Koh Phayam (Ranong)

No cars, wide beaches, reggae bars, and wallet-friendly prices make Koh Phayam a backpacker staple. Ao Yai and Buffalo Bay are the main draws, with bamboo bungalows tucked under casuarina trees and simple cafes doing cheap Thai plates and banana pancakes. Beers are easy on the wallet, especially at sunset bars with nightly specials, and you’ll often find long-stay discounts outside the peak New Year window. Getting here is straightforward via speedboat from Ranong Pier, and renting a scooter is the best way to hop between bays and mellow beach bars. Wi-Fi is decent for checking onward ferries, but come for offline days of hammocks, bonfires, and beach volleyball. Bring cash, as card acceptance is patchy, and expect the island to quiet right down by 10 pm, which keeps costs pleasingly low.