Ko Phayam Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ko Phayam, a beautiful island in Southern Thailand with this travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to stay, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Ko Phayam

Ko Phayam is a relatively unexplored gem of an island located in the Northern Andaman Coast of Southern Thailand. With its lush green forests, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it provides a perfect escape for those seeking nature, adventure, and tranquility. Ko Phayam offers a great balance between rustic and luxury living, with a myriad of options for budget-friendly travelers and upmarket tourists alike.

List of Places to Visit in Ko Phayam

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Despite being a small island, Ko Phayam has an interesting cultural element to its attractions. From ancient ruins to local projects that keep traditional crafts and ways of life alive, there are several places to explore on the island:

  • Wang Mai Ban Wan is an ancient ruined city that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. It is believed to be one of the oldest surviving evidences of human existence and culture in the region.

  • Ko Phayam Community Museum is a local initiative that showcases traditional crafts, fishing methods, and agricultural practices. It also features a beautiful library with many books and historical photographs related to the island’s history.

  • Pirates Waterfalls is a picturesque three-tiered waterfall that has a local history attached to it. The story has it that pirates used to hide stolen treasure in the area, and that’s how it got its name.

Natural Attractions of Ko Phayam: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Exploring the great outdoors is a must when in Ko Phayam, as the island is known for its abundant flora and fauna, pristine beaches, and clear water. Some of the must-visit natural attractions include:

  • Ao Yai Beach is the most popular beach on the island and also the longest. With its golden sand, turquoise waters, and golden sunsets, it is the perfect spot to unwind and sunbathe.

  • Koh Payam Diving Center caters to diving enthusiasts who want to explore the island’s underwater world. The center offers diving courses and tours to the best dive spots in the area, such as Koh Surin, where diverse marine life can be observed.

  • Khao Klai Bat Cave is an adventurous activity to experience while on the island. It involves a hike through dense jungle to reach the cave entrance, where bats and other wildlife can be spotted.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ko Phayam

Ko Phayam is an excellent spot for hikers and bikers who want to explore the island’s natural surroundings. Some of the most popular hiking/biking routes include:

  • Phayam Trekking offers guided tours and hikes that showcase the island’s flora and fauna, such as mangrove forests, rubber plantations, and lush valleys.

  • Biking Tour is a popular activity for those who want to bike around the island and explore its beautiful scenery at their own pace.

Best Things to Do in Ko Phayam: Activities and Tours

Apart from outdoor activities and sightseeing, Ko Phayam has several unique activities and tours that are worth trying out, such as:

  • Island Hopping Tour is a popular activity that takes visitors to nearby islands, including Koh Chang, Koh Dao, and Koh Surin.

  • Thai Cooking Class offers visitors a chance to learn how to cook traditional Thai dishes at Thai Cooking School, where professional chefs teach step-by-step instruction.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ko Phayam

For those looking to spend a week exploring Ko Phayam, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Begin with a boat ride from the mainland to Ko Phayam. Spend the day relaxing at Ao Yai Beach, the longest beach on the island.

  • Day 2: Hike to the Khao Klai Bat Cave and explore the limestone caves and observe wildlife.

  • Day 3: Take a day trip to the nearby islands and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

  • Day 4: Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Thai dishes.

  • Day 5: Visit the Wang Mai Ban Wan ancient ruined city and Phayam Community Museum to learn about the island’s cultural heritage.

  • Day 6: Rent a bike and explore the island’s stunning scenery at a leisurely pace.

  • Day 7: Explore the underwater world by going on a diving or snorkelling tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Ko Phayam

Ko Phayam is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of dishes that cater to all tastes and budgets. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mango Sticky Rice is a popular Thai dessert made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and fresh mango.

  • Massaman Curry is a classic Thai dish made with chicken, potatoes, and peanuts in a rich, creamy curry sauce.

  • Kao Soi is a northern Thai dish that is made with egg noodles and curry sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Chang Beer is Thailand’s most popular beer, with a crisp, refreshing taste.

  • Lemongrass Tea is a traditional Thai beverage that is both refreshing and healthy.

  • Fresh Coconut Water is a great way to hydrate on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Ko Phayam: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ko Phayam has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences, from luxurious resorts to basic guesthouses.

Luxury

  • The Blue Sky Resort is a luxurious boutique hotel that offers beautiful ocean views and top-notch service.

  • Phayam Coconut Beach Resort is a luxury resort that offers a private beach and a beautiful pool.

Mid-Range

  • Buffalo Bay Vacation Club is a mid-range resort that offers comfortable rooms and amenities.

  • The White Resort is a mid-range resort that offers beautiful sea views and comfortable accommodation.

Budget

  • KP Mountain Beach Resort is a budget-friendly resort that offers stunning panoramic views of the sea.

  • The Beach Natural Resort is a budget resort that offers comfortable bungalows and a great location by the beach.

What to Buy in Ko Phayam: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Koh Phayam has many unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can bring home to remember their trip. Some of the must-buy items include:

  • Coconut oil is a popular local product that is used both for cooking and as a natural moisturizer.

  • Hand-woven bags and clothing are handmade by locals and make great souvenirs.

  • Silver jewelry and accessories are handmade by local artisans and are known for their unique designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Ko Phayam

Koh Phayam has a rich cultural heritage that is still very much alive today. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.

  • Take your shoes off before entering homes and other buildings.

  • Show respect by not touching the head of any elderly person.

Best Time to Visit Ko Phayam

The best time to visit Ko Phayam is between November and April, during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and pleasant. The island can become crowded during this period, so visitors may want to plan their trip accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ko Phayam

Do:

  • Respect local people and their customs.

  • Wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites.

  • Take off your shoes before entering someone’s home.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or in public areas.

  • Disrespect religious sanctuaries or local traditions.

  • Purchase illegal substances.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ko Phayam

Koh Phayam is a safe destination for visitors, with a low crime rate. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Ko Phayam

Visitors should be mindful of the sun and use sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn. Visitors should also drink bottled water and be cautious when eating street food.

Getting to Ko Phayam: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Koh Phayam by ferry or speedboat from Ranong town and other nearby islands.

Airports Near Ko Phayam

The nearest airport is in Ranong, which is about 20 kilometers from Koh Phayam. From there, visitors can take a ferry to the island.

Bus Stations Near Ko Phayam

The nearest bus station is in Ranong town, from where visitors can take a ferry to Koh Phayam.

Other Options

There are many tour operators that offer day trips and tours to Koh Phayam, including snorkeling and diving tours.

How to Get Around in Ko Phayam

The easiest way to get around Koh Phayam is on foot, bike, or motorcycle. There are rental shops that rent out bicycles and motorcycles on the island.

Where to Go Next from Ko Phayam: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations that visitors can explore after visiting Koh Phayam include:

  • Koh Chang is an island in the Andaman Sea that is known for its coral reefs and beaches.

  • Koh Surin is a national park located northwest of Koh Phayam, known for its pristine beauty and diverse marine life.

Conclusion

Koh Phayam is a beautiful island that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is a perfect destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of local Thai culture. With its abundance of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food, Ko Phayam is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Southern Thailand.

Paddleboarding into the sunset off Ko Phayam Paddleboarding into the sunset off Ko Phayam Ko Phayam Ko Phayam