Koh Phangan is undoubtably one of our favourite destinations, not only because we met each other on this island but also for its notorious party scene. Thus, it’d be silly not to suggest most travellers arriving are in search of the best party hostels on Koh Phangan. After all, most are only on the island for one reason, and that’s to party until the sun comes up!
Koh Phangan is one of the more famous Thai islands, located off the Central Gulf Coast of Southern Thailand forming part of the Chumphon Archipelago. The neighbouring islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao are well known for luxury hotels and scuba diving respectively. Koh Phangan is infamous for it’s Full Moon Party held on Haad Rin Beach every month, and it’s many other unofficial parties including: Jungle Party, Half Moon Party, Waterfall Party, and much more! Without a doubt it attracts backpackers and party revellers all over the world in search of the worlds most famous beach party.
Having spent a month on the island myself, and Yannick having worked at a hostel for 4 months back in 2014, I think it’s necessary to show you the best party hostels on the island, so you can make the most of your time there.
If you’re looking for the best party hostels on Koh Phangan, that will welcome you with open arms, make sure you never have an empty cup, meet like minded travellers and hold drinking games until it’s time to hit the scene, then these following hostels are for you.
The Best Party Hostels on Koh Phangan
Baan Tai Backpackers
This is one of our favourite party hostels on Koh Phangan, not just because Yannick worked here for 4 months, but because it is great value for money, the rooms are clean and the bathrooms bright and spacious. Before the big parties, they throw their own great pre-parties with drinking games, UV-lights and neon paint for all guests. The people working here are super relaxed and do a great job. Located in Baan Tai, which we think is the perfect area to stay due to the close proximity of Haad Rin Beach, the main town of Thong Sala but also not too far from the quieter areas on the island.
What we love: Amazing value for money. Great location. Everyone is so friendly. Crazy pre-parties. UV and Black Light. Clean and Spacious rooms (both private and dorms). Movie Room.
What could be improved: Be careful of the stairs after a night out, they’re steep!
Cats in Space Hostel
Do you love parties, hanging out with other backpackers, playing drinking games and having fun? Then the spaceship is for you! This awesome and unique party hostel on Koh Phangan is owned by one of Yannick’s friends, pretty awesome right?! It’s one of the newest party hostels on Koh Phangan, and has some of the highest review on Tripadvisor. When staying at this hostel, you’ll get free shots, free body paint during the pre-parties as well as some of the best music.
What we love: It’s a new hostel. Super clean and unique. Awesome atmosphere for those who love to party. Unlike any other hostel on the island.
What could be improved: There isn’t a pool (but a free one just around the corner).
Phanganist Hostel
Known for its relaxed and chilled vibe during the day and it’s immense and crazy party scene at night, the Phanganist hostel is linked to the infamous Drop in Bar (probably the most famous bar at the Full Moon Party), so it goes without saying, it’s a pretty rad party hostel! Located in the heart of Koh Phangan perfectly between the famous Full Moon Party Beach of Haad Rin and the chilled out vibes of the West Coast, everything is easily reached from Phanganist Hostel.
What we love: It has a pool. Recently renovated dorms with A/C, privacy etc. Chilled day vibe and party vibe at night. Not too large.
What could be improved: Isn’t located right by the beach.
Phangan Arena Hostel
Famous for it’s warm up and pool parties, Phangan Arena is located only 100 meters away from the beach, and only 5 minutes drive to the walking street market, and the night food market at the main pier in Thong Sala. As the name suggests, it’s very much focused on a fitness/sport hostel which is somewhat unique. Facilities include: large outdoor swimming pool, professional football pitch 7 a side, pool tables & game area, beach volley and beach soccer, soccer pitch 2vs2 & basketball, outdoor gym with both machines and free weights and much more. It’s safe to say this party hostel is not lacking in terms of facilities!
Things we love: It has many facilities for you to enjoy. Their pool parties are epic. Rooms for every budget.
What could be improved: It’s a large hostel (250 beds).
Dancing Elephant Hostel
Officially the first hostel to hit Haad Rin, the Dancing Elephant is located in the heart of the famous Full Moon Village, a bustling, multi-cultural party spot, it is surrounded by beautiful beaches and people. Only a 1 minute walk from the actual Full Moon Party, it puts you in the best location possible! During the Full Moon week, they are somewhat unique. Hosting their crazy ‘Street Party’, is what makes them a famous and popular party hostel. This includes hundreds of party people from all countries, dancing to live sets by international guest DJ’s.
What we love: It’s the first hostel in Haad Rin, that’s pretty cool! Their street party is one not to be missed.
What could be improved: The best are fairly hard. Limited power outlets.
Cover Image Photo: Roberto Trm
Where did you stay whilst on Koh Phangan? Which is your favourite party hostel on the island?
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My friend and I are hoping to visit Thailand soon and we’ve heard so much about the party scene there and can’t wait. Phangan Arena’s pool parties definitely have my attention although Dancing Elephant sounds like a great hostel to stay at too especially considering how close it is to the actual full moon party. Definitely sharing this with my friend and thank you for these wonderful recommendations!
Hey Jas,
Yes Thailand definitely has a crazy party scene! Pool parties are great, especially when it’s super hot and humid. Thanks for checking out our favourite hostels and hope you have a great time on the island 🙂
Happy Travels,
Emma
Aw, thanks for sharing, this brought back some memories. It’s got be five… six? years since I went to the Full Moon Party. Stayed in a cheap and chips hostel, but both friends I travelled with met their now-boyfriends there! Summer of love!
Hey Amy,
Yes the first time we went to the Fully Moon Party was three years ago! Time sure has flown by! That’s super crazy as myself and Yannick both met on the island! It must be a ‘love island’ for sure 😀
Happy Travels,
Emma
The names certainly make them sound fun!
Hey Michelle,
They certainly all are fun! Highly recommend any we have suggested if you want to party hard 😀
Happy Travels,
Emma
Last time I was on Phangan, I stayed in a bungalow – I might have to change that next time!
Hey Jane,
We’ve stayed in hostels and bungalows whilst on the island. We highly recommend stay in a hostel for the Full Moon as the atmosphere is amazing. However, during the quieter weeks, you can’t go wrong with the tranquility of a bungalow!
Happy Travels,
Emma
I myself am not a party animal but my kids love it. Good to know that I can suggest Koh Phangan for a great time in Thailand.
Hey Marcelle,
You sure can! Koh Phangan will definitely not disappoint for a great and memorable time!
Happy Travels,
Emma