As a natural paradise island in the Southern Gulf of Thailand,
Ko Pha Ngan serves as the perfect getaway retreat, where
one may go relaxing on quiet deserted beaches, snorkeling
and learning to dive at the distinctive island of Ko Ma,
trekking in the footsteps of Thai Royalty at Than Sadet
National Park steeped in history and culture, or seeking
adventure in the nearby Ang Thong archipelago composed of
over 40 islands endowed with pristine beaches, natural caves
and the tranquil Tha Laem Nai. Ko Pha Ngan has over 250
resorts to choose from, ranging from the budget 80 baht
a night beach hut without private toilet to luxury air-conditioned
accommodation with private swimming pool.
It's the simple beach life which continues to attract visitors
each year along with the island's reputation for full moon
parties and a hedonistic approach to life. The backpackers,
budget tourists and aging hippies are beginning to give
way to families and more mainstream tourists but the beaches
are still beautiful and undeveloped. The full moon party
scene still runs with a cast of thousands in high season
- all on the beach. Hedonists everywhere still flock to
the world's biggest beach party every month. The music from
the multiple sound systems is mostly ear-splittingly loud
trance and house, and a predominantly youthful crowd dance
'til dawn on party nights. This may not be to everyone's
taste, certainly, but it's definitely a unique cultural
experience. Other events such as the Half Moon Party and
Black Moon Party also attract large crowds. However, it
is still possible to visit the island and avoid the full
moon party altogether, with dozens of quiet, secluded resorts
and beach huts dotted all over the island for a variety
of prices. Many of the more costly resorts offer such facilities
as daily yoga, yoga teachers' training, meditation, a variety
of healing, healthy & natural therapies, spa massage
& pampering services and herbal steam rooms.
LongtailOther activities available on the island include
scuba diving with a number of companies offering very reasonably
priced training courses and excursions, snorkelling, especially
off the Mae Haad sandbar in the north west, wakeboarding,
archery, fishing, walks in the national park or simply relaxing
in the company of other farangs or the friendly locals.
