The Ultimate Dreamy Thailand Island Hopping Itinerary — From Someone Who Actually Did It

by Caitlin
Published: Last Updated on
Rock mound in thailand seas

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Thailand has been a popular tourist destination for some time now, boasting stunning mountain scenery, trekking, and elephant sanctuaries (please make sure they are truly ethical!). The cities offer exceptional night markets with even more exceptional food. However, any trip to the country would not be complete without some beaches and a few islands. The problem with these islands, though, is over-tourism. The staggering numbers of drunken foreigners pouring into Ko Pha-ngan for each full moon party and similar situations on popular islands have become a concern. So when I set out on my three-week journey from Phuket to Kuala Lumpur, I set one rule: if I’d heard of it, I wouldn’t go. The result was a Thailand island hopping itinerary that led me to the most exceptional and unspoiled places, free of littered beaches and rowdy crowds. Here are the hidden gems I found. The open roads, unexploited hilltops, and pristine beaches. This is my Thailand island hopping adventure.

Table of Contents

Phuket: The Start to Your Island Hopping Adventure

I started my trip in Phuket because it just made geographical sense. Phuket is Thailand’s largest island — Situated off the west coast of Thailand it is a major hub for travel through the area. Plus, Phuket itself has a number of attractions worth seeing. From beautiful beaches and cultural sites to adventurous activities.

Phuket Island Hopping
Viewpoints in Phuket

How to get to Phuket

As a large city, getting to Phuket is pretty straightforward and there are a few different options depending on where you’re coming from. 

Flying into Phuket’s international airport is convenient if you’re coming from out of the country. Direct flights come in from several international destinations including Sydney, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur. 

However, if you’re coming from within Thailand there are other options which will likely suit your plans better. If you’re coming from Bangkok, like I did, get an overnight train from Bangkok to Surat Thani where you’ll then need to switch to a bus. Without any hitches, the entire trip should take about 12 hours. 

I find Thai sleeper trains to be super comfortable, all things considered. Do make sure to book a first-class ticket though — this ensures you get an assigned seat which will be transformed into a lie flat bed.

view of the corner of an old green building in Thailand
Phuket Old Town

Where to stay in Phuket

Phuket island is almost as big as Singapore — needless to say then, you’ll have no shortage of options when it comes both to areas you can stay in as well as specific places. Patong Beach, for example, is on the west coast and is the place to go if you want to party. On the other hand, Kata and Karon Beach, also on the west coast, are much more relaxed and have a more chill, family-friendly environment.

Budget accommodation in Phuket

Phuket has a huge number of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses with both shared and private rooms at affordable nightly rates. Hostels like Lub d Phuket offer dormitory-style rooms with rates as low as $20 per night. The facilities at Lub d Phuket include air conditioning, an outdoor pool, free WiFi, shared lounging areas, luggage storage, excursion arrangements, laundry facilities, a co-working space, and a games room. 

Mid-Range accommodation in Phuket

Despite its wild nightlife (or perhaps because of it!) the area around Patong Beach can actually be really nice to stay in as it is very vibrant and lively. Check out U Sabai Living Hotel where rates start around $35 per night. The hotel is a short walk from Patong Beach.

Luxury accommodation in Phuket

If you’re looking for something more luxurious and with beachfront access, check out the Impiana Beach Front Resort Patong. Nightly rates start at about $125 per night. Accommodation at the resort have private patios and the property has easy access to Patong Beach.

What to do in Phuket

Phuket offers a wide array of activities for travelers, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. From adventurous explorations to serene beach getaways, the island caters to diverse interests.

Renting a Motorbike

I totally get it that not everyone feels comfortable driving a motorbike, especially in the chaos of Thai traffic. I will, nonetheless, always recommend renting a motorbike as the very best way to see just about anywhere in Thialand. It gives you immense freedom and it’s oh so fun. 

Of course, you need to be careful — wear your helmet, and make sure you have any required licenses, and get travel insurance (this one, I have learned many-a-time is the most important).

Once you have the motorbike, the island is your oyster! The following are some of the places I recommend visiting.

