This is part 3 of a 3-series ultimate Thailand trip planning blog
for the Basics: see General Info to Know When Planning Your Trip to Thailand
for your ultimate 3-week itinerary see these blogs:
After doing a ton of research and planning, and then spending a combined 2 months in Thailand, I wanted to pass my knowledge off about Thailand trip costs and planning to anyone planning to come visit this beautiful country.
This blog is about luxe travel at affordable prices, particularly using credit card rewards to pay for hotels and flights, which offsets the trip substantially. After paying for our flights and some hotels with points, we spent $5,000 in cash on the 3-week trip for 2 people, taking private buses everywhere and staying in really nice accommodations. We ate a lot, drank a lot, and got massages 1-2x/ day. I saved my receipts and I'm going to include the pricing for everything that I have.
For the basics of planning your trip to Thailand check out this Thailand travel guide, part 1 of this 3-part blog. It contains the following info:
What’s the best time to visit Thailand?
How is the weather in Thailand by month?
How much does a trip to Thailand cost?
What are the best flights to Thailand from the USA?
How is Thailand's transportation?
How many days do you need in Thailand?
Hotels or Airbnbs?
Should I do a Thailand tour holiday package or all-inclusive tours or resorts?
Is Thailand better for groups or couples?
What are the best elephant sanctuaries in Thailand?
Is Thailand safe?
Pro Tips
This blog (part 3) contains the following ultimate 3-week Thailand itinerary, after Bangkok & below Bangkok:
What is the ultimate 3-week Thailand itinerary?
Here is a super high-tech Thailand trip map for your ultimate 3-week itinerary:
7. Koh Tao
We’re now over in the Gulf, starting at the farthest island of Koh Tao and working our way back, through Koh Phangan and Koh Samui.
Koh Tao, or Turtle Island, is a picturesque gem in the Gulf of Thailand, renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and top-notch diving spots.
Koh Tao is famous for its scuba diving and adventure sports. It has a bunch of dive sites and reefs with abundant marine life and super clear waters. Popular dive sites include Chumphon Pinnacle, Shark Island, and Sail Rock. People also come here to get their PADI and SSI certifications.
If diving is too much work for you, snorkeling spots such as Shark Bay, Mango Bay, and Aow Leuk provide fantastic underwater experiences.
How to get there $40
From Surat Thani you'll want to take a Lomprayah bus and ferry, which you can book here.
Where to stay
$90
This super beautiful resort on a cliff was recommended to me by a client and was one of the highlight hotels of my last trip. Our room was like 2500 square feet and had 3 private pools. It was almost too big. The spa and restaurant were awesome too. They’re on the beach (obviously) and weren’t crazy expensive for what you’re getting.
It’s a little ways away from the town but they have transportation and we actually just did the 40-minute walk most nights, after eating and drinking all the calories.
We paid $150 in peak season and I think this resort actually stays at the price year-round.
$150
The Jamahkiri was a little more expensive than Sai Daeng but we liked it a little more.
It's on a cliff and the rooms are more traditional looking but still huge, and very nice. The pool bar guy makes the world’s best banana coladas, which I didn’t know existed but were my new favorite drink that I’d ever had - until I went to the Gin bar in Koh Samui (more on that later).
We did a 3-hour spa experience there for $100 per person and it was not only amazing treatments but it was super fun and in a really pretty setting.
Their restaurant was a little overpriced and underwhelming, so go out to eat.
They have kayaks and snorkels so you can pop right out to the bay where the baby sharks and turtles hang out (although we didn’t see them because the visibility was low and sadly the reef was bleached). If you’re a diver, they have an on-site PADI dive center that offers courses and excursions.
We paid $170 in peak season.
$160
My #1 choice for Koh Tao, with each villa being uniquely designed, Cape Shark Villas was fully booked up when I went last time.
The resort provides personalized services, including in-villa dining, massage treatments, and excursion arrangements.
$80
This was another top choice for me on my last trip but was booked. 🙁 Nestled on a hillside overlooking Chalok Baan Kao Bay, the resort offers a range of accommodations, including cozy bungalows and spacious villas, many with private plunge pools and stunning sea views. This peaceful, romantic setting is ideal for couples, and travelers who want to take a break from the tourist areas.
