7 Best Islands in Thailand for Backpackers in 2025

Thailand has no shortage of islands, but when you’re backpacking, not all of them are worth the detour. Some are too pricey, some too touristy, and some just don’t vibe right.

After a few trips (and a few hits and misses), I’ve narrowed it down to the 7 best islands in Thailand for backpackers. Affordable, social, and full of adventure.

Thailand has one of the top reputations for its paradise islands, so whether you’re looking for luxury, budget backpackers or an affordable workcation, you’ll find what you want here.

And as always, if you think I’ve missed one, or want to suggest something, drop me a comment at the end, and I’ll make sure I visit next time.

7 Best Thai Islands for Backpackers

If you’re looking for the right island to chill, party, or explore without breaking the bank, these are three of the best spots for backpackers in Thailand.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe doesn’t feature on everyone’s Thailand itinerary, which is a shame as when I was there it was almost unspoilt. Although it’s slowly becoming more and more developed, it still has a very untouched feel to it.

I came across Koh Lipe by accident, I was making my way down to Singapore through Malaysia and chose to avoid the Thailand mainland. Koh Lipe was the perfect stepping stone between Ko Lanta and Langkawi (Malaysia), both of which are also amazing islands. Ko Lanta very nearly made this list!

Lipe is suitable for everyone at any budget. It’s a small, peaceful island with local restaurants and some great day trips around the surrounding islands. Because it’s one of the most Southern islands, not many people make it here.

If you’re heading to Malaysia after Thailand, I fully recommend island hopping your way down and spending at least a couple of days here.

Where to Stay in Koh Lipe for Backpackers

There are dozens of accommodation options in Lipe, and here below are the best ones for backpackers.

Nest Hostel Lipe

Nest Hostel Lipe in Ko Lipe is a great spot, super close to Pattaya Beach, just 300 meters away. They have comfy non-smoking rooms and a shared lounge where you can chill out.

Plus, there’s free WiFi and a nice terrace to hang out on. They can help you plan fun tours, too! You’ll be near cool spots like Sunrise (Chao Ley) and Sunset (Pramong) Beaches.

Sangchan Hostel

Sangchan Hostel in Ko Lipe is a basic yet spotless place in the heart of Koh Lipe, just a short walk from Sunrise Beach (500 meters) and really close to Pattaya Beach (200 meters). They have a cool shared lounge and someone at the front desk 24/7 to help you out.

The hostel is smoke-free, keeping things fresh. Sunset Beach is also nearby, less than 1 km away!

Bayview Hill Resort

Bayview Hill Resort is a lovely place right on the beach, offering cozy chalets with amazing sea views from your own balcony. They’ve got free WiFi in the public areas for staying connected.

If you need it, they offer extra services like laundry and shuttle rides. Each chalet has its own bathroom for privacy.

And when you’re hungry, there’s a restaurant right there where you can enjoy tasty local dishes and drinks. It’s a great spot for a relaxing beach getaway!

Best Tours in Koh Lipe

Koh Phi Phi

My first island is probably the most popular, I haven’t met too many people that have been to Thailand and not visited Phi Phi. It’s a tiny island with one of those ‘no traffic’ feels to it, a vibe I’ve banged on about before in my posts about the Gili Islands and Railay.

There’s just a relaxed vibe in the air here, everyone’s friendly and you feel at home right away. There’s a perfect cross section of budget and luxury, and even on my small budget I shared a room that had use of an infinity pool with a swim up bar! Perfect.

In my opinion you can’t visit here without taking a trip to Koh Phi Phi Leh or going scuba diving. Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous for Maya Bay (featured in The Beach). That film is now over 20 years old would you believe?

I cannot recommend scuba diving here enough, on one dive we saw 8 Giant Sea Turtles and on another we spotted 3 Reef Sharks. If you don’t have your scuba diving license then consider taking it at Koh Tao, below.

Where to Stay in Koh Phi Phi for Backpackers

There are dozens of accommodation options in Phi Phi, and here below are the best ones for backpackers.

Phi Phi Sand Sea View Resort

Phi Phi Sand Sea View Resort, located by the gorgeous Ton Sai Bay, offers beachfront rooms at great prices. You’ll get a balcony with an amazing bay view.

Choose from rooms with a fan or air conditioning, all equipped with a safe, satellite TV, and minibar. Plus, each room has its own bathroom with a shower.

It’s just a 7-minute walk from Cabana Pier and about 8 minutes by car to the town center. A perfect place for a beach adventure!

Phi Phi Dream Guest House

Phi Phi Dream Guest House is a sustainable place in Phi Phi Don, near beautiful beaches like Loh Dalum, Ton Sai, and Laem Hin. This cozy 1-star guest house offers handy facilities like an ATM, a little minimarket, and free WiFi. They’ve got a tour desk too, ready to help you plan fun days out.

You’ll have a safe in your room for your valuables and a private bathroom for comfort.

