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Koh Phangan

Haad Son

4.5(79 reviews)

Haad Son is a small, relatively secluded beach located on the northwest coast of Koh Phangan, offering a peaceful alternative to the island's busier and more commercialised shorelines. Sheltered by rocky headlands and fringed with trees, the bay has a natural, unhurried character that appeals to travellers looking to escape crowds and enjoy the sea at their own pace. The calm, clear water makes it well suited for swimming and snorkelling, and the surrounding scenery gives the beach a distinctly untouched feel. The atmosphere here is relaxed and low-key, attracting visitors who prefer quiet stretches of sand over lively beach clubs or party scenes. The beach is relatively small, which adds to its intimate character, and it tends to remain far less crowded than Koh Phangan's more prominent beaches such as Haad Rin or Thong Nai Pan. Good to know: Haad Son is accessible year-round, though the calmest sea conditions and clearest water are generally found between December and April, which corresponds with the Gulf of Thailand's dry season. The beach is not well served by public transport, so most visitors arrive by motorbike or taxi. Those planning to stay in the area should arrange accommodation in advance, as options nearby are limited. There are no major facilities on the beach itself, so bringing water and supplies is advisable.

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Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Haad Son, round out your day in Koh Phangan with contrasting stops nearby.

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Haad Son: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Haad Son worth visiting?

Haad Son holds a 4.5★ rating from 79 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated beaches in Koh Phangan.

What are the opening hours of Haad Son?

Haad Son is typically open 00:00-23:59 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Haad Son?

The best months to visit Koh Phangan are January – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Full Moon Party nights & December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: October – November (Gulf monsoon peak).

Where is Haad Son located?

Haad Son is at อำเภอเกาะพะงัน อำเภอ เกาะพะงัน สุราษฎร์ธานี 84280 Amphoe Ko Pha-ngan, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84280, Thailand, in Koh Phangan. Getting around Koh Phangan: Songthaews from Thong Sala pier to the main beaches; Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; steep hills to Bottle Beach and Haad Rin).

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

January – April

Avoid: October – November (Gulf monsoon peak)

Rainy season

October – December

Avg. temperature

25°C – 32°C(77°F – 90°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: Full Moon Party nights & December – January

Getting there

Ferries run from Koh Samui (30–60 min, ฿300–500) and from Surat Thani town, train station, and airport as combo tickets (2.5–4.5 hrs). Lomprayah and Seatran catamarans also connect from Chumphon via Koh Tao. There is no airport — Samui's is the closest, one boat away.

Getting around

  • Songthaews from Thong Sala pier to the main beaches
  • Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; steep hills to Bottle Beach and Haad Rin)
  • Longtail boats to coves the roads don't reach

Where to stay near Haad Son

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Tips for Visiting Beaches

Check Monsoon Windows

Andaman coast beaches (Phuket, Krabi) have rough seas May–October. Gulf beaches (Samui, Hua Hin) are roughest October–December. Plan your beach trip around these windows for calm water and safe swimming.

Go Early for Empty Sand

Even the busiest beaches are nearly deserted before 9 AM. Sunrise walks on Kata, Chaweng, or Railay are magical — and you'll beat the heat for a morning swim.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Many Thai marine parks ban chemical sunscreens that damage coral. Bring reef-safe (mineral/zinc-based) sunscreen from home — it's harder to find and pricier in Thailand.

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