Thailand Island Hopping: The Best 2-Week Itinerary with Local Tips

You may not need much more convincing that Thailand is one of the best tropical destinations in the world. With jungle-clad islands fringed with white-sanded beaches with incredible marine life beneath the azure lagoons and lip-tingling culinary delights, the draw of Thailand island hopping speaks for itself.

Whether you seek the famous movie-scene beaches and the spiritual home of the full moon party, or it’s the less-trodden paths, remote isles and authentic, local experiences that intrigue you, there’s a Thailand island hopping itinerary to suit every type of traveller. 

Thailand has an iconic reputation which can make choosing which islands to visit difficult. That’s why, with the help of our trusted, in-destination Local Designers, we’ve put together this guide to the best island hopping in Thailand. Filled with tips, tricks and everything you need to know (including the best time to visit), this guide also includes an island-hopping itinerary that you can customise!

Let’s dive in!

Weather and Seasons in Thailand Islands

We know the weather isn’t the most exciting place to start, however, it can make the difference between a well-planned Thailand trip or a bit of a washout. 

Choosing your island hopping in Thailand route will largely be dictated by the time of year you’re looking to travel and the weather. Whilst Thailand is a year-round destination, avoiding the rain is a skill in itself in this tropical destination. 

Remember: There are never any guarantees when it comes to tropical weather, anything can happen at any time of the year!

Generally, Thailand has three seasons –cool, hot/dry and rainy– which you can read in-depth about in our Thailand Travel Guide. However, the islands don’t follow the same rules as the rest of the country and vary from coast to coast. 

Best Time to Visit Gulf of Thailand Islands

The Gulf of Thailand includes Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan among others.

If you are familiar with the rules for the rest of Thailand weather-wise, you can bank on the Gulf of Thailand being the exact opposite. The gulf is affected by the monsoon season from November to December. The dry season is between January and April which is the best time to come if you’re looking for little chance of rain, good visibility and warm weather. 

Best Time of Year to Visit Thailand’s Andaman Coast

On the west coast, you’ll find Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe and of course Phuket. 

Like the rest of Thailand, the best time to visit the Andaman Coast is December through to March. Whilst this is peak season and can be busy, this is still the best time to visit as further into the year (April, May and June), it gets extremely hot with high humidity and frequent –yet short– storms.  

Trips you may like

16-Day Divine Thai Culture

Take a journey from the thriving capital city of Bangkok to the south of Thailand on this city and islands tour!Over 14 days, you’ll explore the capital on boat and tuk-tuk before travelling south to Phuket where you’ll go island hopping and visit an elephant sanctuary. Moving on, you’ll spend a few days in Krabi launching off to explore the islands nearby and finally, you’ll make your way to Khao Lak before returning to Bangkok. For those looking for a relaxing island hopping trip with plenty of adventure and marvellous scenery, then this holiday to Thailand is for you!

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11-Day Authentic South Thailand

Discover the beauty of Thailand’s rich culture, warm and friendly locals and fascinating history and architecture on this nine-day adventure from Bangkok to Chiang Mai!Beginning in Bangkok, you’ll explore the city in a number of unique ways: canal boat, tuk-tuk and a segway scooter! You’ll discover the wonderful landmarks of this city and get your first introduction to Thai food. Moving on, you’ll head to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya to explore the many temples. Next, you’ll head to Sukhothai, Suphanburi and Lampang for a few days before heading north to Chiang Mai where you’ll spend the last few days of your trip exploring the city.

