Island Hopping in Southern Thailand is the kind of dreamy adventure that feels almost too good to be true. Crystal-clear water, limestone cliffs, soft white sand, and the kind of sunsets you wish you could bottle up forever. But when you throw kids into the mix, the dream needs a bit of a reality check, right?
After hopping through the Thai islands with our two little ones in tow, we’ve figured out exactly where is worth the boat rides, where to base yourself for ease, and how to make Island Hopping in Southern Thailand not only manageable but truly magical for families. Whether you’re planning a two-week beach break or a full-blown family gap year, this post is packed with practical tips, itinerary ideas, and destination breakdowns to help you plan the perfect family island-hopping adventure.
Koh Lanta – The Ultimate Family Favourite
If there’s one island that gets our gold star for family travel, it’s Koh Lanta. This place is a breath of fresh sea air – relaxed, quiet, and just the right amount of developed.
It’s perfect for Island Hopping in Southern Thailand with kids thanks to its long, flat beaches (like Klong Dao and Long Beach) that are ideal for paddling, digging, and burning off energy. There are plenty of beachfront restaurants with space for little legs to run about, and even a few play areas built into the cafés.
The roads are calm (hello scooter adventures with child seats!), and there’s a strong family expat community, especially in the high season. Our boys loved visiting Lanta Animal Welfare, exploring mangroves by kayak, and just chilling out without too much stimulation.
🛺 Stroller Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ – Great along the beach roads and in resorts.
Ao Nang – The Practical Launch Pad
Ao Nang in Krabi is the easiest jumping-off point for Island Hopping in Southern Thailand. It’s got everything you need: supermarkets, pharmacies, Western comforts if you need them, and super easy transfers from Krabi Airport.
While the beach isn’t the showstopper Thailand is known for, it’s gentle and calm enough for a splash. But Ao Nang’s real power is in its location – you can take longtail boats straight to Railay, Hong Islands, or do day trips to Phi Phi and beyond.
It’s a great place to start or end your island-hopping journey. Load up on essentials, grab that extra packet of nappies, and let everyone adjust before you move on.
🛺 Stroller Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Flat, paved, and easy to navigate.
Railay Beach – Postcard-Perfect and Adventurous
Railay might just be the prettiest stop on your Island Hopping in Southern Thailand route. It’s technically part of the mainland but only accessible by boat, which gives it that remote island feel without going too far off-grid.
Towering cliffs surround powdery beaches, and there’s a magical, jungle-meets-sea vibe. Our kids loved watching monkeys, splashing in the warm sea, and exploring the hidden caves.
It’s not the easiest with a stroller (paths are sandy or rocky), so bring a carrier. But if you’re up for a night or two of rustic beauty and a bit of adventure, it’s 100% worth the detour.
🛺 Stroller Rating: ⭐ – Baby carrier all the way.
Phi Phi Islands – Popular, Beautiful, Best for Big Kids
Everyone wants to tick Phi Phi off the list while Island Hopping in Southern Thailand, and honestly, it’s breathtaking. But… it’s not the easiest spot for younger families.
The island can be chaotic near Tonsai Pier with narrow, busy walkways, and it’s not stroller-friendly. That said, if you’ve got confident swimmers or tweens who’ll love a snorkelling trip and a bit of excitement, it’s worth it – just choose accommodation away from the party zone.
Day trips to Maya Bay or snorkelling at Shark Point can be done from quieter spots or even from other islands like Lanta.
🛺 Stroller Rating: ⭐ – Day trip only unless you’re up for a challenge.
Koh Samui – Smooth Sailing for Families
Koh Samui is the most built-up island in the south, making it super convenient for families. If you’re new to travelling with kids or want your island time with added luxury, Samui’s your spot.
Think massive supermarkets, family-friendly resorts, hospitals, and even indoor play centres. Beaches like Bophut and Choeng Mon are shallow, calm, and easy to access. It’s also one of the few islands with an airport, making it a fab start or end point when Island Hopping in Southern Thailand.
There’s no shortage of activities either – temples, waterfalls, beach clubs with kids’ menus, and plenty of spas if you manage to squeeze in a massage.
🛺 Stroller Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very accessible and paved in most places.