The price was $247 when I looked for the 2023 peak season but I’m noticing now that it’s only $80. SNAG THIS UP right now if you’re going to Thailand.
$125
Beach Club by Haadtien is a luxurious beachfront resort located in Shark Bay with really modern, open-concept rooms and villas overlooking the turquoise waters. It’s set in a secluded area and, as the name suggests, the activities here are centered around snorkeling, diving, and kayaking in Shark Bay.
Rates were $174 in peak season.
Find more Koh Tao hotels here:
What to eat
If you’ve been in Thailand for a while and you want a good, low-sodium pastry breakfast, or good wine - or good sushi these 2 non-Thai restaurants next door to each other are your spots.
You can get wine at the French Market and bring it to the sushi place and enjoy. Signature items include the Volcano Roll and Mango Tango Roll, which are favorites among locals and tourists alike.
Basically a really good street food stall, Ming Ming’s Kitchen was recommended by various people who had been on Koh Tao for a while. We tried to go like 3x but Ming Ming is “24/7” so he just randomly closes, I’m assuming when he runs out of supplies, or just when he feels like it. We saw a lot of fresh ingredients and it looked very authentic and street foodie. Signature dishes such as Mango Sticky Rice and Massaman Curry are highly recommended by patrons.
We ended up eating at about 5 different restaurants in the area that looked just like Ming Ming’s - the food was amazing at all of them and our bill was like $2. So even if it’s closed, head over there and you won’t go wrong.
Charcoal Bay Wine & Grill is a distinguished dining spot known for its exceptional beachfront ambiance and high-quality culinary offerings. They have an extensive selection of wines and a healthy variety of grilled seafood, meats, and vegetarian options, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This is a great spot to go if you're ready to take a break from street food, and have a comfortable dining experience with quality wines.
In Touch Restaurant is one of those hippy, floor seating places you see when you're walking on the beach. It's casual and realized, and service is slow to match. You'll be seated with an open-air setting, stunning ocean views, and a menu full of fresh seafood options. Signature items include spicy Thai curries, grilled fish, and flavorful stir-fries.
What to do
This is a super high-up viewpoint and a makeshift bar. We went on a motorbike, which I do not recommend unless you have experience. The road was dicey and we fell over and ended up paying the bar owners to drive us back. There were only 2 other couples up there when we went and the driver of both motorbikes had professional experience driving them.
The viewpoint offers 360-degree views of Koh Tao, including Sairee Beach, Mae Haad Bay, and the inland jungle. And they had the most adorable puppy I’ve ever seen.
Bring $10 per person in cash for the entry fee.
Beaches
Sairee Beach is “town.” The longest and most popular beach, known for its stunning sunsets, beachfront bars, and lively nightlife. It’s a hub of activity from swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with several dive shops and schools providing easy access to Koh Tao's renowned underwater sites, to the island’s hottest restaurants and nightlife. Walk the strip and you’ll run into bars, beach parties, fire dancers, and live music. Everything you can think of on a strip along the beach. You can spend multiple days here doing everything.
Chalok Baan Kao offers a quieter retreat with calm waters, while Tanote Bay is ideal for snorkeling.
$30
This is considered the best ladyboy show on the island. The shows are known for their colorful costumes, impressive choreography, and engaging performances. The performers often interact with the audience, making for a lively and interactive experience
Get there early or buy VIP tickets (only for like $8 more) to get a good seat, especially during high season. And bring cash for tips.
We paid $30 per ticket for front-row VIP seats in peak season.
Other Activities
As mentioned, this island is famous for adventure sports. There are hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints like John-Suwan Viewpoint and Two Views, rock climbing (particularly around Tanote Bay), canyoning, kayaking, paddleboarding, diving, and snorkeling.
8. Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is famous for its monthly Full Moon Party, held on Haad Rin Beach, and attracting thousands of party animals from around the world. This all-night beach rave is wild. It’s a glow-in-the-dark party with DJs, dancing, drug-taking, fire shows, and an all-around electrifying atmosphere.
Beyond the Full Moon Party, however, Koh Phangan actually offers a tranquil side with laid back beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving. The island’s interior is covered in dense jungle, providing great opportunities for hiking, and it has a growing wellness scene.
How to get there
The ferry from Koh Tao operates daily and takes 1.5 - 2 hours. It’s a scenic trip, so bring a drink and sit on the top deck. Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran is the fastest and most comfortable option, which you can book here.
