"This tiny diving mecca in the south, where the Andaman Sea meets the Strait of Malacca, is made all the more special by the effort it takes to get there: a flight to Hat Yai, a drive to the city of Pak Bara, and from there, a 90-minute ferry. The island consists of three main beaches connected by a few idyllic streets containing restaurants, bars, and seafood joints; you can walk around the whole place in about 30 minutes. Don’t miss Elephant, a café serving dishes like khao soi, a northern coconut curry, as well as vegan options. For accommodation, my pick is Irene Resort, the island’s first luxury offering, with its jungle-facing villas with private pools." - Jeninne Lee-St. John