Visiting Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi Beach is on the west coast of the island, opposite Phuket city. It is pristine and far less crowded than the more famous alternatives like Patong Beach. There’s great surfing here, but as a non-surfer I indulged in sunbathing on the perfect sand and going for a dip in the clear water. The beach is surrounded by bars and restaurants, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty while you’re here. 

aerial view of sea, sand, and resorts along the beach
Kata Noi Beach

Exploring the Big Buddha

One of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks is the Big Buddha, a colossal marble statue that stands 45 meters tall. In addition to being a site to visit in and of itself, there are also amazing views of the island from where Big Buddha sits atop the hill.

Visiting the Soi Dog Foundation

This is what I’m talking about when I tell you to engage in ethical animal tourism. Soi Dog Foundation is a non-profit that is wholly dedicated to rescuing stray dogs and cats in Phuket. The foundation runs vaccination and neuter programs for street dogs and runs a shelter and adoption programs for dogs which are not able to be released. Now, please think carefully before you go adopting an animal and then spend thousands getting it home — there are better ways you can spend that money. But, absolutely take a tour of the facilities, learn about the efforts of the organization, and consider volunteering some of your time. And if you have thousands to spend, this organization can totally use it. 

Snorkeling Day Trips

It is true that Phuket has some amazing underwater activities and snorkeling here is pretty great. And I’m gonna go ahead and recommend a great snorkeling company in Phuket. But, let me first say that if you’re not planning on snorkeling every single day of your trip than you might want to just save it until you’re at one of the other islands coming up, cause they are *chef’s kiss*. Don’t believe me? Ok, here are some great Phuket snorkeling tours to consider:

Koh Yao Noi: For Total Tranquility

Your next destination is Koh Yao Noi, a small island nestled between Phuket and Krabi. The name ‘Koh’ is a common prefix for islands in Thailand, with ‘noi’ signifying ‘small’ in the local language. So this is the small Yao island. This hidden gem of an island is stunning with a lot of natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. 

A boat docked in Koh Yao Noi. One of the places to go island hopping in Thailand - The Country Jumper
Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

How to get to Koh Yao Noi from Phuket

To make your way from Phuket to Koh Yao Noi by speedboat you’ll need to head to Bang Rong pier. Be very sure you tell your tuk tuk or taxi driver that specific name. Drivers will be quite used to taking tourists to Rassada Pier, which is where ferries to Phi Phi islands go from. So be sure to clearly communicate which pier you need to go to. You’ll arrive in about 30 minutes at Manoh Pier on Koh Yao Noi. 

You can alternatively take a longtail boat which takes about 60 minutes. These also leave from Bang Rong pier, but you can also find them from other piers around Phuket such as Ao Po Pier and Laem Hin Pier. 

Between the hours of 7:40 AM and 5:30 PM boats run regularly with the longest wait time between two being an hour and fifteen minutes. The cost of a ticket is 120 baht per person on the longtails and 150 on the speedboats.

When you arrive at the pier on Koh Yao Noi there will be plenty of drivers looking to drive you to your accommodation. Do not pay more than 100 baht per person, no matter where on the island you’re going.

A pier reaching out into the sea at high tide on Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi

Where to stay on Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Noi offers a range of accommodation options, catering to various preferences and budgets. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious beachfront resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a more budget-friendly guesthouse, the island provides something for everyone.

Budget Accommodation in Koh Yao Noi

If you’re traveling to Koh Yao Noi on a budget, you can find cheap places to stay in the main village but it’s also very possible to stay on the beach, even on a budget — but being realistic, on an island of this size nothing is very far from the ocean. Check out Lok Mun Bungalows which have rates as low as $20 per night. The bungalows have a shared outdoor swimming pool and an onsite restaurant.

Mid-Range Accommodation in Koh Yao Noi

If you can bump up your budget just a touch, check out mid-range options like Sabai House Bungalow where you’ll have a private balcony on the lush, but very peaceful property. Rates here start around $30 for a one bedroom bungalow. 

