Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF FULL MOON FUN
No one knows exactly when or how these crazy parties started - many believe they began in 1987 or 1988 as
someone's 'going away party', but none of that is relevant now. Today, thousands of bodies converge monthly on
the kerosene-soaked sands of Sunrise Beach for an epic trance-a-thon. Crowds can reach an outrageous 40,000
partiers during high season, while the low season still sees a respectable 5000 pilgrims.
If you can't make your trip coincide with a full moon but still want to cover yourself in fluorescent paint, fear
not - enterprising locals have organised a slew of other reasons to get sloshed. There are Black Moon Parties (at
Ban Khai), Half Moon Parties (at Ban Tai) and Moon-set Parties (at Hat Chaophao) just to name a few.
Some critics claim the party is starting to lose its carefree flavour, especially after increasing violence and the
fact that the island's government now charges a 100B entrance fee to partygoers (the money goes towards needed
beach cleaning and security). Despite changes, the night of the full moon is still the ultimate partying experience,
as long as one follows the unofficial Ten Commandments of Full Moon fun:
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Thou shalt arrive in Hat Rin at least three days early to nail down accommodation during the pre-full moon rush
of backpackers.
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Thou shalt double-check the party dates as sometimes they coincide with Buddhist holidays and are rescheduled.
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Thou shalt secure all valuables, especially when staying in budget bungalows.
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Thou shalt savour some delicious fried fare in Chicken Corner before the revelry begins.
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Thou shalt wear protective shoes during the sandy celebration, unless thou wants a tetanus shot.
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Thou shalt cover thyself with swirling patterns of neon body paint.
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Thou shalt visit Mellow Mountain or the Rock for killer views of the heathens below.
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Thou shalt not sample the drug buffet, nor shalt thou swim in the ocean under the influence of alcohol.
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Thou shalt stay in a group of two or more people, especially if thou art a woman, and especially when returning
home at the end of the evening.
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Thou shalt party until the sun comes up and have a great time.
Ban Khai to Ban Tai
The waters at Ban Tai tend to be shallow and opaque, especially during low season, but
lodging options are well-priced compared to other parts of the island, and you're not too far
from Hat Rin. Like Ban Tai, Ban Khai's beaches aren't the most stunning, but the accom-
modation is cheap and there are beautiful views of Ang Thong Marine National Park in the
distance.
These beaches are where many of the moon-but-not-full-moon parties happen so even if
your resort seems quiet, there's probably some boozed-up action nearby.
Boom's Cafe Bungalows
BUNGALOW
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