Spending the winter in Thailand - that's a good idea. After all, the Asian country scores with perfect bathing temperatures, tropical nature, beautiful beaches and lively cities. Above all, it is the sun that attracts European tourists during the winter months. But after they were denied entry to the kingdom for a year and a half due to Corona, Thailand is opening its borders on November 1. And the rush is on. As the travel experts from away.de report, the booking figures for package tours to Thailand doubled compared to the previous month. But secret island tips for a relaxed holiday in Thailand without mass tourism do exist.

Koh Kood: Snorkeling and swimming 

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Kood is the epitome of a perfect beach holiday. Here you can stroll under coconut palms gently swaying in the wind, feel the soft sand between your toes and enjoy the turquoise blue water. If you like it colourful, you should think of snorkelling equipment. Corals and fish are just waiting to reveal their colourful splendour to visitors. 

The lush island is only developed for tourism on the west coast. There are only a few roads on the island, which also means that here travellers have entire stretches of coastline just for themselves.

Koh Phayam: Yoga classes and hippies

No cars wherever the eye looks - this is Koh Phayam in the middle of the Andaman Sea. Colorful bars made of wood and bamboo represent the tourist infrastructure. Here, you can ride scooters over the countryside to find the best beaches and bays. 

If you're looking for a change from the Robinson Crusoe feeling, treat yourself to a beer at the hippie bar at the northern end of the main beach, Buffalo Bay. Or take part in one of the yoga classes. In the interior of the island you can go on exciting kayak tours through the mangrove forest. A cultural highlight is the small temple Wat Koh Phayam directly on the pier.

Koh Jum: Idyll and rubber trees

Although the popular resort of Krabi is nearby, the island of Koh Jum off the coast is considered one of the quietest islands in Thailand. Ferries can't dock here, so if you want to get to the island, you'll have to hop on a longtail boat. But the trip is worth it. Fine sand, a relaxed atmosphere and secluded beaches, such as Ao Si Beach, await.

Here, too, it is best to travel by scooter. It takes you to the north of the island. There you can explore rubber tree plantations around Mount Phu, hike through the jungle or visit one of the original fishing villages. Guests on Koh Jum sleep in classic beach bungalows.

Koh Yao Yai: Walks and limestones

Only recently the island has asphalted roads and accommodation for tourists. Accordingly, the island has many untouched corners and deserted beaches. It is located in the bay of Phang Nga. Many limestone islands surround it, which makes it particularly picturesque. Koh Yao Yai is ideal for swimming in the southwest.

At To La Ma Bay and Koh Yao Yai Village Beach the water recedes strongly at low tide. Thus, extended walks along the coast are possible.

Koh Ngai: Jungle and mangroves

It is only five square kilometers in size, but is impressive. We're talking about Koh Ngai, an island densely covered in green jungle. If you walk from the main beach to the south coast, it takes about half an hour. The two beaches Mung Bay and Kauntong Beach invite for bathing. Both are idyllic and uninhabited.

Coconut palms and turquoise blue sea make the beaches a picturesque postcard motif. For a change of pace from swimming, snorkelling and relaxing, take a kayak tour along the bay between the mangroves. Going to Thailand in winter - travellers have waited long enough for this. With your feet in the sand on Koh Ngai, you remember why it was worth the wait.