Luxury Accommodation in Koh Yao Noi

Now, if you’re Brad & Angelina there’s a Six Senses on the island (also, congratulations on getting back together and thank you for reading my blog) — rates start around $1,200 per night. But, for the rest of us mere mortals there is more accessible luxury. For example, check out the adults only Tree House Villas where each stunning space has its own private plunge pool for a mere $500-ish per night.

silhouette of woman sitting on wooden strong in front of a orange and purple sunset sky
A Koh Yao Noi Sunset

What to do on Koh Yao Noi

Roughly the same size as Manhattan, Koh Yao Noi is a little guy, but packs a punch nonetheless. With insane beaches, unadulterated jungle landscapes, and a chill vibe throughout, there is plenty to do on Koh Yao Noi. Here are my recommendations, based on what I did while I was there. 

Explore the Island by Motorbike

As I said, the best way to explore these islands is almost always by motorbike. You can usually get a bike for the day (or a few days) pretty easily through your accommodation for around 250-350 baht per day. With your wheels, explore the island by following the unnamed road that loops around the southern half of it. Don’t miss the stilted fishing village on the west side of the island (​​สะพานท่าเทียบเรือเก่า if you’re looking at the map), where you’ll find a beautiful, empty pier—perfect for a secluded Instagram photoshoot. After capturing the moment, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the shorefront restaurants. Be brave, order it all, even the bits you’ve never heard of. 

Kayak to Kudu Yai Island 

Rent a kayak near Tha Khao Pier and head left (that’s north) into the open ocean for an amazing (if long and quite trying) journey to Kudu Yai Island. I know Maya Bay (the one from the “The Beach”) is super popular — and, like I said earlier in this post, if I’ve heard of it I didn’t go — but I’m guessing this spot is as good, if not better than that one. But then again, considering there are literally no people, I’m gonna put my money on better. 

It is going to be trek to get out there, and  you’re going to be tired by the end of it. But having an island all to yourself, I’m telling you… worth it. Make sure to pack snacks, water, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and a UV top. I got the worst sunburn of my life on this trip. So let me be your warning not to make the same mistake. 

Koh Yao Noi's secret cove - kayak here from the mainland
Kudu Yai Island

Hiking and Biking 

If you prefer sore legs over sore arms, consider a hike or a bike ride on land. There is plenty of lush jungle landscape to explore. 

Trails aren’t always super well maintained on the island so I’d recommend checking in with locals on what hikes they recommend for the most up to date info (sorry I’m just one woman and I can’t keep going back to the island to check on trail status — as much as I’d like to!). But, check out the hike to Pa Sai Beach Viewpoint. It’s a moderate hike which should take just a few hours. Generally it’s pretty well marked, but again, no guarantees. 

Alternatively, go for a mountain bike ride. This is not my jam but I get that others are into it. You can rent a mountain bike at many of the shops on the island or even at your accommodation. Mountain biking is a great way to explore the island’s hidden landscapes, but it’s also a good alternative to motorbiking. So you might just grab a bike to loop that same southern road around the island. 

Spa and Wellness

A Thai massage is a must at least once while in the country. There are several resorts on Koh Yao Noi which offer spa services. Personally, I am a massage and facial type, but there are also yoga sessions on the beach and holistic wellness programs. 

Check out the spa at Six Senses Yao Noi where you can find a traditional menu of services with treatments like the classic Thai massage.

Tonsai: The Hidden Gem

We’re going slightly off track here because Tonsai is not actually an island. It is, though, only accessible by boat thanks to the wall of rocks which encircle it and cut if off from the rest of the mainland. This little village is famous for rock climbing, but is often overshadowed by nearby Railay Beach — also famous for rock climbing, but significantly more developed. 

Tonsai has an impressively laid-back atmosphere and is full of adventures and adventurers. Generators run the place for a few hours at night, after that its mosquito nets, sweaty nights, and a lot of peace, quiet, and dark.

The sun setting behind two boats in the harbor at Railay Beach Thailand
Tonsai at Sunset

How to get to Tonsai

To get from Koh Yao Noi to Tonsai, you’ll need to get back on a boat. You’ll need to make your way to Koh Yao Noi’s Tha Khao Pier to take off on a long-tail boat to Tonsai via Ao Nang — the nearby mainland beach accessible by road. The trip hugs the limestone coast and is as stunning as the final destination. These departures are pretty haphazard but you should be able to get info on timing the day before you want to leave.

