You would have heard a lot about the infamous Full Moon Party in Thailand. You definitely should not miss this massive party during your trip, especially if you are a bachelor or a bachelorette. Who would want to miss a full-moon night of fun where thousands of people from across the world come and partake in the festivities and dance all night long?
The Full Moon Party explodes into one of the most fabulous parties in the world because of the full night long fun and frolick. Once a month, a hallucinogenic circus of neon lights, deadly buckets, thumping bass sets the atmosphere on fire, in Haad Rin, Koh Phangan, Thailand.
What’s not to love? If you’re heading to the Full Moon Party in Thailand, here’s a guide on what it is and what to expect?
Koh Phangan Island is located in Surat Thani province in Thailand where this gorgeous party happens every month on full moon day. The stunning island with soft white sand and clear blue sea makes it a famous destination for partygoers.
A huge party in the middle of paradise is worth exploration. Let’s know about it in more detail.
What is the Full Moon Party?
The full moon party is a beach party in Haad Rin that occurs every month. Thousands of young and energetic partygoers throng this place to enjoy at this picturesque and tranquil island paradise. It always gives a massive party atmosphere and laid-back backpacker vibes.
From 1984 to 1988 a group of backpackers threw a birthday party for their friend on the night of the full moon. Those guys had a good time that they came back again in the following month. It got spread by word of mouth and more people started coming each month. Today, 30 years later, the Full Moon Party is considered as Thailand’s largest beach party.
It has become a famous party and is known to every Southeast Asian traveler. Depending on the season and month, almost 30,000 to 40,000 people from all over the world come to the Haad Rin Nok Beach. The professional music systems and DJs will be spread across the large resorts on Haad Rin Beach. You can enjoy electronic music: techno, house, trance, psytrance, etc. at this party. You’ll also find other genres like drum and bass, pop, hip-hop, etc.
Now the Full Moon Party is a giant festival-like party. You’ll hear different loud music blasting on to the beach at every foot. Fire dancers put dance shows and little booths sell glow-in-dark face paint.
Getting There:
The closest airport is Koh Samui Airport. It is not too far from Surat Thani and Chumphon. The only way to arrive is directly by boat. You can get many ferries to the mainland from Surat Thani. You can also cross from Ko Samui at Big Buddha Pier or Maenam Beach to reach the island. During the Full Moon, you can get several ferries every hour to go from Ko Samui to Haad Rin.
Usually, the prices of the ticket will be around 200/300 Baht.
Accommodations: An Essential Priority:
You need to book all your accommodation before a week of the Full Moon Party. Book in advance to get a comfortable stay. If you want to stay out all night, keep your luggage in a safe place.
Full Moon Parties Date in 2020:
- Tuesday, December 31, 2019 (New Year’s Party)
- Monday, January 9, 2020
- Sunday, February 9, 2020
- Sunday, March 8, 2020
- Tuesday, April 7, 2020
- Thursday, May 7, 2020
- Friday, June 5, 2020
- Tuesday, July 7, 2020
- Tuesday, August 4, 2020
- Wednesday, September 2, 2020
- Saturday, October 3, 2020
- Saturday, October 31, 2020
- Monday, November 30, 2020
- Friday, December 25, 2020 (Christmas Party)
- Tuesday, December 28, 2020
- Thursday, December 31, 2020 (New Year’s Party)
Note:
The party mostly takes place every month on the full moon day. But the dates may vary by one or two days, depending on the Buddhist holidays or some national emergency.
How can you save money at Full Moon Parties? (Money-Saving Tips)
If you are at Koh Phangan, it is easy to reach the party place. On the main road from Thong Sala, you’ll get taxis to Haad Rin. The cab would cost up to 100 baht for one way, which is non-negotiable.
If you are an independent traveler, unless you are not drinking alcohol then take a scooter to reach the party place. Sometimes you may find it difficult as most places are closed and you may face difficulty to find a parking space. Thus, it is highly recommended to go by taxi. The Songthaews (Taxis) cover almost every part of the island but with a higher price if its outside the main areas.
Safety Instructions during the Full Moon Party:
- Wear solid shoes or flip flops as there can be broken glasses or sharp objects in the sand.
- Pickpockets are very common in crowded places. Thus, hide your important documents (Credit Card, Camera, Mobile, and Passport) or better leave them at the hotel.
- You’ll find people offering drugs to you often. Don’t be influenced. This can lead your trip ending in jail.
- Don’t drive your own scooter to the party. Don’t drive if you are under the influence of alcohol.
- Make sure to drink enough water to keep your body hydrated.
- Refrain from engaging in any heated altercations; either with the locals or other tourists.
- Don’t participate in any dangerous stunts; unless you are trained at it.
Outfits to Wear:
Full Moon Party attire is completely different. Everyone puts in effort and almost transforms themselves to match the mood. From neon printed attires to funny costumes, you can see all kinds of clothing there. Some people even get fancy mustaches and beautifully painted vines on the body during the party. Go Dress-Up and Live your life to the fullest!
You need not pack any special things for the party. You’ll get all kinds of party items from the street vendors at a reasonable for of about 300-400 THB.
Pick the Package:
You will get hotels/resorts easily. You don’t have to struggle finding rooms with good A/C, Geyser, TV, minibar, swimming pool, and restaurants with good food. Koh Phangan is always crowded during the Full Moon period, especially during peak seasons like Christmas and New Year.
If you want to take a chance and look for good rooms after you arrive, customize your package and prepare an itinerary to avoid paying high prices.
Just land in Thailand and everything else will be taken care of by Dimaak Tours starting from the pickup and transfer to Koh Phangan, the hotel and airport transfer including the speed boats transport to/from Koh Samui, which are usually overcrowded.
Final Thoughts:
Bangkok is the name that comes up when the word “Party” arises in Thailand. However, that’s not the only happening place in the land of smiles. An all-night party with all kinds of activities, food, games and many more which is not only famous in the country but all over the world.
Wish to be a part of this Magnum Party? Just get in touch with us and we guarantee you the best of times which u can never forget.
Have a Blast!