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Koh Phra Thong travel guide
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Koh Phra Thong
Legend has it that a precious golden Buddha once was buried by pirates beneath soft sands on this special island in the Andaman sea. While treasure hunters gave up their search a long time ago, travelers began their exploration of tranquillity and natural beauty in Koh Phra Thong. Don’t wait to visit this truly exceptional island, where golden beaches kiss blue water and unique savannah landscapes let you dream of Africa. Getting there? Take a long tail boat from Khura Buri Pier on the mainland. Boats run until the afternoon.
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Travel information about Koh Phra Thong
Good to Know
The stunning landscape of Koh Phra Tong, with its pristine beaches and peaceful atmosphere, is the main reason why this unique island has made it onto the list of must-visit places in Thailand.
As Koh Phra Tong is still a quiet fishing island, visitors can experience authentic Thailand rather than luxury.
There are no ATMs on the island, so it’s important to bring enough cash.
Don’t miss the chance to try the local delicacy gà·þì (fermented prawn paste) or savor the fresh seafood.
Best nature to explore on Koh Phra Thong
Stunning Nature
Koh Phra Thong is covered in fields of long grasses, blistering trees, and sandy dunes, creating a landscape similar to Africa’s savannah. The island is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 100 bird species to spot. While wandering around, you can find rare orchids or even catch a glimpse of some of the neighboring Ko Ra’s inhabitants, such as the flying lemur, leopard, or wild pig.
The west coast of Koh Phra Thong features a vast stretch of 10 km of golden sand meeting the ocean, offering untouched and undeveloped beaches that will give you the feeling of being Robinson Crusoe. On the east side, the island is covered in mangroves, making it an ideal spot for kayaking.
More fun activities on Koh Phra Thong
more to explore
If you’re looking to enjoy the pristine beaches of Koh Phra Thong, there are several activities to keep you busy on the island. You can rent a kayak to explore the expansive mangroves on the east side of Thong. Another option is to rent a scooter to see more of the island, with paved and safe roads between Lions Village and Ta Pae Yoe Village, while other roads on the island are mostly sandy and unsuitable for driving.
For those who enjoy hiking, take a hike on Koh Phra Thong, but make sure to bring water and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s strong daytime rays. For a panoramic view of the island, visit Monkey Hill, located near the Golden Buddha Resort. If you’re interested in an extensive beach walk, the entire western length of the island is accessible.
If you prefer water activities, consider joining a diving or snorkeling tour to nearby Ko Surin, Richelieu Rock, or Ko Similan, all renowned scuba dive locations in Thailand.
Finally, for a change of scenery, consider taking a day trip to the barely inhabited Koh Ra to observe impressive wildlife in the lush jungle.