Where to stay in Tonsai

A beach “village” run by generators is for the rough and ready traveler, The adventurous amongst us. Budget is the name of the game here, and in terms of location there aren’t many options — cliffs on three sides, the ocean on the other, what you see is all you get.

Budget accommodation in Tonsai 

For budget travelers, Garden View Resort Tonsai is a good choice with comfortable rooms and sea views from about $25 per night.

Mid-range accommodation in Tonsai

Tonsai Bay Resort is a great answer to mid-range accommodation with hotel-like rooms starting around $55. The property has private bathrooms for each room with hotel showers (a luxury in Tonsai).

Luxury accommodation in Tonsai

This really isn’t the place for true luxury, but Tinidee Hideaway is as close as you’ll get. It’s a 3-star resort with air conditioning and private bathrooms. There’s also a pool shared by guests at the property. Nightly rates start around $130.

longtail boat in Thailand docked at the beach
Tonsai Beach

What to do in Tonsai

There’s not a huge amount going on here. But there are rocks, and there is the sea. So that’s where you’re gonna get any kicks during your stay. You could also just lay on the beach and read (or sleep) don’t let the active climbers make you feel ashamed — I’m rooting for your laziness!

Rock Climbing

Tonsai is a rock climber’s paradise and you’d be silly not to climb at least once. Whether you;ve never been in a harness or if you’re a widely experienced buff climber, there is a climb for you here. The limestone cliffs are unreal and you’ll see people climbing all over them all day. I’d climbed a small handful of times before visiting Tonsai, but only ever in a gym. So I was pretty novice. For novice climbers like me, you’ll go over to Railay to climb. The Tonsai climbs are more suited to experienced climbers. 

That being said, you can book for either location and all levels at either beach — and likely you can just book at your accommodation. Most climbs can be booked last minute, but if you want to book in advance, take a look at The Rock Shop Tonsai which offers courses for all levels starting at about $32 for a half day. These, along with full and multi day courses can be booked via their online enquiry form.

At the top of a climb near Railay Beach in Thailand
Rock climbing in Tonsai

Snorkeling

I told you there would be better opportunities for snorkeling, here they are. From Tonsai you can book a snorkeling day trip — in the same manner as you booked your rock climbing trip, at the beach or at your accommodation. You can choose to either do a trip around four islands which are; Chicken Island, Tub Island, Podah Island, and Phanang cave. This is what I did. The other option is the HONG group island tour which includes five islands: Ko Sa Ka, Ko Lao Riam, Ko Pakka, Ko Lao La Ding, and Ko Hong. I’ve done a decent amount of snorkeling and I think this is the most impressive I’ve ever been. The sea life you can see as you just float along the surface of the water is pretty remarkable. 

The coral reefs are bright and beautiful. You can see lots of tropical fish like Nemo — the clownfish. My highlight though was seeing a barracuda, a not unscary looking fish to swim next to.

A few tips: Generally, the trips include lunch on one of the small islands in the area as well as snorkeling gear and transport on the boat. The snorkeling masks are very questionably cleaned, I’d recommend picking up your own snorkel at one of the little shops in Railay or packing one for your trip. 

Relax on the Beach

I’m telling you, don’t let the all-day, everyday climbers intimidate you, drink that beer on the beach, take a nap, don’t move for hours — I see you and I admire you for it. There aren’t lots of beaches that you can access without having to get on a boat again, but the ones that are there are out of this world stunning. Phra Nang Beach, which is walkable from Railay (which is in turn walkable from Tonsai) has amazing white sand and stunning limestone features. There are lots of climbers out here as well. From the beach you can also explore the intriguing Princess Cave. 

At Railay Beach you have two options — go east or go west. West Railay is a bit calmer, it’s what you’ll first happen upon on your walk from Tonsai. From there East Railay is a bit livelier (all of this being relative of course) and where you’ll find more bars, restaurants, and hotels. Or you could just toss it all and not move from Tonsai where the beach is just as divine as could be. It is expansive, and other than the longtails coming in it is quiet. The water is beautiful for a swine and all the accommodation, bars, and restaurants are within arms reach. 

view looking out from inside a save to the beach and the sea
Railay Beach

Kayaking

Like all of the other things to do here, arrange to rent a kayak from one of the beach kiosks or right at your accommodation. Depending on how far you want to venture, you could pop over to Railay by sea and explore the stunning coast — make your way down to Princess Cave, or go to Ao Nang — a longer paddle. 

