Koh Phangan, known for its infamous Full Moon Parties, offers much more than just wild nights on the beach. I spent a few days here soaking in the vibes, and while it wasn’t perfect, the island still had its highlights.
Where I Stayed: Wanderlust Hostel
I checked into Wanderlust Hostel, which had a decent atmosphere with friendly workers. It was a great spot to meet fellow travelers, but I’ll be honest — it wasn’t the cleanest place. Still, for a short stay, the laid-back social scene made up for it.
Experiencing Muay Thai
- One of the wildest experiences was watching a live Muay Thai fight — an absolute must-do at least once. Tickets cost 800 Baht, and the energy in the arena was electric. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a class yourself. Gyms are scattered all over the island, and many offer affordable daily sessions.
The Full Moon Party
The Full Moon Party is what Koh Phangan is most famous for. It’s a massive beach party held every month in Haad Rin, attracting thousands of travelers looking for an all-night rave under the moonlight. While I didn’t attend, I heard very mixed reviews—some say it’s an unforgettable experience, while others found it overcrowded and chaotic. If you’re planning to go, just be aware that hostel prices skyrocket around this time, and accommodations fill up fast. Book well in advance if you want to stay anywhere decent!
Saturday Night Market Stroll
- If you’re around for the weekend, don’t miss the Saturday walking night market. It’s about a mile from the hostel, so you can walk if you’re not keen on renting a motorbike. The market was bursting with energy, offering everything from clothes to delicious, cheap street food. Perfect for grabbing a bite and snagging a few souvenirs.
Island Tour Misadventures
- Not every experience was a win, though. I booked an island tour through the hostel, which turned out to be a bit of a letdown. Cramped in the back of a pickup truck, we were taken to a so-called cliff jumping spot that was tough to access — some people even got hurt. I’d recommend exploring the island on your own terms instead.
Blissful Massages at Lavella Spa
One standout indulgence was Lavella Spa. It’s pricier than some other spots, but my 90-minute coconut oil massage for 1000 Baht was absolutely heavenly. After the chaos of the island tour, this was the perfect way to unwind.
Final Thoughts
I initially booked three nights on Koh Phangan but decided to leave early for Koh Tao — a decision I don’t regret. Koh Phangan is beautiful, but two nights felt like enough to get a good taste of the island. If you’re planning a trip, I’d recommend doing the same: soak up the highlights, skip the sketchy tours, and treat yourself to a luxurious massage before hopping to the next paradise.
Koh Phangan may not have stolen my heart, but it definitely gave me some unforgettable memories — both the good and the not-so-great.