Ranong has been a familiar province to me since childhood — it’s my mother’s hometown. During every school holiday, we’d travel there almost every year. Back then, Ranong was still a small, quiet province that many people hadn’t even heard of. It's hard to believe that now, Ranong has become a trending destination, filled with stylish hostels and cozy cafés.

These days, traveling to Ranong is much easier, thanks to the increasing number of direct flights. I book your flight to Ranong via Traveloka, which made everything even more convenient. Back when I was a kid, the journey would take 8–9 hours by car since Ranong is a small province nestled in the mountains, and the roads weren’t as developed as they are today! Now, you can hop on a direct flight with AirAsia or Nok Air and get there in just about an hour and a half. Spending 2–3 days exploring Ranong city is a great idea too — even though it's a small province, it offers many charming attractions and hidden gems worth discovering.

If you're heading to Ranong, make sure Koh Phayam is on your list. This hidden gem is full of charm, nature, culture, and stunning coastal views. Here are 9 amazing check-in spots on Koh Phayam that are totally worth packing your bags for — from secret beaches and floating temples to snorkeling sites and warm local villages.

A small, peaceful bay perfect for true relaxation. Known for its fine white sand and beautifully shaded turquoise waters, it’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, reading, listening to waves, or gently kayaking.
📌 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for a breathtaking sunset!

A hidden gem on Koh Phayam! You’ll need to walk or bike through nature trails to reach it. This secluded bay is loved by nature lovers and photography enthusiasts for its tranquility and romantic sunset views.
📌 Tip: There are some great local food spots nearby — don’t miss them!

The longest beach on the island, Ao Yai is perfect for all kinds of beach activities — from swimming and light surfing to evening strolls. You'll find plenty of beautiful resorts and cozy beachside restaurants here.
📌 Tip: A top pick for photographers thanks to its sweeping scenic views!

The island’s most famous bay, named for its buffalo horn-like shape. This beach offers both peaceful and lively zones, with clear waters and soft white sand. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and chilling at beach cafés.
📌 Tip: Bring or rent snorkeling gear for the best underwater views!

A must-see for spiritual travelers. This unique temple features a floating ordination hall — the island’s iconic landmark. Inside, it’s calm and full of beautiful local Buddhist art. A great place to pay respects and learn about local beliefs.
📌 Tip: Visit in the morning or evening for cooler temperatures.

A nature-lover’s paradise. This bay is known for its contrasting white sands, rocky shores, and crystal-clear green sea. Visit during low tide to see the coral reefs. It’s also one of the island’s most romantic sunset spots.
📌 Tip: Snap a photo with the bay’s signature white rocks — it’s iconic!

One of Koh Phayam’s most unique natural landmarks. This massive rock with a hole in the middle, carved by years of wave erosion, is a popular photo spot and a must-visit highlight on the island.
📌 Tip: Wear proper shoes or water sandals — you’ll be walking over rocks to reach it.

Experience the authentic lifestyle of the sea gypsies — the Moken people. Located at the end of Ao Khao Kwai, this village invites travelers to explore traditional ways of life and deep connections to the ocean.
📌 Tip: Chat with locals to learn their stories and culture — it’s truly enriching.

Love quirky, artsy vibes? Don’t miss this spot! Designed like a pirate shipwreck, Hippy Bar is built from recycled wood and natural materials, making it a photogenic, eco-creative hangout by the sea.
📌 Tip: Live music in the evening adds the perfect vibe to your laid-back beach night.

Koh Phayam in Ranong is a favorite destination for those who love the peaceful sea and the untouched beauty of nature. While most people think of stunning beaches and laid-back cafés when it comes to “Koh Phayam attractions,” this island has so much more to offer. Beyond the breathtaking ocean views, there are fun and meaningful activities that make your trip even more special. Here are 3 must-do things to do on Koh Phayam you shouldn’t miss!

One of the top things to do on Koh Phayam is kayaking through lush mangrove forests, especially during high tide. Paddle your way through peaceful natural canals surrounded by vibrant green mangroves. The soothing sounds of birds, rustling leaves, and gentle water create an almost dreamlike escape. This eco-friendly activity lets you experience the island's nature up close without harming the environment. Whether you're a peaceful soul or a light adventurer, kayaking through the mangroves is perfect for reconnecting with nature and escaping the chaos of daily life.

