This research had the objective to expose the extent of the impact of tourism on the economy, society,
culture and environment of Koh Pangan Communities. Data were collected by observation, group interview and
review of existing data. The analysis showed that tourism to Koh Pangan has had a significant impact on
increasing income of local residents, most of which comes from rental of overnight accommodations and vehicles
for tourists, and food and beverage sales. At the same time, the influx of such a large number of tourists has vastly
increased the demand for a full range of consumer items, and this has increased competition for goods and led to
an increase in the cost of living. Many indigenous residents have changed their occupation from coconut
cultivation to tourism-related services. The socio-cultural impact is the transition of Koh Pangan to a more urban
society, breeding greater selfishness, and changing dress norms which conform more to the scantily-clad Western
tourists. Young women from other provinces travel to Koh Pangan to sell sex. The former life of tranquility and
proximity has almost entirely disappeared, remaining only in the memories of the elder residents. The area
around Koh Pangan is experiencing environmental degradation from pollution and waste water from hotels, guest
houses and the increasing number of markets. There is noise pollution at night from the amplified music from
entertainment establishments. The amount of solid waste is increasing faster than the ability to collect and dispose
of it. If this and other problems of unchecked tourism are not addressed urgently, then the natural beauty of Koh
Pangan could be buried under a mountain of pollution.
Key words: The effect of tourism, tourist, economy,