Where to stay
When I went last time I stayed in a $5/ night beach shack with no furniture. If you want to step it up here are some recos:
$215
This luxurious eco-friendly resort known for its traditional Thai architecture. Accommodations include elegant rooms, suites, and private pool villas with modern amenities and sea views, and feature a large infinity pool, fitness center, and the Ayurvana Spa. Guest can snorkel, kayak, do cooking classes, and yoga.
$129
Vannee Golden Sands Beachfront Resort is a luxurious 4-star accommodation located in Haad Rin, where the Full Moon Party takes place. The resort is praised for its beautiful pools, friendly staff, and excellent location, making it ideal for both couples and families.
For a luxurious stay with access to the famous Full Moon Party, Vannee Golden Sands Beachfront Resort offers a blend of comfort and convenience.
$350
This luxury resort features elegant rooms, suites, and villas with private balconies offering stunning ocean or garden views. The resort offers multiple dining options, including Pan Sea Restaurant and Stone Beach Restaurant, and has an infinity pool, fitness center, and a spa with traditional Thai treatments.
For more Koh Phangan hotels check here:
Where to eat
Phantip Market is a vibrant food market offering a wide variety of local Thai dishes and international cuisines at affordable prices. You can except freshly made sushi, pad thai, grilled seafood, and an array of desserts, in the context of a lively atmosphere. The market operates daily, with evenings being the most popular time for visitors.
Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar is a beachfront dining venue in Baan Tai, renowned for its fresh seafood and stunning sunset views. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, seafood platters, and traditional Thai curries. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and rustic charm, Fisherman's provides a memorable dining experience with its beautiful seaside location. The menu also features vegetarian options and locally sourced ingredients. People often report friendly service and high quality food.
L'Alcove is an elegant French restaurant located in Hin Kong. This charming bistro offers a fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine, featuring dishes such as duck confit, fresh seafood, and homemade desserts. The restaurant’s romantic ambiance is enhanced by its beautiful beachfront setting and tasteful decor, making it a perfect spot for a special evening. L'Alcove also boasts an extensive wine list, curated to complement the menu. Known for its friendly service and high-quality food, L'Alcove has become a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking a refined dining experience on the island.
Where to drink
Amsterdam Bar, located in Wok Tum, is a renowned hillside bar offering stunning sunset views over the ocean. Known for its relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, it features comfortable seating areas, a swimming pool, and live music. Its elevated position provides panoramic views, making it an ideal place to watch the sunset, and it's famous for its sunset parties.
Infinity Beach Club in Baan Tai offers a luxurious beachfront experience with its stylish design and premium facilities. The club features an infinity pool, sun loungers, and a chic bar serving a wide range of cocktails, wines, and beers. Regular events, including DJ nights and pool parties, attract a lively crowd. The beach club's sophisticated ambiance and stunning views of the ocean make it a top destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and entertainment. Infinity Beach Club also offers a restaurant with a diverse menu, adding to its appeal as an all-day destination.
The Jam Bar, located in Hin Kong, is a unique venue known for its live music and creative vibe. This open-air bar hosts regular jam sessions where local and visiting musicians come together to perform, creating a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere. The Jam Bar serves a selection of beers, cocktails, and snacks, making it a great spot for music lovers and those looking to experience the local arts scene.
What to do
Full Moon Party
This party may just be the most famous aspect of Thailand.
If you haven't heard, The Full Moon Party is a world-renowned beach party that takes place on Haad Rin Beach on Koh Phangan. This monthly event attracts thousands of travelers from around the globe, drawn by the promise of an all-night celebration under the full moon. The party is a mix of music, dancing, fire dancing and jump roping, fuck-it buckets, and drugs.
The Full Moon Party began in the late 1980s as a small gathering of travelers on Haad Rin Beach to celebrate the full moon. Over the years, it has grown into a massive event, now drawing up to 30,000 attendees during peak seasons.
The Full Moon Party is known for its electric atmosphere, with multiple stages and bars lining the beach. Each venue plays different genres of music, including techno, trance, reggae, and drum and bass, ensuring there's something for everyone. Fire dancers, jugglers, and other performers add to the festive vibe, while partygoers often paint themselves with UV-reactive body paint.
