Our Favorite Beaches in koh phangan
Koh Phangan has many beaches that all offer something different. Some are easy to reach and great for relaxing days. Others are hidden and feel untouched. Here is a more detailed guide to the beaches we genuinely enjoy and keep coming back to.
Haad Khom
Haad Khom is located in the north of Koh Phangan and is one of the most reliable beaches for a calm day. The water is usually clear and the bay stays protected which makes it a good spot for snorkeling. You will find natural shade along the tree line so you do not need to bring much with you. The atmosphere is quiet with only a few restaurants and bungalow resorts nearby which keeps the area relaxed even in high season. If you want a beach that feels natural without being completely remote Haad Khom is a solid choice.
Haad Nam Tok
Haad Nam Tok is one of the more remote beaches on the island. It sits between jungle and sea which gives it a very raw feeling. Reaching it usually requires a boat or a hike down the hill so the area stays calm throughout the day. The water is clear and the surroundings are untouched which is great if you want to escape the more developed parts of the island. Haad Than Sadet is close to it so many people visit both beaches on the same day. This area is perfect for travellers who want a quiet natural beach with very little distraction.
Bottle Beach
Bottle Beach is a classic on Koh Phangan. It is located in the north and can be reached by longtail boat or by a rough road so it feels removed from the busier areas. The beach itself is wide with soft sand and usually very clear water. Even when more people visit there is always enough space to sit down comfortably. A few small beach restaurants serve simple Thai food and cold drinks which makes it easy to stay the entire day. Bottle Beach is one of those places that always delivers a good beach day no matter the season.
Thong Nai Pan Noi
Thong Nai Pan Noi is one of the most comfortable beaches on the island. The sand is soft and the water stays calm which makes it perfect for swimming. The bay is surrounded by higher-end resorts and good cafés so the area feels clean and well maintained. Even though it is more developed than other beaches it still keeps a relaxed atmosphere. It is a great place if you want a full beach day with the option to get a good lunch or a coffee nearby. The beach also works well for families thanks to the easy access and calm water.
Mae Haad
Mae Haad is known for the sandbar that leads to Koh Ma which makes the beach look different depending on the tide. During low tide you can walk directly across the sand to the small island which is a fun experience for first time visitors. The water around the sandbar is shallow and clear which makes it a good spot for easy snorkeling. The beach itself is large so even during busier days you can find a quiet corner. Mae Haad has a natural straightforward vibe and is great if you want a wide open beach with something interesting to explore.
Haad Wai Nam
Haad Wai Nam is one of Koh Phangan’s most hidden beaches. It sits on the east coast and can only be reached by boat or by Jeep which keeps visitor numbers low. The beach is small but beautiful with clean sand and clear water. The atmosphere is very quiet and many people come here to disconnect and enjoy a more natural side of the island. The surroundings are mostly jungle so the place feels removed from everything else. If you want a beach where you can sit for a few hours without noise or activity Haad Wai Nam is perfect.
Why These Beaches
All of these beaches offer a good balance of clean water and a relaxed environment. Some are easy to reach and ideal for a simple beach day while others require more effort but reward you with quiet untouched nature. They are not “secret” or overly dramatic. They are simply reliable beaches that make Koh Phangan special.
