Koh Phangan is an island with a well-known reputation. While it’s famous for its Full Moon Party, there’s so much more to discover beyond the neon paint and all-night raves.
Some of Thailand’s most stunning beaches, hidden waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and laid-back island vibes are all in Koh Phangan.
I visited Koh Phangan for 10 days in 2024 and found that there is no shortage of things to do in Koh Phangan – and even a 3-day trip barely scratches the surface of what this island has to offer!
In this 3 Day Koh Phangan itinerary, I’ll share exactly how I would spend 3 days in Koh Phangan on my first visit. I’ll go over where to stay, how to get around, and exactly what to do each day—whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both!
If you’re short on time, this itinerary will help you hit all the highlights of Koh Phangan, ensuring an unforgettable trip to one of Thailand’s most incredible islands.
How to Spend 3 Awesome Days in Koh Phangan: A First-Timers Guide and Itinerary
Where to Stay in Koh Phangan
If this is your first trip to Koh Phangan, you are probably wondering where to stay!
Koh Phangan isn’t that big, but getting across the island can take some time. And the more time you spend moving around means less time having fun!
If this is your first visit to Koh Phangan, I recommend staying in the Baan Tai or Thong Sala area. These neighborhoods offer a central base for exploring the island, especially if you plan to navigate by motorbike.
Although Baan Tai and Thong Sala aren’t major sightseeing spots, they’re home to a variety of restaurants, markets, and essential services.
If a more beachy vibe is what you’re after, consider the west side of Koh Phangan, near Haad Yao or Haad Salad. These areas have a laid-back vibe, ideal for relaxing by the shore.
For a resort-style experience that’s family-friendly, or if you’re looking for a couple’s retreat, Thong Nai Pan is worth considering.
And if you’re only coming to Koh Phangan for the full moon party, then staying right there in Haad Rin makes the most sense.
We personally stayed in all four areas around Koh Phangan, but our favorite accommodation was Yangyai Garden Lodge in Baan Tai. But it’s really only convenient if you have a motorbike, as other transport options can be less accessible.
How to Get Around Koh Phangan
The best way to get around Koh Phangan is by motorbike since you’ll have the freedom to go anywhere at your own pace. Motorbike rentals in Koh Phangan start at around 250 baht per day.
But don’t worry if riding a motorbike isn’t your thing. Songthaews are Thailand’s version of shared taxis, and they’re the most common form of public transport in Koh Phangan. They cover all the major tourist areas, so chances are you’ll find one heading in your direction.
To catch a songthaew, wait by the roadside and flag one down when it passes. Tell the driver your destination, and they’ll quote you a price. Prices typically range from 100–400 baht per person, depending on the distance.
Don’t be afraid to haggle with the Songthaew driver if you feel the price is too high. But if you find yourself looking to explore less popular areas, Songthaews may be harder to track down, and you’ll have less negotiating power.
Koh Phangan Day 1: Beaches, Lounge, and Sunset Vibes
Welcome to your first day of your 3-day adventure on Koh Phangan!
After your journey, it’s natural to feel a bit tired, so we’ll kick off your adventure with a relaxing beach day on the west side of the island.
Today’s itinerary will allow you to explore some of the island’s most beautiful beaches while still leaving plenty of time to unwind!
Brunch at What’s Cup
If you arrive in the morning, a healthy brunch is a great way to kick off your day.
I recommend stopping by What’s Cup, a cafe known for its flavorful western-style breakfasts. They offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, so there’s something for everyone.
Located on a hillside, the cafe has stunning views of Haad Yao Beach, making for a picturesque setting to enjoy your meal.
In addition to their tasty dishes, they have a fantastic selection of cold drinks and smoothies—perfect for the warm Thai climate. Not only are the views amazing but the food is delicious too!
Swim at Secret Beach
After you’ve fueled up on some great food, it’s time to hit the beach!
For your first stop, I recommend Secret Beach. It’s just a seven-minute walk or a two-minute motorbike ride away.
Like most beaches named “Secret Beach”, this beach is not so secret, but it remains one of the top spots on the west side of Koh Phangan for a swim.
If you visit during high tide, you’ll be greeted with lovely sandy and clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Just a heads-up: at low tide, you’ll find more exposed coral, so it’s wise to check the conditions before diving in. Enjoy the sun and the stunning scenery!
Snack over water at Koh Raham
For your next destination, get ready to be completely swept away!
