Koh Phayam

Koh Phayam offers a tranquil, laid-back island experience with unspoiled beaches and a slow pace of life, appealing to those seeking an escape from mass tourism. The island's lush natural environment and bohemian atmosphere attract visitors looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

  <p>Long Beach (Ao Yai) is the most social area, featuring various bars and restaurants that host regular, relaxed gatherings, drawing a younger and more casual crowd. Buffalo Bay (Ao Khao Kwai) is quieter but home to the iconic Hippie Bar, a prominent social hub known for its unique driftwood architecture and sunset views. Scattered across the island are smaller, informal bamboo bars with a distinct Rasta vibe, providing additional casual meeting points.</p>

Top 6 Things to do in Koh Phayam

Activities on Koh Phayam primarily involve enjoying its natural environment, from exploring unspoiled beaches and lush mangroves to engaging in water sports and experiencing local culture.

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          <h3>1. Explore Beaches and Witness Sunsets</h3>
          <p>The island's appeal lies in its tranquil, unspoiled beaches such as Ao Yai (Long Beach), which stretches for kilometres, and Ao Khao Kwai (Buffalo Bay), known for its unique curved shape resembling a buffalo horn. These beaches offer ideal settings for swimming, sunbathing, and unwinding. Sunsets are particularly spectacular from Ao Yai, providing a picturesque end to the day. The iconic Hippie Bar at Ao Khao Kwai is a popular spot to observe the sunset while enjoying its distinctive bohemian atmosphere. </p>
              <p><strong>Cost:</strong> Free to visit beaches. Drinks at beach bars vary in cost.</p>
              <p><strong>Transport:</strong> Beaches are accessible by rented scooter or motorbike taxi. Scooter rentals range from 150 to 300 THB per day.  Motorbike taxis typically cost 50 to 100 THB for short distances.  The island has narrow concrete roads, suitable only for motorbikes, with no cars. </p>
              
         
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          <h3>2. Kayak Through Mangrove Forests</h3>
          <p>Kayaking through the serene mangrove forests, particularly accessible from Buffalo Bay, offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the island's lush natural environment. This peaceful journey allows for close encounters with local wildlife, including various bird species like hornbills, sea eagles, and even monkeys. It is best undertaken during high tide to ensure easy navigation through the waterways. </p>
              <p><strong>Cost:</strong> Kayak rentals are affordable, with most resorts offering this service. </p>
              <p><strong>Transport:</strong> Mangrove areas are often accessible by scooter or motorbike taxi. Many resorts around Buffalo Bay provide kayak rentals on-site. </p>
              
         
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          <h3>3. Go Snorkeling or Diving in Nearby Islands</h3>
          <p>While direct snorkeling around Koh Phayam has been affected by commercial overfishing and coral bleaching, the island serves as an excellent base for day trips to world-renowned diving and snorkeling sites. Tours often visit the clear waters and vibrant marine life of the Surin Islands and Richelieu Rock, known for diverse corals, fish, and chances to spot manta rays and whale sharks. Various operators on Koh Phayam offer these excursions, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. </p>
              <p><strong>Cost:</strong> Day trip prices vary significantly depending on the destination and operator. Expect costs ranging from approximately 4,000 THB to 10,000 THB per person, which typically include equipment, lunch, and soft drinks, though national park fees may be extra. </p>
              <p><strong>Transport:</strong> Tours depart by speedboat from Koh Phayam, usually arranged through dive shops or resorts. </p>
              
         
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          <h3>4. Visit a Cashew Nut Farm</h3>
          <p>Koh Phayam is renowned for its cashew nuts, with plantations covering a significant portion of the island's interior. Visiting a local cashew nut farm offers insight into the traditional processing methods, from harvesting to drying and roasting. Some tours may include cooking classes to make local desserts or allow visitors to pick fresh vegetables and plant their own cashew trees. This provides a glimpse into the island's agricultural heritage. </p>
              <p><strong>Cost:</strong> Costs for farm tours vary by operator. Some tours include lunch and other activities. </p>
              <p><strong>Transport:</strong> Cashew nut farms are typically located in the island's interior, accessible by rented scooter or a pre-arranged tour transport. </p>
              
         
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          <h3>5. Indulge in a Traditional Thai Massage</h3>
          <p>To fully embrace the island's relaxed pace, experiencing a traditional Thai massage is highly recommended. Various massage parlours are available across Koh Phayam, offering a rejuvenating and authentic local experience that helps to unwind and soothe after a day of exploration. </p>
              <p><strong>Cost:</strong> A 60-minute traditional Thai massage typically costs around 300 THB, while a 90-minute session may be around 450 THB. </p>
              <p><strong>Transport:</strong> Massage parlours are often within walking distance or a short motorbike taxi ride from main accommodation areas. </p>
              
         
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          <h3>6. Practice Yoga Amidst Nature</h3>
          <p>Koh Phayam offers a serene setting for yoga and meditation, with classes often held in natural surroundings, including open-air studios nestled among cashew nut trees or even on secluded beaches at sunrise. Various homestays and dedicated yoga spaces provide open-level classes suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, offering a chance to deepen one's practice and connect with the island's peaceful ambiance. </p>
              <p><strong>Cost:</strong> Specific class costs vary; contact individual yoga studios for current schedules and pricing. Some retreats offer packages including accommodation and multiple classes. </p>
              <p><strong>Transport:</strong> Yoga studios are often near main beaches like Ao Yai. Transportation can be by rented scooter or motorbike taxi depending on location. </p>
              
         
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