I remember the first time I stood on the beach in Phuket. Beautiful, yes, but crowded to the point of impossibility. Sun loungers lined up side by side, the noise of jet skis and touts at every turn. Is this really paradise? In my philosophy of travel, it looks different. It’s a place where you can hear the sound of the waves, not the music from the bars. Where the only footprints in the sand are the ones you left yourself in the morning.

I know that many of you feel the same way. You long for authenticity, for travel that is an experience rather than consumption. Perhaps you are already searching the internet for answers to the question of where to go in Thailand without tourists, browsing reviews of Koh Phayam and dreaming of places that have resisted mass tourism. That’s why I’m taking you to the peaceful islands of Thailand, where time passes more slowly and being offline is a luxury. Here is my personal list of seven gems – the most beautiful islands in Thailand without the crowds – that will allow you to rediscover the magic of the Land of Smiles. Shall we begin?

Why is it worth escaping the crowds and discovering the true atmosphere of Thailand on little-known islands?

Getting off the beaten track is more than just avoiding the crowds. It is a conscious choice to feel a real connection with the place, culture and nature. It is a return to the roots of travelling – to discovering, not ticking boxes. On the lesser-known islands, which remain somewhat undiscovered, you will find a peace that is now only a memory in popular resorts. Instead of chain hotels, there are family-run bungalows, and instead of international restaurants, there are small eateries where the hostess cooks the best curry of your life. It is a journey that truly changes you.

Where in Thailand has the atmosphere of the “good old days” survived without mass tourism?

The atmosphere of the “good old days” has survived in provinces far from major airports, such as Phuket and Samui. These unknown corners of Thailand can be found in the south, on the Andaman Sea, in the provinces of Trang and Satun. On the islands between the mainland and Malaysia, life goes on at a local, unhurried pace. Another such bastion is the province of Trat in the east, on the border with Cambodia. Until recently, tourism in these archipelagos was only a supplement to fishing and rubber cultivation, thanks to which such wild islands in Thailand have retained their unspoilt character.

The Andaman Sea or the Gulf of Thailand: which region to choose for a paradise-like tranquillity?

The choice depends on your preferences and the season. The Andaman Sea (Trang and Satun provinces) is a kingdom of dramatic limestone cliffs, ideal for island hopping; here you will find the paradise islands of the Andaman Sea without the crowds. However, the season here is clearly marked, and many connections and national parks close during the rainy season (May-October). The Gulf of Thailand (Trat province) has a milder monsoon season, making it attractive almost all year round. The islands here are flatter and more forested, offering a Robinson Crusoe-like atmosphere.

Feature	Andaman Sea (Trang, Satun)	Gulf of Thailand (Trat)
Landscape	High limestone cliffs (karst), spectacular rock formations.	Flatter, densely forested islands, rubber and coconut plantations.
Best season	November – April	Almost all year round (with a shorter and less intense rainy season)
Climate	Island hopping, diving, spectacular beaches squeezed between cliffs.	Slow life relaxation, ecotourism, tranquillity, proximity to Cambodia.
Access	Airports in Trang or Hat Yai + ferries. Some islands and national parks are closed during the rainy season.	Trat Airport or bus from Bangkok + ferries.

Which islands in Trang and Trat provinces offer the best escape from civilisation?

In Trang Province, Koh Kradan, Koh Ngai and Koh Mook are oases of tranquillity. This trio offers paradise-like, almost secret beaches in Thailand, great snorkelling and no nightlife. Further south, in Satun Province, lies the rugged Koh Tarutao and the tiny Koh Bulon Leh – the essence of being cut off from the world. In Trat province, the best choice would be Koh Mak, which promotes sustainable tourism, and tiny islands such as Koh Wai and Koh Kham, where civilisation seems like a distant memory.

Ranking of 7 paradise islands in Thailand – my subjective TOP list that will replace Phuket and Koh Samui

Here are my seven favourites. This is not an objective ranking, but a collection of personal experiences and places that have moved me. Each of the islands is different, but they have one thing in common: they are truly exotic Thai islands that allow you to take a break from the hustle and bustle and remind you of the luxury of peace and quiet.

