Ko Phayam accommodation from AU$16

The first thing you'll notice on Koh Payam is the lack of cars. If you want to explore the area, renting a motorbike or a scooter is the best way to get around, or you can simply pick a beach and spend your time relaxing by the water. There are two perfect beaches on the island, which have long curving bays that are picturesque and serene. Ao Yai is the largest, where you'll find plenty of restaurants, shops, cafes and bars to enjoy a refreshing drink and soak in the views. If you love surfing, the beach here gets a decent swell and is a great place to enjoy the waves. For beginners there is a school that does both surfing and kite surfing training, or you can take a yoga class by the water and relax.

If you're looking for peace and quiet, Ao Kao Kwai - or Buffalo Bay - in the northeast is much more tranquil. Swim in calm waters or rent a kayak and explore the mangroves at the end of the beach. Head inland to follow one of the many hiking trails into the jungle. It's home to monkeys, wild animals and some spectacular birds, so keep an eye out for the hornbill and the sea eagle! If you're feeling creative, try a batik course where you can learn how to create patterns on cloth using dyes and wax. The batik technique is a traditional fabric dyeing skill that first originated in Java.

Scuba enthusiasts can do a diving tour from Koh Payam to the best locations in the Andaman Sea. Richelieu Rock is fantastic to see massive pelagic fish as well as whale sharks if you're lucky, and the Surin and Similan Islands are also close by. Black tip reef sharks are a common sight, and you'll also find a huge abundance of tropical fish and corals in this underwater wonderland.

Koh Payam is a tropical paradise that's perfect for your next holiday to Thailand. You deserve a break away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and this beautiful island couldn't be more of an escape. Grab a flight to Thailand and a great deal on Koh Payam accommodation, because all that's missing from this fantastic island destination is you!

Image credit prilfish under Creative Commons