As globally popular as Thailand has become, it’s reasonable to ask if there are any worthwhile getaways that feel truly untouched.
According to TimeOut, the answer is a resounding “Yes!”.
As Phuket and Koh Samui continue to draw hordes of vacationers all over the world seeking culture, buzzing nightlife, and paradise shores, that leaves room for Thailand’s lesser-known to creep into the spotlight without a boost from White Lotus fame.
Translating to ‘Golden Buddha Island’, I don’t know about you, but I’m sold already on this unheard-of island already…
Adventure awaits in this easy-to-reach hideaway, boasting virgin coastline with few footprints and eco-resorts for a more authentic (and affordable) stay compared to cookie-cutter vacation packages.
Where In The World Is Phra Thong Island?
The island of Phra Thong isn’t developed for mass tourism, nor did Sisqo write a song about it in the 90s…
That said, this pristine beach getaway isn’t hard to reach with a little planning ahead.
The good news is that if you already have Phuket in your plans, it’s an easy add-on for a break from crowds and bass-thumping untz-untzing that seems to follow Aussies wherever they go.
As enticing as it may be to stick to the script and enjoy the predictable pleasures of Phuket, many tourists (like me) look back at their Thai adventures wishing they had packed more in, given the ample diversity Thailand has to offer.
Phra Thong is located off the Andaman Coast in Phang Nga province, just north of Phuket. It’s not a map dot per se — it’s large enough to point at first glance and still meets the mark for “hidden gem” status.
That makes a visit all the more alluring, so you’ll first need to head to Khura Buri Pier, just over 2 hours in the best of traffic conditions.
From there, your only option is to hop aboard one of Thailand’s famed longboats, which tends to take an hour or so at most to reach wide-open golden shores for a blissful time off the beaten path.
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Depart Phuket
Leave the crowds behind. Head north towards Phang Nga province.
+2:00
Khura Buri Pier
Arrive at the pier. This is your gateway to the Andaman’s secret side.
+1:00
Longboat Adventure
Trade the van for a traditional boat. Glide through mangroves and open sea.
Total: 3h
Golden Shores
You made it. No noise, just nature. Welcome to paradise.
Raw & Real: A Far Cry From Phuket
The second you set sail, so to speak, on a traditional longboat, you’ll know you’re ‘not in Kansas anymore’ in terms of what feels familiar — and that’s because Phra Thong is untamed in the best way.
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by delightful locals who run the island without eyesore chains for both hotels and restaurants.
You’ll have to skip your mocha frocha frappuccinos (or whatever Starbucks serves nowadays) in favor of a strong Thai tea.
The same can be said for passing on DoubleTree’s chocolate chip cookies and settling for low-key eco-lodging — albeit with prime real estate
Beaches don’t have DJ booths, all-night ragers, or lines and lines of loungers impossible to reserve — just nothing but sand, sea, sun, and sky.
As TimeOut stated, “Head here, and you’ll be greeted by unspoilt sandy beaches dotted with eco resorts and… not much else.”
But that’s not a diss — that’s the appeal. Let’s be honest, though. We realize you’re not traversing oceans to get here to just sit and do nothing when you can find places to waste away in Mexico or other nearby countries.
With practically untouched beaches to recharge, Phra Thong is best served as a day trip or weekend getaway to reset after some long nights in Phuket. We’ve all been there…
Phra Thong’s Top Places To Stay
You won’t find any name-brand accommodations anywhere on Phra Thong.
So, where does that leave us? TripAdvisor!
Not so fast…
Phra Thong is so undiscovered that even TripAdvisor’s rankings of resorts don’t accurately reflect the island.
But there is one that travelers for sure love and is indeed in the right place. That would be Baba Ecolodge, just as fun to stay as it is to say.
It holds an impressive 4.8 stars out of 5 with well over 200 reviews.
Guests rave about the frontside beach, lush jungle scenery, impeccable service, seclusion, and delicious food and hand-crafted cocktails.
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