Visiting this island paradise is a must for backpacker's looking for nightlife, but is there another reason to visit?
Koh Phangan is a tropical paradise most known for its vibrant Full Moon Parties and lively night life. Why did we choose to go to a party island for Christmas with a baby? Because the island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, giving visitors lush landscapes and a laid-back atmosphere. Beyond the lively beach parties, Koh Phangan offers a diverse range of experiences, from tranquil yoga retreats to adventurous jungle treks. We chose to stay at a villa on the beach so that we could relax and take a few days to rest from all our hectic travel days.
When to visit Koh Phangan?
The best time to visit Koh Phangan is during the dry season, which typically extends from December to April. This period ensures sunny days and minimal rainfall, providing ideal conditions for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the the country's natural beauty. The months of June to September constitute the monsoon season, characterized by heavy rains and rough seas. While the island's landscape becomes lush and green during this time, it may not be the most suitable for outdoor activities.
How to get to Koh Phangan?
Taking the ferry to Koh Phangan is an enchanting journey that immerses travelers in the natural beauty of the Gulf of Thailand. Departing from either Surat Thani on the mainland or Koh Samui, the ferry ride offers panoramic views of the azure waters and distant islands. The gentle sway of the boat and the sea breeze create a serene atmosphere as passengers anticipate their arrival on Koh Phangan. The ferry terminals are equipped with facilities for a comfortable journey, including seating areas, refreshments, and sometimes even onboard services. Whether opting for a high-speed catamaran or a traditional ferry, the experience not only serves as a practical means of transport but also provides a picturesque introduction to the tropical paradise awaiting exploration.
How to get around Koh Phangan?
Because we were here to rest, we picked a villa compound that was close to restaurants and even had one on site. We didn't want to have to worry about coordinating transportation if we wanted to go to the beach or walk around the town. That being said, Grab and local taxis are easy to find if you want to venture further out.
What to do in Koh Phangan?
Day 1: Boat Tour
Even though we came to Koh Phangan to relax and enjoy the beach, we couldn't miss all excursions. We chose to do a full day boat tour to Ang Thong National Marine Park. This was probably the least family friendly boat tour that we went on over our travels. Because the island caters to party goers, the tour starts off quite slow with a long ride to a snorkel site. Staff put out mattress on the deck and most people sleep off the last bit of their hangover.
We got to stop at multiple snorkeling spots along the way, breaking up the monotony of the trip. Lunch and snacks were also included, keeping us well fueled for all the swimming. The boat stops just before the national park, allowing those who wish to kayak to paddle the rest of the way. Unfortunately, this isn't in a sheltered area so I was not able to go with Kymani. We met up with the rest of the group at the beach before trekking up the limestone mountain to enjoy the view. After enjoying the beautiful look offs to the limestone karsts, it was back on the boat to head back to Koh Phangan. The mattresses were pulled out once again and the majority of the boat had a little nap again. The sunset on the way back to Koh Phangan was easily a highlight of this tour. The boat was heading to the east so we were able to sit at the back deck and watch the sunset over the horizon.
Day 2: Relax!
I will say that we were successful in getting to relax in Koh Phangan, but I'm not sure if I would recommend it. Our villa on the beach was fantastic, we could barely hear the parties at night allowing us to sleep uninterrupted. Being close to the beach and having a pool gave us lots of options to cool off, and the on-site restaurant meant we didn't have to search far when hungry. We did venture out for other restaurants, but had a hard time finding any open for breakfast. Since it is more of a party town, places open late and stay open late.
Bonus: Full moon party
Obviously, we did not actually attend a full moon party while travelling with a baby. However, I can't write a post about Koh Phangan and not talk about the party it is known for. The party's fame can be traced back to the late 80s when backpackers celebrated the full moon with a small beach gathering. Over the years, word spread about the electrifying atmosphere, neon-painted bodies, and pulsating music that defined the event. Today, it has evolved into a massive celebration featuring renowned DJs, fire shows, and a kaleidoscope of neon lights. You can expect a high-energy, all-night event where crowds dance on the sands in their neon paint and festival-esque outfits.