Health Precautions in Tonsai

I am under no illusions that food poisoning is anything but very common amongst foreign travelers across southeast Asia, but by the time I took this trip I had been living in the region for nearly two years and my stomach was solid steel. Tonsai still took me down, and then it took my partner. 

We ate almost every meal at the same place — where we were staying, and then we ate one somewhere else, while the power was out. Which meant, no generators, no cooling. Food poisoning. This one was a rough one. A few days in the bathroom, at least one day of both ends at once, and then a UTI on top of it all (unrelated of course to the food but likely related to the bathroom conditions). It’s gonna happen, just a word of warning to maybe be extra cautious here.

Koh Jum — The Barefoot Island

Koh Jum, often referred to as “Barefoot Island,” and also known as Koh Pu, is a serene and lesser-known gem in Thailand. Let me be real, I spent my time on Koh Jum in close proximity to the toilet due to the previously mentioned food positing acquired in Tonsai. And as I moved away, my travel companion moved in. But it was a perfect place to do nothing but lay on the beach regaining strength and bodily fluids. We did, though, get some time on a motorbike and on the beaches (what we would’ve done anyways, just maybe a bit less of it…)

The tops of the palm tress on Koh Jum Island
Koh Jum

How to get to Koh Jum

To get to Koh Jum from Tonsai, you’ll first need to get back to Ao Nang by longtail. From Ao Nang, you can catch the ferry to Koh Jum. You can get your tickets for this trip from those some all-service kiosks on Tonsai, or you can buy them in Ao Nang. This scenic 40-minute journey costs around 650 baht per person. You’ll be on a boat headed ot one of the bigger islands so you won’t get dropped off right on Koh Jum, rather you’ll need to jump onto (kinda literally) a longtail to bring you in to shore.

Where to stay on Koh Jum

Koh Jum definitely isn’t huge, but it does still have a few areas to choose from. North Shore is super peaceful and has a number of cozy bungalows and really lovely beaches. On the other hand South Beach has much more upscale options.

Budget accommodation in Koh Jum

Starting at just about $20 per night for a private bungalow, Season Bungalow is right on Golden Pearl Beach. There’s a restaurant and a bar, each bungalow has a small private terrace and a private bathroom.

Mid-range accommodation in Koh Jum

Starting at $30 per night, Oon Lee Bungalows offers beautiful spacious private spaces with mosquito nets, private balconies and bathrooms. The property is beachfront and breakfast is included in all rates. 

Luxury accommodation in Koh Jum

For something a bit more indulgent, check out Koh Jum Delight Beach which has a private swimming pool for guests. A/C huts with private bathrooms and TV start around $80 per night.

one boat floating in a deep blue sea near a rocky shore
Koh Jum

What to do on Koh Jum

Yes, I was sick, but I still got up a few times and did some exploring. I am a hardened traveler after all!

Enjoy the Beach

Let me tell you again, the beaches on Koh Jum are superb. Being sick here wasn’t the end fo the world because all I did was lay on the beach, but why would I want to do more? The Water is super clear and refreshing and it’s pretty calm without any major current close to shore. I lay out on Golden Pearl Beach quite a lot. The beach is public, despite it being in front of the resort — but the resort is also a great place to get some food and drinks. 

Rent a Motorbike

Ok, I didn’t just lay on the beach. We did get a motorbike to explore the island (surprise — rent a motorbike, I know!). Same as before, you can rent a motorbike right from your accommodation and then use it to cruise around exploring other beaches and the local villages. There are some pretty rough roads around the island — and it is a fairly mountainous island, but these (very) back roads are still super fun to explore, just take them slow so even if you do fall over, it’ll be a slow fall!

