A must for party animals: Thailand’s “Full Moon Party” – a two-kilometer beach EDM rave that lasts all night

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Thailand

If you’re a party animal, visiting Koh Samui in Thailand is not to be missed – the “Full Moon Party” (one of the world’s top three beach EDM parties). As the name implies, it’s held only during the full moon each month. The venue is on Koh Phangan, and it takes about a 30–40 minute speedboat ride from Koh Samui. The crazy party is just kicking off under the radiant moonlight.

▲ Planning your trip to Koh Samui? Time your visit to coincide with a pilgrimage to the Full Moon Party.

▲ It takes a 30 to 40-minute boat ride to reach the Full Moon Party venue.

Haad Rin Bay is located on the resort island of Koh Phangan. With its azure waters and soft white sands under the sun, the scenery is breathtaking. But when the moon is full, this beautiful beach transforms into a massive open-air nightclub. EDM music, alcohol, bikinis, and the sound of crashing waves create a natural dance floor stretching across two kilometers of sand. Each month, it attracts at least 7,000 to 10,000 visitors, with backpackers from around the world gathering here to celebrate this full moon carnival together.

▲ There are many body glow paint stalls on-site.

Those who’ve ridden a Thai tuk-tuk will never forget the experience – and the speedboats to the Full Moon Party are just as unforgettable. The thrilling rush of speeding across the water gives you a taste of the madness even before the party begins. Upon arrival on the island, you’ll need to pay a 100 THB entry fee for cleaning. You’ll also receive a wristband engraved with the Full Moon Party logo, which you’ll need to get in and out. Large photography equipment is not allowed inside the venue. As night falls, crowds from all over the world will flood the beach. Try not to bring valuables. Once you’re there, just drink, dance, and go wild.

▲ The Full Moon Party in February 2017.

▲ Many visitors choose to buy their own paint and create custom designs.

▲ Bucket cocktails range in price from 250 to 400 THB.

The Full Moon Party venue is packed with food stalls and drink stands. Visitors dress in “Full Moon Party” themed clothing and cover themselves in fluorescent paint, turning the event into a colorful carnival. Drinks are served by the bucket, and the entire beach becomes an EDM dance floor. If you can hold your liquor, try drinking your way from the first bar to the last. The beach also features exciting side activities like fire hoop jumping and fire rope dancing that keep everyone entertained. As long as the full moon is shining, the party goes on.

▲ The crazy fire rope jumping has everyone going wild.

Full Moon Party Dates
2017: March 12, April 11, May 11, June 9, July 10, August 7, September 5, October 6, November 3, December 3
2018: January 1, January 31, March 2, March 31, April 29, May 30, June 27, July 29, August 26, September 24, October 25, November 22, December 22

* For more details, please contact Era Travel.