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Overview: The beautiful little island of Pha Ngan, lying in the centre of the Gulf of Thailand about 62 miles (100km) from the mainland, is home to 8,000 or so people, and hundreds of thousands of coconuts. Coconut exports and fishing have long been the mainstay of the locals, but in recent years tourism is becoming increasingly important as visitors flock in on ferries, lured by the island's magnificent beaches and the world renowned monthly Full Moon Party. Site of the legendary parties is the crescent-shaped beach of Haad Rin on the island's south-east corner, which is besieged by up to 10,000 people from around the world at full moon each month. As dusk falls thousands of lamps are lit on tables along the beach and the music is cranked up, sending party-goers into a frenzy under the rising orb of the moon. Visitors to Pha Ngan generally stay in one of about 200 thatched bamboo bungalows that line the island's beaches that are let out for a pittance. Those after more luxury can choose from three resort hotels: First Villa at Ban Tai Beach, the Pha Ngan Chai Hotel in the main town of Thongsala, and the Thong Nai Pan Beach Resort at Thong Nai Pan beach. Wherever you stay time is wiled away pleasantly with snorkelling, swimming or relaxing on the white sands. Facilities in Thongsala are limited, but there is a bank, police station, clinic and pharmacy. Motorcycle taxis can be waved down, or mountain bikes hired to explore the more remote beaches. Some beaches can only be reached by sea, and water taxis are available in the town.

Shopping: Most shops and kiosks are in Thongsala and Haad Rin, stocking a range of cheap clothing and novelties, mostly aimed at backpackers. Local handcrafts are plentiful, particularly batik. There are some photo shops and small supermarkets, including a 7-Eleven.

 

Restaurants: There are plenty of storefront restaurants along the main streets of Thongsala and along the beachfront at Haad Rin, ideal for a quick and tasty meal. Most serve a mix of Thai and western dishes. Street vendors are the cheapest option for local snacks. One of the most popular gathering places on the island is the Outback Bar on Thongsala's main street, which has a vast menu, pool tables, and a large screen TV showing satellite news and sports events. Another popular eatery is the Same Same restaurant at Ban Tai, offering basic favourites like burgers, pizza, pasta and steaks as well as Thai dishes.

 

Nightlife: Most nights on Koh Pha Ngan's remote bungalow resorts are fairly peaceful, with a few beach bars playing music to serenade the incredible sunsets. At full moon, however, Haad Rin is the place to be, when a dozen or more sound systems blast the beach that becomes packed with thousands of hedonistic party animals. Along with visiting top class DJs, the entertainment is enhanced by jugglers, fire-eaters and frenzied dancers of all descriptions, while beach traders keep everyone fed and lubricated. The notorious Pha Ngan Full Moon parties are the ultimate experience.

 

Activities: The enticing warm waters off the white sand beaches that surround Koh Pha Ngan are the main source of activity for visitors, who enjoy boat rides, snorkelling on coral reefs or just bathing in between spells of soaking up the sun. The interior of the island, with its rutted roads through coconut plantations, past crystal waterfalls, viewpoints and little villages, cry out to be explored on hired motorbikes. The Pang Waterfall National Park offers beautiful walking trails. Those looking for a more spiritual experience can visit the renowned temple and meditation complex of Wat Kow Tahm between Thongsala and Had Rin, offering courses and retreats.