Surat Thani - Islands

Ko Samui
Ko Samui Island, one of the most famous attractions of Thailand, is some 84 kilometers east of Surat Thani’s provincial capital. It can be reached by boat from Surat Thani Town or by ferry either from Don Sak or Khanom. A 51-kilometer ring road encircles the island, which had numerous lovely beaches and bays, and is almost literally an island of coconuts and forested hills. Samui’s best beaches line the northern and eastern coasts. The most popular are Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai where, generally, attractive accommodation can be found. Besides marvelous beaches, other interesting attractions include the Samui Butterfly Park; the Monkey Center; the Hin Lat and Na Muang waterfalls; the phallic rock formations at the southern end of Lamai Bay, and a massive seated Buddha image on Ko Fan. The island’s major sea front settlement is at Na Thon where shops, restaurants and tour agents are located.

Ko Phangan
Ko Phangan, large island covering an area of 191 square kilometers, is 60 minutes directly north of Ko Samui. The island offers few comforts and can be explored by motorcycles. Hat Thong Sala, the major community of the island, is where the ferry landing and shops are located. In addition to white sandy beaches, there are also two beautiful waterfalls: Namtok Phang and Namtok Than Sadet, 4 kms and 30 kms from Hat Thong Sala, respectively. There is a mountain top temple called Wat Khao Tham where meditators may go for practice.

Ko Tae Nai
This small island can be reached within 5 minutes from Ko Phangan. High jungle-covered hills, a long stretch of golden sandy beach and thriving coral reefs are some of its major attractions. Accommodation in the form of bungalows is available. 

Ko Tao
Ko Tao is a small island to the north of Ko Phangan, which can be reached either from Surat Thani or Chumphon. There are several beautiful beaches and diving areas around the island. Simple bungalows are available. Like Ko Tarutao, Ko Tao was once a place where political prisoners were detained. Nearby Ko Nang Yuan is a coral island with a high viewpoint and long white sandy beaches.