Directly next to Secret Beach, you’ll find Koh Raham. It’s one of my personal favorites on Koh Phangan.
What sets Koh Raham apart is its unique decor, crafted entirely from sea debris.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an artistic blend of nets, ropes, and colorful fishing floats that hang from the canopy. It gives the place a real laid-back bohemian vibe. There’s also a bunch of nice hammocks you can relax in, and even a nice place for swimming!
This wonder of a place is actually a beach bar! It’s perfect for grabbing lunch and sipping drinks to your heart’s delight.
While you’ll notice that prices are a bit higher than at many other island eateries, in my opinion, Koh Raham’s setting and ambiance make it worthwhile. Especially if you’re in search of a picturesque, Instagram-worthy spot. Enjoy the view and the relaxing vibe!
Unwind at Salad Beach
After taking in the laid-back vibe at Koh Raham, it’s time to head to Haad Salad, also known as Salad Beach. This beautiful stretch of white sand is widely regarded as one of the best beaches on the island and is known for its gorgeous turquoise waters.
Salad Beach has soft sandy areas with very few rocks, with a calm ocean perfect for swimming. While the water can be a bit shallow near the shore, there’s still enough depth for a good swim further out. It’s undeniably one of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Phangan.
You can reach Salad Beach with an easy eight-minute motorbike ride from Koh Raham, or if you prefer, you can catch a ride from a Songthaew along the roadside. Enjoy the beach and take a dip in the water!
Sunset with a view at 420 Club
After enjoying the tranquility of Salad Beach, your next stop is one of Koh Phangan’s coolest lounges for sunset: the Koh Phangan 420 Club.
As the name suggests, there’s a laid-back, free-spirited vibe here. The club has multiple floors and decks, ensuring plenty of spots to relax and take in the views. We found the atmosphere to be enjoyable and welcoming, without feeling overwhelming.
If you’re feeling hungry or thirsty, 420 Club serves a selection of food and drinks.
Finding the 420 Club can be a bit tricky at first. You approach what looks like an abandoned building platform. It honestly gives off some underground rave vibes.
After walking through the garage, the space opens up and you’ll walk into some of the best views on the island, overlooking the famous Koh Ma beach and sandbar. Enjoy the sunset and soak in the atmosphere!
Extra Credit: Walk the Koh Ma Sandbar
If you have some extra time, consider checking out Koh Ma Beach, located just below the 420 Club. This fabulous beach has sandbar that’s popular for sunset watching.
Additionally, there’s a reef just north of the sandbar where you can snorkel and see sea anemones, along with a bunch of other fascinating ocean creatures!
What about the parties in Koh Phangan?
You may have noticed that I didn’t include parties in the Koh Phangan itinerary. That’s because the party scene here largely depends on the day of the week or the time of the month.
If you want to party while in Koh Phangan, I recommend checking out the Koh Phangan Events Calendar to see what’s going on around the island during your time there. This way, you can easily plan to fit a party (or three) into your schedule.
Now let’s get to Day 2!
Our Free Koh Phangan Google Maps Locations
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Koh Phangan Day 2: Explore the Island’s Epic Nature
It’s Day 2 of your three-day adventure on Koh Phangan, and today we’ll be exploring the beautiful north side of the island!
Get ready for a day filled with visits to a famous national park, secluded beaches, epic viewpoints, and even a stunning waterfall. To top it all off, you’ll enjoy a fresh seafood dinner on the beach!
Expect to do quite a bit of motorbiking today, so if you’re not comfortable on a motorbike, we recommend going on a private tour instead. This way, you can fully enjoy the beautiful sights without any worries!
I recommend packing your swimsuit, an extra change of clothes, and some snacks, as this will be quite the journey—one that is definitely worth it! Let’s get started!
Grab a bite at Phangan Food Court
If you haven’t visited yet, I highly recommend starting your day with a meal at the Phangan Food Court. It’s a lively spot with a ton of food options, making it a fun place to eat.
If you’ve made some new friends along your adventures, this is a perfect spot to enjoy a meal together. Plus, you’ll find a few used clothing stalls in the market, so you can do some light shopping while you’re there.
Hike to Bottle Beach Viewpoint
Your first big adventure of the day is a visit to the famous Bottle Beach Viewpoint!