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9-Day Temples of Thailand

This 7 day Thailand itinerary takes you back in time on a route paved by kingdom builders to learn about the heritage. Thailand’s history is comprised of the rise and fall of kingdoms and on our journey, we’ll cycle through more than 700 years of history, visiting three UNESCO World Heritage sites that defined the country and culture of Thailand. The Chakri dynasty established the current capital of Bangkok or, as known by locals, Krung Thep, our starting point. From here we head north to the former Kingdom of Ayutthaya, once one of the wealthiest cities in the East. Riding north through the rice basket of Thailand, we arrive at what is considered to be the first true Thai kingdom, Sukhothai. Under the Phra Ruang dynasty, the Thai alphabet was created and Theravada Buddhism was established as the religion in the short 130 years of power. Riding further northward, the terrain becomes more rugged as mountains flank our path on both sides as we enter what was once known as the Lanna Kingdom. Here we’ll cycle through the land once ruled by the Tai people and see their influence in the recently excavated ruins of the Haripunchai Kingdom before arriving at the northern capital of Chiang Mai founded in 1298.Cycling distance: 263 kmBike: hybrid bikeDifficulty: activeThis cycling adventure is for those who wish to see Thailand’s rural countryside and explore the rich history of Siam, all while enjoying an active holiday. The scenery is ever-changing as we start our ride through the emerald paddy fields of central Thailand where the roads are mainly flat, then continue with some undulating terrain and a few gentle climbs in the northern hills, before arriving in the cultural city of Chiang Mai. The trip is fully supported and your guide’s expert knowledge of the area and terrain means that you always know what is coming up in terms of distance and difficulty. This makes a tremendous difference, as does the constant supply of cold drinks and fresh fruit.

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7-Day Thailand By Bicycle

With Bangkok as your base, this culturally immersive Thai experience takes you on and off the tourist trail in search of temples, markets and rural countryside landscapes finishing on a stunning island!Starting in the capital, you’ll find yourself on all manner of transportation to explore fully. You’ll take a traditional boat through the city’s ‘klongs’, hop on tuk-tuk’s, and metro systems to see temples, the Royal Palace and the depths of Chinatown, Bangkok’s food haven. Leaving the city behind you head to Kanchanaburi, home to the Death Railway before you hop between Siam’s old capitals, Ayutthaya, Lopburi and the famous Sukhothai, the home of Thai culture as we know it today. Each of the capitals have their own tales to tell, taking you on a journey through Thai history that is essential for your cultural immersion, ready to head to Thailand’s most traditional city, Chiang Mai. Your two weeks spent Thailand sightseeing finishes with 6 glorious days to relax and enjoy nature at its finest. You’ll be just moments away from the jungle and beach at all times where you can relax, read a book, go snorkelling, scuba diving or island hopping at your leisure – bliss!

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14-Day Island Hopping in Thailand

The pristine beaches and stunning limestone scenery of southern Thailand have made it a favourite backdrop for Hollywood movies, such as “The Beach” and of course James Bond’s “Man with the Golden Gun” – you’ll feel like you are on a movie set riding through this gorgeous landscape. Staying at some of the most beautiful resorts Southern Thailand has to offer, including the Haven Khao Lak for some rest and relaxation during your 11-day bike tour!Southern Thailand has more to offer than turquoise waters, white sand and lush jungles – it’s also home to a fascinating mixture of cultures. Thai Buddhists mingle with Muslim seafarers to produce colourful people steeped in history and tradition. Priding themselves on their openness and hospitality, the people of the south, or Khon Dai, are always ready to show “farang” (foreigners) their country.Our tour starts on the Gulf of Thailand, at a pristine beach that is off the tourist track. We then head inland and spend time on a stunning lake and ride on the edge of Khao Sok National Park – home to the last of Thailand’s great rainforests – before we head to the beaches on the Andaman Sea. From Khao Lak, we’ll head to the paradise island of Koh Yao Noi where you’ll spend time with a local fishing family. As we boat through Phang Nga Bay towards Krabi be awed by the spectacular limestone cliffs rising vertically from the sea.Though we ride through the world-class tourist destinations of Khao Lak and Krabi, we also leave behind the tourist enclaves and see a southern Thailand that is a rarely visited gem to be discovered.Cycling distance: 384 km (4 full/4 half)Elevation profile: +3,454m/-3,434mMinimum age: 18 yearsWe cycle 384 kilometres exploring beaches, waterfalls, jungle, fishing villages and islands. We enjoy some time off the bike so we can take in boat rides, wildlife and the culture of this fascinating region. Cycling is on a mixture of tarmac and dirt roads. An air-conditioned minivan that travels behind the group provides excellent support. You can cycle as much or as little as you like and still enjoy the same views as the rest. – Suitability: The riding is primarily on tarmac roads, with a few undulations, but there are no major hill climbs. The distances are well within the capability of most riders with a reasonable fitness level.

