Koh Phayam: A Tropical Island Paradise in Thailand

If you are looking for a relaxing and authentic island getaway in Thailand, you might want to consider Koh Phayam. This small island, located 35 km from Ranong and near the border with Myanmar, is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled destinations in the Andaman Sea. With long white sandy beaches, clear blue water, coral reefs, and lush green forests, Koh Phayam offers a perfect escape from the crowds and noise of the mainland.

Koh Phayam is only 10 km long and 5 km wide and has a population of around 500 people, mostly Muslims. There are no cars on the island, only motorcycles and bicycles, which makes it easy to explore the natural scenery and wildlife. The island has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, with a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and tastes. You can find simple bungalows for as low as 150 baht per night or more upscale resorts with modern amenities and services.
The two main bays on Koh Phayam are Ao Yai (Sunset Bay) and Ao Khao Kwai (Buffalo Bay). Both bays have stunning beaches with soft sand and gentle waves. Ao Yai is the larger and more popular bay, where you can find many bars, restaurants, shops, and activities. This is also the best place to enjoy surfing, as the waves here are consistent and suitable for beginners and experts alike. Ao Khao Kwai is a quieter and more secluded bay, ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy nature. Here you can also visit a small sea gypsy village at the south end of the bay.

There are many things to do on Koh Phayam besides sunbathing and swimming. You can go snorkeling or diving to discover the colorful coral reefs and marine life around the island. You can also rent a kayak and paddle through the mangrove forest, where you can spot monkeys, birds, and other animals. If you like hiking, you can follow one of the trails that lead to the hills and jungles of the island, where you can enjoy panoramic views and fresh air. Koh Phayam is a hidden gem that offers a unique and memorable island experience in Thailand. Whether you want to have fun, adventure, or relaxation, you will find it here on this tropical paradise.

How to get there: Ranong to Koh Phayam with Ferry:

To get to Koh Phayam, you first need to reach Ranong, a district in the northwest of Thailand near the border with Myanmar. There are several ways to get to Ranong from Bangkok, such as by plane, train, bus, or car. The fastest and most convenient option is to fly from Don Mueang Airport (DMK) to Ranong Airport (UNN) with Nok Air or AirAsia, which takes about an hour and a half. The cheapest option is to take a bus from the Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) or Khao San Road, which costs around 400-650 baht and takes about 9 hours.

Once you arrive in Ranong, you will have to get to the Tai Kak Pier, which is about 6 km from the bus station. You can take a songthaew or a motorbike taxi for around 20-70 baht. From the pier, you can choose between a speed boat or a slow boat to Koh Phayam. The speed boat costs 350 baht and takes about 40 minutes. The slow boat costs 200 baht and takes about 2 hours. Both boats operate several times a day during the high season (November-April) and less frequently during the low season (May-October).

Koh Phayam is a beautiful island that offers a relaxing and authentic experience in Thailand. It is worth the extra steps to get there and enjoy its natural scenery, wildlife, and beaches.

Picture: Arkadij Schell / shutterstock.com

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