Koh Phangan is notorious for its Full Moon Parties. But away from all the partying, this Thai island is a veritable paradise. White sand beaches, turquoise seas, lush rainforests, it’s a gem of a place to explore.
However, because of its reputation as a party island, it can be tricky to find budget accommodation that isn’t totally geared towards drinking all day and night.
But don’t worry. We’ve looked into it and found some of the best places to stay in Koh Phangan. These are some of the best hostels in Koh Phangan – and none of them are going to break the bank.
So whether you really do just want to party, or if you want a more chilled, quiet time – even if you’re looking for something high-end – we’ve got you covered. So let’s see what the Koh Phangan hostel scene has to offer!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Phangan
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Koh Phangan – Phangtaganist Hostel
#2 Best Party Hostel in Koh Phangan – Slumber Party
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Koh Phangan – Cats in Space
#4 Best Hostel in Haad Rin, Koh Phangan – Lazy House Shenanigans
#5 Best Hostel in Baan Tai, Koh Phangan – Dancing Elephant Beach Club
#6 Best Hostel near Thongsala Pier, Koh Phangan – Jungle Vibes
#7 Best High-end Hostel in Koh Phangan – Na-Tub Hostel
#8 Best Budget Hostel in Koh Phangan – Smile Hostel Koh Phangan
#9 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Koh Phangan – Sarana Bungalows
#1 – Phangtaganist Hostel
Best Overall Hostel in Koh Phangan
- Cost – $
- Location – 140/16 Moo 1, Baan-Tai
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Phangtaganist Hostel…
Cool and cosy, this hostel has a whole lot to offer: combining cheap prices and urban interiors with more value for money points like free drinks and BBQs, it’s easily the overall best hostel in Koh Phangan.
There’s also a pool here, which is great for cooling off from the heat of the day – plus DJs play here at night.
Phangtaganist Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re the sort of person who’s all about the good vibes, then you may want to consider staying at this Koh Phangan backpackers hostel. There’s always a lot of activities going on, too – think yoga, dance parties, and island adventuring. There’s a local bar here as well.
Haven’t Booked for Thailand? Read up on our favorite hostels in Thailand (for any budget)!
#2 – Slumber Party
Best Party Hostel in Koh Phangan
- Cost – $
- Location – 112/39 moo 1
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Slumber Party…
Slumber Party is an infamous party hostel in Koh Phangan. And in fact, down to its size, its location, and a whole host of other things, it’s also the very best party hostel in Koh Phangan.
We like how just completely all about partying this hostel is; it’s no holds barred fun.
Slumber Party is perfect for…
Are you a party animal? Do you want to party quite literally every day? Then staying at this top hostel in Koh Phangan is going to be perfect for you.
The fun times never stop here, there’s free shots every night, there’s pub crawls, the beach is right next to it… Perfect for partying.
#3 – Cats in Space
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Koh Phangan
Why we like Cats in Space…
This recommended hostel in Koh Phangan is a fresh and fun place to stay. It’s a party hostel, but it’s still very sociable rather than being all about partying 24/7. The beds here are comfortable and the security is good, too.
The staff do well here to keep a nice vibe going in this Koh Phangan backpackers hostel. We also like the walls scrawled with, well, cats in space!
Cats in Space is perfect for…
If you’re backpacking by yourself and you’re looking for somewhere to meet people and make friends, this is the best hostel for solo travellers in Koh Phangan.
It’s also known as a warm-up spot for Full Moon Parties, so if you’re interested in finding a group of people to go experience this huge celebration, this cool Koh Phangan hostel is for you.
Not sure what to bring? Have a look at our (must read) packing list for Thailand.
#4 – Lazy House Shenanigans
Best Hostel in Haad Rin, Koh Phangan
- Cost – $$
- Location – 132/2 moo 6, Tumbon Baantai, Aumphur
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Lazy House Shenanigans…
Another of Koh Phangan’s party hostels, at this place it’s all drinking a lot and having a good time.
There are BBQs to be had here, as well as pool parties, but they even put on yoga sessions. We like the balance between fun times and chilling here. The island tours from here are good, too.
Lazy House Shenanigans is perfect for…
If you’re looking to be right near to the action when the epic Full Moon Parties on this Thai island kick off, then staying at the best hostel in Haad Rin is a great idea for you.
Perfect for stumbling home to after one of these huge beach parties, Lazy House Shenanigans might be basic but you’re here for fun – not luxury!
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#5 – Dancing Elephant Beach Club
Best Hostel in Baan Tai, Koh Phangan
- Cost – $$
- Location – 100/1 Moo1, Baan Tai Rd
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Dancing Elephant Beach Club…
They put on warm-up parties at this fun Koh Phangan backpackers hostel; they also put on DJ sets here, which is fun. Getting involved in the mayhem of drinking games here is not hard at all.
Plus it’s all on the beach, meaning volleyball, soaking up sunsets, and generally working through a hangover with a day in the sun.
Dancing Elephant Beach Club is perfect for…
If you’re the sort of person who wants to stay close to where the party’s at, but you don’t really feel like you have to stay somewhere basic in order to enjoy fun times, then this top hostel in Koh Phangan is for you.
