8 Best things to do in Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand, in 3 days

Introduction

Koh Pha Ngan is one of Thailand’s most famous islands, sitting in the Gulf of Thailand alongside Koh Samui and Koh Tao. It’s a top destination for travelers thanks to its iconic beach vibe, tropical scenery, and relaxed island lifestyle.

Koh Pha Ngan really made its name on the global map thanks to its wild parties, especially the legendary Full Moon and Half Moon parties that draw thousands from around the world. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s only for the party crowd.

We’re not huge partiers ourselves, and Koh Pha Ngan was still a highlight of our time in Thailand. From stunning white-sand beaches with clear turquoise waters to peaceful jungle hikes, quiet cafes, and unforgettable sunsets, there’s so much to explore and enjoy even if you’re not there for the all-night dancing.

It’s one of those places where you can choose your own pace—dance till dawn or just chill in a hammock with a fresh coconut. Either way, it deserves a place on your Thailand itinerary.

Read: The perfect 3-week Thailand Itinerary from North to South

Getting there

Getting to Koh Pha Ngan is easy but involves a mix of transport since there’s no airport on the island itself. Most travelers reach it via ferry from the mainland or nearby islands.

The most common route is:

• Fly to Koh Samui: Koh Samui has the nearest airport with frequent flights from Bangkok and other Thai cities. From Koh Samui Airport, grab a taxi to one of the piers (Big Buddha Pier, Bangrak Pier, or Lipa Noi Pier) and take a ferry or speedboat to Koh Pha Ngan. The boat ride takes about 20–45 minutes.
• From Surat Thani: If you’re coming from the mainland (often the cheaper option), fly or take a train/bus to Surat Thani. From there, buy a combined bus+ferry ticket to Koh Pha Ngan. The journey usually takes 4–5 hours total.
• From Koh Tao or Koh Samui: Ferries also connect Koh Pha Ngan to its island neighbors. It’s easy to hop from Koh Tao (about 1.5 hours) or back to Koh Samui (20–45 minutes).

We went via Koh Samui—super convenient and quick. No matter which route you choose, be sure to check the ferry schedules in advance as they can change with the season.

Moving Around

Koh Pha Ngan is a laid-back island, but getting around is pretty straightforward. The main options are:

• Scooter Rental: This is the most popular and flexible way to explore. Expect to pay around 150–250 THB (4–7 USD / 4–6 EUR) per day. Just be careful—the island’s hilly roads can be tricky, especially in wet season. We used a scooter and loved the freedom it gave us to check out hidden beaches and viewpoints at our own pace.
• Songthaews (Shared Taxis): These pick-up truck taxis run fixed routes around the island. You can also charter them privately. They’re handy if you don’t ride a scooter but cost more for solo trips.
• Taxis: There are no traditional meter taxis, but you’ll find motorbike taxis and songthaews waiting around popular beaches and the pier. Agree on the price before hopping in.
• Walking: In the main town areas like Thong Sala or Haad Rin, walking is easy and safe. Many beach resorts are walkable to local shops and restaurants.

We’d say if you’re comfortable, renting a scooter is the way to go—it really opens up the island. Otherwise, the local songthaews are reliable for shorter trips.

When to Visit

Koh Pha Ngan is a tropical island you can visit year-round, but each season offers a different vibe. Here’s what to expect:

Dry Season (December to March): This is the best time to visit. Expect sunny skies, lower humidity, and calm seas. Average temperatures range from 24–30 °C (75–86 °F). It’s perfect for beach days, snorkeling, and attending the famous Full Moon Party.

Hot Season (April to June): Temperatures can climb to 35 °C (95 °F) and humidity is high. It’s still a good time to visit if you don’t mind the heat, with fewer tourists and better deals on accommodation. Just plan your outdoor adventures for early mornings or late afternoons.

Rainy Season (July to November): Expect regular showers and the occasional downpour. Average temperatures stay around 25–31 °C (77–88 °F). It’s still warm, and the rain often comes in short, intense bursts. The island is lush and green, and you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices.

Our Tip: We’d recommend visiting between December and March for the best weather. But honestly, we’ve been in the rainy season too and it’s still beautiful—just be ready for some wet afternoons. It’s all part of the island adventure.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Koh Pha Ngan has a great range of places to stay, whether you want something simple on the sand or a luxury villa with a view. Here are our top picks:

• (€) All At Sea Beach Resort – Perfect for budget travelers wanting beachfront simplicity and easy access to the island vibe.
• (€€) Sand in My Shoes Beach Loft – Comfortable, stylish, and right on the beach, ideal for couples or friends looking for a relaxed stay with good amenities.
• (€€€) Kupu Kupu Phangan Beach Villas & Spa – For a splurge, these beautiful villas and spa facilities promise an unforgettable, luxurious island escape.

Here are all your accommodation options in Koh Pha Ngan.

