It was only to be expected that as Samui itself became more mainstream, the backpacker set would look for newer places off the beaten track (read: cheap). As it turns out, they didn't have to look far. A short ferry ride north from Samui brings you to Koh Phangan.
Koh PhanganClick on a sight for more information.
Even smaller than Samui, most of Pangan is still in pristine condition and the best way to get around the island, from one beach to another, is by boat. This is not to say the island is completely unspoiled. On the night of each full moon, the main beach plays host to the "full moon party", a night of complete, drug and alcohol induced debauchery, if you believe the press.
Koh Phangan is only reachable by boat from Samui, Koh Tao or the mainland. The closest large city on the mainland is Surat Thani. Boats from Surat Thani usually stop at Samui as well. The trip can take from two to three hours.
The closest airport is on Samui. From the Samui airport, it's just a short ride to the pier where boats leave for Phangan. You can buy a combined car and boat transfer from the transportation counter in the airport.
Such is the development of Pangan over the years that there are now more than 75 resorts available for booking through the major on-line booking engines. There are even a few places claiming five-star status, as the island inevitably moves more up-scale.