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How to Go Island Hopping in Thailand

Everything you need to know about getting around Thailand is covered here in this travel guide but concerning island hopping, here are your main options:

Planes, Ferries and Boats

In most cases, you’ll arrive in the main hub on either coast (Phuket or Koh Samui) then take boats and ferries to reach your chosen island destination. Moving between the Thai islands is very easy if you’re looking to hop from one island to another by boat. 

Remember: The time of year can affect your enjoyment of the ferry ride. If it’s monsoon season, that’s going to be a bumpy ride and ferries may sometimes be cancelled.

Private Tours

Whilst the main transport links between the islands are planes, ferries and boats, once on the island, you can opt to be met by a private guide and car so that you can explore the islands in luxury. This way, you’ll be able to get to your hotel hassle-free and then quickly go r to that secret sunset spot or the waterfall that’s on the other side of the island. 

The best way to organise your private tour island hopping around Thailand is to connect with our trusted, in-destination Local Designers who will be able to design your dream trip perfectly suited to your budget, travel style and interests and fill it with unique, local experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. 

The 2-Week Thailand Island Hopping Itinerary

Every great Thailand trip should begin and end with Bangkok, this itinerary does exactly that. Crafted by our Local Designers, this itinerary is fully customisable and filled with unique experiences that elevate your Thailand Island hopping experience to another level. 

Day 1: Sawasdee – Welcome to Bangkok!

Touching down in Bangkok, you’ll be welcomed by your driver who will whisk you through the city to your five-star hotel in the heart of the Silom district. After your long journey, you’ll have the day to relax, taking a much-deserved dip in the hotel’s stunning rooftop pool overlooking the city skyline. 

Day 2: Bangkok City Tour and Evening Chinatown Tour

Today, you’ll embark on a private Bangkok discovery tour with your local expert guide. The first half of your tour will be spent visiting the iconic landmarks of the city, including the Grand Palace, which is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. In the afternoon, you’ll swap the roads of Bangkok for the canals of Thon Buri as you cruise along in a traditional klong (long-tail boat) stopping at Wat Arun, one of the most emblematic symbols of the capital. 

The evening will bring a change of space as you head to Yaowarat’s Chinatown and the lively flower market where nightfall transforms the street into a giant canteen surrounded by incredible street cuisine!

Day 3: Fish Market in Mahachai, Rickshaw Ride, Train to Mae Klong and Seafood Market

Get ready for a busy one today as you say goodbye to Bangkok for the night and enjoy a taste of rural, authentic Thailand before journeying south to the islands. On the way to Amphawa, you’ll stop at Mahachai to visit the fish market, then you’ll go for a rickshaw ride around the town and then hop onto a train to Mae Klong to marvel at the famous train market. Later, that day, you’ll be able to fill your belly Thai-style at the seafood market.

Day 4: Fly to Phuket – Your Thailand Island Hopping Begins

After transferring back to Bangkok, you’ll catch your flight to Thailand’s biggest island, the iconic Phuket. You’ll meet your driver on arrival who will take you to your beachfront resort where you’ll benefit from being tucked away from the hustle and bustle whilst within easy reach of it. 

Day 5: Phuket Island Tour

Accompanied by your expert local guide, today it is time for some Thailand island hopping from Phuket! You’ll explore the southern part of the island and its surroundings where you’ll discover the natural beauty of Phuket. The viewpoints of Kata and Cape Promthep will have you picking your jaw off the ground before a visit to the oldest and most important temple on the island will have you feeling humble and a visit to a local rum brewery will have you a little tipsy! Your Phuket island hopping tour will end in a typical local restaurant where you’ll be able to sample the best Thai food of your trip so far. 

Day 6: Phang Nha Bay Tour and Travel to Krabi

Today, you’ll cross the mangrove forest, strange-shaped rocks and the limestone cave of Tham Lod as you cruise on a speedboat to Phang Nha Bay. The James Bond island will be your next stop followed by Koh Panyee, the village of the “Sea Gypsies”, a Muslim fishing village on stilts. You’ll spend the rest of the tour exploring this fascinating fisherman’s village built on stilts in the sea. Traditional houses, simple tin houses, elaborate and stylized shops of fabrics, shells, jewels and souvenirs, a mixed Muslim school, restaurants and a football field make this little floating village famous all over the world. 