Koh Phangan – Peaceful Pockets Beyond the Party
Ignore the Full Moon Party reputation – Koh Phangan is a secret family paradise. The north and west sides of the island (Srithanu, Haad Yuan) are calm, green, and full of family-friendly resorts and yoga cafés where barefoot toddlers are part of the scene.
This is where you go for jungle sounds, calm seas, and a slower pace of life. The community vibe is strong here, and if you’re Island Hopping in Southern Thailand with time to stay a while, Phangan might just steal your heart.
Great for nature walks, babywearing adventures, and a little off-the-grid beach time.
🛺 Stroller Rating: ⭐⭐ – Mixed terrain, bring a carrier for walks.
Koh Tao – Snorkel Heaven for Mini Explorers
Last but definitely not least on your Island Hopping in Southern Thailand adventure is Koh Tao – the island of turtles and turquoise bays. It’s known for diving, but even younger kids can enjoy snorkelling in shallow spots like Ao Leuk or Hin Wong Bay.
It’s compact and rustic, so not the most convenient, but the nature and marine life totally make up for it. Great if your crew is past the toddler stage and loves exploring.
Think hammocks, jungle hikes, and coral reefs teeming with colourful fish.
🛺 Stroller Rating: ⭐ – Not ideal for wheels, best with big kids or carriers.
Getting Around While Island Hopping in Southern Thailand
Transport is half the fun (and sometimes half the meltdown). Here’s what to expect:
- Ferries – Best for longer journeys between islands. Safe and scenic, with space for buggies and bags.
- Speedboats – Quicker but bumpier. Ideal for shorter hops (Samui to Phangan, etc).
- Longtail Boats – Iconic and fun! Great for short transfers (Ao Nang to Railay) but usually require wading through water. Pack water shoes + dry bags.
- Private Transfers – Worth splurging on when you’re juggling kids, naps, and too many bags.
When Island Hopping in Southern Thailand, try to plan no more than 2–3 islands per trip to avoid exhausting transfer days. And always, always bring snacks.
Sample Itineraries for Island Hopping in Southern Thailand
7-Day Mini Hop
- Day 1–3: Ao Nang (base, day trip to Railay)
- Day 4–5: Koh Lanta (relax and recharge)
- Day 6–7: Phi Phi (optional day trip)
10-Day Samui Trio
- Day 1–3: Koh Samui (ease in, pool time)
- Day 4–6: Koh Phangan (peaceful jungle beaches)
- Day 7–10: Koh Tao (snorkel + chill)
14-Day Southern Explorer
- Day 1–2: Ao Nang (stock up)
- Day 3–4: Railay (adventure + nature)
- Day 5–8: Koh Lanta (slow pace, easy beach days)
- Day 9–14: Koh Samui (luxury + comfort to end)
Quick Comparison Table
| Island | Best For | Stroller Friendly | Chill Factor | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koh Lanta | Relaxing with toddlers | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Beaches, day trips |
| Ao Nang | Convenience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Shopping, tours |
| Railay | Stunning scenery | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Cliffs, caves |
| Phi Phi | Older kids, snorkelling | ⭐ | ⭐ | Boats, snorkelling |
| Koh Samui | Comfort + ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Everything |
| Koh Phangan | Off-grid family time | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Nature, yoga vibes |
| Koh Tao | Snorkel + swim lovers | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Reefs, exploring |
Top Tips for Island Hopping in Southern Thailand
- Don’t overdo it – 2 or 3 islands is plenty for one trip.
- Book beachfront hotels to avoid daily transfers.
- Use baby carriers rather than strollers for easier navigation.
- Bring mosquito repellent, sun hats, and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Always carry cash, especially on smaller islands.
- Prepare a mini first-aid kit (just in case).
- Check the weather – November to April is ideal for Island Hopping in Southern Thailand.
- Don’t expect perfection – travel with kids is messy, funny, and occasionally chaotic. Embrace it all.
- Snacks solve most problems.
Island Hopping in Southern Thailand with Kids
Island Hopping in Southern Thailand is absolutely doable with kids – and dare I say it – even enjoyable. Whether you’re soaking up sunsets on Koh Lanta, eating fresh fruit shakes in Samui, or teaching your little ones to snorkel in Koh Tao, these islands offer a family experience like no other.
So pack light (ish), go slow, and embrace the sand in all the wrong places. Your island-hopping family adventure is waiting.
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