1. Koh Kradan & Koh Ngai: Which of these islands has the most beautiful beach and the best snorkelling from the shore?

Koh Kradan undoubtedly has the postcard-perfect beach. In 2023, it was named the most beautiful in the world in the World Beach Guide’s “Top 100 Beaches on Earth” ranking. It is a long strip of perfectly white sand washed by turquoise water, with a view of distinctive rocks – perfect for photos and walks. However, if snorkelling from the shore is your priority, Koh Ngai wins. Just enter the water with a mask and after a few metres you will find yourself above a vibrant, well-preserved coral reef. The opportunity to explore the underwater world without taking a boat is extraordinary. The choice therefore depends on what you value more: the perfect landscape or easy access to the reef.

2. Koh Mook: How to get to the magical Emerald Cave?

You can reach Emerald Cave (Morakot Cave) by longtail boat or on a tour. The key to a magical experience is to avoid the crowds – it’s best to set off with a local guide early in the morning, before the boats from Koh Lanta. You sail through an 80-metre-long dark tunnel, often holding onto a rope behind a guide with a torch. After a while, light appears at the end and you emerge onto a small, hidden beach surrounded by vertical cliffs. This is a so-called “hong” – a collapsed karst sinkhole, and the impression is otherworldly. Remember to check the tides – you can only enter the cave at low tide.

3. Koh Mak: Why is it the perfect island for an eco-friendly, car-free holiday?

Koh Mak is ideal for an eco-friendly holiday because the local community has consciously opted for sustainable development. It was one of the first islands in Thailand to implement the “Low Carbon Destination” programme. Apart from a few resort vehicles, there is no car traffic here, and the main means of transport are bicycles and scooters, often electric. There are no noisy bars, jet skis or mass development here. Instead, there are kilometres of shaded roads among rubber and palm plantations, empty beaches and family restaurants serving seafood caught on the same day. The island promotes being close to nature and minimising your footprint, which is very close to my heart.

4. Koh Phra Thong: What does a Thai island resembling the African savannah look like?

Koh Phra Thong is a unique phenomenon in Thailand. Once you set foot on land, you forget that you are on a tropical island. Its interior is flat terrain covered with grass and scattered trees, resembling an African savannah – the result of a unique ecosystem and historical tin mining. You can feel like you are on another continent here. This untouched island is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers, and the long, empty beaches in the west are a nesting place for sea turtles. It is a rugged, wild and authentic place for true explorers.

5. Koh Yao Noi vs Koh Yao Yai: How do they differ from Phuket and can you find luxury in harmony with nature there?

Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai, although within sight of Phuket, are its opposite. The difference lies in the atmosphere – the islands are inhabited by a peaceful Muslim community of fishermen and farmers. Koh Yao Noi is smaller and slightly more developed for tourism, but in good taste. When it comes to exploring Koh Yao Noi, it mainly involves leisurely scooter rides and discovering small beaches. You will find boutique resorts, yoga studios and great restaurants blended into the landscape. It is the perfect place for luxury in harmony with nature. Koh Yao Yai is larger, wilder and more agricultural, with rice fields and water buffaloes. It offers fewer accommodation options but a deeper immersion into local life. On both islands, instead of the hustle and bustle of Phuket, you will find peace, smiling locals and views of Phang Nga Bay.

6. Koh Bulon Leh: Is it worth coming here to experience authentic island life?

Yes, but only if you are looking for simplicity and authenticity rather than comfort. Koh Bulon Leh is a tiny island that you can walk around in an hour. Life here revolves around the village of the Chao Leh people (sea gypsies) and a few family-run resorts with bamboo huts. There are no roads or ATMs, and electricity is only available for a few hours in the evening. Here, you will experience true island life: walking barefoot, eating freshly caught fish and evening conversations by the light of a kerosene lamp. It’s a journey back in time to Thailand 30 years ago. If you value such experiences, you will fall in love with this place.