Magic Hostel

Magic Hostel in Phi Phi Don is just steps away from Loh Dalum Beach, offering air-conditioned rooms and a shared lounge for guests. You’ll have free WiFi and access to a tour desk for exploring the area.

The rooms are comfy, each with a kettle, and you’ll share a bathroom equipped with a shower and hairdryer. It’s a great spot for hikers and beach lovers.

Ton Sai Beach is only 800 meters away, and Laem Hin Beach is also less than 1 km from the hostel. A cool place for a fun stay!

Best Tours in Koh Phi Phi

Koh Tao

Throughout my travels I’d been told Koh Tao was the place to get your Open Water Diving Certification. Personally I didn’t particularly like Koh Samui and Ko Pha Ngan was incredibly busy during Full Moon Party. I’d love to go back and experience the island properly.

There are plenty of dive schools to choose from and I don’t think there’s a great deal of difference between them. Expect to pay around 10-11,000 baht (Approx £240 – £270) and try to get as much thrown in as possible in terms of food and accommodation. There is always room for bartering in Thailand! The course lasts around 3 days and includes some of the best dive sites in Thailand. And once you’ve qualified you’ll be able to dive any where in the world.

I haven’t even started with the Koh Tao sunsets…

All in all, Koh Tao is one of the best Thai islands to visit, and you’ll love your time here.

Where to Stay in Koh Tao for Backpackers

There are dozens of accommodation options in Koh Tao, and here below are the best ones for backpackers.

Nadapa Resort

Nadapa Resort, just a short 300 meters from Mae Had Beach, offers a comfortable stay with free Wi-Fi and private parking. It’s conveniently close to Sairee Beach and Ko Tao Pier, both only 150 meters away. The rooms come with a TV, fridge, balcony, and wardrobe, and some even have air conditioning.

You’ll have a private bathroom with shower, and the rooms are cleaned daily. Plus, you’ll find dining options just 20 meters from the hotel, making it a great spot for convenience and comfort.

Chandra Hostel Koh Tao

Chandra Hostel Koh Tao in Koh Tao is a cozy place, only 800 meters from Chalok Baan Kao Beach. It offers lovely accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and even a BBQ.

The hostel is well-located, being 3.5 km from Sunken Ship, 7.4 km from Ao Muong, and 1.8 km from Shark Island. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and a shared kitchen.

Each room in the hostel boasts a balcony with a beautiful mountain view, ensuring a pleasant stay, even on a budget.

Tiki Tribe Bar & Hostel

Tiki Tribe Bar & Hostel offers a great mix of amenities including a shared lounge, free private parking, and a bar, making it a fun and convenient place to stay.

It’s situated just 1.2 km from Jansom Bay Beach and is also 4.3 km from Sunken Ship, providing easy access to local attractions.

You can enjoy comfortable rooms that come with air conditioning and a private bathroom, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing stay.

Best Tours in Koh Tao

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is one of the best places in Thailand if you want a mix of peace, adventure, and affordability. It’s one of the largest islands in the Andaman Sea, but still has a laid-back, local feel.

You won’t find big crowds here, especially compared to places like Phuket or Phi Phi. It’s a great place to rent a scooter, explore beaches, and take a day trip to nearby limestone cliffs or national parks.

Koh Lanta is also known for scuba diving. You see, there are plenty of tour operators offering trips to some of the best dive spots in Southeast Asia. The island has a friendly vibe: You’ll find super friendly Thai people and delicious food at every turn.

In short, if you want to slow things down and stay longer, Koh Lanta is perfect.

Where to Stay in Koh Lanta for Backpackers

There are dozens of accommodation options in Koh Lanta, and here below are the best ones for backpackers.

Lanta For Rest Boutique

Just a short stroll from Klong Dao Beach, Lanta For Rest Boutique offers a relaxed vibe with multiple pools, including a rooftop one perfect for sunset dips.

The rooms are spacious and clean, and the staff are always ready with a smile. With 7-Eleven and tasty restaurants nearby, it’s easy to settle in and enjoy the laid-back island life.

Navaa Bungalow

Navaa Bungalow feels like a home away from home. Ali and his family go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome, offering help with travel plans and local tips.

The bungalows are affordable and well-equipped, and it’s just a short walk to the beach. A great place to unwind.

De Saran Lanta

Set in a quiet area with lovely views, De Saran Lanta is a comfortable spot to relax. The rooms are modern and spotless, and Ake, the owner, is always ready to assist with anything you need.

It’s close enough to town for convenience but far enough to enjoy some peace and quiet.

Best Tours in Koh Lanta

Koh Phangan

Most people know Koh Phangan for its full moon parties, and for good reason. The parties are wild, and if you’re into that scene, it’s one of the best things to do in Thailand.

But this small island is so much more than just a party spot. Once the crowds leave, Koh Phangan becomes a chill paradise with hidden beaches, yoga spots, and great hiking trails.

