Full Moon Party Thailand Guide

What is a Full Moon Party?

The Full Moon Party is a famous all-night beach party hosted every month on Haad Rin Beach in Koh Phangan, Thailand. What first started as a small gathering in 1985 is now a spectacle drawing up to 30,000 visitors. Known for its fire rope jumping, neon body paint, Thai bucket drinks and electronic music, the event has become a must-see for those travelling in Southeast Asia.

When is the Full Moon Party in Thailand?

The Full Moon Party takes place every month on the night of, before or after the full moon. However, if a Buddhist holiday coincides, the party is rescheduled to the nearest date. Here are all the dates for 2025:

Full Moon Party Thailand Dates

Please be aware that there are four religious holy days that fall right on full moon day. During these dates, alcohol is forbidden to be consumed in Thailand. Therefore, in keeping with Buddhist tradition, the full moon party committee postpone the party for the next day or one day in advance.

Where are the Full Moon Parties in Thailand?

The Full Moon Party is held at Haad Rin Beach, located on the southernmost tip of Koh Phangan. The beach is situated only a 20-minute drive from Thong Sala Pier, making it easily accessible for those arriving by ferry.

What time does the Full Moon Party start?

The Full Moon Party gets underway shortly after sunset. Most people arrive before 21:00 as this is when the fire show starts, in which you can brave the burning skipping rope. This happens outside the Drop In Bar and usually draws a large audience. If you are planning to party all through the night, the climax of the party is usually around 22:00. That’s when most people have arrived, and the festivities are in full swing.

Do you need tickets for the Full Moon Party?

Yes, you do require a ticket to attend the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan. Tickets cost 200 baht (approximately $6 USD) and can be bought on the night of the event at the main alleys leading to the beach. You typically can’t buy tickets in advance unless you are going as a part of a tour package.

When is the best time of year to go to a Full Moon Party?

Although the Full Moon Party is hosted all year round, the best time to go is definitely between January and April. This is because the weather in Thailand is perfect during this period, with guaranteed low rainfall and warm temperatures. However, the parties can be busier so make sure that you arrive early in the unlikely event of any delays.

How to get to Full Moon Party

As there is no airport in Koh Phangan, the only way of getting to the island is by ferry. Whether you are arriving from Surat Thani on the mainland or the neighbouring islands of Koh Samui or Koh Tao, you will have no trouble finding a ferry that suits your travel plans.

Koh Samui to Koh Phangan Ferry

You can take the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan via 3 different ports: Nathon Pier, Mae Nam Pier and Bangrak Pier. The most popular route is from Bangrak Pier to Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan. This ferry takes approximately 20 minutes and departs up to 7 times per day. These routes are available to book with Lomprayah High Speed Ferries, Seatran Discovery and Songserm.

Koh Tao to Koh Phangan Ferry

The ferry from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan takes around 50 minutes and departs up to 5 times per day. This ferry route is currently available with Lomprayah High Speed Ferries and Songserm. Ferries cost from $19 per passenger.

Surat Thani to Koh Phangan Ferry

You can get the ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan via 4 different ports: Surat Thani Airport, Surat Thani City, Surat Thani Train Station and Tapee Pier. The fastest ferry is from Surat Thani City to Koh Phangan with Lomprayah High Speed Ferries in 2 hours and 45 minutes. However, if you are staying near the airport, then that ferry might be more convenient.

Where to stay in Koh Phangan for Full Moon Party

If you are planning to attend a full moon party, we suggest that you arrive at least two or three days in advance, since most of the island hotels are fully booked during the party time. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay somewhere within walking distance of Haad Rin Beach, Cocohut Beach Resort is a convenient option. However, be prepared to pay higher prices for accommodation.

Koh Samui is also a great place to stay for the Full Moon Party as it’s only a short ferry away from Koh Phangan. You can dance through the night and then return on the first ferry the next morning. Accommodation will also be cheaper than staying in Koh Phangan itself.

Safety Tips for the Thailand Full Moon Party

• Drink responsibly.
• Avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
• Pace yourself.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Secure belongings.
• Use a money belt or waterproof pouch for essentials.
• Leave valuables at your accommodation.
• Broken glass and debris are common.

What to bring to the Full Moon Party

There are a few essentials you must bring to ensure that you have the best experience while attending the Full Moon Party.

• Waterproof phone pouch.
• Portable charger.
• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
• Comfortable clothes and footwear.
• Wear swimwear.
• Fanny pack.
• ID.
• A small amount of cash.

Half Moon Party and Black Moon Party

The Half Moon Party and Black Moon Party are smaller, more intimate alternatives to the famous Full Moon Party in Thailand. The Half Moon Party takes place in the jungle, creating a unique atmosphere with psychedelic decorations, UV lights, and electronic music like house, trance, and techno. It provides a more an immersive experience for partygoers. Whereas The Black Moon Party happens during the new moon, embracing a darker, more underground atmosphere. With its focus on deep trance and chill-out music, the Black Moon Party attracts those looking for a mystical, low-key celebration under a moonless sky, often surrounded by nature and glowing neon art.