Koh Phangan is famous for its wild parties, making it a top destination for travellers looking to dance under the stars and make unforgettable memories. Whether you’re drawn by the world-famous Full Moon Party or prefer the smaller, yet equally exciting, events scattered across the island, Koh Phangan has a party for every type of night owl.
This guide shares the best areas for partying in Koh Phangan, providing everything you need to know to make the most of your nights on the island.
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Table of Contents
1. Haad Rin – Home of the Full Moon Party
Haad Rin is the epicentre of Koh Phangan’s nightlife. Famous for hosting the legendary Full Moon Party, this area has become a magnet for party-goers from all over the world. Each month, thousands of people gather on Haad Rin Beach to party the night away, with international DJs, fire dancers, and neon body paint creating a truly electric atmosphere.
- The Full Moon Party Experience: The Full Moon Party is an unforgettable, immersive experience. Starting at dusk and lasting well into the morning, the beach transforms into a glowing spectacle, illuminated by neon lights, UV body paint, and fire shows. Thousands of revellers, covered in glow-in-the-dark paint, dance to different types of music as various stages pump out everything from house to reggae and drum and bass. You can easily drift between stages, which line the entire length of Haad Rin Beach, depending on the vibes you’re looking for.
- What Beach Is the Full Moon Party On? The Full Moon Party takes place on Haad Rin Beach, located on the southern tip of the island. This iconic stretch of sand transforms into one of the world’s most famous party destinations every full moon, offering a mix of beach vibes and festival energy.
- Where Can You Get Drinks? There are plenty of bars all along the beach where you can grab drinks during the Full Moon Party. One of the most popular ways to drink here is by buying a bucket, a small plastic pail filled with spirits (like local rum or vodka), mixers, and plenty of ice. These buckets are sold at stalls scattered along the beach, often for a reasonable price, and have become a staple of the Full Moon Party experience. In addition to the beachside stalls, many of the bars that line Haad Rin Beach and the surrounding streets stay open all night.
- When Is the Koh Phangan Full Moon Party? The Full Moon Party is held every month on the night of the full moon. While the dates change according to the lunar calendar, you can easily check online to find out when the next event will take place. Be sure to plan your trip around these dates if you’re eager to experience it.
- How Much is the Full Moon Party? There is an entry fee of around 100 to 200 baht (approximately £2 to £4) for the Full Moon Party. This fee helps cover the cost of security, cleaning up the beach, and organising the event. You’ll receive a wristband upon paying, which grants you access to the party areas on Haad Rin Beach.
- Is the Full Moon Party Worth Going To? For many, the Full Moon Party is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you enjoy large-scale events, music, and meeting fellow travellers, then it’s absolutely worth it. The atmosphere is electric, and there’s a sense of camaraderie that comes with dancing under the moon with thousands of others.
- How Do You Stay Safe at a Full Moon Party? To stay safe at the Full Moon Party, always watch your drink and avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Pace yourself by staying hydrated and drinking responsibly to avoid overindulgence. It’s also important to stay with friends, especially if it’s your first time. Wear proper footwear to protect your feet from any sharp objects or broken glass in the sand.
- What Should You Avoid During a Full Moon Party? Avoid illegal substances, as drug use is illegal in Thailand and penalties are severe. Also, be mindful of overindulgence. Know your limits so you can enjoy the night without burning out too quickly.
- How do I get to the Full Moon Party? With the Full Moon Party being such a popular event, it’s easy to get a taxi there from pretty much anywhere on the island. If you’re staying on nearby Koh Samui, you can book a Full Moon Party Round Trip Ticket, which includes a minivan transfer from your hotel and a speedboat to the island. Alternatively, you can book a nearby hostel – but make sure you book well in advance, as accommodation tends to get fully booked around Full Moon Parties.
Haad Rin Outside of the Full Moon Party
Haad Rin is not just about the Full Moon Party—it’s a lively area with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the streets and beachfront, offering something for party-goers every night of the week. Even when the Full Moon Party isn’t happening, the nightlife scene in Haad Rin stays exciting, with many bars and venues hosting regular events and parties.
Top Bars and Clubs in Haad Rin
- Drop In Bar: One of the most famous bars in Haad Rin, Drop In Bar offers non-stop entertainment with live DJs, fire performers, and a great party atmosphere. Located along the main strip of the beach, it’s a prime spot to experience the energy of Haad Rin’s nightlife. Even when it’s not a Full Moon Party night, Drop In is buzzing with travellers and locals alike.
- Tommy Resort Bar: Situated at Tommy Resort on Haad Rin Beach, this venue has long been a go-to spot for those wanting to party under the stars. With both a beachfront bar and a poolside lounge, Tommy Resort Bar serves up strong cocktails and hosts fun beach parties regularly. The relaxed daytime vibes transition into a lively nighttime crowd, making it a great spot to party.
