This Koh Phangan travel guide for couples covers the most romantic things to do in Koh Phangan and why it is our favorite island in Thailand and one of our top 3 favorites in the world!

Honestly, we considered not writing this, as we wanted to keep this island’s treasures to ourselves, but ultimately decided to share so that you too can enjoy the most romantic private villas in Koh Phangan on the best Beaches.  

Koh Phangan, is mostly known for its rowdy Full Moon Parties, however it also offers a serene and romantic side perfect for couples seeking a memorable getaway. From secluded beaches and luxurious private villas to intimate dining experiences and rejuvenating activities, the island provides a perfect setting for romance.  

We were actually on Koh Phangan during one of the biggest full moon parties, and given that we were on the west side of the island, we did not see, hear or feel any of the craziness that was happening on the southern east side.  All we experienced was complete zen and a relaxed romantic vibe that we fell in love with!

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon in Koh Phangan or looking for a romantic getaway, this Koh Phangan travel guide for couples  focuses on activities, accommodations, and restaurants that create magical moments for two.  This island  is a hidden gem for couples seeking romance, serenity, and unforgettable experiences. 

Map of our Koh Phangan Travel Guide for Couples

Even though this island is not huge, there is so much packed into our Koh Phangan travel guide for couples that we decided to create a map of all of the specifics. This way you can visualize all the bits and decide on the best private villas in Koh Phangan to match the best Romantic activities and beaches based on your preferences.

Best Time to Visit Koh Phangan 

If you look on a map, Thailand is a super long country.  This means that there are a lot of different climates here.  Even on an island like Koh Phangan, there are micro-climates. It could be sunny on Salad Beach and torrential rain in Haad Rin on the other side of the mountain.

Looking up at the sky, we could literally see the sun and lines of rain further along the island.  Now, we visited Koh Phangan for the better part of November which is the rainiest month on the island.  Therefore, if you are allergic to rain, do not visit during this month!

However, even in November we found quite a bit of time when the skies were blue, the hotels were half price and there were few folks about – so there are quite a few reasons to visit even during the rainiest month.

Keep in mind that temperatures on Koh Phangan rarely drop below 24℃ (75℉) or go above 32℃ (89℉), but can occasionally drop to 20°C (68℉) or rise to 36°C (97℉).

Choosing the right time to visit based on your preferences can enhance your experience here:

1. Dry Season (mid December to end of March): This period offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, ideal for beach outings and outdoor activities. It’s also the peak tourist season, so booking accommodations in advance is advisable.
   
2. Hot Season (April to June): Temperatures rise, but the island is less crowded. This is a great time for couples seeking tranquility and better deals on accommodations.
   
3. Shoulder Season (July to October): Expect intermittent rains, but the island’s lush greenery is at its peak. Waterfalls are more impressive, and the atmosphere is serene, making it suitable for couples who enjoy nature and don’t mind occasional showers.
   
4. Rainy Season (November – December 15): A mix of rainy and sunny days, offering quieter beaches and more availability in accommodations.
   

Tourist Visa for Thailand Not Necessary for Many Countries

For many nationalities, including all EU, Canadian, Australian, USA and many other citizens a 60 day visa is granted on arrival and for free.  It’s then possible to extend this for another 30 days at the discretion of the immigration officer.  Check here for the latest visa rules.

Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and you have proof of onward travel. If you plan to stay longer or are not eligible for a visa on arrival, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

This usually involves submitting an application form, your passport, a photo, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means. It’s always best to check the latest visa requirements and regulations based on your nationality well in advance of your trip.   

Transportation on Koh Phangan

The easiest way to get to Koh Phangan is to fly into Koh Samui and take the 20 minute Lomprayah speed ferry here.  They run many times per day and if these ferry times are not convenient there are many other options on 12go Asia.

Once you are on Koh Phangan there are many shuttle options here.  Our favorite shuttle driver is Mr. T who can be reached on What’s App: +66 96 387 0319 and you can pre-arrange pick up and drop off.

For private transportation on land and water, contact Nad Travel: What’s App: +66 96 634 0319 or email them on [email protected].  These guys can arrange all aspects of transportation for you from a private sunset cruise, to a snorkeling trip and private land transportation.

Best Beaches in Koh Phangan for Couples

There is an incredible amount of best beaches in Koh Phangan for couples!  The more we snooped the more we found little secret hide aways!  Most didn’t have a soul on them.  This island is predominantly an adult one.  

1. Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat): This secluded beach has pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a private picnic or sunbathing session – it is truly one of the best beaches in Koh Phangan for couples.  You can also snorkel here and may see turtles.  Keep in mind that this beach is only accessible by boat from Chalok Lum every 30 minutes (between 8:00 and 17:00 for 400 bhat), or a scenic 1.5 – 2 hour hike from the Bottle Beach Viewpoint or a 4WD taxi.  Please note that your scooter will NOT make the drive.  
   
2. Thong Nai Pan Noi: Known for its crescent-shaped bay, soft white sand and crystal clear water, this beach offers a tranquil setting with upscale resorts nearby, ideal for couples seeking luxury and seclusion.  In addition, this beach is surrounded by mountainous rainforest, creating a magical backdrop making it one of the best beaches in Koh Phangan for couples.
   
3. Haad Khom Beach: Close to Chaloklum Beach this private cove is one of the best spots for snorkeling, watching the sun set and just relaxing on a pristine white sandy beach cove with crystal clear water.
   
4. Salad Beach: Situated on the northwest coast, this picture perfect beach has soft white sand, clear blue water, and a relaxed vibe.  It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are also some nice restaurants and bars right on the beach where you can grab a bite or enjoy the sunset. For a peaceful romantic escape, Salad Beach is a great option.
   
5. Mae Haad Beach and Koh Ma: Connected by a sandbar, this area is excellent for snorkeling, exploring marine life, and enjoying the unique experience of walking between two islands.  Some of the best snorkeling on Koh Phangan is actually on Koh Ma on the left side of the island as soon as you walk on to it.  Enjoy 2 of the best beaches on Koh Phangan in one spot!
   
6. Secret Beach:  Secret Beach, also known as Haad Son or Haad Secret, is a small, secluded cove on Koh Phangan’s west coast.  It’s known for its calm, clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and relaxed atmosphere.  Tall palm trees and lush greenery surround the beach, providing shade and a sense of privacy.
   
7. Zen Beach: This beach has a bit of a split personality.  On one hand it is known for it’s stunning sunsets and chilled-out vibes. It is also a popular spot for yoga and meditation.  On the other hand, during some events this can be a bit of a party place.  Therefore this is a great beach to visit for the best sunset on the island, most of the time…
   
8. Leela Beach: Located on the southern tip of the island, this beach is a perfect hideaway for couples with it’s soft white sand, calm turquoise water, and tall palm trees creating a picture-perfect backdrop for romance.  
   
9. Malibu Beach: Malibu Beach may be small, but it’s seriously stunning!  You’ll find this gorgeous white-sand beach with amazing blue water at the end of Chaloklum town.  It’s easy to get to – just park by the 7-11 and walk through the resort.  The views of the mountains and coastline are incredible.  Since it’s so close to Chaloklum Beach, you can easily visit both in one day and enjoy two of the best beaches in Koh Phangan for couples.

Romantic Accommodations – Private Villas in Koh Phangan

There are hundreds of options on the island for accommodations and honestly, we were overwhelmed when we started looking.  I gave up and Rob continued the search, spending a tremendous amount of time to find some of the best places on the island.  

Rob decided to focus the search on private villas on Koh Phangan – as they are the most serene and romantic.  The mid range options are fantastic and are very private.  

However, if you want Jennifer Aniston level privacy, then you can splurge for the luxury level villa option (The Secret Beach Villa) as the company only rents out to one client regardless how small the group (they just lock up the other 2 villas leaving the pool for the one couple).

We hope you enjoy these private villas in Koh Phangan as much as we did!  Keep in mind that prices can be negotiated directly with the owners/management – especially if you chose to stay longer or come during shoulder season.

Luxury Private Villas in Koh Phangan

1. The Secret Beach Villa (Honeymoon Suite): Located on Secret Beach, this luxurious villa offers stunning sea views, a private sauna, hot tub and  pool.  There is also direct beach access, ensuring utmost privacy and comfort for couples.  Price can be negotiated via email: [email protected]  Prices range from $600 – $1,000 USD per night.
2. Anantara Rasananda Villas (Thong Nai Pan Noi): Located on Thong Nai Pan Beach this place is high end luxury.  While part of a resort, these villas come with private pools and personal chef options for in-room dining. The staff can arrange romantic meals on the villa’s private terrace.  Prices start at $400 USD per night.