Being the best hostel near Baan Tai, staying here also means having easy access to the increasingly popular Half Moon Parties, too.
#6 – Jungle Vibes
Best Hostel near Thongsala Pier, Koh Phangan
- Cost – $
- Location – 137/20 Moo 1 Nai Wok
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Jungle Vibes…
Jungle Vibes is just a ten-minute walk from Koh Phangan’s ferry terminal. This is great news: it means not having to deal with taxis or tuk-tuks on arrival, or departing, which makes for hassle-free transits.
It’s the best hostel near Thongsala Pier for the proximity, but also because of the chilled community atmosphere here.
Jungle Vibes is perfect for…
This top hostel in Koh Phangan is great for anybody who’s a fan of a convenient location. But it’s more than just a good setting. The owners here are very friendly, the atmosphere is calm, and there’s even the fun Phantip Market nearby.
Plenty of places to eat and drink on the doorstep – great if you like to explore the local food scene.
#7 – Na-Tub Hostel
Best High-end Hostel in Koh Phangan
- Cost – $$
- Location – 9/5 Moo 1, Thong Sala – Hard Rin Street, Bantai
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Na-Tub Hostel…
With its boutique interiors and design-led aesthetic, this Na-Tub has got to be one of the coolest hostels in Koh Phangan.
The Na-Tub is also very clean, very modern, and the beds are very comfortable. As a bonus, the free breakfast here is delicious and there’s even a pool to hang around.
Na-Tub Hostel is perfect for
Want to spend a bit more time chilling out in nice surroundings? Don’t really feel like having the Full Moon Party right on your doorstep? Then this best high-end hostel in Koh Phangan is going to suit you very nicely.
With its polished, modern surroundings, the private rooms here are particularly good; perfect for flashpackers.
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#8 – Smile Hostel Koh Phangan
Best Budget Hostel in Koh Phangan
- Cost – $$
- Location – 132/8 Moo 1, Thongsala-Baantai Road, Baantai
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Smile Hostel Koh Phangan…
This isn’t a full-blown Koh Phangan party hostel, but the locals who run this place can still direct guests to wherever the party happens to be.
The Smile Hostel is relatively quiet and is a clean place to stay. But there is a bar and it’s very close to the action on Baan Tai beach.
The Smile Hostel Koh Phangan is perfect for…
If you’re on a budget and you want to stay in the best budget hostel in Koh Phangan, then you’ll love it here.
It’s not all about the location, or the fact that it’s a bit quieter, but the owner here is lovely – he cares about his guests.
If you stay here your money goes a long way: the owner also helps to support the local community.
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#9 – Sarana Bungalows
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Koh Phangan
- Cost – $
- Location – 17/4 Moo 2, Baan Tai, Koh Phangan
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Sarana Bungalows…
This recommended hostel in Koh Phangan is all about beachside living. It’s a beautiful place characterised by its beach huts, which are a cut above what you might be thinking of. They’re modern, stylish, clean, secure, helping to make this the best hostel with a private room in Koh Phangan.
We love that there’s a (very nice) pool here, too.
Sarana Bungalows is perfect for…
If you’re visiting Koh Phangan as a couple, this cool Koh Phangan hostel is for you. It feels like a true beachside getaway here – the sort of place you can just kick back on the sand with a couple of cocktails, or catch some sun by the pool.
They have their own restaurant here, so you can try out some tasty Thai food, plus the beach is very clean and perfect for swimming. Lovely.
Pattaya is Big! Don’t be overwhelmed though, check out our no-stress guide to where to stay in Pattaya!
More Best Hostels in Koh Phangan
#10 – Shiralea Backpackers Resort
- Cost – $
- Location – 58/18 Moo 8, Haad Yao West
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Shiralea Backpackers Resort…
This top hostel in Koh Phangan is a resort for backpackers, meaning reasonable prices for an all round great place to stay. There’s a pool, a bar, a pool table and a restaurant that serves up tasty food.
We also like that the atmosphere at this Koh Phangan is chilled; it’s easy to meet a mix of different travellers here.
Shiralea Backpackers Resort is perfect for…
If you’re looking for somewhere you can meet people that isn’t all about partying, this place is a good option for you. It’s also located just three minutes away from Haad Yao Beach, so it’s great if being near the beach is a priority.
The rooms are spotlessly clean, too. And if you’re missing home comforts, the restaurant serves Western dishes, too.
#11 – Roadtrip Phangan
- Cost – $$
- Location – 130/37 Moo 6 Haad Rin, Baan Tai
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Roadtrip Phangan…
Just two minutes from Haad Rin beach, Roadtrip Phangan is a cool, modern place complete with funky interiors. The staff at this youth hostel in Koh Phangan are very welcoming and will take guests around on tours around the island.
The hostel lounge is also good for a beer or two. A great all round hostel.
Roadtrip Phangan is perfect for…
Since this place is clean – and with plenty of showers and bathrooms – it’s a good option if you like being near to where the party’s at without having to skimp out on good facilities and cleanliness.