Day 7: Krabi Island Hopping

Having arrived in Krabi yesterday afternoon, today you’ll explore beautiful islands around Krabi, known for their exceptional natural beauty with pristine white sandy beaches and imposing limestone formations. As you travel by traditional long-tail boat, only the most beautiful sites will be on your itinerary including Phra Nang Cave, Tup Islands, Chicken Island and Poda Island.

Day 8: Phi Phi Islands Tour

The Phi Phi islands are comprised of Phi Phi Don, the main island, and Phi-Phi Ley. Both are characterised by stunning rainforest-clas karst peaks which shoot out of the turquoise blue and jade green waters which wash against magnificent white beaches and rugged cliffs. Today, you’ll cruise to the magical landscape of Maya Bay, home to the movie-famous ‘The Beach’ beach. Viking Cave and Monkey Beach will be the next stops before a snorkelling spot and some relaxing beach time.

Day 9: Phang Nha Elephant Park and Travel to Khao Lak

Elephants and Thailand go hand in hand as a must-have experience. However, it’s incredibly important that you choose a responsible, sustainable experience when engaging in activities with animals. Chosen by our expert Local Designers, you’ll head to the Phang-Nga Elephant Park, to meet your mahout who will explain the history and life of Asian elephants along with a safety briefing. You’ll change into a traditional Kwan-Chang outfit to fully immerse in the experience then spend the day walking alongside the elephants, feeding them, scrubbing and washing them and enjoying a traditional plant-based Thai lunch.

Day 10: Similian Islands Tour by Boat

From your Koh Lak base, today you’ll set out to explore the Similan Park, the underwater world of which is famous worldwide for its fantastic snorkelling and diving sites. The archipelago consists of nine granitic islets covered with lush tropical vegetation emerging from the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Small coral sand beaches of almost immaculate whiteness line the islets; it is this coral sand that is responsible for the variety of marine life found here. 

Day 11: Khao Lak

Khao Lak is an oasis of calm in an otherwise rather rowdy part of Thailand. Characterised by national parks, rolling hills, tropical forest and beaches looking out onto the Andaman Sea, the island boasts 20 kilometres of beautiful sandy beaches against a backdrop of jungle-filled mountains. Today, you can lounge on the beach or opt for something a little more active, you can head out on a mountain walk, jungle trek or enjoy some great off-shore diving.

Day 12: Fly Back to Bangkok

To complete your Thailand trip, you’ll return to Bangkok from Phuket airport. You’ll once again meet your local guide at the airport and travel to your five-star luxury hotel to enjoy your last few days in Thailand. Take advantage of your last few days by exploring some of the places you haven’t had a chance to visit yet. 

Day 13: Explore Bangkok

From the bustling, scorching hot Chatuchak Market to the sleepy canals that navigate the city; Bangkok has this incredible ability to adapt to everyone’s tastes and needs. With countless markets, malls, temples and interesting sites to explore, you’ll be spoilt for choice today. Your local guide can also arrange a unique experience for you if you would prefer a more structured day. 

Day 14: Departure from Bangkok or Extend Your Trip!

On your last day, you’ll be transferred to your airport by your driver in time for your departing flight. Alternatively, you can extend your tour if you wish! How about a few days in Koh Samui or diving in Koh Tao? For a unique adventure, you could add a few days in Koh Chang or Koh Kood.

How to Design Your Thailand Island Hopping Tour

Planning a trip to a destination you’ve never been to before can be difficult, especially when there are so many incredible places to visit. When you add in the element of island hopping, the itinerary has even more moving parts making it difficult to plan what’s best. That’s where our Local Designers excel. 

Using their local insight, destination knowledge and travel planning expertise, our trusted Local Designers in Thailand will design your perfect trip suited to your budget, travel style and interests in a matter of days! Simply browse our gallery of fully customisable Thailand tours or design your own trip from scratch if you know what you want to do and where you want to go. You’ll be connected with one of our expert Local Designers who will work with you to plan your extraordinary travel experience!

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