This viewpoint is regarded as the best viewpoint in Koh Phangan. It sits atop a massive rock that peeks out from the canopy and looks over Bottle Beach and the valley below.
The viewpoint is a 30-minute drive from Thong Sala into a more secluded area of the island, so if you’re not comfortable motorbiking, we recommend going on a private tour for the day or planning accordingly.
Now for the hike itself – To get there, you’ll do a short, relatively flat hike that takes only about 15 minutes. As you approach the viewpoint, the trail narrows and winds through trees and over roots. Once you reach the viewpoint area, you’ll need to scramble over some rocks to get to the top of the massive formation.
This viewpoint can be a bit challenging, so be prepared for a bit of effort—I found myself shaking a bit while climbing, but I was glad I did! The views from the top are absolutely incredible.
Read our full blog post: Bottle Beach Viewpoint in Koh Phangan: Complete Guide
Swim and sunbathe at Bottle Beach
After completing the hike to the Bottle Beach Viewpoint, it’s time to head down to the beach itself. Because why not, right?
Bottle Beach is easily one of the best beaches in Koh Phangan, but getting there is an adventure in itself.
You can’t ride your motorbike directly to the beach, as the road is quite rutted out. Your best option is to take a 4WD songthaew, which offers rides to the public for 150 baht per person.
You may get lucky and find a songthaew going down to the beach. If you see one, don’t hesitate to hop in! If not, it’s about a 20-30 minute walk down the road to Bottle Beach. However, depending on the season, songthaews may not frequently drive through the area, so I wouldn’t 100% count on one passing by.
Once you arrive at Bottle Beach, you’ll be relieved to get out of the bumpy truck and finally see what the beach has to offer. The beach is surprisingly large and, at least when I visited, nearly empty.
Don’t waste any time—jump into the water! The soft sand is free of sharp rocks and coral. It’s the perfect place to cool off after your hike.
After a refreshing swim, you can grab a bite to eat at the local restaurant on the beach to refuel for your next adventure.
Read our full blog post: Bottle Beach in Koh Phangan: Complete Guide
Namtok Than Sadet National Park
After exploring the Bottle Beach area, it’s time to make your way to Koh Phangan’s Than Sadet National Park for an exciting experience that includes a stunning waterfall and a beautiful beach!
Natural spa session at Pho Darng Waterfall
Your first stop in Than Sadet National Park is Pho Darng Waterfall!
This isn’t your typical towering waterfall. Instead, it’s a cascade that flows through a rocky basin, creating a series of natural pools perfect for sitting and relaxing.
At the base of the falls, you’ll find a larger pool where you can enjoy a swim. It’s an easily accessible spot that’s fun whether you’re exploring solo or with a group.
To get to Pho Darng Waterfall, head to the Waterfalls Parking Area, which is a free parking lot located across the road from the trail entrance. From there, it’s just a short walk down the trail to the falls.
As you approach the falls, you’ll see the water flowing through a crack in the rocky surface, forming pools on each level as it cascades down. Feel free to follow the falls up the stream—just when you think you’ve reached the top, you’ll discover that the stream continues further into the wilderness!
Read our full blog post: Pho Darng Waterfall in Koh Phangan: Complete Guide
Relax and swim at Haad Sadet Beach
Next, it’s time to head to Haad Sadet Beach, located at the end of Than Sadet National Park. This beach is infused with bohemian vibes and has plenty to explore. And like all the beaches on the list – it’s great for swimming!
What sets Haad Sadet Beach apart is that is has many things to do. You’ll find a thrill in crossing a somewhat sketchy, rickety bridge, which leads you to Haad Thong Reng, another beach with an interesting landscape of large boulders against the stunning turquoise waters. It’s truly a beautiful sight!
Additionally, hillside bungalows can be rented on the left side of the beach, giving it an almost Thai version of Positano charm. Take your time to soak in the vibes and explore everything this unique beach has to offer!
- Haad Sadet entry fee: 100 baht per person
Enjoy a laid-back dinner on the island
After a busy day of exploring, you’re likely hungry! Here are a few dining options to consider:
- Fresh Seafood Dinner on Thong Nai Pan Yai Beach: If it’s up to me, I’d recommend this option. At night, the beach comes alive with BBQs and fresh fish that you can choose from. They’ll cook it up for you, making for a special, romantic, and delicious evening.
