Koh Phangan has many interesting communities. Especially those who live an independent lifestyle (indie lifestyle), whether they are digital nomads, wellness/yoga seekers, the conscious community, or people who enjoy art, indie music, and underground parties, many broadly referred to as the "indie crowd" on this island.
Main communities associated with the "indie crowd" on Koh Phangan:
1. Conscious Community / Spiritual & Wellness Scene
This is the most prominent and frequently discussed group recently. It's a community of people interested in yoga, meditation, tantra, breathwork, reiki, vegan/healthy living, and self-development. There's a very active Facebook Group called Koh Phangan Conscious Community (people constantly post about accommodation, friends, and events).
Popular areas include Srithanu (northwest side), which has many retreats such as Orion Healing Centre, Samma Karuna, and Indriya Meditation Centre.
The atmosphere is like "Ubud on an island," but with more parties and nature mixed in. Some describe it as highly "hippie" or "woo-woo," but it's a warm and open community.
2. Digital Nomads & Remote Workers Community
Koh Phangan has become a popular destination for digital nomads in the last 3-4 years (especially after COVID) because it has many good coworking spaces, fast internet, and affordable accommodation and food. And the views are beautiful, making it a chill place to work. Top areas: Thong Sala (main town), Srithanu, Hin Kong, Baan Tai
Popular coworking spaces such as BeachHub, Hustle Club, Inner Space Coworking, Indigo Cafe (with both workspace and good coffee/bakery)
There are Facebook groups such as Koh Phangan Nomads Community or groups for finding rental houses "Koh Phangan Houses for Rent"
Most people are from Europe, America, Russia, and Israel. At times, accommodation prices skyrocket because people stay for long periods (but in 2025-2026 it's still considered worthwhile compared to other islands).
3. Indie Music / Underground Party / Arts Scene
Besides the Full Moon Party, there are many underground, indie dance, techno, psytrance, and melodic house parties (especially during non-full moon periods). The website phangan.events has a calendar of parties and events throughout the year.
Top venues include Unclave, Stona Jungle, Sense Hot Spring (has a festival like Gaia Beats)
There are some indie dance and groove techno musicians, but they aren't "indie bands" like Thai indie bands. Mostly, they are... DJ/scene, electronic music.
Some indie artists/creators are also here (e.g., making music, creating artwork, participating in retreats).