While the Full Moon Party is super fun, especially when you're younger, be careful. There are a number of drug and alcohol-related accidents, druggings, and plenty of fire injuries. and LOTS of shit getting stolen.
Also, please pick up your trash.
Beaches
Thong Nai Pan
Located on Koh Phangan’s northeastern coast, Thong Nai Pan features two stunning beaches: Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai. Known for their white sand, clear waters, and lush surroundings, they are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking.
Haad Yuan
Situated on Koh Phangan’s southeastern coast, this tranquil beach is known for its soft sand, clear blue waters, and serene atmosphere. You have 2 options to access this beach - by boat or by a challenging jungle trek. The beach features a few rustic bungalows and laid-back beach bars.
Hiking
Koh Phangan offers numerous hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and interests. For a more relaxed hike, you can explore the trails around Thong Nai Pan, which offer beautiful coastal views and a chance to see local villages.
Blue Bottle Beach
The trail to Bottle Beach is another popular option, known for its challenging terrain and rewarding views of one of the island's most beautiful beaches.
Khao Ra
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, Khao Ra is the highest peak on Koh Phangan. The trail winds through dense jungle and steep inclines, culminating in a breathtaking 360-degree view of the island.
Than Sadet Waterfall Than Sadet Waterfall is one of the most famous and historically significant waterfalls on Koh Phangan. The name "Than Sadet" means "Royal River," and it has been visited by several Thai kings, including King Rama V, who inscribed his initials on a rock here in 1888. The waterfall is located in Than Sadet-Ko Phangan National Park, which covers a large area of the island's interior.
The hike to Than Sadet Waterfall is moderately challenging, taking you through dense jungle terrain. The trail is well-marked and offers glimpses of various flora and fauna native to the island. Along the way, you will encounter several cascades and pools where you can take a refreshing dip. The main cascade of the waterfall is particularly impressive, with water tumbling down over large boulders into clear pools below. The area around Than Sadet is serene and less crowded, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Phaeng Waterfall
Phaeng Waterfall is another must-visit destination for hikers on Koh Phangan. Located in the heart of the island, this waterfall is part of the Thansadej National Park and is the largest waterfall on Koh Phangan. The hike to Phaeng Waterfall is more strenuous than the one to Than Sadet, but it rewards hikers with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
The trail to Phaeng Waterfall starts at the visitor center, where you can get maps and information about the park. The path is steep and rocky in places, requiring a good level of fitness and sturdy footwear. As you ascend, you will pass through dense jungle and may spot various wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds. The waterfall itself has several tiers, with the upper tier offering a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle and coastline. There are several pools along the way where you can cool off, and the sound of cascading water adds to the tranquil atmosphere.
Wellness
Koh Phangan is a wellness haven, offering top-notch yoga retreats, meditation centers, and wellness resorts. The island's serene environment and natural beauty provide an ideal backdrop for holistic health practices. Here are our favorites:
Located near Haad Salad, The Yoga Retreat offers comprehensive yoga programs, including Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Yin yoga. It provides various retreat packages, from a few days to several weeks, integrating yoga with meditation, pranayama, and workshops. The peaceful jungle setting enhances the retreat experience, promoting deep relaxation and personal growth.
$215
Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa is a luxurious eco-friendly resort on Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach. It features a comprehensive wellness program, including yoga classes, holistic treatments at the Ayurvana Spa, and organic dining options. The resort’s blend of traditional Thai architecture and natural surroundings creates a perfect setting for rejuvenation.
Wat Khao Tham is renowned for its meditation retreats, guided by experienced monks and nuns. Situated on a hill overlooking Ban Tai, it offers 10-day silent meditation courses based on Vipassana techniques. The center provides a serene and supportive environment for practitioners to develop mindfulness and inner peace.
9. Koh Samui
How to get there
After we got our party in at the Full Moon Party we're nearing then end of our trip in Koh Samui! From Koh Phangan it a short and sweet 30 minutes - schedule your ferry here.
Where to stay
Vana Belle is a really luxurious resort on Chaweng Noi Beach. The resort features 80 elegantly appointed suites and villas, each with a private pool and stunning sea views.
The breakfast is top tier, the ground are beautiful, and and the service is impeccable.
My only complaint is that the distance from town, paired with the self-contained nature of the resort deterred us from going into town as much as we normally would have.
