Koh Phangan’s most popular beach area, Haad Rin is actually made up of two beaches: calm and relatively peaceful Haad Rin Nai to the west, and Haad Rin Nok, a beautiful beach on the eastern side that’s the location of Koh Phangan’s famous Full Moon Party.
Koh Phangan, Haad Rin Sunrise Beach © travelourplanet
Haad Rin is by far the busiest beach on Koh Phangan, attracting a mix of tourists seeking sun and calm waters, families staying at one of the beach’s many hotels, and partygoers arriving in extreme numbers before the monthly Full Moon Party.
Despite its reputation as a party destination, Haad Rin is surprisingly calm between events. The Haad Rin area itself is a small peninsula, with most of its accommodation located around Haad Rin Nok and a selection of backpacker style rooms on quieter Haad Rin Nai. The two beaches are a short walk from one another.
As one of Koh Phangan’s most popular locations, Haad Rin has a great selection of hotels and resorts. Both budget and luxury travellers will be able to find a variety of hotels that meet their needs (and their budgets) in Haad Rin.
Clear water and beautiful sand make Haad Rin one of Koh Phangan’s most beautiful beaches, as least in the periods between major parties. After the Full Moon Party and other events, the beach can get covered in litter, making it best to avoid these dates if you’d like a peaceful stay.
True to its reputation, Haad Rin has the best selection of nightlife on Koh Phangan, with a wide range of beachside bars and nightclubs. There are also numerous high quality, affordable Thai and international restaurants on and around the beach.
If you’re visiting Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party, you’ll love Haad Rin as a base for getting around the island before the big event. If you’re just visiting for relaxation, provided you choose a quiet period between major parties and events, you’ll also find plenty to enjoy about Haad Rin.
Best Hotels on Haad Rin
- The Coast Resort Koh Phangan
The Coast Resort Koh Phangan is a four star resort on Haad Rin Nai with direct access to the beach and spacious, comfortable and modern rooms. The hotel has an outdoor pool and quiet, peaceful surroundings, making it a great choice for couples and families. - Palita Lodge
Palita Lodge is a comfortable three star resort in the north of Haad Rin Nok. With a large pool, a common deck and dining area, direct access to the beach and clean, well maintained rooms, it’s one of the best choices in the area for people that want to access Koh Phangan’s party beach. - Phangan Bayshore Resort
Phangan Bayshore Resort is a three-and-a-half star resort located right at the centre of Haad Rin Nok. One of the larger resorts on the beach, its swimming pool and beachside bar make it an extremely popular option for travellers on a medium budget attending the Full Moon Party. - Moonstone Studio
Moonstone Studio is a hilltop studio resort located at the northern end of Haad Rin Nai. Rooms are air conditioned, clean, simple and comfortable enough for a pleasant stay, with great views of the beach.
Buy Tickets To Koh Phangan
You can buy bus and ferry tickets to Koh Phangan online. Use the search box below to find out departure times, prices and to book online. Enter a different starting point if you're not coming from BangkokKoh Phangan Travel Guide:
- Koh Phangan – A Very Quick Travel Guide
- How To Get To Koh Phangan
- Full Moon Party Koh Phangan
- Drugs on Koh Phangan
- Full Moon Party Accommodation on Koh Phangan
- Things To Do On Koh Phangan
- Places To Eat On Koh Phangan
- Koh Phangan Villas For Rent
- Where To Stay On Koh Phangan
- Koh Phangan Day Trips
- Koh Phangan Weather
- Koh Phangan Airport
- Koh Phangan Beaches
