The Full Moon Party in thailand It's an event that almost every traveler to Southeast Asia has heard of. The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan It is well known beyond the borders of Thailand.
The party has earned an infamous and dubious reputation. That's right. It's one of the most hectic and out of control parties on the planet.
Get ready for a chaotic, fun and wild night.
In this post, we will cover everything you need to know about the Full Moon Party. We'll talk about when the full moon party is, how much it costs, where to stay, when to go, what to expect, things to do, that NO to do and safety. And much more.
💡 FULL MOON PARTY in Koh Phangan (or Full Moon Party) – THE COMPLETE GUIDE
Where is the Full Moon Party?
The Full Moon Party is held every month on the island of Koh Phangan, in the Koh Samui archipelago.
Other islands in the archipelago include Koh Tao, the diving island, and Koh Samui, the honeymoon island, full of resorts.
Thailand's full moon party beach is located in the southeastern part of the island, on Haad Rin beach. (The long stretch of beach is also known as haad rin.)
Koh Phangan's Full Moon Party Is Wild, But There's More Too parties in Koh Phangan to discover.
✅ When is the Full Moon Party in Thailand?
As its name suggests, the festival is held monthly every night of the full moon.
Trying to plan ahead and know when the next Full Moon Party is? While in 2022 there were only 12, In 2024 there will be 13 Full Moon Parties, more New Year's Eve. Get ready for a great party year. Full Moon Party dates have been announced for 2024, but be warned, there can always be changes to the initial dates.
Full Moon Party 2024 Schedule
- January 26 (Friday)
- February 24 (Saturday)
- March 25 (Monday)
- April 24 (Wednesday)
- May 23 (Thursday)
- June 22 (Saturday)
- July 21 (Sunday)
- August 20 (Tuesday)
- September 18 (Wednesday)
- October 17 (Thursday)
- November 16 (Saturday)
- December 15 (Sunday)
- December 31 (Tuesday)
📝 What is the Full Moon Party in Thailand
The Full Moon Party is a huge all-night beach party held monthly on Koh Phangan, an island off the coast of the Gulf of Thailand..
The original Full Moon Party is said to have started as a small celebration by a hippie community (tourists) on the island's Haad Rin beach in the late 1980s.
Since then, the Koh Phangan party has gained a lot of fame and popularity all over the world, especially after the release of the film starring DiCaprio, The Beach.
Nowadays, the Full Moon Party attracts up to 30,000 partygoers ready to enjoy a great party in Thailand.
The beach has a carnival atmosphere. There are colored lights, huge slides and other attractions.
Along the beach are limbo sticks and jump ropes engulfed in flames, where inebriated backpackers test their balance and skill at the risk of getting burned.
And body paint. Everyone is covered in neon paint, drinking out of buckets.
What is a bucket?
It's a small bucket, like the buckets you used as a child when you played in the sand at the beach. It is the adult version and usually consists of Thai whiskey (sang som) and Thai red bull. Although of course you can put rum, gin, vodka, etc. Whatever you want!
They're strong! And they get you where you want to go quickly. So go at your own pace or you'll pass out on the beach before the party even starts.
The full moon party quickly gets out of hand. After all, most people are backpackers in Thailand. And backpackers know how to get out of control. But it's an unforgettable night (unless you drink too many cubes, in which case you won't remember anything).
Prepare the Full Moon Party
- Arrive in Koh Phangan at least 1 night before the party and stay an extra night to avoid traveling on the day of the Full Moon Party (also helps to find cheaper accommodation)
- Stay a short distance from Haad Rin beach (the beach of the Full Moon Party), but far enough to sleep.
- Have a good dinner before going to the Full Moon Party and drink enough water throughout the night (ratio of 1 shared bucket – 1 bottle of water)
- Wear closed shoes to avoid glass bottles and broken needles
- Bring a fanny pack so you have all your essentials close by (and leave most of your valuables at the hotel)
- Have a copy of the passport in case of emergency
How to get to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party
A popular backpacking route begins in Bangkok. From there, take the night bus and ferry to Koh Tao. There is another bus that leaves earlier, but the night bus one night of accommodation.
Bus times in Thailand are guidelines rather than exact times. So when they say that the bus and ferry trip takes a total of 9-10 hours. Hope it takes longer (This trip costs between 20 and 40 dollars)
From the port of Koh Tao (Mae Haad Pier) you can take the ferry to Koh Phangan port (Thong Sala Pier).
Many travelers head to Koh Tao a couple of weeks before the full moon party. Here they immerse themselves in the culture of diving and the beach bars of the island.
Is it possible to catch a bus/ferry from Bangkok to Ko Phanagan.
