Flat coves, fine white sand, crystal clear waters to lose yourself in, exuberant nature, idyllic islands: this is Thailand ! With its archipelagos and coral reefs it offers many different ways to enjoy a tropical vacation by the sea. Immersing yourself in such a calm and uncontaminated sea will be wonderful. Thailand is a treasure with 2,500 kilometers of coastline. Do you want to know its beaches? We present them to you!
Khao Phing Kan Island Beach
There is a marine park, among the most popular attractions in Thailand’s Pang-nga province, and there is an island, Khao Phing Kan, which is attracting more and more visitors. The reasons? Its unique shape : imagine a beach with a large rock in the shape of a nail surrounded by huge and majestic rocks that look like they are floating on the sea. This island, which is located within an archipelago with a dozen atolls, has a flourishing and lush vegetation. Located in the northwest of Phang-nga Bay, it is also known as James Bond Island, thanks to the cinema and “The Man with the Golden Gun”, a movie from the Agent 007 series that was shot here. The island can be easily reached from Khao Lak, Phuket. Once there, you can choose between several options, including a tour with traditional wooden boats or speedboats in which you will enjoy a journey through the mangrove forests. The caves and coves of the island can almost always be reached by sea and can also be visited by canoe.
Patong Beach, Phuket
Phuket is a well-known island and its beaches cannot go unnoticed. An untouched sea and a smooth, clear beach are features you’ll find everywhere, along with lush vegetation. The main tourist district of the island is called Patong, and it covers about 17 km². It was rebuilt after the terrible tsunami of 2004. Patong Beach is a successful blend of soft white sand, blue water, and an unbroken string of lodges, shops, restaurants, and clubs. A crescent that is 3 kilometers long where you will find many places to take a break, kiosks and restaurants, but also points to rent pedal boats, boats or snorkeling equipment. Patong is also the best diving center on the island and can offer many specialized facilities. Patong Bay seals off the entire area: picturesque coves with spectacular views and calm waters. Tri Trang is the longest and most easily accessible cove: it has soft white sand and looks directly onto Patong. Paradise Beach is a true charm: it houses two bays of different sizes, but united by the beauty and magic of the rocks. Freedom Beach is a unique strip of sand, present in all itineraries in the area. It stretches for 100 meters, has all the necessary services and also has a nice view, with loungers near a palm grove. It is an ideal place to rest and spend a pleasant day with friends.
Phang Nga Bay, Phuket
One of the first attractions in the area is the Phang-nga Bay National Park. The area, active since 1981, extends for almost 500 kilometers. It is a very famous marine national park in the country, which includes islands, mountains and forests. The bay is one of the most beautiful places in Southeast Asia. A special place, with small rocky islands emerging from clear and untouched waters. Nature also enhances the fauna because, over time, the environment has become the habitat of many species of reptiles and birds. Among the most curious and rare specimens are the eagle and the aquatic monitor lizard.
Phi Phi Don Beach, Phi Phi Island
Beautiful, famous and recognizable: The Phi Phi Islands are two of the most beautiful islands in southern Thailand. The main bay of Koh Phi Phi Don is one of the sights not to be missed. Imagine a limestone cliff covered by tropical forest that “protects” the bay and creates a safe and natural harbor, sheltered from the winds. From here begins a strip of white sand, lined with palm trees, which in the eastern part breaks up into small and delicious coves. Both islands offer unmissable landscapes, calm waters, sandy beaches and exuberant nature.
Maya Bay, Phi Phi Island
The most popular beach on the islands is Bahía Maya. An absolute charm, thanks to the huge and winding cliffs, together with an overflowing nature : a combination that creates an enchanting, uncontaminated and wild landscape. Added to these clear waters are the fine sand and a wonderful “postcard” landscape. The Thai beach, which has become too famous for the movie ” The Beach “, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, has had to be closed to preserve its ecosystem. A difficult situation, which had been clear for a long time and could not continue without the appropriate measures, given the enormous influx of tourists. In 2019, the authorities had already launched a first seasonal stop for nature to regenerate, however, it was not enough, so it was decided to close it “indefinitely” until the ecosystem of the area returns to a normal situation. As the authorities officially explained, the beach will remain closed until the first half of 2021.
