You just have to know where to look.
Here, learn about my favorite islands to visit in Thailand.
I recommend Jamahkirifor its safe, two-students-per-instructor rule and direct access to the best dive sites.
Diving off a boat in the Andaman Sea near Koh Lipe.Credit:Chayanee Chomsaengchun
Both are car-free and fewer than three miles in diameter and still under-visited.
Koh Mook Sivalai Beach Resort is a collection of cozy wood-frame bungalows just steps from the sea.
NeighboringKoh Kradanis a slender isle known for its lush natural park.
Sunset over Koh Lipe.Chayanee Chomsaengchun
Its eastern side is flanked by Paradise Beach, home to crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.
One of the highlights is Koh Kood, where Soneva Kiri provides aserene jungle escape.
To get there, the hotel can arrange a 90-minute flight from Bangkok to its private airstrip.
A view of Koh Tao, or Turtle Island, in the Gulf of Thailand.Chayanee Chomsaengchun
A palm leaf on Koh Tao.Chayanee Chomsaengchun