Hiking In Koh Phangan: Trekking the Full Moon Party Island

The Best Places to Go Hiking in Koh Phangan

Hiking in Koh Phangan might not be what the island is most famous for, but it’s well worth exploring for. The island is renowned for the partying, beach life and full moon parties. The partying can be somewhat intense if you push it every single night (not that we’re saying you shouldn’t…) and you might be looking for a break. Thankfully Koh Phangan is an island of untouched forest and beautiful hiking trails. These are our absolute favorite hiking trails in Koh Phangan:

Khao Ra

Set right in the heart of the island is most central and also the most famous of the hiking trails on the island. Khao Ra is relatively straightforward to find, and most locals will be able to guide you to the beginning of the trail. Failing that, get a Thai sim card and use Google maps to find the start.

The path isn’t a walk in the park, but a fairly steep trail that’ll take you at least 1.5-2 hours to complete. You’ll also climb around 630m. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to a fantastic view across Chaloklum, Thong Nai Pan, across to Koh Tao and Koh Samui. Obviously, you’ll need it to be clear, but this island isn’t short of sunny days.

Bottle Beach

If you search for the best beaches on Koh Phangan, Bottle Beach will pop up. That said, most people skip it because you have to work hard (or pay a higher price) to get there. The simple route is to pay for a longtail boat to whizz you along the coast and back. That’s not exactly hiking though. The hike is a 2 hour long, 4km walk through jungle and across rugged landscape.

Once you make it, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible and stunningly beautiful white beach and crystal-clear blue water. Tempting as it might be, don’t stay on the beach for too long. You’ll need to start and finish your trek back before sunset as the trail has no lighting and a torch only goes so far. To get started head for Chaloklum and you’ll quickly see sign posts, failing that the locals will happily point you in the right direction.

Haad Yuan

Haad Yuan is often referred to as one of the island’s hidden beaches. Set on the southeast of the island, when you make it, you’ll find a beautiful beach to relax on, serious climbing spots and vast views. Begin your trek on the party beach of Haad Rin. Head for the northern end of Haad Rin and follow the signs from there.

This trek requires plenty of water and some sturdy walking shoes. If you care about your ankles don’t try this one in flip flops. Thankfully, you’ll be able to get a long tail taxi boat back to Haad Rin at the end of the day, and this beach is so beautiful you won’t want to leave it any time soon!

Tips for Hiking in Koh Phangan

There are certain items that you must always carry with you when trekking on Koh Phangan or anywhere in Thailand. Always take the time to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Thailand (repellent or cover up), bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and cover up from the sun. Don’t skimp on these or your trek will go from relaxing to nightmare in a very short amount of time.