How to Get to the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan (May 2025 Guide)
Table of Contents
- Best Way to Get to Koh Phangan
- Traveling from Bangkok
- Traveling from Phuket
- Getting Around Koh Phangan
- Where to Stay for Full Moon Party
- Best Beaches on Koh Phangan
- Other Parties on Koh Phangan
- What to Pack for the Full Moon Party
- Tips for First Timers
- Do’s and Don’ts at the Full Moon Party
- FAQs
Best Way to Get to Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan does not have its own airport, so travelers must combine bus or flight with ferry service. The most popular and efficient way is by bus + ferry combo offered by companies like Lomprayah or Seatran.
Traveling from Bangkok
Bus + Ferry (Recommended)
If you're starting from Bangkok, the bus + ferry combo is the most convenient and cost-effective way to reach Koh Phangan.
- Provider: Lomprayah
- Departure: Khao San Road or Chatuchak Bus Terminal
- VIP Bus: 3 seats per row, recliner seats, newer vehicles
Travel Time: 12–14 hours
Cost: 1,200–1,600 THB
Traveling from Phuket
The Phuket route offers a standard Lomprayah bus (no VIP). Buses are older, less spacious, but clean and air-conditioned.
Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Cost: ~1,200 THB
Getting Around Koh Phangan
Renting a Motorbike
- Rent at the pier to avoid return issues.
- Hotel recommendations may get you better prices.
- Cost: THB 300/day for small bikes
Where to Stay for Full Moon Party
Stay near Haad Rin Beach to save on transport and be close to the action.
- Book at least 2 weeks in advance
- Prices increase 2–3x during Full Moon week
- Even dorm beds may cost THB 1,000+
Popular Hotels: Sunrise Resort, Palita Lodge, The Coast Resort
Best Beaches on Koh Phangan
Snorkeling is not great on Koh Phangan. You’ll need a day trip to Koh Tao for real underwater exploration.
Mae Haad Beach
- Some snorkeling (mostly sea cucumbers and small fish)
- Water color varies with sunlight
Malibu Beach
- Peaceful, greenish water
- Ideal for sunbathing
Other Parties on Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan offers incredible parties throughout the month:
🌑 Half Moon Festival
- Twice a month in Ban Tai jungle
- Progressive trance, techno
- Website: halfmoonfestival.com
🌘 Black Moon Culture
- Every new moon at Mac’s Bay Resort
- Features psytrance under the stars
🔥 Waterfall Party
- 2 days before Full Moon
- Open-air party by natural waterfall
🌲 Shiva Moon Party
- Occasional new/half moon jungle parties
- Local favorite, rustic vibe
🌅 Eden Garden Party
- Deep house/techno at Haad Yuan
- Cliffside venue, accessible by boat or hike
What to Pack for the Full Moon Party
Don’t overpack, but don’t forget the essentials. Koh Phangan is hot, humid, and full of unexpected moments. Here’s a quick checklist to help you pack smart:
- Waterproof pouch – for phone, cash, and ID during the party
- Neon clothes – embrace the UV glow! (Buy locally if needed)
- Sturdy sandals or waterproof shoes – expect spilled drinks and broken glass
- Power bank – for your phone, especially if you're taking photos or navigating
- Electrolytes or rehydration salts – recovery hack for the next morning
- Basic first aid – plasters, painkillers, allergy meds
- Sunscreen – daytime lounging can burn you before the party even starts
- Bug spray – especially for jungle venues like Half Moon or Shiva Moon
Tips for First Timers
Heading to the Full Moon Party for the first time? These quick tips will help you stay safe, social, and make the most out of your trip:
- Arrive at least a day before to rest, settle in, and adjust to the vibe
- Don’t carry your passport; use a copy and lock the real one in your hotel
- Eat a solid dinner before partying to avoid alcohol hitting too hard
- Stick with your group, especially if you're drinking heavily
- Bring small cash (for drinks, food, and tips); avoid flashing large bills
- Choose body paint carefully – avoid oil-based ones that are hard to clean off
Do’s and Don’ts at the Full Moon Party
✅ Do
- Respect locals and the island — remember it’s their home
- Stay hydrated throughout the night
- Use a designated driver or skip the motorbike after drinking
- Use trash bins and keep the beach clean
- Try the local food stalls — they’re affordable and tasty!
❌ Don’t
- Don’t bring valuables — pickpockets are rare, but possible
- Don’t do drugs — Thailand has strict anti-drug laws with serious consequences
- Don’t pee in the ocean or public areas — there are paid toilets around
- Don’t get too wild with fire ropes or jump shows — injuries are common
- Don’t litter — respect the island's fragile environment
FAQs
When is the next Full Moon Party?
Check the official calendar. May 2025’s event was on May 12th.
How long should I stay on Koh Phangan?
Plan 3–5 days to enjoy and recover from the party.
Is it safe to ride a motorbike?
Yes — if sober and cautious. Always wear a helmet.
Are there flights to Koh Phangan?
No. Fly to Koh Samui, then take a ferry to the island.
Should I book ferry tickets in advance?
Yes, especially during Full Moon week. Use 12Go Asia or Lomprayah websites.
Plan smart, party hard, and travel safe!
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