The 5 Best Hostels in Koh Phangan: 2024 Edition

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• Best Overall Hostel in Koh Phangan – The Wanderlust Hostel
• Best Hostel for in Koh Phangan Solo Travellers – Bodega Koh Pha Ngan Pool
• Best Cheap Hostel in Koh Phangan – Echo Beach Hostel
• Best Party Hostel in Koh Phangan – Phangan Arena
• Best Hostel for Digital Nomads In Koh Phangan – Tangerine Dream

Here it is – the crème de la crème of Koh Phangan’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the island ASAP.

1. The Wanderlust Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Koh Phangan

• Dorm (mixed): From $4
• Address: 140/16 Moo 1, Baan-Tai, Koh Phangan, Thailand

The Wanderlust Hostel is where the cool crowd gathers, making it the perfect spot to meet new mates for the Full Moon Party. It’s got that friendly, laid-back vibe, is super clean, and offers serious bang for your buck. Plus, it’s made even better by the cute hostel pets that roam around. In a hostel scene that can be hit or miss, The Wanderlust Hostel is an absolute gem.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

1. Great Common Areas
2. Social Vibe
3. Clean and Cosy Dorms

Whether you’re here to party during the Full Moon Party or just to kick it back, this hostel’s got you covered. There’s an on-site bar, a swimming pool, a small gym, comfy common areas, and free coffee and drinking water to keep you going. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, cosy beds, and individual power outlets. Plus, you’ll have your own locker and a key, so you can rest easy knowing your stuff is safe.

The staff and volunteers are absolute legends, always ready to lend a hand. The bar’s got a killer vibe, good tunes, and drinks that won’t break the bank. And the pool is the ultimate daytime hangout – social and fun without turning into a full-blown rager.

2. Bodega Koh Pha Ngan Pool – Best Hostel in Koh Phangan for Solo Travellers

• Dorm (mixed): From $19
• Private Room: From $78
• Address: 112/19 Moo.1 Koh Phangan Sub-District, Koh Phangan, Thailand

If you’re hitting up the Full Moon Party or Eden Party, Bodega is where the action’s at. They host a killer pregame party, with well-organized bundles that include food and a cab – no stress, just good times. Big shoutout to the reps, who keep the vibes high and make sure everyone’s in on the fun.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

1. Daily Events Held
2. Family BBQs
3. Friendly Reps and Staff

The common area is super chill and stylish – perfect for hanging out and grabbing a bite. The dorms are clean, and the bathrooms and showers are well-maintained. But the real star here is the staff – they’re friendly, helpful, and always ready to sort you out. Whether it’s organising transport to the pier, renting a bike, planning to get involved with the Full Moon parties, or pointing you to the island’s hidden gems, they’ve got you covered.

The family dinner BBQs are pure gold for solo travellers backpacking Thailand looking to connect. The vibe is social and welcoming, making it almost too easy to settle in and make new friends. And let’s not forget the minute walk that it takes to get to Thong Sala beach!

3. Echo Beach Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Koh Phangan

• Dorm (mixed): From $3
• Private Room: From $14
• Address: 30 Moo 1, Ban Tai, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Echo Beach Hostel is a beachfront paradise that feels like your own private slice of heaven, complete with beanbags for ultimate chill mode. It’s the kind of place where making new friends is a breeze, thanks to the great energy, good tunes, and super sweet staff.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Dorm Beds With Curtains
• Chill Vibes
• Air Conditioning

Don’t miss the daily happy hour from 6-8 pm – perfect for knocking back some Changs at a sweet discount. The dorms are simple but do the trick, with comfy beds, privacy curtains, and spacious lockers for your gear. Sure, they’re basic, but at the price you’re paying, it’s a steal. Plus, the on-site restaurant serves up some seriously tasty grub, so you’re never far from a good meal.

This place packs a punch when it comes to value. They’ve got everything sorted – from booking party tickets and taxis around the island to their own speedboat for quick hops to Koh Samui. Seriously, you get some serious bang for your buck at Echo Beach Hostel.

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4. Phangan Arena – Best Party Hostel in Koh Phangan

• Dorm (mixed): From $15
• Private Room: From $35
• Address: 111 Moo 1 Bantai, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Phangan Arena is a backpacker’s dream when it comes to value for money and a damn good party! If you’re looking to keep the good times rolling while you’re on the island, this place is smack bang in the best neighbourhood for where all the backpacker action is at. The vibe here is electric, with nightly beer pong tournaments that have become the stuff of legend – win and your drinks are on the house!

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Nightly Beer Pong Tournaments
• Super Social
• Air Conditioning

They’ve got their own 7-a-side football pitch and an outdoor gym with machines and free weights to keep you in top form. And when you’re ready to cool off, there’s a massive swimming pool waiting for you. After all that action, you’ve definitely earned some downtime, and the hostel bar is just the spot to kick back.

With over 250 beds, this place is always buzzing, making it the ultimate spot to meet new friends and dive into this magical Thai island’s social scene.

5. Tangerine Dream – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads In Koh Phangan

• Dorm (mixed): From $21
• Private Room: From $67
• Address: 91/8 Moo. 1 Thong Sala, Koh Phangan, Thailand

On an island where party hostels can be hit or miss, Tangerine Dream is a breath of fresh air. This place is a haven for digital nomads who need a chill environment to knock out a few hours of work each day – it’s got just the right vibe.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Pool Table
• Chill Vibes
• Lovely Hosts

The facilities are spotless, and the beds are seriously comfy. The hosts are incredibly welcoming, making you feel right at home from the get-go. They don’t just offer a great place to crash; they also share insider tips for Thailand and recommendations for exploring the island, so you get the full local experience.

What really stands out here is just how clean and comfortable everything is. The common areas are perfect for getting some work done, with strong, reliable Wi-Fi that won’t let you down. Close to Thong Sala Beach, it’s the ideal spot for anyone looking to unwind, stay productive, and enjoy a laid-back vibe on the island. Highly recommended for those who want to chill without sacrificing comfort or connectivity.

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So, now that I’ve talked about the best, let’s talk about the rest! (Of the best). These are some more picks from the top hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring Koh Phangan.

6. So Good Haad Rin

• Dorm (mixed): From $14
• Address: 134/1 Moo 6, Baantai, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, Koh Phangan, Thailand

So Good Haad Rin is the ultimate spot, perched perfectly overlooking Haad Rin Beach. The setup is just right, with spacious pod-style dorms that give you plenty of room to breathe. The vibe here is super chill, which is exactly what you need after a wild night at the Full Moon Party. There’s nothing like recharging your social batteries while lounging on a bean bag, gazing out at the sea.

The pod-style beds are roomy, with handy storage right beside them. And if you’re lucky, you might snag a capsule bed with windows on each side, giving you epic views of the ocean. The staff at So Good Haad Rin are absolute legends – always helpful, always up for a chat, and ready to make your stay as smooth as possible.

7. Na-Tub Hostel

• Dorm (mixed): From $22
• Private Room: From $106
• Address: 9/5 Moo 1, Thong Sala – Hard Rin Street, Bantai, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Sleek and stylish, Na-Tub Hostel is one of the coolest Koh Phangan hostels. Built from shipping containers Na-Tub has a great selection of room types, including private rooms ideal for travelling couples. Na-Tub is set a little away from the main beach area which offers you an escape from the chaos and an opportunity to retreat!

Both the private and dorm rooms are spacious and bright and look out on the hostel garden, If you wanna party you totally can, as the Half Moon part is just 2km away and there are always tuk tuks flying past the hostel gate. Just flag ’em down!

8. WET! a Pool Party Hostel by Wild & Wandering

• Dorm (mixed): From $38
• Private Room: From $65
• Address: Haad Rin, Ban Tai, Ko Pha-ngan District, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Solo travelling in Thailand is a breeze, especially in Koh Phangan! There’s no shortage of solo wanderers here looking to find their next party buddy. Just a hop away from where the Full Moon Party beach is, and close to all the shops and restaurants, you’re in the heart of the action.

At this hostel, everyone’s treated like an old friend and instantly welcomed into the party. If you need a break from the festivities, chill out in the TV lounge or unwind in the jacuzzi. The dorms are clean and spacious – though you might not spend too much time there with all the socializing going on! The staff and reps are fantastic at making everyone feel at home and helping you dive right into the social scene.

