Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan – A Lunar Fiesta

An Introduction to the Spectacle: What is the Full Moon Party?

The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan isn’t just a beach party; it’s an unforgettable festival of lights, music, and camaraderie that lights up the night under the radiant glow of the full moon. For beach party devotees and novices alike, this exceptional spectacle is a paradise not to be missed. Imagine being on a moonlit beach, surrounded by thousands of party-goers adorned in vibrant neon attire and glowing body paint.

From dynamic stages, music from a plethora of genres like EDM, hip hop, reggae, and tropical house reverberates, the pulsating beats blending harmoniously with the ocean’s rhythm. The spinners of these mesmerising tracks are world-class DJs, their energy infectious, spreading to every corner of the beach. The party pulses and throbs, alive with people from all corners of the globe, united in their singular goal—to revel and celebrate until the first rays of dawn seep into the sky.

Koh Phangan: The Heartbeat of Full Moon Parties

In recent years, Full Moon Parties in Thailand have spread across like wildfire, with each location adding its unique flair to the event. However, it’s crucial to remember that Koh Phangan is the original home of these lunar celebrations. The moment you approach the vicinity of Haad Rin beach, you’ll be greeted by a rock carving proclaiming Koh Phangan as “the original full moon party” location—a proud legacy that remains unchallenged.

This island has not only birthed the concept but nurtured and grown it to a global phenomenon. So, if you’re yearning to experience the authentic Full Moon Party atmosphere, look no further than Koh Phangan, the party capital that started it all.

The Origins of the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan

The creation of the Koh Phangan Full Moon Party remains an enigma, shrouded in the mists of time. You can call its inception, an unexpected stroke of serendipity. We may not know the exact details, but the prevailing tale transports us back to the 1980s.

It’s said that a group of adventurous travellers stumbled upon the mesmerising Haad Rin beach. Under the soft silver glow of the moon, they indulged in music, dance, and camaraderie, creating a night-long celebration that soon became a beloved tradition. From these humble beginnings, the Full Moon Party morphed into a grand affair that today boasts of electrifying music, thrilling beach games, an array of drinks and food, and a vibrant sea of party-goers. Thus, this intimate tradition grew into what we now fondly call the Full Moon Party.

How to get to a Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan?

Once you’ve touched down in Thailand, the journey to the fabled Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan begins. The island is easily accessible by ferry or speedboat, predominantly from neighbouring islands like Koh Samui and Koh Tao. Several ferry companies run frequent services between these islands, transforming the blue expanse of water into a convenient pathway that will carry you to your destination within 30-60 minutes, depending on your choice of vessel.

Remember, these lunar festivities occur monthly, usually on the night of the full moon, so be sure to cross-check party dates before you begin your voyage. Given the event’s popularity, it’s wise to reach a few days earlier, securing accommodations and acclimatising to the island’s vibrant rhythm before the grand night.

Accommodations in Koh Phangan for Full Moon Party

Koh Phangan extends a welcoming range of accommodations to cater to different budgets. Whether you seek the luxury of a resort, the comfort of a boutique hotel, or the economical charm of a guesthouse, the island has you covered. It’s crucial, however, to book your stay in advance, especially during the Full Moon Party period, as spots fill up rapidly. Staying around Haad Rin Beach, the heart of the event, or nearby areas adds convenience to your party experience.

How to Reach Koh Phangan from Koh Samui for a Full Moon Party?

There are three ways in which you can make your way to Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party from Koh Samui. Please read below to know more:

By taking a Ferry:

The easiest pathway from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan is the ferry route, serviced regularly by several companies, especially during the Full Moon Party season. The ferry journey, taking between 30-60 minutes, lets you enjoy the scenic beauty as you move closer to your destination. Ferry tickets are available at piers on Koh Samui and can be pre-booked online for added convenience.

By taking a Speedboat :

For those seeking a quicker journey, speedboats provide a swift, direct route between Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, cutting travel time to approximately 20-30 minutes, subject to sea conditions. Speedboat services are offered at certain piers and through local tour operators on Koh Samui.

By taking a Private Boat

For a more personalised experience, especially for larger groups, private boat transfers offer a flexible and personalised option. Upon reaching Koh Phangan, Haad Rin Beach is either a short walk or a quick taxi or motorcycle taxi ride away. Preplanning your return transportation is advisable, considering the party lasts well into the night, and options might become sparse.

