the many islands in Thailand, and that’s exactly why couples love it.
Koh Ya Noi is an island for couples
Peace, Privacy, and Scenic Views
The island is small and mostly untouched by mass tourism. You’ll wake up to ocean views without crowds, take bike rides through coconut groves, and dine in open-air restaurants with your feet in the sand. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear the ocean.
Romantic Resorts and Experiences
Boutique resorts on Koh Yao Noi offer private villas, sea-view infinity pools, and spa treatments for two. You can book a boat trip to nearby limestone islands, take a Thai cooking class together, or simply spend the day lounging by the water.
Among all the islands to see in Thailand, Koh Yao Noi delivers a uniquely romantic vibe. It’s a calm, scenic escape that gives couples space to relax and reconnect.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how many islands are in Thailand: over 1,400, you have plenty of options to explore. From peaceful hideaways to lively beach hubs, there are islands to go in Thailand for every type of traveler.
Looking for the best island in Thailand for families? Koh Lanta stands out with its calm beaches and kid-friendly atmosphere. Planning a romantic trip? Koh Yao Noi is one of the best islands in Thailand for couples, offering seclusion and scenic beauty.
If you want to avoid the crowds, don’t overlook the underrated gems. Some of the most rewarding islands to see in Thailand are the ones just off the tourist trail, like Koh Mak or Koh Kood.
With so many choices, it helps to think about your travel style. Whether you’re after snorkeling, hiking, or just peace and quiet, there’s an island that fits. Now that you know how many islands in Thailand are waiting, it’s time to choose one and make it yours.