FLIGHT AND FERRY FROM KOH SAMUI
Another option is to fly to Koh Samui. And from here take the ferry. This is the fastest option. But it is also the most expensive. Bangkok Airways operates almost all flights in and out of Koh Samui.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE FERRY FROM KOH TAO TO KOH PHANGAN
Hour: The ferry takes between 1 and 2 hours
cost: Expect to pay between $15 and $27 (450 – 820 THB)
TRAVEL INFORMATION FROM KOH SAMUI TO KOH PHANGAN
How to find a flight to Koh Samui : The best flight resources for flying to Koh Samui are Skyscanner and Kayak.
Airport: Samui International Airport (USM).
Cost: Flight prices are constantly changing. I have flown to Koh Samui for as cheap as $70 but I have seen flights that cost more than 300 dollars.
I would think about spending $120 On a flight
Where to stay on Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party
The accommodation fills up quickly, so it is It is essential to book in advance.
Also, expect to pay more than average; prices skyrocket during Full Moon Party week.
In this post you will find the best options to stay in Koh Phangan and the best hostels and hotels near the Full Moon Party in Haad Rin.
Haad Rin has many accommodation options such as hostels, Airbnbs, and hotels.
There is no shortage of tuk-tuks and taxis, making it easy to get to and from the parties.
If you don't have the confidence to go back to your hostel or hotel on the other side of the island after partying all night, staying in Haad Rin is the most comfortable and safe option.
If you decide that you are going at the last moment and you cannot find a place to stay, then go to a hostel.
Many of the hostels will allow you to pay to store your gear overnight. And then you can party all night.
Of course, if you don't want to stay on the wild island, and you prefer to go full moon party from koh samui to koh phangan is there a fast ship option
Outfit, how to dress for the Full Moon Party
Thailand is quite conservative with dress, but this doesn't apply too much to resort islands like Koh Phangan, which cater to backpackers and budget travelers.
And the full moon party takes place on a beach, so you'll see a fair amount of bikinis, tank tops, and swimsuits.
Of course, it's not a full moon party without body paint! You don't need to buy it in advance. Throughout the party there are places that sell paint so you can deck yourself out in traditional neon colors.
FULL MOON PARTY IN THAILAND
Note: There are no pre-sale tickets for the full moon party. However, there is an entrance fee of 100 baht.
When you enter the beach, you will be entering the biggest beach party in the world. There are the ticket offices where they will give you an entry bracelet.
I have been to full moon parties with as few as 10,000 and as many as 30,000 people. The party officially starts at 8pm, but gets going around 10pm.
Acts and attractions change over time. But there are always jump ropes and flaming limbo sticks for the adventurous travelers.
Pro tip: Drinks are served in plastic and not glass. But if you plan to do the jump rope with fire, it is better to wear shoes than sandals. People burn their legs and feet participating in the fiery fun.
Along the beach there are bars that play music of all kinds, such as drum and bass, techno and reggae.
For those who want to stay on the beach instead of venturing to the bars, don't worry, there are bucket stands for quick cocktails on the go. (Beware of fake alcohol).
The beach is not the only place where the party breaks out.
There are other clubs and bars nearby that people go to throughout the night. Eden, Backyard Club, and Cactus Bar are some of the favorites.
In general, the full moon party in Thailand is full of drunkenness, uncontrolled behavior (it is not uncommon to see people having sex on the beach) and total chaos in The Full Moon Party in Thailand it is a breeding ground of fun and madness.
The party breaks out from dusk until well after dawn. It's something you have to see to believe and even though it's a blast, it's important to stay safe.
▶️ 8 TIPS TO SURVIVE THE FULL MOON PARTY IN THAILAND
DON'T DRINK TOO MANY BUCKETS (giant vats with alcohol of dubious quality)
Cubes are the most popular drink at the full moon party. And drinking too many can be dangerous. To refresh yourself, the middle bucket contains a small bottle of Samsong (Thai whiskey) and two Thai RedBulls. Thai Red Bulls are incredibly strong.
A cube will make you hyper. Two buckets will have you stumbling down the beach like a drunk Olympic runner. Three cubes and you'll have so much energy that you'll be convinced that times have slowed down (yet you're so drunk you won't remember). 4 buckets and you'll be passed out on the beach.
It's not exactly a healthy drink and it's terrible for the heart. And for the hangover (believe me).
I would limit it to just one or 2 at the most; then he would move on to a less deadly combination.
DRINK WATER
Hydrating while getting drunk is important anywhere. It's already said. But Thailand is a very hot and humid country.