We got 6 night here for 490,000 Marriott points. Our friends who stay at the same hotel didn't have Marriott points and their tab was $12,000 so I highly recommend you get a Marriott card now.
If if you're money bag, reserve the Vana Belle here with all that money that's burning a hole in your pocket.
$800
Banyan Tree Samui is another premier luxury resort renowned for its exceptional service and stunning natural beauty. Each of their 88 elegantly designed villas has its own private infinity pool and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand (similar to Vana Belle).
The Banyan Tree Spa has won various awards and offers holistic treatments that combine traditional Asian therapies with contemporary wellness practices. It's also famous for "The Rainforest," a hydrotherapy facility providing a range of hydrothermal treatments.
You can book the Banyan Tree here.
$1500
As the price suggests, the Four Seasons Koh Samui is where you come when you've made it.
This five-star resort features hillside and beachfront villas, each with a private infinity pool and stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. The resort’s lush, jungle-like setting provides a serene escape, while amenities such as the award-winning spa, KOH Thai Kitchen, Pla Pla beach restaurant, and activities like Muay Thai lessons, snorkeling, and yoga cater to both relaxation and adventure. The resort is also known for its exceptional service, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable stay.
The Secret Garden Spa - nestled within a tamed jungle, offers treatments inspired by ancient Thai rituals, and right after you treatment you can head over to the first-of-its-kind-in-Thailand Rum Vault.
You can book the Four Seasons here.
$300
Coming in at no less prestige, but a lot less money, this $300 a night resort hits all the marks.
Located in Chaweng Beach, this popular beachfront resort known for its beautiful setting and excellent service. It has well-appointed bungalows and, while they may not each have their own infinity pool like the Four Seasons, they do all have balconies. And for 1/5 of the price you can just walk downstairs if you need a beachfront pool to lounge at.
$660
Way back when, this hotel used to be the holy grail of the points game, because you could open a Hilton card and get one night anywhere in the world, and people would plan years in advance to make this one their one night.
My brother did it, and his room had the whole infinity pool, butler, giant bath that fits like 4 people, private boat to take you to and from wherever... Sounded amazing so when I went to Koh Sam last December and found out that you can't use your one night here anymore I contemplating giving up on life.
You can book the Conrad here.
$500
Six Senses Samui is a luxurious resort on the northern tip of Koh Samui, but at this point we're probably getting a little fatigued because all these high-end resorts are very similar.
The one features 66 private villas and yes - many with infinity pools. Their signature restaurant, Dining on the Rocks, is actually famous on the island - known for innovative cuisine and breathtaking views. The Six Senses Spa provides traditional Thai massages, wellness programs, and detox retreats, which many people are in need of by this point in the trip.
Six Sense actually does stand out from the rest of the #ThatchedLuxe places, for its attentive and personalized service. Each villa comes with a dedicated Guest Experience Maker (see: butler) who ensures that guests' needs are met throughout their stay.
Find more Koh Samui hotels here:
Where to eat
Coco Tam's is more than a restaurant. Its a show. While the food is rated as sub-5 star, its quintessential Koh Samui with the fire dancers on the beach and the whole vibe. Go no matter what.
Spices Cafe & Spices Bophut
The head chef of the Four Seasons, who happens to be a woman, opened her own 2 restaurants in Koh Samui - Spices Cafe & Spices Bophut. We went to Spices Cafe and it blew our minds and we also LOVED the chef. Please go here.
This Michelin star restaurant is located at Cape Fahn Hotel on a private island off of Koh Samui. You have you to take a boat to access it. Chef David Thompson offers a sophisticated dining experience focusing on the rich and vibrant flavors of Southern Thai cuisine. The menu features fresh, locally sourced seafood and ingredients, with signature dishes like intricate curries and seafood platters that highlight the essence of Southern Thailand’s culinary traditions.
Expect a meticulously crafted dining experience, enhanced by the knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the ingredients and cooking techniques used.
$100
This cooking class at a pretty luxe house owned by an English Hong Kong guy and his Thai wife. She knows how to cook and their property farm and kitchen could be a 4-star restaurant. The class was more involved than some that I’ve been to, as in, they actually make you do the work, which is cool. The food was 100% and we had a lot of fun.
They had wine there, which is hard to come by.
They had 3 kittens which was my favorite part. They were nice and we had fun but tbh Tom had no chill.