How to Reach Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party from Bangkok

Flight and Ferry Combo: The fastest route from Bangkok to Koh Phangan is a combination of flight and ferry. Domestic flights from Bangkok land at either Koh Samui Airport or Surat Thani Airport. From Koh Samui Airport, a direct ferry ride of about 30-60 minutes will get you to Koh Phangan. If you choose Surat Thani Airport, a bus or taxi will take you to Donsak Pier, from where a 2-3 hour ferry ride leads to Koh Phangan.

By Road: For a budget-friendly alternative, take a 6:00 PM bus from Bangkok’s southern bus terminal to Haad Rin. A ticket, including the bus ride and ferry, costs approximately 800 Thai Baht.

By Train: A more scenic option is to take a train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong station to Surat Thani. A 1.5-hour bus ride to the pier and a ferry to Thong Sala at Koh Phangan follows the train journey. Combined tickets, covering the train, bus, and ferry, start from 1400 Thai Bahts.

How to Reach Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party from Pattaya?

The journey from Pattaya to Koh Phangan begins with a trip to Bangkok. This can be done by taxi, bus, or minivan. Here is a breakdown of the places you need to cover in order to reach Koh Phangan from Pattaya.

By Bus/Minivan: Buses and minivans from Pattaya to Bangkok operate frequently and are a cost-effective way to travel. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, and tickets can be purchased at the Pattaya bus terminal or through various online booking platforms.

By Taxi: For a more comfortable and convenient ride, a private taxi can be hired. While this option is more expensive, it offers flexibility in terms of departure time and pick-up location.

Bangkok to Surat Thani

Once you arrive in Bangkok, the next leg of your journey involves travelling south to Surat Thani, the gateway to the islands of the Gulf of Thailand.

By Flight: The fastest way to get from Bangkok to Surat Thani is by taking a flight. Several airlines operate this route, and the flight time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes. After landing at Surat Thani Airport, you will need to take a bus or taxi to the Donsak Pier.

By Train: An overnight train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong train station to Surat Thani is a popular choice. The journey takes around 8 to 12 hours, depending on the train service. From the train station, there are buses that can take you to Donsak Pier.

By Bus: Buses from Bangkok to Surat Thani are the most cost-effective option. The journey can take up to 10 to 11 hours. Buses typically terminate at the Surat Thani Bus Terminal, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Donsak Pier.

Surat Thani to Koh Phangan

Once you arrive at Donsak Pier in Surat Thani, you can catch a ferry to Koh Phangan.

By Ferry: Several ferry services operate between Donsak Pier and Koh Phangan’s Thong Sala Pier. The ferry ride takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Once you arrive at Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan, local taxis are readily available to take you to Haad Rin, where the Full Moon Party is held. It’s advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially around the Full Moon Party dates, as these services can get fully booked.

Dressing the Part: What to Wear to a Full Moon Party?

When dressing for a Full Moon Party, remember: it’s all about fun, comfort, and glow! Here are some sartorial tips for the lunar extravaganza:

1. Neon Outfits

Embrace the fluorescent trend by wearing bright neon clothes. Not only will you match the vibrant party atmosphere, but you’ll also be visible in the moonlit darkness.

2. Comfortable Footwear

The party goes on till dawn, and you’ll be on your feet for most of the time, dancing on the sandy beach. Opt for comfy shoes, to avoid any discomfort or injuries. Avoid wearing flip flops as there are many broken glass pieces on the beach.

3. Light Fabrics

Considering the tropical climate of Thailand, choose light, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. They’ll help you stay cool even as the party heats up.

4. Beachwear

Crop T-shirts, board shorts, tank tops, or sarongs—beachwear is perfectly acceptable at a Full Moon Party. Just ensure it’s something you’re comfortable moving and dancing in!

5. Neon Paint

Get creative with neon body paint, a Full Moon Party staple. Cover yourself in fluorescent patterns, symbols, or even words. It’s a great way to make a statement and engage with the party’s energetic ambiance.
Remember, the Full Moon Party is an event where you can truly let your hair down, so wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and ready to enjoy the night!