- Thong Sala Local Market: If you find yourself on the south side, the Pantip Market is a great spot for a casual meal. If you happen to be there on a Saturday, don’t miss the night market, where you’ll find a wide array of tasty options.
- Sticky Island or Eat.co: If you’re on the west side, these two restaurants offer a range of delicious dishes and vegan options in a relaxed atmosphere.
Koh Phangan Day 3: Temples and Nature or Haad Rin
It’s Day 3 and your last day in Koh Phangan! Depressing, I know… but we will make the best of your last day so that you’ll leave with the best memories that will last a lifetime!
Having already enjoyed the island’s epic nature and stunning beaches, it’s time to explore some other options.
I’ll leave you with two different options for activities, so you can choose based on your travel style.
Option 1: Temples and Nature
If you’re adventurous and enjoy uncovering the island’s cultural wonders, I recommend this option for your last day in Koh Phangan.
It includes a visit to two local temples and a beautiful waterfall, providing a fun and exciting adventure that’s sure to create lasting memories. Get ready to immerse yourself in the unique culture of the island while enjoying its natural beauty!
Wat Maduea Wan
Your first stop of the day is Wat Maduea Wan, located just about 10 minutes from Thong Sala.
This temple is known for its red and white staircase, framed by two 5-headed golden serpents. It’s a unique sight, and I’m surprised it’s not more popular!
The famous serpent staircase is tucked to the right side of the main temple building, climbing up the hillside. It’s somewhat hidden at first glance, so take a moment to find it once you arrive.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb up the serpent staircase. According to legend, the Buddha left his footprint there, which is now enshrined at the hilltop temple.
Read our full blog post: Wat Maduea Wan in Koh Phangan: Complete Guide
Kuan Yin Temple
As you continue up the main road, your next stop is the Kuan Yin Chinese Temple.
This hillside temple is dedicated to Guanyin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The views from the upper areas of the temple are gorgeous, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Koh Tao!
When you arrive, the first thing that will catch your attention is the temple’s array of golden statues and intricate decorations. The vivid colors and shapes contrast against the temple’s lush green surroundings.
As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll find the main buildings of the complex.
The first building is a shrine dedicated to Buddha, which is the most ornate structure here, complete with a grand entryway and numerous golden Buddha statues inside. While you admire the intricate details of the shrine, don’t forget to take a moment to give the local temple dog a friendly pat!
At the heart of the temple complex, you’ll find the central building, which houses a shrine dedicated to Guanyin. A double staircase lined with a red path and white borders leads you up to the shrine.
Inside, you’ll the presence of Guanyin through the various feminine statues that adorn the space. While the shrine itself is rather modest, it is beautifully decorated with necklaces as symbols of devotion.
- Kuan Yin Chinese Temple entry donation: 40 baht per person
Read our full blog post: Kuan Yin Chinese Temple in Koh Phangan: Complete Guide
Paradise Waterfall
After taking in the colorful surroundings of the Chinese temple, it’s time to head back into nature and cool off at Paradise Waterfall!
Paradise Waterfall might just be one of the best spots to cool off on Koh Phangan. A small trail runs alongside the falls, leading you to its upper levels, where water cascades down the mountainside through a rocky ravine.
The pools at the base of the waterfall are clean, refreshing, and perfect for a swim. When you visit, you’ll likely see find others enjoying the water and splashing around, having a great time.
In addition to swimming, you can hike the trail to explore the upper reaches of the falls, where you can sit in the river and let the cool cascade wash over you while taking in the scenery.
The best way to reach Paradise Waterfall is by motorbike. However, be aware that the road leading to it is notoriously steep and in poor condition. If you’re not confident riding a motorbike, consider parking at the base of the road and walking the rest of the way.
Lastly, Paradise Waterfall is known to flow primarily during the wet season and requires consistent rain to remain active, so check recent reviews on Google Maps to see if it’s currently flowing.
- Paradise Waterfall entry fee: 30 baht per person
Read our full blog post: Paradise Waterfall in Koh Phangan: Complete Guide
Option 2: Haad Rin
Now that you’ve been in Koh Phangan for a few days, you can’t deny that its party culture is alive and well. It’s truly everywhere—from the clubs to the beaches and even hidden spots in the forests. Maybe you’ve got the itch to participate?
If you haven’t made it out to Haad Rin yet, today is a great opportunity to check it out!
