Food, shopping, nature – Thailand has it all.
But sadly, it’s no longer the paradise it once was 30 years ago. The country’s reputation as a popular holiday destination has seen the arrival of numerous Western brands, and that’s not forgetting the money-sucking tourist traps hidden everywhere.
Thankfully, not all is lost. Thailand is still a place of unimaginable beauty, and believe it or not, there are plenty of untouched islands that aren’t Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Phangan for you to visit. Here are 7 of the best:
Koh Phayam
With its crystal clear waters and powdery white sand, visiting Koh Phayam is like taking a step back through time. The island has a population of approximately 500 people, and is probably what Koh Samui or Koh Phangan looked like before the all bars and restaurants started sprouting up. Do visit here quickly though as word is spreading fast about the island’s beauty.
Koh Tarutao
Remember Survivor? Koh Tarutao is where the Thailand edition of the reality TV show was filmed. But despite its commercial past, the island is still a relatively undisturbed paradise, with hardly a soul stepping foot on its coastal shores or venturing inside one of its many caves. That said; if you’re looking for peace and quiet, this place is the spot for you.
Koh Kradan
Known for its gorgeous two-kilometre long beach and towering limestone outcrops, Koh Kradan is the place to visit if you’re a true blue nature enthusiast. The coral-lined waters are teeming with all sorts of colourful marine life, while you can kayak around the island in just three hours. Oh, and here’s a fun fact: you can even get married underwater here.
Similan Islands
Despite a name that would sound pretty crass if you’re thinking in terms of Hokkien (no explanation needed), the Similan Islands are a spectacular set of islets located off the coast of southern Thailand, forming the Similan National Park – meaning it’s well-protected by the government. Over here, you can look forward to hopping between a total of nine islands and exploring the area’s unique rock formations.
Koh Jum
Don’t have a care in the world for parties or bar hopping? Then Koh Jum should be right up your alley. The island, which actually has two names – the flat southern part called Koh Jum and the mountainous northern part called Koh Phu, is the perfect destination for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. For gorgeous views, climb Mount Phu; a rainforest-clad mountain that’s 422metres high.
Koh Kood
Even though there’s been an increase of tourism at Koh Kood in recent years since the introduction of a high-speed ferry, it’s remained as one of the most idyllic and pristine spots in Thailand. Of course, the unsullied beach and waters make it a great spot for divers and snorkelers, but there’s also a few bars to head to if the peace and quiet gets a little too much.
Koh Phra Thong
Situated near the border with Myanmar, Koh Phra Thong is home to the world’s largest species of sea turtle, the 700kg leatherback. If you’re thinking of heading here, visit during November to January. If you’re lucky, you might just catch these migratory creatures laying their eggs in vast pockets of sand. Animal lovers may also want to check out the oriental hornbills and sambar deer residing here.
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