Unbelievable, it's been almost 2 years since I first visited Koh Phayam. Together with my girlfriend, I spent some days on Thailand's 'Hippie Island' and really enjoyed it. Sometimes it's nice to get away from the monthly party hustle and bustle on Koh Phangan and enjoy a place that is MUCH more quiet. Although the trip from Koh Phangan was way longer and more difficult and than we expected, it was definitely worth it.
Koh Phayam is still relatively uncrowded, compared to the other islands in the Andaman Sea. Mass tourism is definitely not present here. The beaches are mostly quiet and empty, especially in the low season. Many times we were the only persons on the beach. The people are friendly and generally there's a very relaxed mood all over the island.
Relaxing at my favorite beach on Koh Phayam: Ao Kwang Peeb
Although the beaches on Koh Phayam are not necessarily all as gorgeous as the Trang Islands, Koh Lipe or Koh Phi Phi, they are still worth a visit. You will rarely find this quiet and idyllic atmosphere anywhere else in Thailand. Definitely unique are the sunsets at Long Beach (called Ao Yai in Thai).
Almost no other people at Long Beach (Ao Yai)
Amazing sunsets with a view at some Burmese islands
Buffalo Bay is also a lovely quiet beach
Buffalo Bay
Otherwise, there are not many other attractions/sights on Koh Phayam. The best known is certainly the Hippy Bar, where a group of Thai Rastas have recreated a wooden ship serving as a bar over many years of work. The guys are really cool and the bar is unique. You should NOT miss this bar, which is located directly on the beach of the Buffalo Bay!
Don't Forget: Get Travel Health Insurance!
To make your trip a worry-free experience, TravelFeed recommends SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. It provides comprehensive health coverage while you travel, so you can focus on exploring, not the unexpected. Get a quote here
Another sight that you could visit, but necessarily don't have to: The pier temple (Wat Koh Phayam)
Well, as I said, it's been 2 years now and I hope the island has kept its vibe during this time. I will definitely visit the 'Hippie Island' again, maybe even this year, who knows. Have you ever been there too? If so, what did you like most?
There are even beautiful viewpoints on Koh Phayam (this one with a view over Buffalo Bay)
Travel Resources for your trip to Thailand
Recommended by TravelFeed
Flights: We recommend checking Kiwi.com to find the best and cheapest flights to Thailand.
Accomodation: Explore the best places to stay in Thailand on Booking.com, Agoda and Hostelworld.
Travel Insurance: Medical emergencies abroad can be pricey, but travel health insurance is not. We always use SafetyWing for affordable and reliable coverage.
Car Rental: For hassle-free car hiring, DiscoverCars is our trusted choice with a wide selection of vehicles.
Internet: Got an eSIM compatible phone? Airalo is perfect for reliable internet access during your trip. Just install it before you go, and you're set!
Day Trips & Tours: We recommend GetYourGuide for a variety of well-organized and enjoyable activities.
Travel Planner: Need a hand planning? Our free travel planner chatbot is your personal guide to Thailand. Chat now.
Disclosure: Posts on TravelFeed may contain affiliate links. See affiliate disclosure.
