Thailand is home of some of the most magnificent beaches in the world! However many of the islands are extremely touristy and cater more to those looking for resort vacations. So what are the best islands in Thailand for Backpackers?

1) Koh Lanta

Coming in at number 1, Koh Lanta is a very backpacker friendly destination. In fact, many backpackers I’ve met in Thailand have talked about Koh Lanta as being their favourite island and it was definitely mine too. While there is plenty of options to party on Koh Lanta, it is definitely a place to come chill out and relax. The beaches are stunning and there is always plenty of space on the sand to kick back with a book or iPod. What I really like about the island is that it is very far from being a touristy place since much of it is undeveloped. This makes for a good opportunity to rent a motorbike and cruise around the island to check out some of the local culture, amazing beaches, national park, etc. Another big reason to check out this island is to meet other cool people. Koh Lanta seems to attract a cool backpacker crowd rather than all the drunken bros on Koh Pha Ngan.

How to get to Koh Lanta – The quickest way is to fly into Krabi airport and take a ferry from there. There is also a bus from Bangkok to Krabi as a cheaper option though it takes around 12 hours to get there. If you would like to go via train from Bangkok, you can buy a ticket to Trang province. From there you can book at shuttle to get you to Koh Lanta.

Where to stay in Koh Lanta

Non La Mer Hostel – This is the absolutely best hostel to stay in Koh Lanta.. actually one of the best I’ve stayed at in Thailand! Absolutely loved the common area, really easy to meet other backpackers, amazing staff, super clean, and perfect location as just a few minutes from Long Beach. Long Beach is the backpackers area, so its a very cool spot. The hostel has a restaurant below and they will deliver amazing food to you right in the common room of the hostel for so cheap! I was supposed to stay at this hostel for a few days and ended up staying 3 weeks. That’s how amazing it is!

2) Koh Chang

Coming in at number two is Koh Chang, an island south of Bangkok not too far from Cambodia. Koh Chang is (at the moment) a bit of a hidden gem in Thailand. The island is not overrun by fancy hotels and restaurants, rather is still tucked away from the masses which makes it a popular spot for backpackers. The beaches there are pristine and it is rare that there will be people trying to sell you stuff while you are laying on the sand, which can be annoying on some of the other more touristy islands. There is one particular spot on Koh Chang where all the backpackers and expats congregate called Lonely Beach. Here you will find a strip of bars as it is the main place to party, as well as bungalows if you wish to stay in the area. If you are looking for a super chill island that attracts other like minded backpackers, Koh Chang is a great option.

How to get to Koh Chang – You can arrange a ride from Bangkok for around 400 – 500 Baht and will take approximately 7 hours to get there.

Where to Stay in Koh Chang – Pajamas Hostel is the best place to stay. It is one of the nicest hostels I’ve ever stayed at! Each dorm bed is sort of like a pod, sectioned off with curtains and your own charging station. Perfect way to get some privacy at the end of the night!

Koh Tao

While Koh Tao is most known for being a popular diving site, it also attracts many backpackers. Actually many backpackers come to Koh Tao to get certified for diving since there are so many schools on the island. When I first got to Koh Tao, it struck me as being the “Hawaii of Asia”. There is an unmistakeable super slow-moving relaxed vibe that makes it so appealing. From pristine beaches to a cool party vibe, this island has it all.

How to get to Koh Tao – Either take the train or bus from Bangkok down to Chumphon, then from there you can take a ferry to Koh Tao. Being very close to Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan, there are ferries/boats from either of these islands that can get you to Koh Tao.

Where to stay in Koh Tao – Taco Shack Hostel has a very social vibe due to their friendly owner who brings everyone together!

Well there you have it. Let your backpacker friends know of these cool islands by clicking the share buttons below!