Koh Phayam stands out as a hidden gem in the Andaman Sea. Renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, serene waters, rich biodiversity, and peaceful ambiance, this destination has earned the nickname “Surfer’s Paradise Island.” It is a popular choice among surfers and is constantly ranked among the top five most visited places in the world.

While Phayam is famous for its surfing scene, the island has much more to offer. Relaxing on the wide beach, taking a leisurely stroll in the middle of the sea during low tide at Ao Khao Kwai, canoeing through the mangrove forest, feeding hornbills up close, surfing, and watching the sunset at Ao Yai, eating seafood fresh from local fishing boats, and sampling cashew nuts from Ranong Province’s biggest plantation are the must-dos when visiting this beautiful island.

Discover the wonders of Phayam Island

Koh Phayam is an expansive island, spanning over 35 square kilometers. It is the second-largest island in Ranong Province. The island is blessed with a picturesque landscape, including mountains, mixed deciduous forests, mangrove forests, and four beautiful bays: Ao Mae Mai, Ao Yai, Ao Khao Kwai, and Ao Kwang Pi.And given the area’s abundant fertility, unique species, including monkeys, wild boars, red hawks, hornbills, and parrots, have called it home.

This island is an inhabitant of the Moken, or sea gypsies, along with the native Ranong people, who have been the island’s original inhabitants for more than 160 families. The majority of them work in local fisheries and agriculture, which includes rubber and cashew nuts.

Did you know?

According to the locals, the island’s name, “Phayam,” derives from the fact that, in the past, accessing the island required “Phayam” (a Thai word meaning effort), as there was only one boat trip available each day, electricity was generated on the island, and there were no major roads around the island.

Riding the waves and watching the breathtaking sunset at Ao Yai

When you arrive on the island, one of the most exciting things to do is go surfing at Ao Yai, a stunning spot situated in the southwest of the island. The bay is large, living up to its name, with a four-kilometer-long cove. The beach offers a wide expanse of sand and consistent, clean waves, creating the perfect conditions for those seeking an ideal surfing experience. If you’re looking to give surfing a shot, you’ll find surfboards readily available for rent along the beach. October through December and April through May are the two best times to go surfing on Phayam Island.

Even if surfing isn’t your thing, Ao Yai is worth a visit because it has the most stunning sunset on the island. The wide sandy beach cascades down to the water, offering a breathtaking panorama of the sea and the horizon, especially when the tide is out. The fine, silky, and yellowish-gray sand is what really sets this beach apart.

Explore Ao Kwang Peeb’s underwater paradise

Ao Kwang Peeb is Koh Phayam’s most beautiful diving spot. Visitors can enjoy the wonders of an aquatic scene at depths ranging from 10 to 20 meters. Surrounded by the tranquil ambiance of the underwater world, you will discover a brilliant array of marine life, including colorful corals, graceful sea anemones, and schools of diverse fish species swimming nearby. Even if diving isn’t your thing, the bay provides amazing photographic opportunities. You can capture the charm of a small wooden bridge nestled between large and small rocks or the picturesque corner of trees that line the beach.

Take a stroll along to enjoy the view of Hin Thalu at Ao Khao Kwai

Ao Khao Kwai is known for its stunning beauty, including a sandy beach that curves inward like a buffalo’s horn, making it the most picturesque beach cove in Koh Phayam. You can stroll as far into the middle of the water as your eyes can see, especially at low tide. At the beach, you will find beautiful white sand and sand stripes that trace the waves during low tide. Another stunning natural feature is the lush, shallow mangrove forest that lies to the left of the beach.

One of the most popular things to do when visiting Ao Khao Kwai is to pose for a photo next to Hin Talu, a marvelous natural sculpture that dominates the harbor. It is a little rock mountain with the lowest portion worn by water into a hole that can be walked through. Meanwhile, adventurers can canoe, kayak, ride, and explore the bay’s nature trails, which include both land and mangrove woods.

Ride a boat to Koh Kamtok to visit Khao Kwai Bay

There is another Khao Kwai Bay with the same name, but it is located in Laem Son National Park, not far from Koh Phayam. Its pristine sand beach contrasts with the immaculate blue sea. From the summit, one can see almost 360 degrees of the sea and the island’s surroundings. The charm of this bay lies in its tranquil and secluded beach, free from any commercial establishments. One could argue that it is perfect for a laid-back getaway.

Experience the village life and feed the hornbills in Ao Mae Mai

Ao Mae Mai is home to the island’s largest and most vibrant community. It also serves as a transit center, connecting the island’s different bays. In addition to learning about the local culture and admiring the beauty of the historic Buddhist chapel in the middle of the sea at Wat Koh Phayam, visitors may get up close and personal with around twenty hornbills and feed them without the need for binoculars. Seeing hornbills up close is usually not easy; therefore, this is another unique experience that you shouldn’t miss.

Best time to travel

The best time to visit is from October to May when the monsoon season is not in effect. The recommended stay is three days and two nights.

How to get there

The domestic flight from Bangkok to Ranong Airport takes around an hour. Next, take public transportation to Pak Nam Pier and catch a boat to Koh Phayam. The boat trip to Koh Phayam takes around 40 minutes. On the island, tuk-tuks and motorcycles are available for sightseeing, or you can rent a motorbike to get around.

More Info: https://ranongcities.com/travel/travel_top/detail/3