Full Moon Party at Haad Rin

Vimarn Samut Resort and Koh Phangan Hotel Articles

Just as Koh Samui developed as a more secluded alternative to busy Phuket, Koh Phangan and it's Full Moon Party developed as an alternative to the alternative.

Like the kids in Alex Garland's The Beach, many come to Thailand to find that island paradise that has been unspoiled by the tacky trappings of mass tourism. The message of that novel is a perfect example of what eventually happens -- paradise seekers inevitably bring their own standards of comfort and values, ironically turning their utopia into what they have strived to escape. Koh Phangan still attracts an adventurous young crowd, but is following the said-same model of development.

Easily visible from Koh Samui and about two-thirds its size with similar terrain and flora, Koh Phangan does have some beautiful beaches and the further reaches of the island, the rugged north and west coast areas accessible only by bumpy road or special boat, feature a few cozy resorts and a measure of rustic tranquility.

The southeastern peninsula of Haad Rin is the locus of the monthly Full Moon Party, a multiday beachside rave with all the day-glow, strobe-lights, and debauch you can handle; attendance at the raves, especially in high season, numbers in many thousands of partyers moving to the mix of a European DJ, gobbling tabs of Ecstasy and magic mushrooms, and letting loose, very loose: something like Ibiza meets a Fish show at the beach.

If you're interested in attending, boats from piers at either Big Buddha Beach or Bophut on Koh Samui leave at regular intervals all day and night (stopping at around 1am) and many revelers just make a night of it, crash on the beach and come back to Samui in the morning.

At other times, when not filled with wild-eyed revelers, the small area of Haad Rin is all New Age crystal, trinket and T-shirt shops, vegetarian restaurants, bars playing DVD films, masseurs, cheap beers and magic-mushroom cake vendors, just a Frisbee throw away from a white-sand beach.

Where to Stay

Haad Rin -- Haad Rin is a narrow peninsula on the island's southeast tip, with a large number of bungalows on both the west and east sides and busy shopping streets and footpaths leading between them. There are lots of small bungalow resorts, most recommedable Sea Garden Resort and Spa. For a little bit more of service, try Vimarn Samut Resort or Drop In Club Resort and Spa.

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