Koh Phangan Full Moon Party

Haad Rin Nok Beach on Koh Phangan is regarded by many as one of the best places in the world for viewing the full moon. No surprise then, that it’s also the venue for the famed Full Moon Party – a must for travelers from all over the world. As with many famous events, no one seems quite sure when or how the Full Moon Party started.

The consensus is that the first was in the late 1980s and was a small, private affair among a group of friends. Today, 20 years later, the Full Moon Party attracts tens of thousands of people from Thailand and the world beyond.

Is This the Full Moon Party for Me?

DJs from all around the world

Basically, if you are looking to have a great time, meet new people from every corner of the world, and drink and dance till dawn or after, then Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party is for you. Many visitors come to fulfill the dream of being on a fantasy tropical island – white sandy beach and coconut trees – like the Hollywood movie, “The Beach”, but far more suave and civilized.

Locals say there are usually 7,000-8,000 people at this magnificent party in the low season, and the number can easily reach 20,000 or more in the high season.

All You Need to Party

Fire limbo dancing

The parties are famous for their fire dances, firework displays and, of course, Thai and international DJs pumping out great dance music from huge sound systems. Vendors sell fun party stuff including weird eyeglasses, temporary tattoos, bracelets made from light sabers and glowing neon gel.

No partygoer should be without this stuff. Countless bars and restaurants stay open late, late, late to serve hungry and thirsty party animals.

When to Go?

Sunset at Haad Rin Nok Beach

The party starts as twilight falls. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see lots of small tables on the sand and lamps hanging everywhere.

Parties are scheduled for the following dates in 2009: Aug 6, Sep 4, Oct 4, Nov 2 and Dec 2.

In 2010 they are scheduled for: Jan 30,, Mar 1,30, Apr 28, May 29, Jun 26, Jul 28, Aug 25, Sep 23, Oct 23, Nov 21 and Dec 21.

How to Get There?

Thousands of people ready to party

These days it is easy to travel to and from Phangan, by speedboat or ferry from Koh Samui, the nearest big island, which has its own airport. The ferry takes about an hour to make the trip, which it does five times a day between 8 am to 5.30 pm, stopping at a pier on Haad Rin Nok Beach.

There are also several tour companies offering packages to Phangan from cities such as Bangkok, Surat Thani and Phuket. Most offer online booking and their prices are not at all expensive. For timetables and prices of two transport packages from Bangkok to Koh Phangan, see http://lomprayah.com/E/route.htm and http://seatrandiscovery.com/home.php

- Round Trip Speedboat Service From Samui to Full Moon Party
- Full Moon Party aboard La Fortune

Where to Stay? Koh Phangan Hotels

Phangan Buri Resort

There are close to 300 places offering accommodation on Phangan, at prices to fit any budget. Very basic, cheap rooms can be had for less than US$3 a night (don’t expect anything fancy). Alternatively, partygoers with foresight may want to opt for a comfortable hotel where they can get breakfast and good service after the big night out.

Here are some suggestions:

Phangan Buri Resort is on Haad Rin Nai Beach at the south of the island, looking toward Koh Samui and with brilliant sunset views. It’s just a short walk from the legendary nights on Haad Rin Nok Beach.

Santhiya Resort & Spa

Pariya Haad Yuan Resort is on Haad Yuan Beach, on the peaceful southeastern coast of Koh Phangan, and is regarded as the first boutique resort on Koh Phangan. It is only 10 minutes by boat from Haad Rin Beach, or if you are feeling fit you can make the two-hour hike to the party.

Santhiya Resort & Spa on Thong Nai Pan Beach is an all-inclusive eco-chic natural hideaway with glorious teakwood accommodation, renowned for its service and hospitality. Lush tropical forests, crystal clear bay and secluded beach.

Mandalia Hotel is on Chaloklum Bay. The hotel’s facilities include swimming pool, full massage service, restaurant and bar.

Did you know?

a) There is no entry fee to join the party. Everybody is welcome – free.

b) Thailand has tough penalties for possession or use of drugs, and police keep a close eye on the parties. So if anyone offers you drugs, just say no.

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