Visiting Local Villages

On such a small island you could probably manage to stop in at every single local village. I can’t think of anything better than stopping your motorbike, getting a smile from across the road and a smile to come over and have a beer, a bite to eat, a laugh in a language you speak not a word of. Go and see what you happen upon. But whatever you do, make sure to enjoy some of the delicious fresh seafood that’s caught daily.

Koh Lanta: The Big Island

I told you I didn’t go anywhere I’d heard of and I had indeed heard of Koh Lanta, but I needed to pass through some gateways to get to other spots I was headed for. Koh Lanta though is a really nice spot, it’s significantly bigger than the other spots on this island hopping itinerary and as such has a good bit more to do and more options of places to stay.

A sunset over the water off shore of Koh Lanta Thailand
Koh Lanta

How to get to Koh Lanta

The first step to get from Koh Jum to Koh Lanta is to get back on that longtail to go just off shore and wait for the ferry to arrive. You might be bobbing for a while. We were and took the opportunity to strip off our layers and go for a quick swim. 

Once the ferry passes you’ll hop on for the direct journey to Koh Lanta. It’s about 30 minutes then on the ferry which you can book at your accommodation for around 400 baht. 

Where to stay on Koh Lanta

There are plenty of good options for areas and places to stay in Koh Lanta. Here are a few of them. 

Long Beach: Long Beach is on the west side of the island and has some of the best sunsets you might ever see. There are loads of restaurants and bars and plenty of different options of accommodation at varying price points.

Kantiang Bay: Kantiang Bay is down towards the southern end of Koh Lanta and it is a very laid-back area. It has amazing clear waters and beautiful clean beaches. If you want to be a bit away from any of the chaos and are looking for something quiet, this is a good area to consider. 

Saladan: Saladan village is the main population center on the island. Many ferries come and go from here, you’ll also find the majority of services, shops, and restaurants here. It’s a convenient base to stay and there is plenty going on. 

long tail boats along the beach in Thailand
Koh Lanta

Budget accommodation in Koh Lanta

On the west coast, check out Cat Bungalow which has rooms starting from around $20 per night. These are motel-style buildings with individual rooms and private balconies with small hammocks. 

Mid-range accommodation in Koh Lanta

A bit farther north, just a stone’s throw from Long Beach, Fill – Feel @ Long Beach Resort has really nice comfortable hotel-style rooms with private balconies. Rates start around $45 per night.

Luxury accommodation in Koh Lanta

At Lanta Palace Beach Resort & Spa you can get a beautiful, expansive private villa starting around just $220 per night. The property has a pool, is beach front, and is adults only.

What to do on Koh Lanta

Rent a Motorbike

Exploring Koh Lanta by motorbike gives you freedom to discover every corner of this bigger island. This is one of the islands where having transport will truly be quite beneficial as it is on the bigger end of the Thai islands spectrum. Once you’ve got wheels, go exploring, per usual.

Explore the Markets

Spend time explring the local markets across Koh Lanta — there are a few and your accommodation can advise which ones are nearby. But the biggest night market (night markets are always great fun) is in the center of Saladan Village, on Saladan Pier and along the main street. The night market starts as the sun starts to set and runs until late. It’s a great place to get food — and try new dishes you’ve never heard of. You can also pick up plenty of little trinkets and some very unique souvenirs if you hunt hard enough.

Take a Cooking Class

I hate cooking but I love cooking classes. We took a really fun one in Koh Lanta at Lanta Thai Cookery School and had a great and educational day. The lunchtime course includes four dishes, which you can eat or take home, as well as transport to and from your accommodation, for 1,500 baht per person. We also got a little cooking book to take home (which I used later on to pretend like I had a clue how to make Thai food). 

Explore Waterfalls

In the interior of the island, check out Mai Kaew Cave, and then go to the nearby Khlong Chak Waterfall. Unfortunately, to get to the cave the easiest way is to pass through private property. Though the cave itself is public, the family that owns the private property will only let you pass if you pay for a tour guide. An alternative to the cave is hiking to Khlong Chak Waterfall. Jackson, of Journey Era, does a great job of outlining the route, so I’ll point you towards his post on the trek.

