25.Oct.2011 Haad Rin Peninsula

Haad Rin is the main tourist center on the beautiful Thai island of Koh Phangan that is famous for its Full Moon Parties. What started out as a one off party attended by just a hundred or so people is now an international event attracting up to 30,00 party goers to Haad Rin. The Koh Phangan Full Moon Party is not only the original full moon party, it is still the best

Haad Rin is on a narrow peninsula hemmed in by the sea and mountains. It is thus unable to expand like other beach areas in Thailand. This means Haad Rin is a very compact town that it is easy to navigate by foot.

There are 3 major beaches in Haad Rin. On the eastern coast is the famous Sunrise beach or Haad Rin Nok  that is home to the main sound systems of the FMP. It is the best beach for swimming. Beachfront is taken up with bars so there is very little actual resorts right on the beach. The exception is Palita Lodge.

Most Haad Rin hotels, resorts and bungalows are to be found in Haad Rin town and along the opposite beach facing west that is called Haad Rin Nai. Here such popular resorts such Neptune’s Villas, Vimarn Samut Resort and Blue marine can be found. Also along Haad Rin nai is the best hotel in Haad Rin, the Best Western Phanganburi Resort and Spa. Although the sunset is imprresive at Haad Rin nai the water is not great for swimming as there is also a ferry port with boats to Maenam in Koh Samui.

The quietest beach in Haad Rin is Haad Sarikang. It is about 15 minutes walk from the Full Moon Party beach. Haad Sarikantang is a beautiful white sand beach ideal for swimming. There are just a few resorts in the area. These include Sarikantang Resort and Spa and Cocohut Beach Resort. For the smart party goer Haad Sarikantang is the first option.