Thailand's islands split into Gulf and Andaman coasts. Koh Samui and Koh Phangan suit resort comfort and Full Moon Party energy respectively. Koh Tao is the dive-school capital — certifications are affordable and reefs are accessible.
Andaman favourites include Phuket as a gateway, Phi Phi for dramatic karst scenery, and Koh Lanta for a slower, family-friendly rhythm. Railay Beach near Krabi is mainland-accessible only by boat, blending climbing and lagoon swims.
November to April is dry season on the Andaman side; the Gulf is often best from February to September. Ferries and speedboats connect hubs — build buffer days around weather cancellations in shoulder months.
Bangkok (BKK) plus a domestic hop to Phuket, Krabi, or Surat Thani is the usual pattern. SnagAFlight multi-city search helps price the international and domestic legs together.