There are also plenty of places to eat (and drink, of course) nearby. A good option for couples, we’d say.
#12 – Echo Beach Backpackers
- Cost – $$
- Location – 30 Moo 1, Ban Tai
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Echo Beach Backpackers…
As you might have been able to tell from the name, this recommended hostel in Koh Phangan is situated right on the beach – Baan Tai beach, to be exact.
Echo Beach is run by a team of people who will make sure you’ll have a good time. Think volleyball tournaments, body painting, free drinks, big buffets, bonfires, BBQs and general good times all round.
Echo Beach Backpackers is perfect for…
Backpackers who want a good time! Yes, this party hostel in Koh Phangan is all about lazing in a hammock, mingling with fellow travellers, and chilling out – before the fun times of the evening get underway, of course.
Music plays here all day for an energetic vibe. And if you want to experience more party places across the island, the staff will help you find them.
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#13 – Blessing Backpackers
- Cost – $
- Location – 53/11 Moo 1
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Blessing Backpackers…
A quiet, calm place to stay, this Koh Phangan backpackers hostel offers a clean and comfortable place to sleep. Helpful staff make this a welcoming place.
The Blessing is not a wild party hostel, but we like that this place still features an atmosphere that’s conducive to having a good time – the sort of place for warm-up drinks before heading out for more fun.
Blessing Backpackers is perfect for…
If you’re an easygoing backpacker, you’ll love the easygoing vibe at this place. Situated in Thongsala, it’s perfect for those who are itching to get out and explore the island on a scooter; it makes for a good base.
Like outdoor activities? Check out this Thailand Diving guide.
#14 – Saparote
- Cost – $$
- Location – 108 Moo 4, Bantai Road
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Saparote…
Staying at Saparote is like staying in one big villa. There’s a big outdoor pool here, a tennis court, and massage services to name a few.
It’s sort of Koh Phangan backpackers hostel that feels more like a hotel: it’s perfect for sipping a few cocktails on a sea view backdrop.
Saparote is perfect for…
Couples. The high standards here, combined with the fact that it feels almost like a resort, make it the perfect place for a getaway feeling.
Saparote is also close to restaurants and shops, so if you like getting out and exploring a local area, this is a good option for you as well.
#15 – Good Time Beach Packers
- Cost – $$
- Location – 101/2 Moo 1 Baan Tai
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Good Time Beach Packers…
Situated just moments away from Baan Tai beach, this top hostel in Koh Phangan is housed in a repurposed resort. Once for tourists, this place is now for party-goers and has budget prices to match.
There’s a huge outdoor pool surrounded by shady trees, which we can’t help but love. Dorms here have ensuite bathrooms, too.
Good Time Beach Packers is perfect for…
This is definitely the place for backpackers looking for a budget hostel in Koh Phangan that feels like a huge party resort.
Fun is the order of the day at this place: there’s a party bar right on its private beach, there are movie showings right on the sand, and the restaurant serves up tasty food. It’s like a self-contained village for backpackers.
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Koh Phangan?
Many dormitory rooms in Koh Phangan are $10 or under, making it a great place for budget travelers! If you want a private room, you'll need to spend between $15 to $40 at most places.
What are Hostels in Koh Phangan Like?
Expect island energy and crazy Full Moon parties every month! Most hostels are close to the beach, making it easy to maximize your time on the sand. There are lots of great places to party, but you can also find spots for some peace, relaxation, and quiet!
How Safe are Hostels in Koh Phangan?
Typically fairly safe, though some petty crime does occur. Hostels usually have good security features, and you can ask if there are other precautions you should take.
How to Find Hostels in Koh Phangan?
Start your search using HostelWorld or other online platforms. You can compare prices as well as read reviews from other travelers to pick the right spot for you to stay!
Best Overall Hostel in Koh Phangan
Phangtaganist Hostel
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Best Party Hostel in Koh Phangan
Slumber Party
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Koh Phangan
Cats in Space
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Best Hostel in Haad Rin, Koh Phangan
Lazy House Shenanigans
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Best Hostel in Baan Tai, Koh Phangan
Dancing Elephant Beach Club
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Best Hostel near Thongsala Pier, Koh Phangan
Jungle Vibes
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Best High-end Hostel in Koh Phangan
Na-Tub Hostel
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Best Budget Hostel in Koh Phangan
The Smile Hostel Koh Phangan
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in Koh Phangan
Sarana Bungalows
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Closing Thoughts on the Best Bargain Hostels in Koh Phangan
So there you have it: the best hostels in Koh Phangan. We hope you’ll be able to find somewhere that suits you on this beautiful Thai island.
Take it from us, there’s so much to explore here. If you want to discover all the different beaches on offer the best way is to rent a scooter and head out to find them all; you can even hike to some secret beaches.
As for the top hostels in Koh Phangan, there’s a lot on offer. From cool, high-end offerings to places located very much where the party is at, you can choose to be somewhere primed for fun times or somewhere a little laidback. It’s up to you!
And if you can’t decide on a hostel just remember Phangtaganist Hostel – it’s the best overall hostel in Koh Phangan. Now get ready for an amazing time (and don’t drink too much!).
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