How to Organize a Two-Day Trip to Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is an island in southeast Thailand that offers many delightful experiences. Although primarily known for its once-a-month Full Moon Party, a dusk-to-dawn celebration at its southmost tip in Haad Rin attracting scores of global revellers, the island is also blessed by nature endearing it to visitors. Here are some useful tips on organizing a two-day trip that will leave you with many vivid memories of this special place.

About Koh Phangan

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Phangan offers loads of fun and thrill to those seeking the exciting vibes of the Full Moon Party and the vibrant nightlife. However, for those seeking a quiet stay, plenty of relaxation and being close to nature, there are intriguing things to do on Koh Phangan Island, be it solo travellers intent on exploring its quintessential beauty, couples wanting privacy or families looking for togetherness and bonding. 
The serene beaches, sparkling waterfalls, unexpected viewpoints and verdant jungles sit like a beautiful veil adding character and enchantment to this island. 

The best time to visit

As an island enjoying a tropical climate Koh Phangan is warm and sunny throughout the year. However, for those seeking quiet times by the beach or planning to explore the breathtaking underwater world, travelling during the dry months on the island is best.
December to March are the best months with temperatures hovering between 25 to 32 degrees centigrade, clear skies and great visibility for enjoying snorkelling. December and January are the peak visitor arrival months.
March up to May – This period becomes gradually warmer.
Late May to November – Rain showers come down often during this period, however, visitors enjoy even this season as the island looks fresh, green and inviting, with fewer visitors and tempting hotel deals.

Getting into and around Koh Phangan

The best way to get to Koh Phangan is to arrive by air in Koh Samui and take the ferry to Koh Phangan. Although there are no direct flights to Koh Samui, many visitors travel via Bangkok to Koh Samui and use the ferry service which is approximately half an hour.
Getting about in Koh Phangan is best done by renting a scooter if you hold a valid license. It is convenient, cheap and faster. The other alternative is the shared taxis or songthaews. These may not be as efficient as scooters, however, are reasonably priced.

Experiences for a 2-day visit

Even for a short stay of 02 days, many things can be experienced based on your interests and preferences. Read on for suggestions from which you can make your specific plan to appreciate the natural wonders one can witness here.
•    Serene Beaches and viewpoints – Enjoying these serene beaches can be done in any order you may want; these are best experienced during the early part of the day.
Haad Khom Beach – Down a small road with a few houses and you come upon gorgeous sand and boulders leading to a beach lined with palm groves. The single café here provides smoothies and lunches for a relaxed bunch of peaceful beach lovers.
Mae Haad – Mae Haad is an Instagram-worthy beach with pristine sands and clear blue waters. Koh Ma is a tiny island connected to Koh Phangan by a sandbank that can be spotted at low tide. You can get to the top of Koh Ma Island and its viewpoint offers a stunning view of the bay, Koh Ma Island and Mae Haad Beach.
Both Haad Khom and Mae Haad beaches provide many happy hours of snorkelling for keen visitors.

•    Temples - Wat Phu Khao Noi – Also known as the temple of the small mountain, this temple is situated in Thong Sala, the main town of Koh Phangan Island. It is one of the oldest and tranquil Buddhist Temples on the island. Make sure you are modestly dressed, covering your upper arms and knees when attending this serene temple. Situated atop a hill you get a lovely panoramic view from the top. This can be coupled with a beach visit or done in the early evening.
•    Ang Thong National Marine Park - This island-hopping excursion can be done by boat from Thong Sala pier, and it is best booked through experienced agents. This national park is an archipelago of 42 islands, and you get to view picturesque islands and outstanding limestone cliffs. If you are a snorkelling lover, it offers fascinating snorkelling experiences.

Image via Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas

Selecting your accommodation

Considering your accommodation for the stay is an important task. While there are many options available in Koh Phangan, you need to assess your requirements during the stay, such as the experiences you are aiming for and whether you are travelling alone or as a family.
Considering your stay is just two days, it is best to stay at a central location where you can have access to unique locations. With many possibilities present, the likes of Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas seem attractive as the property promises advance purchase and direct booking benefits that may meet some of your expectations.