9. Sarana Bungalows

• Dorm (mixed): From $11
• Private Room: From $31
• Address: 17/4 Moo 2, Koh Phangan, Suratthani, 84280 Baan Tai, Thailand

Sarana Bungalows is easily the coolest hostel in Koh Phangan, a hidden gem of beach huts nestled right in the jungle of Haad Baan Tai Beach. Whether you’re here to party or just need a spot to recharge, Sarana Bungalows hits the mark perfectly.

The Full Moon Party is just a quick 10-minute stroll down the beach, so you can go all out and still retreat back to your quiet oasis. And let’s not forget the real star of the show – Dave, the hostel dog, who steals everyone’s hearts the moment they arrive!

10. Relax Corner

• Dorm (mixed): From $16
• Address: 113 Moo.1, Thongsala-Baantai Road, Thong Sala/Bantai, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Located near Thong Sala Beach, Relax Corner is hands down one of the best party hostels in Koh Phangan, and that’s saying something in a place known for its epic party spots. It’s tough to pick a favourite, but Relax Corner nails the perfect blend of party vibes and chill feels – a winning combo if ever there was one.

With free body paint and epic drink deals every day, partying at Relax Corner is always next-level. If you check out my Full Moon Party guide, you can see these guys tick off so many boxes to doing pregame for the festivities right. They’ve even got hydration stations strategically placed around the hostel to keep the hangovers at bay, so the good times can keep rolling. As with most hostels on the island, all the dorms come with A/C – it’s a non-negotiable in the tropical heat!

11. Baan Kai Hostel

• Dorm (mixed): From $24
• Address: 3/9 moo 4 Ban Tai, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Baan Kai Hostel is the ultimate spot for backpackers looking to have a good time on Koh Phangan – because, let’s be real, who isn’t here for a good time? This hostel is cheap, cheerful, and has all the essentials covered.

You’ll have access to free Wi-Fi, security lockers, and a 24-hour reception if you need anything. While you’re welcome to use the kitchen, with a lineup of street food stalls right on your doorstep, why waste the energy? Dive into the local flavours instead!

12. Jungle Gym & Eco Lodge

• Dorm (mixed): From $14
• Private Room: From $26
• Address: 110/9 Moo 6, Haad Rin, T.Ban Tai,, Ko Phangan, Surat Thani, 84280 Haad Rin, Thailand

Flashpackers, this one’s for you! Jungle Gym and Eco Lodge is the coolest hostel in Koh Phangan if you’re looking for a luxury resort vibe without blowing your budget. Close to Haad Rin Beach, this super stylish spot comes loaded with more amenities than you want for a fab Koh Phangan getaway!

Your room rate gets you unlimited access to the lodge’s pool and fitness centre, cosy dorms with A/C and ensuite bathrooms, and stunning views of Haad Rin Beach. If the Full Moon Party isn’t your scene, you’ll love the laid-back vibes of Jungle Gym & Eco Lodge. It’s the perfect escape from the chaos while still soaking in all the island magic.

13. Dancing Elephant Beach Club

Just because you’re on a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time! With dirt-cheap rooms, a cool hostel vibe and a bar with crazy cheap drinks you’ll never want to check out. Dancing Elephant Beach Club is right on the beach, you can wake up each morning and have the sand between your toes before you’ve even checked your phone. This is the kind of place where you can share a few beers and have a good time but there’s no pressure to get blind drunk.

14. Treechart Hostel

Treechart Hostel draws in a laid-back, super-fun crowd all year long, right in the heart of Thong Sala. There’s always someone around to kick off the party, which is exactly why Treechart is one of the most recommended Koh Phangan hostels. No doubt, you’ll be making the most of that late check-out – perfect for sleeping off the hangover and squeezing every last minute out of your stay in those super comfy beds!

