Koh Pha Ngan

Made famous for it’s notorious full moon party that originated in the mid-80’s, Koh Phangan is still today an obligatory stop for many young backpackers traveling throughout Southeast Asia. Although for the other 28 days of the month, the island is relatively quiet and a good option those looking to unwind and relax along any of it’s 20 or so sandy beaches. With 75% of it’s interior comprised of mountainous tropical jungle, Ko Pha Ngan maintains more ‘undiscovered feel’ compared to it’s more developed neighbor to the South, Koh Samui.

Beaches of Thong Nai Pan Noi & Thong Nai Yai

Located in the secluded Northeast portion of Ko Pha Ngan, the crescent-shaped Thong Nai Pan Yai are one of the most scenic bays of the island. Surrounded by lush a tropical jungle and protected on each end by a big pile of granite rocks, it’s fine pearly white sand gently slope out into a quiet sea perfect for swimming all year long. Vibe is definitely chilled, neither overly developed.

Beachfront at the Buri Rasa Koh Phangan along Thong Nai Pan Noi

Buri Rasa Koh Phangan Deluxe room — Checking in my Deluxe room at the lovely Buri Rasa Koh Phangan, definitely one of the better options on Thong Nai Pan Noi beach

Some resorts are perched among the jungle-clad mountains offering a panoramic view of the surrounding tropical forest

Beachfront seen from the opposite side near the end of Thong Nai Pan Noi. The beach chairs on the right belong to the Buri Rasa Koh Phangan where I was staying. Another great option that I will give a try next trip is the Panviman Resort Koh Phangan you can see Idyllically nestled into the rocks where I will definitely stay next trip. Funny how two 4-star resorts so close to one another have managed to be be listed awarded the Travellers’ Choice 2019 – Top 25 Hotels of Thailand by TripAdisor.

Catching a glimpse of both Thong Nai Pan Noi (front) & Thong Nai Pan Yai (back) from a from one of the viewpoint

Souvenir shop in Thong Nai Pan Noi beach

One of the souvenir shops located in Thong Nai Pan Noi

Kayak and paddle boats are the best way to go explore neighboring Thong Nai Yai beach

Stopping for a drink after reaching the longer Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach

Fishing with nets along Thong Nai Pan Yai beach

Thais doing some net fishing along Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach

Hills around Boats on Thong Nai Pan Noi beach

Walking down to the pool resort

A wider shot of Thong Nai Pan Noi, exactly what a Thai beach should look like, no big crowds or overly developed resorts

There isn’t a whole lot of a nightlife going on Thong Nai Pan Noi, although at the of the beach you will find a small village with a decent selection of restaurants and relaxing bars to enjoy the evening after sunset

Bottle Beach

Bottle beach, located on Koh Pha Ngan’s northern tip is one of the most tranquil bays on the island. There aren’t too many people here and the remoteness of this beach certainly plays a big role in that. This is the beach to pick you are looking to get away from it all, grab a towel, go swimming, sit back, pick up a book and relax for a few days.