- Paradise Bungalows: Famous as one of the original hosts of the Full Moon Party, Paradise Bungalows continues to draw crowds even outside of Full Moon nights. It offers beach parties with live music and DJ sets that create a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere compared to larger events.
- Sunrise Bar: Overlooking Haad Rin Beach, Sunrise Bar is a laid-back option for those looking for a chilled evening with stunning ocean views. It’s a great spot to relax with a cocktail in hand while watching the sunset before the area lights up for another night of partying.
- The Rock Bar: Tucked away on the quieter end of Haad Rin, The Rock Bar provides a slightly more alternative vibe compared to the more tourist-heavy venues. It’s popular for its reggae music nights and offers a unique, laid-back atmosphere that appeals to those looking for a more relaxed party scene.
2. Baan Tai – Home of the Half Moon Festival
If you’re looking for something a little smaller but still packed with energy, Baan Tai is the place to be. Located just north of Haad Rin, this area hosts the popular Half Moon Festival. This event, held twice a month, is set deep in the jungle, offering a different vibe to the beach parties of Haad Rin.
- What Happens at the Half Moon Festival? The Half Moon Party is an open-air festival held in the jungle. With glowing UV lights, psychedelic decorations, and multiple stages featuring electronic dance music, it’s a must for fans of trance and house music. The Koh Phangan Half Moon Party is often considered a more intimate and alternative event compared to the Full Moon Party, attracting a slightly smaller but equally enthusiastic crowd.
- How Do You Get to the Half Moon Festival? Getting to the Half Moon Festival is relatively easy, even though it’s held in the jungle. Most people staying in popular areas like Haad Rin or Thong Sala can either take a taxi or a songthaew (shared taxi). The festival grounds are well-known among local drivers, so you won’t have trouble finding someone to take you there. The ride from Haad Rin typically takes about 15–20 minutes, while it’s a shorter journey from Thong Sala.
- Where Can You Get Drinks at the Half Moon Festival? At the Half Moon Festival, you’ll find plenty of options for drinks throughout the night. The event is well-organised, with several bars and drink stalls set up across the festival grounds in the jungle. These bars offer a range of drinks, from local Thai beers to a variety of cocktails, including the famous buckets (similar to those sold at the Full Moon Party), which are small buckets filled with spirits, mixers, and ice.
- When Is the Half Moon Festival? The Half Moon Festival is held twice a month in Koh Phangan, approximately one week before and one week after the Full Moon Party. To get the exact dates of the Half Moon Festival, you can check local listings or online event calendars as the schedule is set according to the lunar cycle.
- How Much Is the Half Moon Festival? Entry to the Half Moon Festival typically costs around 1,500 baht (approximately £35), which includes access to all stages, world-class DJs, and light shows. This is a ticketed event, so it’s a bit more structured than some of the other parties on the island, but the immersive jungle setting makes it well worth it.
Baan Tai Outside of the Half Moon Festival
Baan Tai is more than just the home of the Half Moon Festival—it’s a thriving area with a buzzing nightlife scene, featuring plenty of bars, clubs, and beach venues that keep the party going throughout the week. Whether you’re looking for something laid-back or an all-night party, Baan Tai offers an exciting variety of options to suit every mood.
Top Bars and Clubs in Baan Tai:
- Pirate Bar: Set on the beach, Pirate Bar is one of the most well-known spots in Baan Tai for an evening of fun. With a relaxed atmosphere during the day that transitions into lively parties at night, this bar regularly hosts DJ sets and fire shows. The venue is perfect for catching up with friends over a cocktail while enjoying the beachfront views.
- Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar: Known for its blend of great food and a laid-back bar scene, Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar offers a more relaxed vibe in the early evening, making it the ideal place to start your night. As the evening progresses, you can grab a cocktail and enjoy live acoustic music before heading out to the bigger parties.
- Loi Lay Floating Bar: This unique venue offers a party experience on the water. Loi Lay Floating Bar, anchored on the Baan Tai coast, hosts regular Sunday parties where DJs spin house and techno, attracting both locals and travellers. The atmosphere is electric, and there’s something undeniably cool about partying on a floating bar as the sun sets over the ocean.
- Infinity Beach Club: If you’re looking for a chic beach club experience, Infinity Beach Club is the place to be. With its stunning infinity pool overlooking the sea, the venue hosts regular parties featuring international DJs, making it a top spot for a stylish night out. Sip cocktails poolside, enjoy the beachfront, and dance the night away under the stars.
- Ku Club: Ku Club, located right on the beach, is famous for its late-night parties and epic DJ line-ups. The open-air venue creates an immersive party experience with great views of the sea and a large dancefloor. This spot is perfect for anyone looking to party until the early hours of the morning.
3. Haad Yuan – Home of The Eden Garden Party
If you’re after a more intimate and alternative party experience, Haad Yuan is where you’ll want to be. Nestled away from the crowds of Haad Rin, this secluded spot is home to the Eden Garden Party. Held sporadically throughout the month, this party offers an alternative atmosphere, set on a cliffside in the jungle, providing a completely different vibe.
