KOH PHANGAN…WORTH A VISIT?
Where is Koh Phangan?
Koh Phangan is located in the province of Suratthani in the southern gulf of Thailand and is part of the group of islands that make up the Samui Archipelageo; a group of over 40 islands fashioned in granite from age old igneous formations. The provincial capital is also called Suratthani and acts as the main overland hub for transportation to the islands. Koh Phangan is 70 km from mainland Thailand and approximately 12 km from Koh Samui, which acts as the key gateway to Koh Phangan.
Getting there
There is currently no airport in Koh Phangan, so the best way to get there is by ferry or speedboat. From Koh Samui, the shortest crossing point is from the Bophut and Maenam area. The only direct service to Haad Rin (at the southerly tip of the island) is the Haad Rin Queen (50 mins & costs THB200 per person for a one way trip). The Songserm Express (45 mins) runs from the main port of Nathon on Koh Samui to Thongsala on the north-western tip. Speedboats are quicker but understandably are somewhat more expensive (approximately THB7,000 – 10,000 per boat for a one -way trip).
Seasonailty
Peak season = Last 2 weeks in December and 1st 2 weeks in January + Full Moon (every month). High Season = January, February, March, July & August. Low season = May, June & November (monsoon).
Where to stay?
Phangan Bayshore Resort (www.phanganbayshore.com) is located on the island’s most vibrant beach, Haad Rin (Sunrise), where the famous Full Moon Party takes place each month. This popular 3*+ resort offers over 80 metres of beautiful beach and is less than 5 minutes from the ferry pier to Koh Samui, close to the main shopping area, restaurants and bars. Of course, the Full Moon Party only takes place over a few days each month and the beach looks completely different for the remaining 25 + days!