If you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable nightlife experience in a tropical paradise, then look no further than Thailand’s best party islands – places where the sand is soft, the water is crystal clear, and the parties are out of this world.
I’m fortunate to have traveled to Thailand over 6 times in my life and enjoyed my fair share of crazy Thai nightlife. From the legendary Full Moon parties on Koh Phangan to the unworldly nightlife of Phuket, these are some of the best memories and experiences I’ll never forget.
That is why I’ve decided to write this article on the best party islands in Thailand, because equally, I’ve been to islands that had absolutely no nightlife.
What Are The Best Party Islands In Thailand?
1. Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most popular island. Located in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is home to some of the country’s biggest and wildest parties. The nightlife here is centered around Patong Beach, where you’ll find countless bars, clubs, and restaurants all vying for your attention.
Some of the must-visit party spots in Phuket include Bangla Road, where the party never seems to end and Soi Tiger, a street lined with bars and clubs that come alive after dark. For those looking for a more upscale experience, head to Surin Beach where you’ll find luxury beach clubs like Catch Beach Club and Cafe Del Mar.
💪 Pro Tip: Don’t forget to try the famous “buckets” – a popular Thai drink that packs quite a punch!
2. Koh Phangan
Home to the infamous Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan is one of Thailand’s top party destinations. This small island in the Gulf of Thailand hosts thousands of travelers every month who come to dance under the moonlight on Haad Rin Beach.
But don’t limit yourself to just the Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan has plenty of other parties to offer. From Half Moon and Black Moon parties to Waterfall parties and Jungle Experience, there’s always something happening on this island.
Besides parties, Koh Phangan also has huge wellness communities that are perfect for those looking to recover and rejuvenate after a night of partying. There are also some amazing beaches in Koh Phangan to just relax!
💪 Pro Tip: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you are visiting during Full Moon. It gets crowded and prices can go up!
3. Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is a beautiful island in the Andaman Sea, famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The most popular party spot here is Loh Dalum beach, where you’ll find fire shows, live music, and buckets aplenty.
But if you’re looking for something more laid-back, check out the island’s famous beach bar, Slinky. With its chilled-out vibes and unbeatable views, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cold drink while watching the sunset.
The best part about Koh Phi Phi is its small size. This means that you can easily walk from one party to another, and even stumble back to your accommodation after a night of fun.
💪 Pro Tip: Take a boat tour during the day and explore the stunning surrounding islands, especially Maya Bay! It’s the perfect hangover cure!
4. Koh Samui
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-biggest island and attracts a diverse crowd of travelers – from backpackers to luxury seekers. The nightlife here is centered around Chaweng and Lamai beaches, where you’ll find a mix of bars and clubs.
One of the must-visit party spots on Koh Samui is Soi Green Mango in Chaweng. This street is lined with bars and clubs that offer drink deals and endless dancing.
Ark Bar in Chaweng is also a must-visit, especially for its famous fire shows and beach parties that go on into the early hours of the morning.
💪 Pro Tip: Koh Samui is also a great place to stay for those looking to experience Koh Phangan’s famous Full Moon Party. Take a boat over for the night and return back to the calmer island when the party is done!
📚 Read More: Koh Samui Vs Koh Phangan: Which Is Better?
5. Koh Tao
Known as the diving capital of Thailand, Koh Tao may not be the first island that comes to mind when you think of partying. But it’s becoming increasingly popular among travelers and backpackers who want to combine scuba diving with a bit of nightlife.
The best spot for partying on Koh Tao is Sairee Beach, where you’ll find a handful of beachfront bars and clubs that offer great music, drinks, and company.
But perhaps the quintessential party experience in Koh Tao is the Jungle Party. Held in the middle of the island, this is an experience that is equivalent to the legendary full moon party on Koh Phangan.
It is also very easy to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao, or even Koh Phangan to Koh Tao, so consider those places if you are looking to party without traveling far.
💪 Pro Tip: Pre-buy your Jungle Party ticket ahead of time! This event is very popular and it gets sold out very early in the night.
Best Thailand Party Islands Map
Below is a map of the 5 party islands in Thailand we mentioned above. Use this to see where they are located and plan your Thailand itinerary accordingly!
Partying In Thailand FAQs
What is the legal drinking age in Thailand?
The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old. However, enforcement can be lax and many establishments may not check your ID.
When is the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan?
The Full Moon Party takes place every month on the night of the full moon. However, there are also Half Moon and Black Moon parties that take place throughout the month.
Can I Drink Alcohol on the Streets in Thailand?
Generally, drinking alcohol on the streets is allowed in Thailand. However, there might be special areas where drinking alcohol openly is prohibited.
How Late Do Bars and Clubs Stay Open in Thailand?
Bars and clubs in Thailand typically stay open until 2-3 AM, but some may stay open later during peak tourist season or for special events.
Final Thoughts: Best Thailand Party Islands
From the bustling nightlife of Phuket to the wild parties on Koh Phangan, Thailand is a dream destination for party-goers. With its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and affordable prices, it’s no wonder that these islands are some of the best places in Southeast Asia to dance the night away.
So pack your dancing shoes and get ready to experience some of the best party islands in Thailand.