Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan

The Full Moon Party is held at Haad Rin, on the southern tip of Koh Phangan, once a month around the full moon. It's one of the best-known beach parties in South-East Asia, born in the 1980s and, over time, a fixture for travellers passing through Thailand. The package from Koh Samui includes the round-trip boat journey, which saves you from having to sort out the logistics of the late-night crossing and the early-morning return yourself.

Departure is in the late afternoon or early evening from a Koh Samui pier, usually Bophut or Maenam, depending on the sea conditions. Once you reach Haad Rin, the beach gradually turns into a giant dance floor. Several stages line the sand, each with its own line-up: electro, trance, house, hip-hop and reggae as the hours go by. Bars, food trucks and bucket sellers (the famous "buckets") stretch the whole length. The full moon lights up the horizon, the sand still holds the day's warmth, and the atmosphere builds hour by hour.

The return to Koh Samui is in the early morning, once the party winds down and the first ferries head back. The excursion is aimed at those who want to experience this night without booking accommodation on Phangan or planning a tired journey home. It's a good idea to come with closed shoes (the beach gets very crowded), some cash for drinks and light clothing. Young travellers and groups of friends are well represented, but the event also draws couples and older travellers, curious to see for themselves what made the island's reputation.