15. Smile Hostel

Smile Hostel is a top pick in Koh Phangan that truly lives up to its name – every stay here brings a smile to your face! With space for up to 45 guests each night, there’s always a good time to be had, new friends to meet, and adventures to plan. Sure, the dorms are basic, but let’s be real: no one’s here to spend much time sleeping! The beds are comfy, clean, and guaranteed for a good night’s kip if you do need it. The staff at Smile Hostel are absolute legends – they’ve seen it all and are ready to help with everything from booking bus tickets and flights to getting you into the Full Moon Party and beyond.

16. V2 Seagate Hip Hostel

Super cheap and super convenient, V2 Seagate is literally right on the beach – seriously, you couldn’t get closer if you tried. This laid-back hostel is perfect for travellers who value their sleep and are on a tight backpacker budget. It’s incredible value for money, with prices staying steady even during the Full Moon Party madness. But here’s the catch: it books up fast! So if you’re eyeing a spot, you’d better snag it ASAP. The private rooms are a steal and offer a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.

17. Culture Club Backpackers

You’ll love Culture Club Backpackers because it’s got a bit of everything! Your room rate hooks you up with free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a free airport transfer, killer drink deals at the hostel bar, and access to a swimming pool just a minute down the road. Smack bang in the heart of Haad Rin Beach, this is the spot to be if you’re hitting Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party. And don’t worry, if you crash before sunrise, the place is soundproof enough to guarantee you’ll still get a decent kip!

18. GoodFellas Hacienda

Fast becoming something of an institution in Koh Phangan, GoodFellas Hacienda ticks all the boxes. Just a 4-minute walk to the beach and with its own private pool, GoodFellas Hacienda is as much a resort as it is a Koh Phangan backpackers hostel. Less the resort price tag of course! You’ll find new friends everywhere you look at GoodFellas Hacienda. The nightly beer pong competition is a great way to mingle and make memories that will last a lifetime. The swim-up pool bar at GoodFellas Hacienda may be a total novelty but really rather convenient!

19. The Magic Wave

The Magic Wave is a luxury hostel in Koh Phangan perfect for the more esteemed party animal. Whether you spend your days lazing by the pool or maxing out on the epic drinks deals at La Vie est Belle it matters not, The Magic Wave delivers a memorable stay time after time. Managers Alice and Florian are great hosts and will go out of their way to ensure you have a great stay. As with most hostels on the island, The Magic Wave gets booked out months in advance during the Full Moon Party periods so snag it whilst you can!

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Koh Phangan

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Here are some questions backpackers ask about Koh Phangan hostels.

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product

Description

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Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

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Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

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Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

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Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

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Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

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Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!

How much does a hostel cost in Koh Phangan?

The average price of hostels in Koh Phangan can range from $9 – $13+ per night. Keep in mind that prices on the island fluctuate massively depending on whether it’s Full Moon Party season. Plan accordingly and book well in advance if you’re travelling during this period. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.

What are the best Koh Phangan hostels for couples?

Sarana Bungalows is the coolest hostel for couples in Koh Phangan. It’s a series of beach huts nestled within the jungle of Haad Baan Tai Beach. Of course, you can take your pick of whether you option for a dorm or splurge on a beachfront bungalow here!

What is the best hostel in Koh Phangan near the pier?

If you’re catching an early morning flight from Koh Samui or a ferry to the other islands and need to stay near the pier then I’d definitely recommend Tangerine Dream. It’s got cosy dorms and hotel-like amenities so you can get a good night’s kip in preparation for a day of travel!

By now I’m sure you’ve caught on that Koh Phangan is an absolute riot. And you don’t just have to have to go to the Full Moon Party to experience the magic of this island. It’s also in the epic beaches, buzzing bars, and chill yoga retreats that make this place a backpacker’s dream.

If you’re still undecided as to where to stay, I recommend The Wanderlust Hostel. Super social vibes, killer common areas, and a pool that’s perfect for those post-party cool-downs. It’s got the party spirit, but you’ll still catch some solid z’s.

Remember, the best spots fill up fast, especially during Full Moon Party season, so don’t sleep on booking your stay. Get it sorted now, and you can focus on the more important things – like perfecting your bucket-drinking technique and finding your way back to your hostel at 4 AM.

Until next time, may your hangovers be mild, your beaches be beautiful, and your hostel beds be super comfy. Happy travels – have a beer for me!

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