You can take a day trip around the island or hop over from nearby Koh Samui or Surat Thani, which both have easy access from the international airport.

It’s amazing for backpackers for the mix of social hostels, local food, and the fact that it’s still pretty affordable. It’s busy in high season, but even during the rainy season, it has a cool, relaxed energy.

Where to Stay in Koh Phangan for Backpackers

There are dozens of accommodation options in Koh Phangan, and here below are the best ones for backpackers.

Phangan Beach Resort

A peaceful spot right on Ban Tai Beach, Phangan Beach Resort is perfect if you want a quiet break but still be close to the action.

The beach bungalows are simple but cosy, and there’s a chilled-out pool and bar with ocean views. It’s a great place to slow down, sip a drink, and watch the sunset after a long travel day.

Echo Beach Hostel

Echo Beach Hostel is all about fun, social vibes, and easy beach access. Located in Ban Tai, it’s ideal for meeting other backpackers before heading to a party or exploring the island.

You have dorms, private rooms, good food, and tons of games and events happening daily. It’s super laid-back and known for its sunset views and lively atmosphere.

Namthip Homebeach

Namthip Homebeach is a simple, no-fuss resort right on the sand in Ban Tai. Rooms are basic but comfy, and the vibe is friendly and low-key.

It’s a nice place to relax between island adventures, with decent food, a quiet beach bar, and a mellow atmosphere that makes it easy to stay longer than planned.

Best Tours in Koh Phangan

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is one of the largest islands in Thailand, but it still feels like a hidden gem for backpackers.

It’s near the Cambodian border, and it’s not as touristy as the southern islands. Needless to say, this makes it a great place to escape the crowds.

You have waterfalls, jungle hikes, national parks, and beautiful beaches, all packed into one island. Koh Chang also has some of the most delicious food stalls, beach bars, and low-cost hostels along the coast.

You can also take a day trip to one of the nearby islands or to Chumphon. High season starts in November, but even the rainy season is manageable. It’s not the easiest to reach since there’s no international airport on the island, but that’s part of the charm.

The best part? It’s just a quick ferry ride from Koh Kood, and I’ll tell you more about it in the following section.

Where to Stay in Koh Chang for Backpackers

There are dozens of accommodation options in Koh Chang, and here below are the best ones for backpackers.

Oasis Koh Chang

Oasis is tucked up in the trees near Lonely Beach and feels like your own little jungle hideout. The wooden bungalows are cosy, the pool’s chill, and the treehouse bar has one of the best sunset views around.

It’s peaceful but still just a short walk to the beach and bars.

Nature Beach Resort

Right on Lonely Beach, this is one of those places that’s super easy to settle into. Cute bungalows, a beach bar with good tunes, and a pool if you want a break from the sea.

The restaurant dishes out solid Thai food and the vibe is just right, laid-back but not boring.

Bhumiyama Plus

Bhumiyama Plus is a mellow spot at the end of Lonely Beach, perfect if you’re after some quiet without being totally off the grid.

The rooms are comfy, the pool’s big, and everything feels calm and easy. You’re close enough to walk to all the action, but it’s peaceful enough to sleep early if you want.

Best Tours in Koh Chang

Koh Kood

Koh Kood (or Koh Kut) is a small island that feels completely off the grid, in the best way. It’s one of the quietest spots on this list and perfect if you want to relax, swim, and enjoy nature. The beaches here are stunning, and the pace of life is super slow.

There aren’t many big resorts or crowds, so it’s ideal if you want something low-key. There are national parks and waterfalls to explore, and tour operators can arrange a day trip around the island or snorkeling nearby.

It’s not the best place to party, but for reading on the beach, eating delicious food, and meeting friendly Thai people, it’s perfect. High season is the best time to visit, but if you don’t mind rain, the quiet of rainy season can be nice too.

Where to Stay in Koh Kood for Backpackers

There are dozens of accommodation options in Koh Kood, and here below are the best ones for backpackers.

Siam Beach Resort Koh Kood

This place sits right on a quiet beach with soft sand and calm, clear water. The bungalows are simple but comfy, and you can wake up to ocean views just steps from your door.

There’s a little beach bar for sunset drinks and a restaurant that serves tasty Thai food. It’s the kind of spot where you kick off your shoes and forget what day it is.

Walk in Homestay

Right near Ao Jark Beach, this homestay feels very relaxed and homey. The wooden bungalows are basic but have everything you need.

There’s a chill vibe, great local food, and you can even grab a kayak for free to explore the nearby river.

Mangrove Bungalow & Restaurant

Right on a quiet river surrounded by mangroves, this spot is peaceful and low-key. They’ve got free kayaks, friendly faces, and a small restaurant that serves up solid Thai meals.

Perfect if you’re into nature, quiet mornings, and good food without any fuss.

Best Tours in Koh Kood

Conclusion

What was your favourite island in Thailand? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments section below. Thanks for reading.

This article was supported by Fan Club Thailand but as always, the opinions and photos in the article are all my own.