Places to eat in Koh Phayam

Most of the guesthouses on Koh Phayam have their own small eateries attached, so if you find a good one you might not even have to leave your resort! However, we do suggest heading out to explore the nightlife as Koh Phayam has a great relaxed vibe.

Seafood

The main beach areas of Ao Yai and Ao Khao Kwai have cafes and restaurants galore so there are plenty of dining options to choose from.

As you can imagine, seafood is always on the menu and is often the delicious, fresh catch of the day. Fisherman and My BBQ on Ao Khao Kwai are both lovely options with very different atmospheres. Fisherman is more chilled and quiet whereas My BBQ has loads of covers so can get quite busy during peak season. There are also live music nights on here so may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Thai Food

For traditional Thai fare, we suggest heading to the little Thai village near the island’s main pier. This is where you will be able to enjoy the most authentic Thai cuisine with spicy salads, scrumptious curries and sizzling noodles alike. Prices are cheap and if you see restaurants with numerous Thai diners you’ll know you are on to a winner!

You’ll also find a number of street food vendors in this area where you can purchase meals and snacks at all hours of the day. Why not head to one of the village’s restaurants for dinner and grab dessert from a vendor for your walk home?!

Vegetarian

Vegetarians are well catered for on Koh Phayam. Sabaidee, which is located close to the pier, has a good menu, offering both Thai dishes and baguettes which are a great lunch option. Furthermore, Cha-Chai Home provides customers with an extensive vegetarian menu including superfoods, gluten free and vegan options. It has a wonderful selection of juices, shakes and, of course, chais so is a good place to stop off for a drink on the way to Ao Yai or Ao Khao Kwai beaches.

Western and International Food

There are a few western-run restaurants and bars on the island which serve up everything from pub grub to Mexican! You are likely to find a mix of both Thai and western dishes on the menus here so are great options for large groups with a variety of tastes between you. Many are run by ex-pats and have a real community feel.

Bars

If you’re looking for some after-dinner entertainment, we suggest wandering along Ao Yai or Ao Khao Kwai until you find somewhere that takes your fancy.

Hippy Bar on Ao Khao Kwai is perhaps the most famous bar on the island thanks to its crazy driftwood structure that combines beach shacks with pirate ships! You’ll be able to enjoy a cocktail or two while you listen to the waves lapping the shore and the beats pumping out of the sound system.

Irie Islands on Ao Yai is perfect if you want to listen to, or get involved in some live music. They regularly host open-mic and acoustic nights. Throughout the peak season there are parties hosted across the islands, often on alternate nights to draw the biggest crowds possible to each one. Look out for sign plastered around the island or ask at your guesthouse or resort for more information.

Hippy Bar has amazing monthly parties during high season that are not to be missed. Listen out for the reggae music and you’ll be sure to find your way there!