Must Visit Islands in Thailand 2022
Lucy Blackwell
(+ their spectacular beaches)
If you’re looking for an amazing, exotic vacation destination in Southeast Asia, look no further than Thailand! This incredible country is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and secluded islands, each with its own unique culture and flavour. From the laid-back atmosphere of Koh Phangan to the vibrant nightlife of Koh Tao, there’s something for everyone in Thailand. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best islands to visit in 2022 and what you can expect from each one.
Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia. It’s known for its gorgeous beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins, and decorative temples. Bangkok, the nation’s capital, features an ultramodern cityscape next to small canal-side villages and the iconic temples of Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew). Pattaya is a lively seaside resort that is close by, while Hua Hin is a popular seaside settlement.
Culture in Thailand
Over time, Thai culture has transformed considerably, from its traditional isolation during the Sukhothai period to its more contemporary Ayutthaya era, when it was influenced by influences from across Asia. Hinduism and Buddhism have had a large impact on Thai culture.
The Thai language is the national language of Thailand, spoken by over 60 million people. Thai is a member of the Tai group of the Kra-Dai language family. The majority of Thais are Theravada Buddhists, though a significant minority adheres to Mahayana Buddhism or other religions. Thai people usually practice Theravada Buddhism, which is the state religion.
Food in Thailand
Thai cooking, like other Asian cuisines, focuses on lightly prepared meals with robust fragrant components and a hint of spice. It’s recognized for its complex combination of at least three and up to four or five primary taste senses in each dish or meal. Thai cuisine emphasizes food that has been lightly prepared with flavorful aromatic ingredients and a pungent aftertaste.
Must-Visit Islands in Thailand
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is one of the most popular islands in Thailand and is well-known for its Full Moon Party, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors each month. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, however, Koh Phangan is still an excellent choice. This island has some of the best beaches in Thailand and is home to a few luxury resorts. If you are visiting Koh Phangan, check out Haad Rin Beach, Mae Haad Beach, and Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach. You can stay at the luxurious Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa or the more affordable Villa Thavorn Beach Resort and Spa.
- Haad Rin Beach
Between the different spots of this beach is a multitude of alleys lined with bars, restaurants, pharmacies and simple shops selling beachwear. During the night, the area glows with the many bars, pubs and clubs.
- Mae Haad Beach
This 800-meter-long beach has rows of massage booths and bungalow resorts. You can also find beach swings, hammocks, sun beds, and a beach bar to sit back and relax during the day or night.
- Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach
Even though Thong Nai Pan has lost some of its authenticity due to many luxury resorts being built in the area, you can still get the Thailand “feeling”. With the authentic food and little village alongside the beach, you will definitely get the Thai experience.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao is another popular island in Thailand, known for its world-class scuba diving and snorkelling. This island is also home to a number of luxury resorts, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views. Stay at the Koh Tao Bamboo Huts, or the Koh Tao Coral Grand Resort for an unforgettable experience. Check out Sairee Beach, Mae Haad Beach, and Shark Bay for some of the best diving and snorkelling in Thailand. And if you’re looking for a place to eat, be sure to check out the Fisherman’s Village, where you can find some of the best seafood on the island.
- Sairee Beach
This is the perfect beach if you like to be active. You can walk from the beach to the snorkeling paradise of Hin Wong bay. However, you can also sunbathe, swim, drink cocktails, or play some beach sports.
- Mae Haad Bay
Mae Haad bay is the port town where the piers are situated. This area is a really interesting place if you enjoy snorkelling! A shipwreck is located at the south end of the bay-the coolest place to explore and observe marine life.
- Shark bay
Shark bay is a spectacular place for not only snorkelling but drone flying and relaxing beside the turquoise water. This truly mesmerizing spot is guaranteed to create some fun and life-long memories.
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a small island in Thailand that’s quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. Koh Lipe is located in the Andaman Sea, close to the border of Thailand and Malaysia. This island is known for its clear waters and beautiful beaches. Koh Lipe is also home to several small, luxury resorts. If you decide to visit Koh Lipe, be sure to check out Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, and Pattaya Beach. You can stay at the luxurious Koh Lipe Resort or the more affordable Echo Beach Resort. For some good food options, check out the restaurants at Siam Beach Resort and Koh Lipe Resort.
- Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is one of the best places to watch the sunset over the ocean and enjoy a fresh coconut!
- Sunrise beach
The perfect place to watch the sunrise and relax in multiple beach bars. What more could you ask for?!
- Pattaya Beach
If you want to explore Pattaya by car, bus, or tuk-tuk, you will discover a number of hidden gem beaches. Take some of the roads that are less travelled and be prepared to find some truly magical spots.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is the largest island in Thailand and is home to a few luxury resorts, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy incredible views. This island is also known for its world-class scuba diving and snorkelling. If you decide to visit Koh Samui, be sure to check out the beaches at Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, and Bophut Beach. You can stay at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui or the more affordable Samui Emerald Cove. For some good food options, check out the restaurants at The Beach Club Koh Samui and Zico’s Brazilian Grill.
- Chaweng Beach
Chaweng Beach, one of Koh Samui’s most popular beaches is the hotspot for the island’s developing tourism industry. Yet, this destination offers fantastic swimming, water sports, dining, and accommodation. Along with this, Chaweng Beach has a fun holiday atmosphere.
- Lamai beach
Lamai Beach has numerous massage salas along the sand. Most masseurs offer Thai and oil massages, aloe vera body wraps, henna tattoos, manicures and hair braiding. You’ll find places to rent jet skis and kayaks, along with windsurfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, parasailing, and speedboat charters. Or why not take a seat and enjoy a cocktail and dinner under the stars?
- Bophut beach
Close to Fisherman village, Bophut Beach offers great bars and views of stunning sunsets.
These are just a few of the amazing islands and the top three beaches that you can visit in Thailand. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today! And safe travels!