Thailand Islands Planner (choose the right coast + the right island)

Thailand’s islands are amazing—but the biggest difference-maker is choosing the right coast for your dates and the right island for your vibe.

Step 1: Pick a coast (Andaman vs Gulf)

Andaman Coast

Best known for: dramatic cliffs, island tours, classic postcards
Typical bases: Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe

Gulf of Thailand

Best known for: easier long stays, diving, wellness bays
Typical bases: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao

Step 2: Pick your island “vibe”

• Easy + services: Koh Samui, Phuket
• Diving focus: Koh Tao
• Wellness + quiet bays: Koh Phangan (choose the right side)
• Chill families/couples: Koh Lanta, Koh Kood
• Remote escape: Koh Lipe

Step 3: Keep logistics simple

• Choose one island base, then do day trips.
• Add a second island only if it’s close and connected.

Templates you can copy

Easy Andaman week

Phuket (or Krabi) base + day trips + one quieter add-on (Koh Lanta)

Easy Gulf week

Koh Samui base + 1–2 nights Phangan or Tao (not both if short on time)

Safety note: sea conditions

Sea conditions affect ferries and speedboats. Always check before booking tight connections:

• Sea conditions & ferries

Next steps

• First Time — Start here: first time
• Itineraries — Start here: itineraries
• Budget — Start here: budget
• Entry Visas — Entry & visas hub
• Plan By Month — Plan by month
• Weather — Trip intelligence: weather
• Sea conditions & ferries — Trip intelligence: sea conditions
• Exchange Rates Money — Trip intelligence: exchange rates & money
• Safety Health — Safety & health basics
• Packing — Packing list