Thailand, with its postcard-perfect beaches and turquoise waters, is a dream destination for many. Yet, beyond its popular shores lies a world lesser-known, islands untouched by mass tourism, offering solitude, adventure, and a peek into pristine natural beauty.

For those yearning to venture off the beaten path, here are 9 secret islands that promise to enchant even the most intrepid traveler.

1. Koh Phayam, Ranong

Dubbed “Maldives of Thailand,” Ranong’s premier island and a hidden gem 200 km north of Khao Lak captivates those seeking a unique Thai escape. This 50-sq-km island, home to just 500 residents, boasts two stunning beaches: Ao Yai and Ao Khao Kwai. With no cars, visitors explore by motorbike or bicycle, navigating narrow roads to discover cashew plantations, untouched forests, and a mangrove-rich western tip perfect for sea kayaking, offering a serene step back in time.

2. Koh Kood, Trad

This island offers numerous serene spots for soaking up the sea breeze. Its pristine white sand beaches, such as Klong Chao, Bang Bao, and Ta Tin, are a must-see. Beyond the beaches, discover hidden waterfalls like Klong Chao and Huang Nam Keaw or explore secluded bays on a boat tour. Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Thai cuisine in the quaint fishing village of Ao Salat. A standout experience is witnessing the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton at Klong Hin Beach after dark.

3. Koh Mak, Trad

Located 35 km from Trad Province in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Mak covers 16 square kilometers and boasts a 27 km-long beautiful coastline featuring white sand beaches, coconut groves, and mangrove forests. It offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and is popular for sea kayaking and snorkeling. Visitors can walk to the nearby islet of Koh Kham during low tide from the northwestern tip. Despite its tourism growth, Koh Mak still maintains a charming local atmosphere.

4. Koh Lipe, Satun

Nestled next to Tarutao National Marine Park near Thailand’s southern border with Malaysia, is an idyllic island celebrated for its three untouched beaches: Sunset Beach, Sunrise Beach, and Pattaya Beach. Despite its selection of accommodations, Koh Lipe remains a hidden gem, offering a tranquil getaway with activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping. Accessible by ferries and speedboats from various locations, including Pak Bara, Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Trang during the peak season (December–April), the island is reachable exclusively by speedboat from Pak Bara during the off-peak months.

5. Koh Tarutao, Satun

Koh Tarutao, located just north of Malaysia’s Langkawi Island, is the central jewel of a national park comprising 51 islands. With 70% of its landscape blanketed in dense rainforest, it’s an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Once serving as a penal colony from 1938 to 1948, the island now offers accommodations such as bungalows and tents through its national park headquarters. Its western coast boasts stunning beaches, while the east is rich with mangrove forests. Activities like birdwatching, hiking, and snorkeling are popular, with ferries and speedboats providing connections to Pak Bara and Koh Lipe.

6. Koh Libong, Trung

This tranquil haven boasts a rich tapestry of ecosystems, from sandy shores to dense mangrove forests, and serves as a vital habitat for the endangered dugong. Visitors can spot these gentle creatures from the Dugong Viewing Tower or Khao Batu Putei’s peak. Home to quaint fishing villages and rubber plantations, the island’s predominantly Muslim community maintains a simple, traditional lifestyle. Koh Libong is not just a sanctuary for wildlife but also a retreat for holidaymakers seeking serenity amidst nature’s beauty, offering a glimpse into the island’s vibrant birdlife and the local way of life.

7. Koh Jum, Krabi

Located just off the coast of Krabi, it offers a charming small island ambiance. Its waters can be less clear, and the beaches are not as pristine white as found in Thailand’s southern paradises, yet its unique blend of onion-domed mosques, Thai-Chinese shrines, and stilted fishing villages provides an intriguing glimpse into Southern Thai island culture. The western coast of the island features quaint beach bars and family-friendly resorts, while the northern area, known to locals as Koh Pu, hosts secluded bungalows for those seeking tranquillity.

8. Koh Yao Noi, Phang Nga

Koh Yao Noi offers the perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion, boasting not only stunning beaches but also a lush mangrove forest alive with wildlife. This island is ideal for those looking to unwind or explore nature. It’s also a hub for community tourism, offering insights into local life through interactions with the inhabitants of nearby fishing villages. Visitors can enjoy the beaches, such as Potsai, Pasai, and Long Beach, or experience local culture at Tha Khao Pier, with its markets, restaurants, and shops. For adventurers, nearby attractions like Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island are just a ferry or speedboat ride away.

9. Koh Si Chang, Chonburi

Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, offers a peaceful escape close to the busy cities of Pattaya and Bangkok. This quaint island is cherished for its tranquil vibe, pristine beaches, and stunning sunsets, along with activities like snorkeling, biking, and kayaking. Its seafood restaurants serve fresh catches daily, enhancing the culinary experience. The island’s sole town features charming, narrow streets and vibrant houses, with a ban on private cars ensuring a quiet, relaxed environment.

Offbeat Islands Waiting to be Explored

These hidden gems offer not just a retreat from the bustling tourist spots but a deep dive into experiences that are serene, raw, and immensely rewarding. For the intrepid traveler, these islands are wonderful destinations and gateways to less ordinary adventures, stories untold, and memories that linger long after the journey ends. So pack your bags, set your sights on Thailand’s lesser-known islands, and prepare to uncover the true essence of paradise.

Sources: Outlook Traveller, Hotels.com, Thai Sawasdee