Koh Phangan is known as THE party island. And yes, it definitely has some incredible parties. But parties are just a small part of what this island offers. There are also stunning tropical beaches, waterfalls, viewpoints, delicious restaurants, and much more.
So, what can older visitors enjoy on Koh Phangan? Where are the best spots for those 60+ on the island? We’ve hosted older guests here countless times and have a pretty good idea of what they love—and what’s best to avoid.
Here are the top places and things to do on Koh Phangan for seniors!
1. Unwind at the Sanctuary Resort, Haad Thien
Unwind at the Sanctuary Resort in Haad Thien! It’s the perfect spot for a little getaway. Getting there is part of the fun—just hop on a boat from Haadrin. You can buy tickets at a small stand with a sun umbrella right on the beach, near the jet skis. It usually costs no more than 300 THB per person, per ride. You can choose either a direct ride to Haad Thien or stop at Why Nam Beach (one bay over). From there, enjoy a scenic 10-minute jungle walk back to Haad Thien.
Once you arrive, The Sanctuary restaurant will be waiting for you, serving delicious food in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
Last time, we had the boat driver drop us at Why Nam, then pick us up from Haad Thien 1.5 hours later. It was a fantastic trip!
2. Have Dinner at Bustan
Have dinner at Bustan, a hidden Israeli gem in Koh Phangan! Tucked away in a cozy garden, it’s run by a couple who are passionate about cooking and cocktails. Their pescatarian menu is based on fresh, local ingredients, with plenty of delicious vegetarian and vegan options too. It’s open only on Fridays and Saturdays, with two fixed seating times each evening. The vibe is intimate and relaxed, with mellow electronic music playing in the background.
I love bringing my parents or other visitors here—it’s the only casual fine dining spot on the island. For picky kids, there’s even an option to order pasta with cheese. Just remember to reserve your spots as early as possible. During the high season, Bustan can be booked out weeks in advance!
3. Catch a Muay Thai Box Fight
Catch a Muay Thai fight at one of the island’s stadiums for an exciting evening! Muay Thai is a huge part of Thai culture, showcasing discipline, respect, and tradition. The atmosphere at the matches is electric, with crowds cheering as the announcer introduces each fight, explaining what’s happening and why.
Fights usually start at 9 PM, with doors opening at 8 PM. During high season, I recommend arriving around 8:30 PM to get good seats. Most stadiums also offer VIP seating, giving you an unobstructed view of the ring and tables for your drinks. These seats cost about 1,200 THB ($33 USD) per person, roughly 400 THB ($11 USD) more than regular seats.
Feeling lucky? You can even place bets right on-site (though to be honest, I’ve never won!). The music and commentary can get loud, so bring earplugs if you have sensitive ears. You’ll also find local snacks, like popcorn or Thai pancakes.
Join this Facebook group to stay updated on all upcoming events!
4. Explore the Bizarre Bazaar at Seaboard Bungalows
Visit the Bizarre Bazaar at Seaboard Bungalows for a fun Wednesday evening! Starting around 5 PM, this lively market offers arts and crafts from around the world, souvenirs, and some tasty street food. It’s the perfect place for a laid-back stroll, with two bars serving drinks and simple bites like French fries and local dishes.
Each week, a different DJ spins electronic music until midnight, giving the place a clubby vibe. If you’re not ready to call it a night, there’s an afterparty at a small beach bar at the end of Haad Yao Beach, right where the stairs to Tomorrow X begin. Entry is free!
I recommend having dinner at Coco Loccos and then walking 100 meters along the beach to Bizarre Bazaar for a fun evening.
5. Visit the Elephant Sanctuary in Koh Phangan
Visit the Koh Phangan Elephant Sanctuary for an ethical experience with elephants in Thailand. Around 7,000 elephants live in the country, with about half in captivity, often facing exploitation for tourism. This sanctuary, located in Baan Madue Wan, is home to three rescued female elephants, aged 43 to 67, who were saved from riding camps in Pattaya.