7. Koh Tarutao: What historical secrets does the National Park and former prison island hide?

Koh Tarutao has a dark and fascinating past. Between 1938 and 1948, it was home to a prison for political prisoners and dangerous criminals. Isolation, dense jungle and shark-infested waters made escape almost impossible. During World War II, after supplies were cut off, the guards and prisoners rebelled and formed a group of pirates who attacked ships in the Strait of Malacca. Today, as part of a national park, the island is wild and rugged. You can visit the remains of the prison, explore the jungle and mangrove forests, and stay in simple bungalows or tents. It is a place with powerful energy and history hanging in the air.

How to plan a trip to Thailand’s niche islands? A practical logistics guide

Planning a trip off the beaten track requires more effort, but the satisfaction is enormous. Logistics can be a barrier, so I have prepared some practical tips to help you organise your escape to the lesser-known Thai islands.

How to plan an island hopping route around the Satun and Trang archipelagos?

It is best to plan a one-way route so as not to waste time on return trips. The logical starting point is Trang Airport. From there, you can easily get to Pak Meng harbour, from where boats depart for Koh Mook, Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan. You can travel between the islands by rented longtail boat or local ferries. Then, from one of them, you can catch a ferry heading south towards Koh Lipe, which stops at Koh Bulon Leh. From Koh Bulon Leh, you can sail to Koh Tarutao and end your journey on Koh Lipe. From there, speedboats depart for Pak Bara port on the mainland, from where you can easily reach Hat Yai airport.

How much does it cost to hire a private longtail boat for a cruise around the surrounding islands?

The cost depends on the distance, time and your negotiating skills. A short transfer between nearby islands (e.g. Koh Mook – Koh Kradan) costs 800-1200 THB per boat. A half-day trip (approx. 4 hours) with snorkelling costs 1,500-2,500 THB, and a full-day trip (6-8 hours) costs 2,500-4,000 THB. Always talk directly to the boat owner and agree on the price in advance. In a smaller group, this is a cost-effective and flexible option. Please note that prices are approximate.

When are the national parks in the Andaman Sea closed due to the monsoon season?

Most national parks in the Andaman Sea (including Similans and Surin) close during the rainy season, usually from mid-May to 15 October. Part of Tarutao National Park (Adang-Rawi archipelago) is also closed, although the main island of Koh Tarutao usually remains accessible. The decision is made for safety reasons (rough seas) and allows nature to regenerate. Always check the latest announcements on the official website of the Department of National Parks (DNP) of Thailand before travelling during this period.

Which smaller islands do not have ATMs and require you to carry cash?

The rule is simple: the smaller the island, the less likely there is to be an ATM. You will definitely need cash on islands such as Koh Kradan, Koh Ngai, Koh Bulon Leh, Koh Phra Thong and Koh Wai. There is one ATM on Koh Mook, but it can be unreliable. Many places do not accept cards, and if they do, they charge a 3-5% commission. It is best to stock up on cash on the mainland (e.g. in Trang or Trat) or on a larger island (e.g. Koh Lanta) before heading to these small islands in Thailand.

Is there electricity 24 hours a day and mobile phone coverage on Koh Wai?

No, Koh Wai, like many small islands, does not have a permanent power supply. Electricity from generators is only available for a few hours in the evening (e.g. from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.). Mobile phone coverage can be unstable, and Wi-Fi, if available, is slow. These are ideal conditions for a digital detox.

What to do on Thailand’s hidden islands? Activities for seekers of authentic experiences

The beauty of these islands lies in their simplicity. These are not places where the calendar is bursting with “attractions”. The activity is simply being there: watching the tides, listening to the jungle, talking to the owner of a small restaurant. However, for those who need more activity, the islands offer authentic experiences that you won’t find in tourist brochures.

Where in Thailand can you find the best, undamaged coral reefs accessible from the beach?

