Page 51 - ISLAND STYLE MAGAZINE

Koh Phangan is part of the Samui Archipelago and gained
international fame for its legendary Full Moon Parties on
Haad Rin Beach.

Historically it was a backpacker destination however these
days the backpackers accommodations have been joined by
luxury villas, hotels and resorts as well as world class spas.

The name Koh Phangan derives from the word Ngan meaning
sand bar in the southern dialect.

There are many sand bars around the island and the island
has long been a favorite of the past Kings of Thailand. The
population has steadily grown over the last century since the
inhabitants of the island lived off the sea and the land farming
coconuts, and the island was home to a small tin mining
industry that petered out in the early 1970’s.

Today the island is primarily a tourist destination although
fishing and coconut farming remain an important part
of the local economy to this day. Less developed and less
cosmopolitan than Koh Samui, Koh Phangan has a casual
air about it and offers many secluded beaches and the
opportunity to get off the beaten track.

Phaeng Waterfall

The island has several waterfalls. Thong Sala is the islands
capital and home to the main ferry port. Ao Nai Wok is a quiet
bay just north of Thong Sala ideal for sailing, windsurfing or
kayaking.

Haad Son is a beautiful bay with very low development and
Haad Chao Phao is a small, quiet beach to the west that has
several beach bars and budget accommodation.

Haad Yao is a popular sandy beach as is Haad Salad, an idyllic
cove with several high end resorts.

Bottle Beach is the most isolated beach on the island,
accessible only by longtail boat. Thong Nai Pan is a very scenic
area on the north eastern part of the island that neighbors
Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai and Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi, twin bays
with fantastic beaches.

Haad Rin is the most populated village and Ban Tai is home
to the longest stretch of uninterrupted beach that faces Koh
Samui.

ISLANDS STYLE 51