Our journey through Thailand's most beautiful archipelagos begins with the legendary islands that have gained worldwide fame for their extraordinary beauty and unique character. The first stop is Ko Phi Phi, an archipelago consisting of six islands, the most famous of which are Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Le. Ko Phi Phi is a true paradise for lovers of blue lagoons, white beaches and spectacular rock formations. Ko Phi Phi Don, the largest island in the archipelago, offers tourists a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy bungalows. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Long Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and crystal clear waters. It's worth climbing to a lookout point to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire island and the surrounding waters. Ko Phi Phi Le, best known for Maya Bay, where the movie 'The Beach' with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed, impresses with its pristine nature and turquoise waters. Although Maya Bay is now periodically closed to tourists in order to regenerate the ecosystem, you can still admire its beauty from the deck of a boat. Another legendary destination is James Bond Island, or Koh Tapu, which gained fame from the film 'The Man with the Golden Gun.' This distinctive rocky island attracts crowds of tourists who want to see for themselves the place made famous by the big screen. However, it is worth remembering that James Bond Island is not only a movie attraction - the surrounding waters are ideal for kayaking and exploring nearby caves. For those seeking tranquility and less crowded places, we recommend a visit to Ko Phai, also known as Bamboo Island. Located near Phuket, this small island offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing away from the crowds. Ko Phai is also a great place for snorkeling, where you can enjoy colorful coral reefs and exotic fish. It's worth remembering that there is no permanent tourist infrastructure on the island, so it's best to visit as part of a day trip from Phuket or Ko Phi Phi.

In addition to the famous islands, Thailand hides many lesser-known but equally beautiful places. One such hidden treasure is Koh Lipe, often referred to as the 'Thai Maldives'. This small island, located in Tarutao National Park, impresses with its white beaches and turquoise waters. Koh Lipe offers three main beaches, Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach and Pattaya Beach, each with its own unique character. The island is also a great place for diving and snorkeling, with numerous coral reefs in the area. Despite its growing popularity, Koh Lipe still retains the ambience of a quiet, paradisiacal corner. Another place worth exploring is the Similan Islands, an archipelago of eleven islands, known for some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches and extraordinary underwater world. The islands are a diver's paradise, offering stunning views of colorful coral reefs and exotic fish. It's worth remembering that the Similan Islands are only open to tourists from October to May, which helps protect their delicate ecosystem. For those who are looking for a more developed tourist infrastructure, but don't want to give up beautiful beaches, Phuket is the ideal choice. This island, Thailand's largest, offers a wide range of attractions, from bustling resorts to quiet, hidden coves. Beaches such as Kata, Karon and Nai Harn impress with clear water and beautiful views. Phuket is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding islands and attractions, such as James Bond Island and Phi Phi Islands. For those who prefer less crowded places, a visit to Ko Po Da Nai is recommended. This picturesque island, located in Krabi province, offers tranquil beaches and beautiful views of the distinctive limestone rock formations protruding from the sea. Ko Po Da Nai is an ideal destination for a day trip from Krabi or Ao Nang, where you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature away from the crowds of tourists.

When planning a trip to the Thai islands, there are several important factors to consider. First of all, the best time to visit most islands is between November and April, when the weather is most favorable and the sea is calm. In the case of the Similan Islands, the season runs from October to May. It is worth remembering that during the peak tourist season some popular islands, such as Ko Phi Phi and James Bond Island, can be very crowded. For those looking for peace and quiet, lesser-known islands like Ko Phai or Ko Po Da Nai may be a better choice. When going to Thai islands, it is important to make sure you are properly prepared. Basic amenities are available on most islands, but on some, such as Ko Phai and Similan Islands, the tourist infrastructure is limited. It is advisable to bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, light, airy clothing and shoes suitable for walking on the beach and rocks. For snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, islands such as Similan Islands, Koh Lipe and Ko Phi Phi offer some of the best places to explore the underwater world. Consider bringing your own equipment or renting it locally. Getting around between the islands is most often done by boat or ferry. Popular routes, such as between Phuket and Phi Phi, are served regularly, but for less frequented islands you may need to rent a private boat or join an organized tour. It's a good idea to plan your route in advance and check cruise schedules, especially if visiting several islands. Also remember to respect the local culture and environment. Many Thai islands are protected areas, so it is important to follow the rules of nature conservation, not to leave trash or damage coral reefs. By discovering the beauty of Thai islands, there is a chance not only to have an unforgettable vacation, but also to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region's unique ecosystem. Whether we choose the popular Ko Phi Phi, the exotic Similan Islands or the tranquil Ko Phai, the Thai islands are sure to offer us unforgettable experiences and sights that will stay in our memories for a long time.