Thailand's Quiet Islands: 10 Alternatives to Phuket and Koh Samui

Phuket, Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi are famous for good reason – but they can also be crowded and developed. Thailand has hundreds of islands, and many are still peaceful places of palm-fringed beaches, small bungalows and clear water. These ten islands are for travellers who love quiet and hate crowds.

The Andaman Sea

1. Koh Yao Noi

Between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi has rice fields, fishing villages and spectacular views of the limestone islands of Phang Nga Bay. Life moves slowly, and the island's Muslim community has kept development low-key. See also our luxury Phuket guide.

2. Koh Lanta

Larger and more developed than some, but still laid-back, with long beaches, a national park in the south and an old town on stilts. Great for families.

3. Koh Mook

Famous for the Emerald Cave, a sea cave you swim through to reach a hidden lagoon. The island has a handful of simple resorts and a strong local community.

4. Koh Kradan

A tiny, almost undeveloped island with white sand and coral reefs right off the beach – ideal for snorkelling.

5. Koh Lipe

Near the Malaysian border, in Tarutao Marine National Park, Koh Lipe has turquoise water and good diving. It's busier than it used to be, but the surrounding park is wild and beautiful.

6. Koh Phayam

On the northern Andaman coast near Ranong, Koh Phayam has no cars, long empty beaches and a hippie-ish, back-to-basics vibe.

The Gulf of Thailand

7. Koh Kood

Near the Cambodian border, Koh Kood has jungle waterfalls, clear rivers and some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches – with very little development.

8. Koh Mak

Flat, small and family-friendly, with coconut plantations and quiet beaches – perfect for cycling.

9. Koh Tao's quieter side

Koh Tao is famous for dive courses, but its east-coast bays are still peaceful and accessible by boat.

10. Koh Phangan's north coast

Away from the Full Moon parties in Haad Rin, the north coast has calm beaches and wellness retreats.

Planning tips

• Check the season: the Andaman and Gulf coasts have different weather patterns.
• Book boats in advance in high season, and check whether routes run in the monsoon.
• Bring cash: ATMs are scarce on small islands.
• Respect marine parks: don't touch coral and use reef-safe sunscreen.
• Comparing beach escapes? See our guides to Nusa Dua, Bali and the Seychelles.