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 Thailand.

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 on a beach in Thailand.

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.

Thai island ocean view.

A view of Koh Tao, or Turtle Island, in the Gulf of Thailand.Chayanee Chomsaengchun

A palm leaf on an island in Thailand.

A palm leaf on Koh Tao.Chayanee Chomsaengchun