Established in 2019, the sanctuary provides a safe, stress-free environment for the elephants. You can choose from two programs: a two-hour Tour Program (2,500 THB for adults, 1,500 THB for children aged 4-11, free for children under 4) and a one-hour Feeding Program (1,000 THB for adults, 500 THB for children). Both programs include feeding the elephants rice balls, walking through the sanctuary, and learning about their rehabilitation and care.
On-site, you’ll find basic amenities, drinks, and a small souvenir shop. Be sure to book your slot online in advance, and remember to bring cash for payment.
You can read a detailed and honest review of the Koh Phangan Elephant Sanctuary here.
6. Hike to Paeng Waterfall Viewpoint
The hike to Paeng Waterfall Viewpoint (Dom Sila) is a fantastic option for seniors seeking a bit of adventure without it being too tough. The trail is considered easy to moderate and offers some truly stunning views. The whole hike, including the return trip, takes about 40 minutes, depending on your fitness level. Park your car or scooter here and don’t forget to pay 100 THB entrance fee.
If you’re feeling energetic, you can extend the hike into a larger loop, which takes 1-1.5 hours in total. It starts with a steep climb but becomes mostly downhill in the second half. I’d only recommend the full loop to fit seniors who are steady on their feet, as it’s a bit more technical.
My parents, aged between 62 and 69, were totally fine just doing the viewpoint hike. The humid jungle heat was the hardest part for them!
7. Soak at Navana Onsen
Navana Water Healing Center on Koh Phangan is the island’s first and only Onsen Spa. We go there every week to truly relax and unwind. Navana features a waterfall infinity pool, a modern sauna, and a large onsen bath filled with milky mineral water heated to 104°F (40°C). Two cool plunge pools are available to refresh after a session in the sauna or onsen. The relaxation area, complete with a bonfire and camping chairs, offers a cozy spot to watch the sunset while sipping complimentary tea or lemon water.
Bathrobes and towels are provided, and you can store your valuables securely in lockers. Once you’re done, you can shower in private, clean facilities.
Navana is open from 4 PM to 10 PM (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) and costs 600 THB (around $16 USD) per person during the low season and 800 THB (about $22 USD) during the high season.
My parents loved spending 1.5 hours here, and I can highly recommend it for seniors! The only challenge: the path to the spa has several steep steps. But take it slow, and you’ll get there just fine.
8. Take a Boat Trip to Bottle Beach from Haad Khom
Similar to the trip to the Sanctuary in Haad Thien, this adventure is another wonderful experience. Ride a scooter or drive your car to Haad Khom Beach in northern Koh Phangan, near Chaloklum. This beach is already a highlight, with its unique pine trees and shallow turquoise waters.
From the beach, you can catch a longtail boat. The captain charges around 150 – 250 THB per person ($4-7 USD), depending on the number of passengers. After a short 10-minute ride, you’ll reach Bottle Beach—a secluded beach accessible only by boat or a hike. It’s usually pretty quiet (except for weekends during high season).
There’s a relaxed restaurant at Bottle Beach where you can enjoy basic Thai food and a cold fresh coconut. When you’re done, simply take the boat back to Haad Khom.
If you’re up for a challenge, you can drive by scooter or car to the Bottle Beach hike starting point and hike from there. The hike is quite strenuous and can take anywhere from 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on your fitness level. I’ve experienced it all!
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, bring a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and cash for the boat and restaurant.
9. Try Your Hand at Bow and Arrow Club
The First Bow and Arrow Club in northern Koh Phangan offers a fun archery experience for beginners and families alike. It’s located just 300 meters before Chaloklum on the main road and is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. For 300 Baht (about $8 USD), you’ll get a 15-minute lesson and 30 minutes of shooting, with all the equipment provided.
The owner is super friendly and knowledgeable, making sure everyone feels comfortable, no matter their experience level. It’s a great option if you’re looking to try something different from the usual beach day!
10. Play a Round of Mini Golf
Koh Phangan has three mini golf courses: one in the Madue Wan area, in the heart of the island, another in Baan Tai, and one in the northeast in Thong Nai Pan.
All of them are well-maintained and affordable. So, if you’re up for a round of mini golf—whether with kids or without—definitely check them out!