The best, easily accessible reefs are found at Koh Ngai in Trang Province – just a few steps from the beach to immerse yourself in an underwater garden. Another top spot is Mu Ko Surin and Mu Ko Similan National Parks, although getting there requires more effort. The reef around the Surin Islands is considered one of the best preserved in Thailand and is accessible for snorkelling from the shore. It is a treasure that we must protect.

How to visit the Surin Islands and meet the Moken sea nomads without mass tourism?

To avoid mass tours from Phuket, make your way to Khuraburi Port on the mainland – this is the main base for trips to the Surin Islands. There, book a cruise with a local operator or use the national park’s transport. The best way to have an authentic experience is to stay overnight on the island in a tent or bungalow belonging to the park. This will allow you to explore the islands in the morning and afternoon when the day trippers are gone. You will then be able to visit the Moken village in a quieter, more authentic atmosphere.

On which island can you see wild dugongs and explore mangrove forests by kayak?

The best place to observe wild dugongs (sea cows) is Koh Libong in Trang Province. These gentle mammals feed on sea grass growing around the island. The best chance to see them is on a cruise with a local guide who knows where to look for them. When it comes to accommodation on Koh Libong, you will find mainly simple, family-run bungalows that fit in perfectly with the atmosphere of the island. Mangrove forests are best explored by kayak on Koh Tarutao and Koh Yao Yai. Swimming in silence through a maze of roots is a meditative experience.

Which Thai islands are best suited for a digital detox and cutting yourself off from the internet?

Islands with limited infrastructure are ideal for a digital detox. My favourites are Koh Bulon Leh (negligible coverage, limited electricity) and the austere Koh Phra Thong, where you will feel like you are at the end of the world. Koh Tarutao National Park also offers only basic amenities and poor signal. Smaller islands in the Trat archipelago, such as Koh Wai, also force you to put your phone away. In places like these, you remember what it’s like to be here and now, without constant notifications.

Travel consciously: How can your visit support local communities on lesser-known islands?

Travelling is not only about taking, but also about giving. On small islands, our presence is of great importance. Every pound spent is a vote for supporting the local economy or international corporations. The choice is ours. By travelling consciously, we have a real impact on keeping these places paradise-like and ensuring that the benefits of tourism go to the locals.

What is sustainable tourism and how can it be implemented on the Thai islands?

Sustainable tourism is travelling in a way that respects the environment, culture and local economy. The idea is to leave a place in at least as good a condition as we found it. How can we do this in practice?

• Choose accommodation in small, family-run bungalows instead of large chain hotels.
• Eat at local restaurants and street stalls, directly supporting local families.
• Reduce your plastic consumption – bring a reusable bottle with you and refuse plastic straws.
• Save water and electricity, which are scarce resources on the islands.
• Respect the local culture – dress modestly when visiting villages, ask for permission before taking someone’s photo.
• Never touch or damage coral reefs, and do not buy souvenirs made from shells, corals or animal parts.

Is it possible to find accommodation with local families (homestay) on lesser-known islands in Thailand?

Formal homestay programmes are rare on Thai islands. However, tourism here is so intimate that staying in a small family resort is like a homestay. You live in a cottage in the backyard of a family running a business, eat meals prepared by the hostess and talk to the owners. This authentic experience allows you to establish a genuine relationship and get to know local life. Look for small places with a few bungalows – this guarantees a personal approach and support from the local community.

Little-known islands of Thailand – my summary and invitation to further exploration

I hope this journey through my seven favourite islands has sparked your inner explorer. I have shown that Thailand off the beaten track is much more than Phuket and Koh Samui. It is a world where you can still find peace, authenticity and a connection with nature and people. These places invite you to slow down, go offline and journey within yourself.

Remember that the most beautiful discoveries await where the beaten track ends. Don’t be afraid to stray from the path, ask questions, explore. Treat this list as inspiration, a starting point for your own search. Because the real journey begins when you start drawing your own map. If you have your own hidden gems or questions, write to me. I look forward to hearing from you and wish you unforgettable experiences!