What to Eat

Thailand is famous for its street food, and Koh Pha Ngan is no exception. Generally, the must-try dishes include:

• Pad Thai (Thai Style Fried Noodles)
• Som Tam (Spicy Green Papaya Salad)
• Pad See Eiw (Thick Noodle Dish)
• Khao Pad (Fried Rice)
• Gaeng Keow Wan (Green Curry)
• Pad Phak (Fried Vegetables)
• Kao Niew Ma Muang (Mango and Sticky Rice)

In Koh Pha Ngan, we especially loved exploring the street food market in the main town. It’s the best place to try authentic, freshly cooked Thai meals at unbeatable prices. Don’t rush—walk around, see what locals are eating, and order a bit of everything. It’s part of the island experience!

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Things to do in Koh Pha Ngan

Watch the Sunset at Amsterdam Bar

Head to Amsterdam Bar for one of the best sunset views on Koh Pha Ngan. It’s a laid-back spot perfect for grabbing a beer while watching the sky turn orange and pink over the sea. Don’t expect too much from the cocktails or food—it’s really all about that incredible view. It’s a classic island experience and a great way to end the day.

Here are all your accommodation options in Koh Pha Ngan.

Go Scuba Diving

Book a dive tour with one of the local schools and explore some of the incredible underwater sites around Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Tao, just to the north, is famous for its easy and accessible dive spots—perfect for beginners. For something even more special, head to Sail Rock, one of Thailand’s top diving sites, where you might spot manta rays, barracudas, or even whale sharks if you’re lucky. It’s one of the best ways to experience the marine life of the Gulf of Thailand.

Relax at Secret Beach

Chill out at Secret Beach, one of Koh Pha Ngan’s best and our personal favorite. Think warm, clear water, soft white sand, and a classic beach swing for those perfect photos. It’s the ideal spot for a laid-back day in the sun. And don’t stop there—Koh Pha Ngan is dotted with plenty of other beautiful beaches. Take the time to find one that’s a little less crowded for your own slice of paradise.

Here are all your accommodation options in Koh Pha Ngan.

Hike to Bottle Beach

Discover another hidden gem on the island with Bottle Beach. Getting there is part of the adventure—a scenic 1.5-hour hike through the jungle starting from Coconut Beach. The trail winds through lush greenery, and at the end, you’re rewarded with a peaceful, beautiful stretch of sand that feels worlds away from the busier parts of the island. It’s well worth the effort for those looking to escape the crowds and soak up an unspoiled slice of Koh Pha Ngan.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Explore Ang Thong National Park

Embark on a one-day adventure to Ang Thong National Marine Park, a stunning archipelago of 42 islands. Start with a speedboat ride across turquoise waters, then hike to panoramic viewpoints overlooking emerald lagoons and dramatic limestone formations. You can also kayak around secluded coves, snorkel among colorful reefs, or simply relax on pristine beaches. It’s a perfect way to discover some of Thailand’s most breathtaking island scenery while adding a bit of adventure to your stay in Koh Pha Ngan.

Wander the Night Market

Eat your way through Koh Pha Ngan’s vibrant night market in the main town. It’s the perfect spot to sample some of Thailand’s best street food at unbeatable prices. From sizzling Pad Thai to fresh mango sticky rice, grilled skewers, and tropical fruit shakes, there’s something for everyone. Pull up a plastic stool, chat with locals, and soak up the lively atmosphere as you try dish after dish.

Party at Koh Pha Ngan

One of Koh Pha Ngan’s most famous draws is its party scene. The legendary Full Moon Party lights up Haad Rin Beach every month with music, UV paint, and dancing until sunrise. If you’re around during a Half Moon or Jungle Experience night, you’ll find a similar vibe deep in the jungle with glowing decor and thumping beats. Even if partying isn’t usually your thing, it’s part of the island’s unique energy and worth experiencing at least once.

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Hike Khao Ra

Challenge yourself with a trek up Khao Ra, the highest point on Koh Pha Ngan at 627 m. The hike takes around 2–3 hours round trip through lush jungle trails, with occasional views along the way. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas over the island’s coastline and neighbouring islands. It’s a fantastic way to escape the beaches for a day and see another side of Koh Pha Ngan’s beauty. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and start early to avoid the heat.

Koh Pha Ngan Itinerary

Day 1:

• Hike Khao Ra – Tackle the island’s highest peak for incredible panoramic views.
• Relax at Bottle Beach – Reach this hidden gem with a hike or boat and unwind on quiet white sand.
• Watch Sunset at Amsterdam Bar – End the day with a beer and the island’s most beautiful sunset view.

Day 2

• Go Scuba Diving – Explore nearby underwater sites, from Koh Tao’s easy reefs to Sail Rock’s famous pelagics.
• Chill at Secret Beach – Enjoy one of the island’s prettiest, less-crowded beaches.
• Eat at the Night Market – Sample delicious Thai street food and soak up the local vibe.

Day 3:

• Explore Ang Thong National Park – Take a day trip to this stunning archipelago for hiking, kayaking, and breathtaking island views.

Read: The perfect 3-week Thailand Itinerary from North to South