So at the full moon party, you're sweating out all the good while taking in all the bad. Be sure to balance your intake of water and alcohol.
DON'T BUY DRUGS
Thailand has very strict drug laws.. And the local police have mastered a system during the Full Moon Party. You will be approached by random strangers - all over Koh Phangan - and try to sell you drugs. You just have to shake your head and walk away immediately.
never buy them.
There are many undercover cops posing as dealers or keeping an eye on known drug dealers. Once you finish the sale, you will be stopped. This will result in jail time or an expensive "penalty fee" It costs between $200 and $1,000.
NO NEED TO MAKE A BOTTLE OR PRIOR
Thailand is cheap, so the bottle or prior to partying is not necessary. But I understand that some people want to arrive at the party with a vengeance. Remember that the party lasts from sundown until well after sunrise, so go at your own pace.
DO NOT GO INTO THE SEA
I tell you this for a couple of reasons.
First of all, the ocean acts as a bath during the party.
Second, drinking and deep water are not compatible. People have drowned in the past. Don't take unnecessary risks.
HAVE AN ESCAPE PLAN
Write down the name and address of your hotel or hostel. This will make your life easier when you try to get back by tuk-tuk or taxi, especially if you are staying on the other side of the island.
Ask your hotel or hostel for a business card. If they don't have it, have them write it down on a blank card, in both English and Thai.
RESPECT FOR ALL
It goes without saying, but you'd be surprised how many people lack this simple skill. Those unfamiliar with Thai culture may not realize that, as a people, Thais consider showing respect to others to be very important (as in all cultures); a very small gesture, for example, or a misplaced word to the wrong person (perhaps even in jest) can put you in a bad situation.
You are in a place with people from all over the world and diverse cultures.
Remember that you are not in your country, speak to the locals respectfully and remember your "please" and "thank you" (preferably in Thai for extra points). Little details can mean a lot.
WALK
The party begins to heat up as soon as the sun begins to set and continues long after the sun rises. Dare yourself! Enjoy the party and have a great time.
This review full moon party opinion it's two thumbs up. However, if you don't like wild nightlife, the full moon party in Thailand might not be for you. Although the experience can be incredible, it is not for everyone.
Cost of the Full Moon Party in Thailand
Admission price to the Full Moon Party:
The ticket price for the full moon party is 200 TBH (about 5 USD). It is bought when entering the beach.
How much are the buckets (giant drinks)?
Drinks are cheap in Thailand. But the drinks at the Full Moon Party cost a little more than usual.
wait for pay between 200 and 350 TBH per bucket. ($6 – $11 USD). This price depends on the type of drink and the size of the bucket.
But I tend to get wild on this kind of thing. And that's a lot for Thailand. You can do it for a lot less if you stick to your budget.
How much do hotels and hostels cost?
Hotel and hostel prices increase the week before the full moon party. You will end up paying much more than the normal price in Thailand if you stay in the center of Haad Rin.
But still not crazy price. Hostel dormitories cost between $15 and $20. Private rooms range from $40 to $100.
However, if you stay on the other side of the island, the prices are much more reasonable. I have stayed in a private beach bungalow for as little as $20 a night on the other side of the coast. The best places to find cheap accommodation are booking.com and hostelworld.
Total spend Koh Phangan Full Moon Party
Below are some examples of the costs of our Koh Phangan Full Moon Party (for two when explicitly mentioned). Exchange rates at the time of travel (January 2023).
Currency (TBH = Thai Baht) | tbh | |
Transfer khao sok to Koh Phangan (minivan + ferry) | 650 | |
Shared taxi from the pier to the hotel | 150 | |
AirAsia flights Surat Thani (URT) – Bangkok (DMK) | 2'216 | |
3 nights accommodation at Thai Dee Garden Resort (double room) | 2'610 | |
Great dinner for 2 before the party. | 600 | |
Full moon party outfit (2 t-shirts, flower crown) | 650 | |
Full Moon Party Painting | 40 | |
Tickets to the Full Moon Party (2) | 200 | |
alcohol bucket | 200-350 |
Other festivals on Koh Phangan
The full moon party has become a worldwide sensation, so much so that the locals keep throwing more and more "Moon" parties.
There are a lot of parties before the full moon party. Here you can find a detailed overview of all the parties on Koh Phangan.
Whenever you visit the island there will be a party.
History of the Full Moon Party Koh Phangan in Thailand
The first full moon party was a spontaneous event in the early 1980s. It was started by a small group of 20 to 30 travelers who gathered on Koh Phangan because they thought the island was the best place to see the full moon on Thailand.