It didn’t bother anyone and I highly recommend this class, as does most of the internet. It was $80 per person in peak season when we were ther and I see that it's $100 now, which means business is good for them.
The Jungle Club Restaurant in Koh Samui is a renowned dining spot celebrated for its breathtaking views, unique jungle setting, and delectable cuisine. Perched on a hillside, the restaurant offers panoramic vistas of Chaweng Beach and the Gulf of Thailand.
The menu is all fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and their standouts are traditional Thai curries and seafood dishes. The bar offers a selection of tropical cocktails, fresh fruit juices, and an extensive wine list.
Access is via a steep road, and you should walk it if you can, bit and the restaurant offers a convenient shuttle service if you're not feeling it.
Where to drink
When in Koh Samui, you'll probably be stmbling upon many watering holes, but if you want to be intentional about it here are the top three bars:
No doubt you've seen it on Insta. This spot is known for its chic ambiance, creative cocktails, and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand. Perched high above the resort, the bar features a stylish, open-air design with comfortable seating and vibrant decor. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and a selection of fine wines and spirits while taking in panoramic ocean views, especially stunning at sunset. The bar often hosts live DJ sets, creating a lively and sophisticated atmosphere that makes it the top choice for many.
Mentioned before as a top place to eat - well guess what, it's also a top place to drink. In fact, if you're short on dinners, just plop your ass down here on a bean bag, get a drink, watch the show, and then go eat somewhere with better food.
Last but not least - my favorite bar in Koh Samui, where I had the best cocktails I've ever had in my life - no exaggeration.
Gin Run is known for its extensive selection of gin and gin-based cocktails and very knowledgable and skilled mixologists. The bar has an impressive range of over 50 different types of gin from around the world, including many that are infused in-house.
The ambiance is chic and contemporary, with stylish, Ralph Lauren-esq decor and an elegant af vibe.
The bar hosts regular events and themed nights, such as gin tasting sessions and mixology classes, so keep an eye out.
Food was super good too!
What to do
$160
Ang Thong National Marine Park is a stunning archipelago consisting of 42 islands and over 100 square kilometers of land and sea. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, the park features lush jungles, limestone cliffs, white sandy beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.
Ang Thong is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species. The marine park also boasts rich coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and other marine life. Visitors can snorkel, kayak, hike, and dive.
To see the park, you'll need to book a boat tour., which you can do here.
$50
Koh Madsum, commonly known as Pig Island, is a small, picturesque island located off the southern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. The island has gained popularity for its resident population of friendly, free-roaming pigs, which have become a unique attraction for visitors. These pigs can often be seen lounging on the sandy beaches or swimming in the clear, shallow waters, offering a charming and unusual sight for tourists.
$50
The Wild Jeep Tour in Koh Samui offers an adventurous and exhilarating way to explore the island's stunning landscapes and hidden gems. This guided tour takes participants on an off-road journey through Koh Samui's lush jungles, rugged mountains, and scenic viewpoints, providing a unique and thrilling experience.
The tour typically includes Big Buddha Temple, the Na Muang Waterfalls, and the Secret Buddha Garden.
You can book a Wild Jeep Tour here.
$82
We were really excited about this quad trip because this company had great reviews but we ended up canceling and renting a private yacht instead. Next time!
You can book a quad tour here.
$900
We did this private 1/2 day yacht trip and it was awesome.
They have full staff and a chef onboard and the experience was SO amazing.
That being said, I would change a few things next time.
Our friend was afraid he was going to get seasick to we took a shorter (1/2 day) trip to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park instead of Pig Island and Coral Island. We ended up at a deserted beach near Haad in where they do the Full Moon Party so I’m not really sure what happened.
We got off of our yacht and onto a dingy where we couldn’t even bring electronics and went to a deserted beach. Not really sure why. It was cool but next time I would do a full day and go to Coral and Pig Islands. The yacht experience was awesome though.
Overall I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this experience but if you’re not booking in peak season the day before like we were you can probably get a little bit better of an experience for the same price.
After tax and tip we paid $1,167.11 between 6 people so not bad.
You can book here.
For rest of the ultimate Thailand travel guide - 3 week itinerary, see these blogs:
and get your flight to Thailand!
As always, if you have any questions or want specific recommendations leave them in the comments and I’ll respond.
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