The hornbill is considered a symbol of Koh Phayam, and these majestic birds can often be spotted throughout the island, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. If you stay at a resort near the forest or take a walk along nature trails, chances are you’ll see a pair of hornbills flying together or calling out with their distinctive sounds. This activity is not only a special and memorable experience but also helps raise awareness about wildlife conservation. Hornbill watching is a rare activity you’ll only find at Koh Phayam — a small but vibrant slice of life in nature.

A trip to Koh Phayam wouldn’t be complete without taking a photo at Hin Ta-Loo, the island’s natural landmark in Ao Khao Kwai. This massive seaside rock has been naturally eroded by waves to form a stunning arch-like hole, making it look like a magical stone gateway. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the soft light and golden sunset make the whole scene even more magical. It’s perfect for portraits or wide-angle shots with epic views.
If you’re into photography, don’t miss this iconic photo spot — it’s one of the island’s top check-in locations!

Though Koh Phayam remains a peaceful and quiet little island in Ranong Province, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. A quick search for “Koh Phayam accommodations” will show you plenty of charming resorts and bungalows—ranging from chic minimalist style to nature-immersed forest stays. Many of them are right on the beach, so you can wake up to the sound of gentle waves outside your window. Here are 3 top beachfront resorts on Koh Phayam perfect for laid-back travelers, photo lovers, or anyone who wants to enjoy a true slow life experience in nature.

If you're looking for a place that’s especially quiet yet fully equipped, Sunnyvale Resort is the perfect match. Nestled on a secluded beach and surrounded by lush forest and crystal-clear blue sea, the resort features modern loft-style villas with a warm wooden touch. Every unit comes with a private balcony for lounging and relaxing. The highlight here? Unobstructed sunset views right from your villa. You can step directly onto the beach from the resort grounds—ideal for anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy a good book, a fresh cup of morning coffee, and the soothing sounds of nature.

Another chic beachfront resort on Koh Phayam that visitors can’t stop recommending is Nitiporn Resort, located on Ao Yai Beach—the island’s largest and most scenic beach. With its wide-open ocean view, the sunset here casts a golden glow that looks straight out of a painting. Rooms are decorated in a tropical-Balinese style—elegant yet cozy—and the resort offers both seaside bungalows and pool villas. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a solo traveler, this place is ideal. Amenities include an on-site restaurant, beachfront café, and a small bar where you can sip cocktails while watching the waves roll in.

If you're into Balinese vibes, love natural surroundings, or appreciate the wooden scent of garden-style cottages, Payam Cottage Resort is the one for you. Located near Ao Yai Beach, this cozy resort gives off a true vacation-home-in-the-garden atmosphere. Wooden walkways lead through lush greenery to the beach, creating a peaceful escape. Though the style is simple, the resort has everything you need—air conditioning, hot showers, private balconies, and a beachfront restaurant. The calm, relaxing surroundings are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a slow life on Koh Phayam. Even better? The price is incredibly reasonable for the ambiance you get!

If you’re looking for a tropical paradise where you won’t have to fight for a scenic view or jostle through crowds on the beach, Koh Phayam is your dream destination! This peaceful little island in Ranong province, just a 30–40-minute boat ride from the mainland, feels like stepping into a whole different world.

By Plane

➤ Airport → Bang Ben Pier

By Private Car

➤ Parking:

By Bus/Minivan

➤ Ranong Town → Bang Ben Pier

Slow Boat (Traditional Wooden Boat)

Speedboat

The ideal time to visit Koh Phayam is between October and May, when the Andaman Sea is calm, the water is clear, the rain decreases, and the weather is pleasant with clear skies. This period offers the best conditions for relaxation, enjoying the sea breeze, and experiencing the natural beauty of Ranong province.

Lastly, we highly recommend renting a motorbike or bicycle to watch the sunset at Ao Yai, the largest bay on the island (true to its name). It’s a great spot to enjoy the beautiful sunset as it’s not crowded, making it a peaceful and perfect moment. If you're staying at Blue Sky, renting a motorbike is recommended because the distance can be quite long. Ao Yai is one of the best places on the island to catch the last light of the day. The tranquil atmosphere, with only locals and a few foreigners seeking a chill vacation, makes Koh Phayam a wonderful place for those seeking a calm and rejuvenating getaway.