Every month, thousands of travelers from around the globe come to Koh Phangan, Thailand, for the legendary Full Moon Party at Haad Rin Beach. While this iconic event is a must-visit, Koh Phangan offers so much more throughout the month. From stunning waterfalls and pristine beaches to fascinating temples and breathtaking sunset viewpoints, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a short trip, here’s a perfect weekend itinerary for Koh Phangan.
Koh Phangan Itinerary overview
This itinerary blends adventure, relaxation, delicious food, and cultural experiences. To explore the island effectively, we recommend renting a scooter. Be mindful of the sometimes challenging roads.
Friday — Northeast Koh Phangan
Friday´s itinerary may seem jam packed, but a lot of these stops are incredibly close to each other. So, it may seem intimidating, but you will be surprised about how well it all flows together. You should start this day around 11am if you want to spend some more time at all the places. Otherwise, leaving around noon or 1pm is also fine.
Waterfalls
Begin your journey at Than Sadet National Park, where a 100 baht entry fee grants you access to the island’s mountainous terrain and stunning waterfalls. Your first stop is Pho Darng Waterfall. There are a few entry points here. You can either park at the main entrance of the waterfall, and look for a staircase. Or you can park your scooter at this spot, and look for a jungle path down. Experienced hikers can do this on flipflops. If you are not, you should wear sneakers. Once you’re downstairs, turn right and go on a little rock climbing adventure. After a while, you will see a stunning waterfall. The water is a bit muddy, but you can swim in it. Make sure to not leave anything of value in the scooter while exploring the waterfalls, since this is one of the few spots in Thailand where valuable things are stolen.
Beaches
Once you´re satisfied with the waterfalls, go to the Haad Sadet beach to relax. It is a quiet beach with soft sand and bungalows nestled into the side of the mountain right up on the beach. If you dare, cross the bamboo bridge to the right of the beach and follow the path to the right past the abandoned graffitied structures for a few minutes to find an even more beautiful hidden beach on the other side of the rocks. Just behind the sand at this beach is a grassy area with a forest of palm trees. Watch for sharp stones as you explore this beautiful spot.
Lunch
You have likely worked up an appetite by now. During high season, head to Rubber Garden Cafe. This local gem is on the way to your next stop. Try out one of the delicious fruit shakes at this authentic place in the middle of the jungle. If you’re visiting during low season, Rubber Garden Cafe will be closed. In that case, head to Big Bang Art Cafe instead. Although it adds an extra five minutes to your journey, the charming atmosphere and refreshing iced coffee make it well worth the detour. Relax and recharge before continuing your adventure!
Viewpoints
Now that you´re all fueled up, hop back on the scooter and drive to the Bottle Beach Viewpoint. This 20-minute hike from the parking to the viewpoint rewards you with stunning 360 degrees views of Koh Phangan.
Afterwards, make your way to Secret Mountain Viewpoint for sunset, some beers, and possibly a dip in their pool. It’s a 30-minute scooter ride from Bottle Beach Viewpoint, so plan to leave around 5 PM to catch the sunset, which typically occurs between 6 PM and 6:30 PM. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery as day turns to night!
Dinner and Drinks
After sunset, drive to Grilled Fish Miang for the best fish on the island. Once you´ve savored every last bit of that salted fish, head to the Thong Sala Walking Street called Soi Krung Thai, for an event that happens every Friday. The road is closed off to all vehicular traffic, the street is lined with tables and chairs, and businesses open up for anyone roaming around. Many places sell 60-70 baht beers. Enjoy live music and take part in the nightly lottery to win, for example, free shots!
Saturday — Northwest Koh Phangan and Thong Sala
Immerse yourself in local culture and relaxation on the second day of this Koh Phangan itinerary.
Temples
Start your day with some Thai culture by visiting the Kuan Yin Temple. This Chinese temple has three distinct sections to explore. Don’t forget to bring cash (40 baht entry fee) and attire to cover your shoulders and knees.
Beaches
After visiting the temple, it is time to relax a bit. Go to Malibu Beach or Mae Haad Beach. They are close to each other and both stunning beach to spend a few hours at. Lay out your beach towel and suntan or hop in the water for a refreshing break from the hot Thailand air.
Malibu Beach is one of our favorites because the beach itself is a long stretch of soft, white sand that great for activities like sun tanning and volleyball. Mae Haad Beach has a picturesque sandbank from the beach to a small island that you can walk on at low tide. It is ideal for photos, water activities like stand up paddle boarding, and it has some of the best snorkeling in Koh Phangan. If you want, you can even take a boat tour to Bottle Beach–only accessible by boat–for a more secluded experience.
Waterfalls
After soaking up the sun, grab your water and sunscreen and head to Wangsai Waterfall. You can access the waterfall from the parking lot or take a “secret” route. Look for the square OXA sign on the main road, then turn right onto an unpaved road toward Heaven Bar. After paying a 40 baht fee, go on a 15-20 minute jungle walk to find the waterfall from a unique viewpoint.
If you want a break, stop by Heaven Bar for a refreshing drink and stunning views.
Sunset Spot
Next, drive to the Mae Haad Tree House Bar and Restaurant for a cozy spot to watch the sunset. Relax on bean bags, take a dip in their pool, or enjoy games as you sip on craft cocktails.
Dinner
Once the sun has disappeared, carefully make your way back to Thong Sala area. The Saturday Night Market on Chinese Street will already be in full swing. Browse the stalls for local and international food, desserts, cheap clothing, and unique souvenirs.
Sunday — West Coast Koh Phangan
On your last day, take it slow and enjoy.
Views and Beaches
Kick off your day by going to What´s Cup, an open air cafe and restaurant with unbeatable views and friendly service. After you´ve taken in the view and gotten your morning caffeine fix, head to Secret Beach (Haad Son). It is not actually so secret but it is a popular beach for good reason. At the far right of the beach, you’ll discover Koh Raham, offering outdoor seating, tasty food, cocktails, and intriguing decorations. If you walk to the very back of the Koh Raham restaurant, you´ll find stairs down to the water. This is a great place to go snorkeling on a sunny day. Snorkel sets are inexpensive and available for rent on the island.
Sunset Spot
Next, hop back on your scooter and drive to Zen Beach to experience the place come alive for sunset. If you have time and you want to temporarily escape the heat, stop in a few of the shops on the way to Zen Beach. This area draws in the more hippie and spiritual crowd and some of the shops have great local, handmade products and flowy clothes to browse. Grasshopper Beach Bar on Zen Beach really set the mood for sunset with a live DJ playing and crowd of customers. Here you can swim, people watch, or simply chill on the beach and watch the sun go down against a tropical backdrop.
Market
When it is all dark outside, head back and drive to the Sunday Night Market in Chaloklum. Here, you can wander through the food stalls and shops, enjoying live music from the pier. Grab a quick bite or spend hours soaking in the vibrant market atmosphere.
3 Days of Island Bliss
Three days in Koh Phangan can fly by in the blink of an eye. This Koh Phangan itinerary offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, ensuring you see both highlights and hidden gems. Tailor the itinerary to your preferences and enjoy your weekend in this tropical paradise.
If you stay in Koh Phangan longer, don´t miss out on the OXA Beach Party for what will be your favorite night activity on the island. Buy your tickets here!
Additional Resources
For more tips on what to do in Koh Phangan, check out our other blogs: