An easygoing vibe pervades the bougainvillea-draped lanes and sparsely developed beaches on this two-name island, which delights those coming from the bustle of nearby Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta.
A conical 1,385-foot mountain towers over Koh Pu, a name used only for the island’s northern terrain. Miles of khaki-sand beaches rim the south, known as Koh Jum and sprinkled with quality budget resorts like Woodland Lodge and Jungle Hill.
On Golden Pearl Beach, Koh Jum Beach Villas delivers a level of luxury not commonly found on alternative islands.
Some prefer remote Luboa Beach for the cheap huts and mellow vibe at bars like Peace Paradise, one of a few painted red, yellow and green.
Getting there: Local boats depart from Laem Kruat in Krabi. During the high season, ferries running between Krabi town and Koh Lanta stop at Jum/Pu.