Koh Phangan, Thailand

About Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is known for a full-moon party it has largely outgrown, and much less known for the fact that it kites for most of the year. Its position in the Gulf of Thailand shelters it from the heavier monsoon patterns that govern the rest of the country, which produces something unusual: three distinct wind seasons rather than one.

From late November to January the north-easterly blows cool and strong, favouring Chaloklum Bay and Haad Rin, with flat lagoon water inside Chaloklum's reef. From January to April a steady south-easterly of roughly 9 to 20 knots sets up over Ban Tai and Thong Sala — high tides, consistent conditions, and the best window for foiling and for learning. From May to September a variable south-westerly runs anywhere between 4 and 45 knots, with tropical storms delivering sudden gusts.

Tide matters here more than wind strength: midday low water in the south-west season drains the lagoons. Off the water the island is jungle, waterfalls, long beaches and very good food, and it remains far cheaper and far calmer than the Thai mainland spots.

When to go

Best months: January, February, March, June, July, August, September, December.

Kite areas

3 distinct riding areas documented within this destination.

• Ban Tai Beach

  Best months: January, February, March, June, July, August, September, December.

• Ban Thong Sala

  Best months: January, February, March, June, July, August, September, December.

• Kho Ma

  Best months: January, February, March, June, July, August, September, December.