Are Thailand’s Islands Still #1?

Backpackers, budget travelers, and those simply seeking unique experiences have long been traveling to islands off Thailand’s west coast. Alex Garland’s cult classic, The Beach, gave the eastern Andaman Sea a wider audience.  But these islands have always had appeal.

What’s not appealing about sitting on a beach all day taking in the near perfect balance of sand, surf, sun, and tropical foliage? What’s not to love about partying with like minded tourists and fun-loving locals before returning to a pleasant but spartan bungalow that’s so cheap it might as well be free? For the same as it would cost to stay in Cancun for a week, you could stay on Koh Phi Phi for six. Maybe 8 if you decided to forgo the banana pancakes and eat local food.

Thailand’s islands WERE the budget island Mecca. But are they still? The 2004 tsunami was a disaster and it proved just how popular Thailand’s beaches had become. A vast majority of tourists killed by the wave where on Phuket, Thailand’s largest and most popular island.

Much has been made about Thailand’s recovery after the wave. But have the islands seen their heyday pass?

Thailand’s tourist authorities have been trying to move the Land of Smiles up the industry’s food chain by wooing more moneyed visitors. Yes, you can find a luxury resort on almost every island, but, for the time being, most of Thailand’s tourist trade is of the budget variety.
But Thailand’s status as the next great island destination has all but passed. Most islands are built up, and, while things are still cheap and backpackers still prevalent, the vibe is gone. Visitors no longer get the “I’m going somewhere unique” feeling. That’s not to say that the beaches aren’t nice anymore. They are just more crowded. Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, Koh Chang, Phuket; these are great tourist spots. But they are no longer the undiscovered paradises that they were 10 years ago.

What’s left for those seeking the next best thing?:

Tarutao, far to the south of the other islands, is one place that has not been touched by resort development yet. The food is local and the accommodation basic, but if you are looking for untouched beaches and wildlife that’s not in a zoo, you’ll find it here.

Lanta Island is probably more convenient to get to. It lies near Phuket and boasts few resorts and virtually no crowds.

The Cambodian beaches of Kep and Sihanoukville are, right now, what some of Thailand’s beaches were “back in the day.” Cheap local food mixed with a sense of exploration and a laid back party atmosphere.  The scene is still new enough to be exciting.
While the trend setters may be looking elsewhere, Thailand’s islands are still a great place to visit, especially if you are on a budget.