Dos and Don’ts of the Full Moon Party

Attending the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to keep certain do’s and don’ts in mind to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Here are some tips:

Do’s:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the event to stay hydrated, especially if you consume alcohol. Thailand’s tropical climate combined with dancing and crowded conditions can lead to dehydration.

Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothes and footwear suitable for a beach party. Consider wearing light and breathable fabrics as it can get hot and humid.

Secure your belongings: Keep a close eye on your personal belongings, such as your phone, wallet, and bags. Consider using a money belt or a secure bag that you can keep close to your body. Avoid carrying valuable items that you don’t need.

Stay with your group: If you’re attending the Full Moon Party with friends, make sure to establish a meeting point or stick together throughout the event. The crowd can be overwhelming, so it’s important to look out for one another.

Be careful of fire performances: Fire shows are a common sight at the Full Moon Party. While they can be captivating, it’s important to maintain a safe distance from the performers and avoid touching any fire-related props.

Don’ts:

Don’t accept drinks from strangers: Be cautious of accepting drinks from people you don’t know, as there have been incidents of spiked drinks. It’s always safer to purchase your own drinks from trusted vendors.

Don’t engage in risky behaviour: The Full Moon Party can be a lively and energetic event, but it’s important to avoid participating in any dangerous activities or behaviours that could put your safety at risk.

Don’t swim under the influence: Swimming while intoxicated can be dangerous. The ocean currents can be strong, and it’s best to avoid swimming if you have consumed alcohol.

Don’t litter: Keep the beach clean and respect the environment. Dispose of your trash in designated bins and avoid leaving any waste behind.

Don’t forget travel insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and potential emergencies. Accidents or illnesses can happen, so having insurance can provide peace of mind.

Full Moon Party: Breakdown of Costs

The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan can be a blast, but it’s always a good idea to have an idea of the expenses you might encounter. Here’s a rough cost breakdown to help you budget for the night:

Transportation: The taxi fare from Thong Sala (the main town of Koh Phangan) to the Full Moon Party in Haad Rin ranges between 100-200 Thai Baht, depending on whether you opt for a shared or private ride.

Culinary Delights: You can enjoy a simple, yet delicious Thai meal at a local restaurant in Haad Rin for around 60 Thai Baht. It’s a perfect way to start your evening and fuel up for the long night ahead!

Party Entrance Fee: The Full Moon Party entry fee is typically around 100 Thai Baht, a small price to pay for the unforgettable experience.

Glow in the Night: Want to shine bright in the moonlight? You can get neon body paint starting at 50 Thai Baht. Remember, the price can vary depending on the design and size.

Dress to Impress: If you want to truly embrace the Full Moon Party vibe, neon shirts or tank tops are available for around 150-250 Thai Baht.

Bucket Drinks: A Full Moon Party signature! Indulge in a bucket of your favourite mixed drink, which can range from 150 to 600 Thai Baht. The price depends on the type and brand of alcohol. Rest assured, the sellers are upfront about the contents of the bucket.

Refreshing Beers: For a classic choice, you can enjoy a small bottle of beer on the beach for around 80 Thai Baht, or a large one for 100 Thai Baht.

Toilet Usage: A small but essential expense – plan to spend between 5 to 25 Thai Baht for toilet usage throughout the night.

By planning ahead, you can make the most of your Full Moon Party experience without any unexpected financial surprises. Happy partying!

Full Moon Party Dates in 2023 and 2024

2023		2024
06 January	Friday	26 January	Friday
05 February	Sunday	24 February	Saturday
07 March	Tuesday	25 March	Monday
05 April	Friday	24 April	Wednesday
04 May	Friday	23 May	Thursday
04 June	Sunday	22 June	Saturday
02 July	Sunday	21 July	Sunday
03 August	Thursday	20 August	Tuesday
29 September	Friday	18 September	Wednesday
30 October	Monday	17 October	Thursday
27 November	Monday	16 November	Saturday
27 & 31 December	Wednesday & Sunday	15 & 31 December	Sunday & Tuesday

Mark your calendars to attend a Full Moon Party and time you travel accordingly. Book a Thailand tour package today and enjoy the festive fervour of Thailand travel.

What you must know: The dates of the lunar parties are in accordance with the night of the full moon which happens every month. However, if a National or Buddhist holiday falls on the date of the full moon party, then the party is most likely to be postponed to the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions