Koh Phangan — Full Moon Party & More

Koh Phangan (125 km²) is known for one thing above all: the Full Moon Party. But the island offers much more than drunk backpackers with neon paint. In the north and east are hidden some of the most beautiful and quietest beaches in Thailand, in the hinterland, jungle hikes and yoga retreats beckon, and the west coast has become a hotspot for digital nomads.

★★★ Full Moon Party — Haad Rin

The most famous beach party in the world has been held since 1985 at every full moon on Haad Rin Nok — and today attracts 10,000–30,000 revelers. The entire beach transforms into an open-air disco: dozens of sound stages with different music (EDM, techno, reggae, hip-hop, trance), neon-lit fire show artists, fire rope jumping, and cheap bucket cocktails.

What you need to know:

• Entry: 100 ฿ (approx. 2.50€) — collected at the entrance
• Bucket cocktails (Sangsom rum + Red Bull + cola): 200–300 ฿
• Beer bottle: 100–150 ฿
• The party starts around 9 PM, peak is 1–4 AM
• Return boats to Samui run all night (last regular ferry 10 PM, but party boats until 6 AM)

Safety Tips

Caution: The Full Moon Party has a dark side. Every month there are injuries from fire shows, thefts, and occasional drug raids. Carry only as much cash as you need (2,000–3,000 ฿ is enough). Leave passport, credit cards, and valuables in the hotel safe. Wear sturdy shoes (no flip-flops — there are glass shards in the sand). Do not buy drugs — the penalties in Thailand are draconian (up to life imprisonment for possession).

Half Moon & Black Moon Party

As an alternative to the overcrowded Full Moon Party, there is the Half Moon Party (half-moon, in a jungle setting with blacklight) and the Black Moon Party (new moon, smaller venue). Both attract 2,000–5,000 visitors and are considered musically better curated. Entry each 600–800 ฿ including one drink.