Koh Phangan - Laidback and full of fun

Koh Phangan has been famous for its Full Moon Party for many years but today the island has much more to offer visitors. Located about 14 km north of its bigger sister island of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan remains a laidback haven for backpackers however in recent years it is attracting the more upmarket traveller. It is said that the island is about 10 years behind Koh Samui in terms of development but in many ways it is catching up. There are now several opulent 5-star resorts on the island and many new modern luxury holiday villas available for rent.

What to do in Koh Phangan?

Apart from the famous (and some may say infamous) parties Koh Phangan provides a whole slew of interesting attractions and activities for travellers. The beaches here like Bottle Beach, Haad Salad and Thong Nai Pan Yai are absolutely amazing and generally less crowded than those on neighboring Koh Samui. Much of the island is still covered in mountainous forest and there are many hiking trails leading to viewpoints and waterfalls that are well worth the effort. Some of the activities available include scuba diving, boat trips, trekking, cooking classes, yoga lessons, or simply relax on the beach.

Rent a deluxe villa on Koh Phangan

When you are on a holiday, comfort is everything you are looking for and more than that is peace of mind. If you are that kind of person, you should look for Holiday Villas to rent in Koh Phangan. Today there are many options available from still the quaint little traditional huts to large contemporary luxury holiday villas. Most villas will offer stunning sea or mountain views and come with a private pool. The more upmarket villas will provide exceptional services such as personal chefs, indoor gyms, jacuzzis, full western kitchens, sunbeds/chairs and of course Wifi. After a long day of partying these comforts can be very welcome to the weary traveller.

Ban Tai Beach, Koh Phangan

Located just south of the port of Thongsala, Ban Tai beach is one of the longest stretches of golden sand on Koh Phangan. It is relatively easy to find a quiet spot to soak up the sun, take in the views, or simply read a book lying in a hammock. Once the sun sets you can take long solitary walks enjoying the beauty of the setting sun and basking in the views of the Koh Phangan and the Haad Rin Peninsula.

Ban Tai villas

Ban Tai offers a host of holiday rental options for the travellers who wish to get away from it all and explore the beach in privacy and comfort. You can choose to stay in a studio or a cottage if you are travelling with your family and friends. Apart from providing all modern facilities for a comfortable stay, these vacation rentals are ideal for experiencing the local life. The vacation rentals in Ban Tai are also convenient for those who wish to stay over an extended period of time.

Activities on the Ban Tai beach

The Ban Tai area has a fair share of day spas and yoga centres for alternative healing and detoxifying the body. You can pamper your body, mind and spirits to an ultimate rejuvenating experience in some of Thailand's most exotic spa resorts. You can also visit some interesting ancient temples in the vicinity. These temples are not just great historical and spiritual places but are also the focal point of the Thai community and so there are generally temple fairs, markets and stalls nearby. When there is a special festival there is much singing and dancing.

• Wat Poh
  Located at the start of the Ban Tai to Thong Nai Pan Road, Wat Pho is known for its traditional herbal steam sauna. Natural herbs such as lemongrass and other Asian remedies are heated by a log wood fire creating steam that is filtered into the sauna. The herbal system has many health benefits such as reducing high cholesterol, improving skin conditions etc.
• Wat Khao Tam South East Ban Tai Temples:
  Wat Khao Tam is not actually a temple in the true sense of the word though there are some monks who live here. The temple serves as a Buddhist Meditation Centre in the Theravadin tradition.
• Wat Phu Khao Noi:
  This is the oldest temple on the island and is located just outside Thongsala. It encompasses some really impressive ancient buildings and Chedis. From here you can take in the amazing views of the island and beyond.

You can rent a boat and sail away to explore the neighbouring islands. Fishing trips can also be arranged.

The crescent shaped Haad Rin beach, which hosts the world famous full moon party, is within easy distance of Ban Tai. The party begins at dusk when the yellow moon casts its spell on the white sand of the beach. Come twilight and thousands of lamps are lit and the beach is nothing less than a fairytale setting. As the evening progresses the beach turns into a dancing frenzy with both national and international DJs setting the crowds rocking to their beats. Besides there are jugglers and fire eaters adding their bit to add to the show and if you are tired out, there are countless varieties of food to satisfy the taste buds.