Koh Phangan was a sleepy little island that few traveled to, even electricity was new to the island. The party gained steam in the early '90s thanks to word of mouth. And after appearing in some guides, its popularity increased.
With the rise of social media and blogs, it has become the biggest beach party in the world. The party continues to draw crowds of up to 30,000 people.
The future of the party remains uncertain as not all the locals like to party. And the government has expressed its distaste for the party.
Summary of everything you need to know about the Full Moon Party in Thailand
The Full Moon Party in Thailand is not just an event; It is an unforgettable experience. Held on the island of Koh Phangan, this festival has gained worldwide fame, attracting thousands of travelers each year. Its roots date back to a small beach party in the 1980s, and since then, it has grown to become one of the largest and most famous parties in the world.
Preparations for the Full Moon Party 2024
Before diving into the festivities, it is essential to prepare properly. Koh Phangan island fills up quickly, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance. Don't forget to pack essential items such as comfortable shoes. Safety should always be a priority, so stick with friends and avoid excesses.
The Vibrant Atmosphere of the Full Moon Party 2024
As the moon shines brightly over Koh Phangan, the atmosphere becomes electric. Different stages offer a variety of musical genres, from trance to reggae. Participants often paint their bodies with fluorescent designs, and fire shows are a highlight of the night.
Food and Drinks at the Full Moon Party 2024
Thai food is known for its flavor and diversity. At the Full Moon Party, you can enjoy delicious local dishes, from pad Thai to curry. Buckets, buckets filled with cocktails, are popular with attendees and provide the energy needed to dance the night away.
Activities and Games at the Full Moon Party 2024
Beyond dancing, there are many other activities to enjoy. From international DJ's on large stages to quieter areas where you can relax and enjoy the view of the sea, there is something for everyone.
Tips for Beginners at the Full Moon Party 2024
If it's your first time at the Full Moon Party, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Although the party is known for its wild atmosphere, it is essential to take care of yourself and be aware of your limits. Stay hydrated, take care of your belongings and, above all, have fun!
Etiquette at the Full Moon Party 2024
Although the party is a celebration, it is crucial to respect the environment and the premises. Avoid leaving trash on the beach and respect the rules established by the organizers.
Environmental Impact of the Full Moon Party 2024
With thousands of attendees, the Full Moon Party has a significant impact on the environment. It is essential to be aware and try to minimize our ecological footprint. Participate in beach cleanups and avoid the use of single-use plastics.
FAQ and frequently asked questions about the Full Moon Party
What to expect from the Full Moon Party?
the day of the party, people from neighboring Ko Samui and Ko Tao and other parts of the island are seen joining the crowd .
You will see that people start drinking in the afternoon, and most start going to the beach around 9:00 p.m. The crowd usually peaks around midnight to 2am.
How much does the Full Moon Party cost?
The fee to enter the Full Moon Party is 200 baht. You pay this when you enter the Haad Rin beach area and they give you a very cool bracelet. The money goes towards beach maintenance and cleaning!
What kind of music do they play at the Full Moon Party?
The main music played at Full Moon Party is EDM, but there are plenty of venues and bars playing everything from R&B, Hip Hop, Pop, House, Techno, Drum n Bass and anything else you want to listen to.
What should I bring to the party?
Only carry money with you. Try not to carry your phone, passport, valuables or anything expensive or you would be sad to lose it. Get a card or something with the address of your hostel or hotel in case you forget or get too drunk for the taxi driver to know where to take you home. The most important thing is to bring good vibes!
What is the origin of the Full Moon Party?
The Full Moon Party began as a small celebration in the 1980s and has grown to become a world-famous event.
Is it safe to attend the Full Moon Party?
Yes, but it is always essential to take precautions, such as staying with friends and avoiding excesses.
hello when is the party? April 5th or April 7th?
Hello Camila,
It is April 5, 2023.
Greetings
What a crazy party! I would love to go to the Full Moon Party in Thailand. Will someone sign up?
The Full Moon Party 2023 Guide is incredible! I already want to go to Thailand and enjoy that epic night. 💃🌕🎉
I don't understand what's so exciting about a party full of drunk and uncontrolled tourists. I prefer to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Thailand without all that chaos. To each their tastes, I guess. 🤷♀️
Wow, what an epic party! I would love to know if there is live music at the Full Moon Party. 🎵🌕
Yes, there is live music at the Full Moon Party. But maybe you should worry less about the music and more about how to survive that wild party. Be careful with excesses! 🌕🎵
How exciting! I'm already prepared for the most epic party of 2023. Who's in? 🌕🎉
Wow! I would love to go to the Full Moon Party in Thailand, it must be an amazing experience!