Ko Ma Beach
Ko Ma Beach is a small, idyllic beach connected to the tiny islet of Ko Ma via a shallow sandbar that visitors can wade across at low tide. Located off the northwestern coast of Koh Phangan, it draws travellers seeking a quieter alternative to the island's more crowded shores. The surrounding waters are calm and clear, making it a popular spot for snorkelling, with coral reef and marine life visible close to the surface. The atmosphere here is relaxed and unhurried, attracting those who prefer natural scenery over organised beach clubs or busy tourist infrastructure. The sandbar crossing itself is one of the beach's most distinctive features, offering a scenic walk between the two land masses when the tide allows. The beach remains open around the clock, making it accessible at any hour, though it is best enjoyed during daylight. Good to know: the sandbar connecting Ko Ma to the main beach is only walkable at or near low tide, so checking tide times before visiting is worthwhile. Snorkelling equipment can be rented from vendors in the surrounding area. The beach is best suited to those comfortable with a more rustic setting, as facilities are limited compared to Koh Phangan's main beaches. Visiting outside of the full moon party periods generally means a calmer, less crowded experience.
Book tours & tickets in Koh Phangan
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Ko Ma Beach — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Ko Ma Beach, round out your day in Koh Phangan with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan
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OXA - Jungle Party
A high-energy jungle party venue on Koh Phangan drawing crowds with immersive outdoor nightlife.

Pantip Market
A lively local market on Koh Phangan, open daily from early morning until midnight.

Pure Relax Massage & Spa
A well-regarded massage and spa retreat in Thong Sala, open daily until midnight for late-night relaxation.
Ko Ma Beach: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ko Ma Beach worth visiting?
Ko Ma Beach holds a 4.5★ rating from 1,146 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated beaches in Koh Phangan.
What are the opening hours of Ko Ma Beach?
Ko Ma Beach 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 Ko Ma Beach?
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 Ko Ma Beach located?
Ko Ma Beach is at QXXJ+C2W, Ko Pha-ngan, Ko Pha-ngan District, 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).
Location Info
QXXJ+C2W, Ko Pha-ngan, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, ThailandVisitor 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
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 Ko Ma Beach
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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.
Nearby Places

Mae Haad Beach
A tranquil northern Koh Phangan beach known for calm waters, soft sand, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Haad Yao
A peaceful stretch of white sand on Koh Phangan's west coast, known for calm, clear waters ideal for swimming.

Haad Son
A quiet, tucked-away beach on Koh Phangan's northwest coast, ideal for those seeking calm waters and seclusion.

Haad Khom
A secluded north-coast beach on Koh Phangan with calm waters and a relaxed, unspoiled atmosphere.
Similar Beaches Across Thailand
Patong Beach
Phuket's most famous 3km beach on the Andaman Sea, buzzing with water sports, dining, and nightlife.

Freedom Beach
A secluded white-sand beach near Patong with crystal-clear water, far removed from the crowds.

Tawaen Beach
Ko Lan's largest beach, a 30-minute speedboat ride from Pattaya, with clear water and a lively shoreline.

Karon Beach
A 4km stretch of golden sand in Phuket, known for calm, clear water and spectacular sunsets.
Where to stay near Ko Ma Beach
Find hotels in Koh Phangan on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
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
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