11. Visit Madue Wan Temple and Chinese Temple
Wat Maduea Wan is a revered Buddhist temple on a hilltop in Baan Madue Wan, Koh Phangan. It’s a cultural landmark deeply respected by locals. According to legend, Buddha left his footprint here centuries ago. Visitors can climb a long staircase to reach the ancient temple at the top. The grand entrance is guarded by two massive five-headed naga serpents, symbolizing protection and mystical energy.
The Chinese Temple, also called Guan Yin Shrine or Goddess of Mercy Temple, was built in 1992 and sits on a hill along the road to Chaloklum. This three-tiered complex is dedicated to Guanyin, the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, and offers stunning views of the island’s northern coast. Entry costs 40 baht, payable at the desk near the parking area, and it’s open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Located just 4 kilometers apart, both temples provide an amazing cultural experience. Be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as required. Pack essentials like water, a hat, and sturdy shoes for exploring, as it typically takes 2-3 hours to fully appreciate both temples.
12. Join a Thai Cooking Class
Are you interested in cooking? Even if you’re not, a Thai cooking class can still be a fantastic experience! Koh Phangan has several providers offering cooking classes. Led by experienced chefs, these classes are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned foodies. You’ll learn to make traditional dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice, all using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many classes even include a trip to the local markets, where you’ll pick out the best produce.
The best part? You get to enjoy your creations after cooking!
Prices for cooking classes usually range from $10-20 USD per person, including ingredients.
13. Get a proper Massage or Spa Treatment
Koh Phangan is packed with massage parlors! You’ll find everything from simple wooden shalas on the beach to traditional air-conditioned massage parlors and even luxurious spas. I highly recommend getting as many massages as possible while visiting Koh Phangan—it’s all benefits! Whether it’s a foot massage, traditional Thai massage (with traditional attire), oil massage, or body scrub, everything is super affordable and usually fantastic.
If you’re looking for something special, try the Pharao Spa at Summers Resort. It honestly feels more like you’re in Egypt than in Thailand, but it offers unique spa treatments, a whirlpool, and a ‘lay-down shower’ (sounds strange, but it is!).
My best luxury massage experience so far has been at the Anantara Hotel in Thong Nai Pan Noi. They offer multi-hour treatment packages, and the spa is one of the most beautiful I’ve seen in Thailand!
14. Visit a Nightmarket
The bustling, traditional night markets—packed with delicious food, local art, and second-hand clothing—are one of Thailand’s trademarks. You can also find them in Koh Phangan! The two biggest night markets on the island are the Saturday Night Market in Thongsala (Chinese Walking Street) and the Sunday Night Market in Chaloklum (Chaloklum Pier). Both kick off around 4:30 PM and go until late at night.
I recommend bringing plenty of small bills, like 100 and 20 baht notes, to make things easier for the vendors. Oh, and be prepared for crowds! At peak times, it gets so busy that you can only move slowly with the flow. Just be ready for that and enjoy the experience.
15. Enjoy a Free Fire Show on the Beach
Thailand is famous for its spectacular fire shows on the beach, and while Koh Phangan doesn’t have as many options, it’s still a great experience, especially if you’ve never seen one before.
Your best chance to catch a fire show in Koh Phangan is at Haad Rin Beach after sunset. Fire performers put on shows in front of the beach bars throughout the evening. (Make sure not to come during, shortly before, and shortly after the Fullmoon Party as the beach can be packed and dirty.)
Depending on which group of artists is performing, the shows can be truly spectacular—sometimes, they even use fireworks or set up large platforms in the sea. After each show, the performers walk around collecting donations.
General Tips for Elderly Visitors in Koh Phangan
Transportation in Koh Phangan for Seniors
Koh Phangan isn’t exactly a convenient island. Aside from Songtaews (open taxis that run up and down the island daily), there’s no public transport or taxi apps like Grab or Uber. So, if you want to be more flexible and independent, you’ll need to rent a car or scooter. Based on the experiences of my parents, in-laws, and friends’ parents, not everyone is comfortable with this (and to be honest, it’s not just an age thing). So, be prepared to either bring some patience for Songtaews or get ready to drive a scooter or car yourself.
