Koh Phayam has the kind of white-sand beaches and live coral reefs that southern Thailand used to have before the crowds arrived. The island has no cars — only motorcycles and bicycles on narrow tracks — and no mains electricity in most areas, just small resorts and simple bungalow accommodation.
The two main beaches are Ao Khao Kwai (Buffalo Bay) and Ao Yai (Long Beach). Even in high season from November to April, the beaches are uncrowded, and you can usually find a stretch entirely to yourself.