The Koh Samui Archipelago is probably the nearest you’ll ever get to paradise. The Archipelago, a phrase used to describe a cluster of islands, includes the ever popular Koh Samui plus two other exotic isles and a national marine park.
Head to this area in the Thai Gulf for exquisite beaches and breath-taking beauty.
Koh Samui
The boutique island of Koh Samui is known as one of Thailand’s most popular vacation destinations.
Boasting its own airport, a wide variety of bars and restaurants and an array of excellent villas, Koh Samui is sure to fulfil all your vacation dreams.
The beaches here are some of the best in the world offering visitors warm water, powder white sand and plenty of palm trees. Samui’s rich rainforest interior consists of mostly mountains and jungle, offering excellent opportunities to explore.
Koh Phangan
Famed for its unspoilt beaches, full moon parties and mini beach raves, Koh Phangan has earned its reputation as a place to let loose and go wild.
The second largest island in the Koh Samui Archipelago, Koh Phangan may be known for its parties but there are plenty of beaches and resorts where you can relax away from the weekend action.
There is songthaew service from the main pier in Thongsala to the island’s most popular beaches. Visitors can also rent a motorbike or jeep to get around.
There are no direct flights to Koh Phangan, but you can fly into Samui from Bangkok then take a short ferry trip over. Haad Rin beach is party central but there are plenty of other beaches in Koh Phangan for those in search of more seclusion.
Koh Tao
Beachgoers, divers and explorers will simply love this charming rugged island.
The popular beach areas are on the west side whilst the interior is less developed and perfect for some serious exploring. Sairee Beach is Koh Tao’s largest and most popular beach.
Stretching for about a mile long, Sairee is home to plenty of restaurants, bars and resorts. Koh Tao is just three miles from top to bottom and can be a challenge to get around due to its rugged roads. Songthaews and boats are available from Mae Haad Beach to most other parts of the island for around 50-200 Baht.
Visitors can also rent a motorbike to get around. Getting to Koh Tao is easy either by ferry from the mainland or from Koh Samui. Or take a direct flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui, then take a ferry from Samui to Koh Tao in less than 2 hours.
Angthong Marine Park
The Koh Samui Archipelago consists of three island’s which are actually part of the Angthong National Marine Park.
Known as one of Thailand’s most beautiful protected areas there are around 42 separate islands and cays that make up the park. Most are very small and can only be visited on day trips, although a few offer visitors the opportunity to camp or stay over in designated bungalows.
The best way to see the national park is to arrange a day trip from Koh Samui which can be easily arranged all over the island. Easily accessed by speedboat or slow boat from Koh Samui, the Angthong National Marine Park is a great place to explore both on land and by water with snorkelling, kayaking, walking and hiking tours.
Have you been to the Koh Samui Archipelago?
With so much to do and see on these beautiful islands, it is little wonder that many who visit once return again and again.
Have you been to any of the islands mentioned above? If so we’d love to hear about your experiences! Why not share on Facebook, Twitter or Google+