Accommodation in Koh Phangan for Seniors
Finding suitable accommodation in Koh Phangan for the elderly can be quite tricky as some of them aren’t easily accessible. For short stays, I recommend searching on a hotel site like Booking.com. I wouldn’t suggest using Airbnb, as prices for Koh Phangan properties tend to be 40-50% higher.
If you want to stay close to attractions and great restaurants, look for accommodation on the west side of the island. If you prefer a more secluded spot, consider a hotel in Thong Nai Pan, but keep in mind that you’ll be about 40 minutes from the west side.
One more important tip: The island currently has lots of construction sites. Ask your hotel or host before booking if there’s any construction nearby.
The Best Accommodation in Koh Phangan for Older Visitors
Check out more Koh Phangan articles here:
From Phuket to Koh Phangan – The 4 Easiest Ways
Koh Tao vs. Koh Phangan – Which Island Suits You Better?
Thailand: Best Areas in Koh Phangan for Families 2024
The 30 Best Kids Activities in Koh Phangan 2024
Final Thoughts on Koh Phangan for Seniors
Koh Phangan might be known as a party hotspot, but it’s so much more than that—it’s a tropical paradise with plenty to offer visitors of all ages, including seniors. Whether you stay for a week or four, boredom is definitely not on the agenda!
From exploring local temples and beautiful beaches to taking scenic boat trips or savoring delicious meals, there’s always something to see, do, and taste. With a bit of planning, this island can be a wonderful destination for a memorable holiday.
Do you have any questions? Did I miss an activity that you or your 60+ visitors have enjoyed? Let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
FAQ
Is Koh Samui a better place for seniors than Koh Phangan?
Koh Samui, located just a short boat ride away, is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a more developed destination. It has more options for luxury resorts, local restaurants, and accessible transportation. However, Koh Phangan retains a more laid-back charm, making it a favorite for nature lovers, yoga enthusiasts, and digital nomads seeking a slower pace.
What are the best times for the elderly to visit Koh Phangan?
The best times for elderly visitors in Koh Phangan are from late December to March and July to August. During these months, the weather is not too hot, with little rain and lots of sunshine. The Gulf of Thailand is at its best, perfect for beach days and exploring tiny islands like Koh Nang Yuan, close to Koh Tao.
How can I get to Koh Phangan from Surat Thani or Koh Samui?
The main way to reach Koh Phangan Island is by ferry from either Surat Thani or Koh Samui. Ferries run regularly, and you can book tickets at local travel agencies or directly at the pier.
Are there beach huts on Koh Phangan suitable for older visitors?
Yes, there are plenty of cozy beach huts right on the island’s white sands, especially on the west of the island near Haad Salad or Sri Thanu. These huts range from basic to more comfortable options with air conditioning and private bathrooms.
Are there any marine national parks near Koh Phangan?
Yes, you can easily visit Ang Thong National Marine Park on a day trip. This park offers snorkeling, hiking, and breathtaking views of the tiny islands scattered across the sea. It’s an adventure that brings you closer to Mother Nature.
Can I find yoga classes on Koh Phangan?
Yes, yoga classes are one of the island’s highlights. There are many yoga centers, particularly in Sri Thanu, offering classes suitable for all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, you can find a yoga teacher who matches your needs.
Are there good local restaurants in Koh Phangan for seniors who are vegetarians or vegans?
Yes! Koh Phangan has a variety of local restaurants catering to vegetarians and vegans. Many eateries offer fresh salads, vegan curries, and creative plant-based dishes, especially around Sri Thanu and Thong Sala. Food stalls and small shops in Thong Sala also offer cheap and tasty veggie options.
How does Koh Phangan compare to places like Chiang Mai or Northern Thailand?
Koh Phangan is all about beaches, palm trees, and sea views, while Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand are better known for their mountains, temples, and cooler climates. If you’re looking for a beachy escape, Ko Phangan is a great spot. For cultural explorations and cooler weather, Northern Thailand might be a better place.
Just a heads up: some links on Nomadmum.com are affiliate links. This means if you click and buy, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help keep the site running smoothly and my matcha cups full. Thanks for your support and happy travels!