Rin Nai Beach
Begin your day at Rin Nai Beach, which is in my opinion the nicest beach in the Haad Rin area. With its long stretch of sandy shoreline, it’s the perfect setting for a peaceful day by the water.
What you’ll appreciate most about Rin Nai Beach is its calm waters. Unlike the often rough ocean at Haad Rin, Rin Nai typically has a calmer sea that’s perfect for swimming and relaxing.
While at Rin Nai, head over to the wooden boardwalk on the left side. The boardwalk leads to a little lighthouse located just south along the rocky shore.
The lighthouse may appear to be abandoned at first glance, but what you might not know is that this spot is actually a well-known landmark among locals.
On Tuesday nights, Lighthouse Bungalows hosts a party here, transforming the area into a dance floor at the island’s southernmost point. Koh Phangan has a way of turning even the most unexpected places into party spots!
Haad Yuan Viewpoint
If you’re the hiking type and looking for a bit more of a challenge than the Bottle Beach viewpoint, then Haad Yuan Viewpoint is an excellent choice!
Most visitors hike to Haad Yuan as a day trip from Haad Rin, but you don’t need to trek all the way there to enjoy its views.
The hike begins with a climb up to the top of the mountain that separates Haad Rin from Haad Yuan, a secluded beach featuring bungalows and a handful of restaurants.
Along the way, you’ll find a rocky viewpoint that overlooks Haad Yuan and the rugged coastline of this remote area of Koh Phangan.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can continue down the trail to Haad Yuan beach itself. Just keep in mind that hiking all the way to Haad Yuan is an all-day endeavor, so if you decide to make the full trek, you may not have much time for other activities! Enjoy the challenge and the scenery along the way!
Read our full blog post: Haad Rin to Haad Yuan Hike: Complete Guide
Haad Rin Beach
Finally, let’s wrap up your day at Haad Rin!
Haad Rin is the most infamous beach in Koh Phangan, known for hosting the Full Moon Party. However, the party atmosphere doesn’t just come alive once a month — it carries every night of the year at the beach bars lining its shores.
During the day, Haad Rin has a relatively laid-back atmosphere, with a few beachgoers enjoying the sun and swimming. However, as the sun sets, the vibe transforms dramatically—fire dancers start their performances, and the beach bars come alive.
When it comes to the beach itself, the sand at Haad Rin is soft and white, though you may come across coral fragments in some areas. The water is typically clear, but it can get rough on windy days, so swimming there is sometimes a bit challenging.
Looking for more things to do in Koh Phangan?
Koh Phangan has so much more to offer beyond the highlights included in this itinerary. From secluded beaches and hiking trails to cultural experiences and water activities, the island is brimming with adventures waiting to be discovered.
If you’re looking for even more ways to experience the best of Koh Phangan, check out our complete guide to things to do in Koh Phangan. It’s packed with recommendations that will help you make the most of your time on this beautiful island!
Read our full blog post: 16 Incredible Things to Do in Koh Phangan: Complete Travel Guide
Our Free Koh Phangan Google Maps Locations
Do you need a handy map with all our Koh Phangan locations? We’ve got a Google Map with all the Koh Phangan locations in this post (plus a LOT more). Sign up in the box below and we’ll deliver it right to your inbox, plus our top tips to help you plan your Koh Phangan adventure.
Are You Following Our Koh Phangan Blog Series?
We spent 10 days in Koh Phangan and found so many things to do there—from waterfalls to beaches, temples, and hikes. To help fellow adventurers, we’ve put together guides to the best places we found. You can check them out by clicking the links below.
- Our Ultimate Guide to Koh Phangan: 16 Incredible Things to Do in Koh Phangan
- Our Koh Phangan accomodation/area guide: Where to Stay in Koh Phangan
- Our Koh Phangan Beach Guide: The 15 Best Beaches in Koh Phangan
- How to plan your trip to Koh Phangan: 3 Days in Koh Phangan: The Perfect Koh Phangan Itinerary
- The Bottle Beach Viewpoint is Koh Phangan’s most epic vantage point
- We did the Haad Rin to Haad Yuan Hike over a mountain to a secluded beach
- Our favorite temple in Koh Phangan is the Kuan Yin Chinese Temple
- Our favorite waterfall in Koh Phangan: Pho Darng Waterfall
- How to get to Koh Phangan: Surat Thani to Koh Phangan by Ferry
I hope you enjoyed our Koh Phangan 3-Day Itinerary! Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions. 🐸