Mid-Range Options – Private Villas in Koh Phangan

1. LOLISEA Luxe view villas (Salad Beach): These are stunning private villas with modern amenities and private pools overlooking the sea.  The sunsets are incredible here!   Prices start at $250 USD per night.
2. Beach Front Artistic Villa: Located just south of Zen Beach, this serene and unique space sits on a cliff with a private beach below. It has a fully loaded kitchen, cold press juicer, top notch coffee machine and an indoor rain water pool.  Super romantic.  Prices start at $250 USD per night.
3. Tranquility Sunset Villas: Just a 5 minute walk from a private beach, these villas are a few minutes south of Salad Beach.  These are brand new villas that are modern and have all the comforts of home with a fully stocked kitchen.  The views are beyond stunning from both floors of the villa and the private pool is delicious.  Prices start at $130 USD per night.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

1. High Life Bungalow: South of Salad Beach and built into a cliff on Haad Yao, this resort has Balinese and Thai-style accommodations with steps leading down to the beach. It also features an outdoor infinity pool and free Wi-Fi.  Fully air-conditioned, these tropical wooden bungalows all have a cable/satellite TV and fridge. From the private balcony, guests can enjoy beautiful garden or sea views. The private bathrooms have hot-water showers.  Prices start at $44 USD per night.
2. Sunset Hill Boutique Resort (Haad Chao Phao): Just south of Secret Beach, this resort offers panoramic sea views, an infinity pool, and is known for its romantic sunset vistas. The resort provides spacious suites with private balconies, perfect for couples.  Prices start at $51 USD per night.
3. Baan Manali Resort: Surrounded by coconut trees, the lagoon-facing Baan Manali Resort enjoys a quiet location on the private Nai Wok Beach.  The bungalows have a private balcony and hammocks, are air conditioned and have free Wi-Fi. The private bathrooms have warm-water showers.  Prices start at $41 USD per night.

Romantic Things to do in Koh Phangan

There are so many romantic things to do in Koh Phangan, starting with the beaches and the spectacular sunsets!  However, if you are still craving for more, here are some additional ideas of how you can spend your time:

1. Private Boat Tour to Anthong National Park: There are 42 tropical islands of Anthong Marine National Park where you can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, dive, kayak and hike. These are pristine islands.  For a private tour (boat, land, or any other types of transport on or between islands) we highly recommend Nad Travel: What’s App: +66 96 634 0319 or email them on [email protected]
   
2. Snorkel Koh Ma and Haad Yao: Explore the coral reefs around Koh Ma and Haad Yao. Booking a private boat is a more  personalized experience, allowing you to discover marine life at your own pace and with experts who know the best spots.  Nad Travel: What’s App: +66 96 634
   • If you want to do this solo, then head over to Haad Yao, walk over the sand bank to Koh Ma and on the left side of the small side of Koh Ma about 15 meters past the sandbank is the most perfect area to snorkel. 
     
3. Sunset Cruises: Go on a private sunset cruise around the island, complete with champagne and light snacks, offering fabulous views and a romantic ambiance.  Nad Travel: What’s App: +66 96 634 
   
4. Go Diving:  One of Thailand’s premier dive sites, Sail Rock is perfect for adventurous couples looking to see the amazing underwater world between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao and is considered the best dive site in the area. It is a granite pinnacle that rises 8 meters out of the water and has a depth of 47 meters..  There are many other less challenging dive sites available.  Dive centers like Sail Rock Divers are highly recommended, WhatsApp: +66808857268
   
5. Couples’ Spa Day: Enjoy a couples’ massage or spa package at luxury spas like the ones recommended below, featuring traditional Thai treatments in serene settings.  
   • Lavella Spa – Great massages and other spa packages.    What’s App: +66 6 9521 222 93
   • Pure Relax Sri Thanu: Relaxing and therapeutic massages with locations also in Thong Sala and Nai Wok: What’s App: +66 0 816 211 170
   • Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort & Spa: Upscale spa in a 5 star resort offering the traditional romantic couple massage and package offerings.  What’s App: +66 774 289 99
     
     
6. Yoga and Wellness Retreats: Participate in couple-focused yoga classes or meditation sessions at retreats such as The Sanctuary or  Yoga Retreat Koh Phangan.
   
7. Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes together, a fun and interactive way to bond and take a piece of Thai culture home with you.  Muai’s Thai Traditional Cooking Academy is considered the best one on the island.
   
8. Discover Hiking in Nature:
   • Than Sadet Waterfall in Koh Phangan’s Namtok Than Sadet National Park is a peaceful spot with a historical touch, as it was visited by Thai royalty in the past.  The waterfall features several small cascades along a rocky river. Close by, you’ll find two quiet beaches: Than Sadet Beach, great for relaxing with soft white sand, and Thong Reng Beach, a more secluded stretch of shoreline. Both are perfect for soaking in the natural beauty of the park.  And there are usually no other people there!
   • Phaeng Noi Waterfall Embark on a scenic hike through lush jungle trails to Phaeng Waterfall. The hike is a 1.5 hour loop (which is best done clockwise so that you complete the difficult part first).   You will be rewarded with a nice dip in the pool of the waterfall, just be careful as the rocks can be quite mossy and slippery.

Best Romantic Dining Spots

There is a dizzying amount of options for dining on the island.  From some of the best vegan restaurants that we have ever gone to, to very romantic cliffside dining for 2 filled with whatever type of food you may desire.  Here are some of the best romantic dining spots on the island:

1. Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar: Known for its fresh seafood and romantic beachfront setting, offering candlelit dinners with the sound of waves in the background.
   
2. Luna Lounge (Thong Nai Pan Noi): Offers a fusion of Thai and international cuisine in an intimate setting, perfect for a romantic evening.
   
3. Valentino Restaurant & Wine Bar: Located in the peaceful Thong Nai Pan Noi area, this place has a unique tranquil atmosphere and a menu inspired by Italian cuisine with a creative twist, complemented by an extensive wine list with over 40 global selections, including six by-the-glass options.
   
4. Romanzo Tropicale: For authentic Italian cuisine, head to Hin Kong beach.  This romantic  restaurant offers a truly authentic Italian experience with stunning sunset views. They use the finest imported and local ingredients to recreate the true flavors of Italy.
   
5. The Wave Sunset Restaurant and Bar: Enjoy a romantic, affordable sunset dinner with stunning sea views at this relaxed restaurant.  Must-tries include the unique green noodles with duck and the flavorful lemongrass coconut dish.  For an extra touch of charm, snag a table or hammock downstairs for dessert and coffee.
   
6. Ocean Vibes: This is a very reasonably priced little hotel which has a Thai and western cuisine restaurant with great food.  The sunsets are breathtaking!  So, if you are on a budget, this is a nice spot for a romantic meal.

Dine in Chefs for your Private Villas in Koh Phangan 

After setting eyes on our private villa, I honestly did not want to leave.  Who doesn’t love just hanging out at a private pool overlooking the gorgeous turquoise water of the sea?!  Unfortunately when hunger strikes, one needs to either go to a grocery store or a restaurant to get food.  

So for a personalized and intimate dining experience, consider hiring a private chef to prepare a gourmet meal in your villa so that you do not have to leave even for a second.  Below are our favorite 3 private chefs that will come to your private villas in Koh Phangan and cook you whatever you may be craving:

1. Chef Mendy: Specializes in Thai cuisine and offers private chef services, preparing multi-course dinners featuring local ingredients.
   
2. Chef Gam: Known for fusion cuisine blending Thai, Vietnamese, and European flavors, Chef Gam provides private catering and in-villa dining experiences.
   
3. Nim’s Kitchen: Offers Thai cooking classes and private catering services, allowing couples to enjoy authentic Thai meals prepared in their villa. 

Wrap Up – Koh Phangan Travel Guide for Couples

Our time on Koh Phangan was truly magical. We’ve been fortunate to explore countless islands worldwide, and Koh Phangan has undeniably earned a special place in our hearts. While the Maldives still holds a top spot, Koh Phangan’s unique charm and beauty make it a close second.

We hope our Koh Phangan travel guide for couples has inspired you to discover the island’s romantic allure. With so many options, we’ve created a list of the most captivating experiences and secluded retreats to help you plan your perfect romantic getaway.

Have you been to this island?  Perhaps a Honeymoon in Koh Phangan?  We would love to hear form you about your experience here.  Make sure to drop us a line in the comments.