Support Lanta Animal Welfare

On Koh Lanta you can visit the dog shelter — Lanta Animal Welfare, you are welcoemt o volunteer time playing with the animals. Volunteering at an animal shelter is an excellent way to give back to a community. Volunteering at a school or an orphanage for a hot second when you have no relevant skills, is not. There is plenty that Lanta Animal Welfare would be more than glad for you to do including cuddling kitties, walking dogs, and cleaning. If you’re about what volunteer work is appropriate, and ethical, I highly recommend you take a moment to read Two Dusty Travelers information about ethical voluntourism.

cat close to camera lying on beach
Koh Lanta beach cat

Trang: The Place you Definitely Haven’t Heard Of

Ok, we are fully back in the “never heard of it” spots. And now we’re not island hopping anymore. This was a final stop over to break up the journey to Kuala Lumpur, and it was a hit. Trang was a great little undiscovered, entirely local city to spend a few days in. It’s the main city in the province of the same name in southern Thailand. The jungles around the city are lush and amazing, plus the city — with so few tourists — is impressively authentic and raw, a total, true, hidden gem.

Bridge through the forest in Trang Thailand
Thung Khai Botanical Garden in Trang

How to get to Trang

To travel from Koh Lanta to Trang, you’ll need to take a combination of ferry and bus. First, you’ll need to get a ferry from Koh Lanta to the mainland of Krabi. From Krabi, various bus services are available to take you to Trang. The journey typically takes around 4-5 hours. You can also book the entire thing from your accommodation in Koh Lanta which will include a minivan to the ferry then a minivan again on the other side.

Where to stay in Trang

There’s not a huge range of accommodation in Trang, it’s really not a touristy town. And what is available will not be catered to western tastes. I hope you can enjoy it anyways! 

Budget accommodation in Trang

For a whopping $8 per night you can stay centrally in downtown Trang in a bed in a mixed dorm room at Sleeper House. There’s wifi at the property and private rooms with shared bathrooms starting around $15 per night. 

Mid-range accommodation in Trang

You can get a private room at the well-appointed Nara Residence which is also centrally located in Trang for about $40 per night. 

Luxury accommodation in Trang

There really just isn’t luxury accommodation in Trang city. Now, if you want to extend to Trang province you can find spots like Andalay Beach Resort Koh Libong which, while stunning, is actually out on one of the islands in the province and is nowhere close to Trang city.

Ton Te Waterfall in Trang Thailand
Ton Te Waterfall

What to do in Trang

Explore Trang Town

Trang town is authentic. You may not see any other western tourists. Make sure to visit Wat Tantayapirom and Wat Phu Khao Thong. I greatly enjoyed just walking around and popping into little shops. This is a very functional city. I actually got my prescription glasses filled here. Nifty little trick — get your prescription written at home, the numbers are universal, but the cost for lenses and grames is a fraction overseas.

Try the Night Markets

Trang’s night markets, including Trang Walking Street Market, come alive in the evenings. Make sure to try Trang’s famous roast pork and the fresh seafood dishes. If it were up to me I’d say you should go to the night market every night you’re in town.

man with a blue backpack walking through a night market in Thailand

Visit Thung Khai Botanic Garden

Thung Khai Botanic Garden is about 15 – 20 minutes on a motorbike out of Trang town. It’s one of those places that would be dripping with selfie sticks, but it’s not. There’s a walkway which wraps through the treetops and it’s gorgeous, and relaxing. The gardens are an oasis of tropical flora spread across 400 acres. There are exotic orchids and a variety of native plants.

Go to Ton Te Waterfalls

Another 45 minutes of driving from the Botanic Gardens to Ton Te waterfalls. Ton Te Waterfalls is another spot with virtually no other people, just peace and quiet. It’s inside lush rainforest which you’ll need to go on a short hike through to reach the beautiful, crystal-clear waterfalls.

I encourage you to spend a few days in Trang, even if it feels less glamorous than island hopping – it’s truly so much fun to dig into the culture here.

I write for a living. If we ever meet you’ll quickly learn that I don’t struggle to come up with words. That being said, I always struggle to find the right thing to say to express how special this part of the world is. I hope you have so, so much fun on your Thai island hopping adventure. There is so little in life like this. 

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