- What Happens at the Eden Garden Party? The Eden Garden Party is a unique, open-air event held in the secluded jungle of Haad Yuan, accessible only by boat. It offers a more laid-back vibe compared to the larger parties on Koh Phangan, with its focus on deep house and techno music. Set against a stunning natural backdrop, the party takes place at the Garden of Eden Bar, perched on a cliffside with breathtaking views of the ocean and jungle. Expect chilled daytime beats that gradually build into an all-night party with an intimate and alternative crowd, creating a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere.
- How Do You Get to the Eden Garden Party? Getting to the Eden Garden Party requires a bit of adventure, as it’s located in the remote Haad Yuan. The easiest way to reach the party is by boat taxi from Haad Rin, which takes around 10–15 minutes. Boats run frequently, especially during party nights, and local drivers are familiar with the Eden Garden Party’s location. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike from Haad Rin through the jungle, though the trek can be challenging and takes about an hour.
- Where Can You Get Drinks at the Eden Garden Party? At the Eden Garden Party, drinks are readily available at the Garden of Eden Bar itself. The bar offers a selection of cocktails, beers, and, of course, the famous buckets—small plastic pails filled with a mix of spirits and mixers. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the bar provides the perfect spot to relax with a cocktail while enjoying the stunning views and great music.
- When Is the Eden Garden Party? The Eden Garden Party doesn’t follow a fixed schedule like the Full Moon or Half Moon parties. Instead, it tends to happen sporadically throughout the month, often on weekends or just before and after the Full Moon Party. To find out when the next party will take place, it’s best to ask around once you’re on the island or check with local bars in Haad Rin and Haad Yuan.
- How Much Is the Eden Garden Party? There is no official entry fee for the Eden Garden Party, making it a great option for budget-conscious travellers. However, you’ll need to budget for your boat ride and drinks once you’re there. The relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe adds to the charm of this party, and the natural surroundings make it a truly unique experience.
4. Other Notable Party Spots on Koh Phangan
Aside from Haad Rin and Baan Tai, there are a few other areas on Koh Phangan where you can enjoy the nightlife, though they tend to be more low-key compared to the larger party hubs.
1. Thong Sala
Thong Sala, the island’s main town, offers a more relaxed and varied nightlife scene compared to Haad Rin. While it’s not known for all-night parties, it has several bars and pubs where you can enjoy live music, craft beers, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
- The Jam Bar: This popular bar is a great spot to unwind with a drink and enjoy local talent, often hosting live music.
- The Rolling Pin: A cosy and relaxed spot in Thong Sala offering delicious pizzas and a selection of craft beers. It’s a great place to grab a casual bite before heading out to explore the nightlife or to enjoy a laid-back evening with friends.
2. Sri Thanu
Sri Thanu is more known for its wellness and yoga scene, but it still offers a handful of bars with a chilled-out nightlife atmosphere.
- Three Sixty Bar: Perched on a hilltop, this bar offers stunning sunset views and a laid-back vibe, perfect for a quiet evening. It’s a great spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in the natural beauty of the island.
- Orion Café: Known for its casual, bohemian atmosphere, this spot offers occasional live music and attracts a more laid-back, yoga-loving crowd, making it a great place to relax and socialise.
3. Chaloklum
Chaloklum is a quieter fishing village, but you can still find a couple of beach bars with live music and a laid-back crowd.
- Omega Bar: A local favourite, Omega Bar offers live acoustic sessions and a relaxed, rustic atmosphere. It’s the ideal place to enjoy good music and drinks in a cosy setting.
Does Koh Phangan Have a Night Market?
Koh Phangan offers a range of night markets where you can enjoy local food, drinks, and live music. While not strictly nightlife, these markets are a great way to start your evening:
- Thong Sala Night Market: The largest and most popular night market on Koh Phangan, Thong Sala Night Market is a bustling hub of activity. Open every evening, it offers a variety of delicious Thai street food, from traditional dishes like pad Thai and mango sticky rice to international cuisine. It’s a great spot to sample local snacks, enjoy fresh seafood, and sip on fruit shakes or local beers.
- Pantip Night Market (Thong Sala): This market is a bit smaller than the main Thong Sala Night Market but still offers a great selection of local street food, including Thai snacks, grilled seafood, and fresh fruit shakes.
- Sri Thanu Night Market: Located in the wellness-focused area of Sri Thanu, this market is smaller but features a range of vegetarian and vegan-friendly food stalls. It’s a more relaxed spot to grab dinner while exploring the area.
- Saturday Walking Street Market (Thong Sala): Held on Saturdays, this market is a great place to experience local culture with vendors selling handmade crafts, clothing, and souvenirs, alongside street food stalls and live music.
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