Ton Sai Beach, Krabi
Tonsai Beach is one of the four beaches on the Railay Peninsula. It retains the magic of the past and has a quaint feel to it, as it houses a series of bamboo huts that are loved by tourists. It is a very popular place in Krabi. Nature is the protagonist, thanks to the great forest and the majestic rocks.
Rang Yai Beach, Phuket
Rang Yai Island is a beautiful island, located just over 5 kilometers east of the Boat Lagoon. A Robinson Crusoe-style wild lifestyle awaits you. The island will offer you, among other services, camping and bamboo bungalows. You won’t get bored as you can kayak, learn how a pearl factory works or even ride a bike. The beaches are famous for their white sand and the fantastic hues of the water.
The beaches of the Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine Park
It is a marine park located in the south of Thailand, precisely in the province of Surat Thani. We are talking about Mu Koh Ang Thong, made up of 42 islands. Established in 1980, the park covers an area of 102 km 2, of which only a fifth is on land. The islands are characterized by mountains of limestone origin that reach up to 500 meters above sea level. The islands in this area are characterized by rocky cliffs that give rise to a natural landscape that is still uncontaminated. Here you will have the opportunity to meet a very particular flora and fauna. In this park, in addition to enjoying unique views, you can do many activities, including kayaking and snorkeling. The sea water is light green and the beach is surrounded by an expanse of palm trees and exuberant nature.
Thong Nai Pan Bay Beach
The beauty and variety of the landscape, the ease of reaching it and the excellent facilities, make Koh Phangan a place that you must visit during your cruise in Thailand. The bay is very picturesque and well protected from waves and wind. In addition to the tranquility of the place, what is most appreciated is the beauty of the landscape, perfect for hiking. Its waters are calm and crystal clear. There is no coral reef, but the absence of currents allows you to swim in a calm sea, perfect for snorkeling. Within the area there are two beaches: Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai. Both are characterized by their fine white sand and are lined with palm trees, which provide shade and a hint of coolness. To the north there is a nice cove where you can discover another beach.
Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan
The beaches of Koh Phangan are some of the most fascinating: the landscape is that of a tropical beach with coconut palms, turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Since the 1970s, Haad Rin beach has become the most popular, because it is easily accessible from the nearby island of Koh Samui and because it is the best equipped with both services and nightlife. It was at the end of the 80s when it was decided to create the Full Moon Party : a party that takes place during the full moon, once a month, on Haad Rin beach and is attended by more than ten thousand people. There are two beaches in Haad Rin. The first is called Sunset Beach (Haad Rin Noi) and the second is Sunrise Beach (Haad Rin Nok). The latter, full of charm, has white sands, and its waters and the sea are deep blue. The water is clear and transparent, and it is a pleasure to swim.
Lamai Beach, Koh Samui
Fine white sand, lush vegetation and crystal clear sea are the beaches of Koh Samui, one of the most renowned tourist centers in the country. Here you will find numerous and varied beaches that attract more and more tourists over the years. Lamai beach takes its name from the town of the same name, and it is a quiet beach, but it has many services. It represents an optimal solution for those who want to relax, but want nearby shops and restaurants. The beach is very wide, the sea is crystal clear and tanning is guaranteed. Nightlife offers different alternatives between bars , restaurants and beach parties. In the area you can eat well and there are accommodations for all budgets. Chaweng Beach is the largest beach and also the one with the most facilities: along its 7 km of coastline you can reach shops, bars and many restaurants where you can try local specialties.
Pattaya Beach, Bangkok
Pattaya, which is located in the Chonburi province, is one of the brightest places in the country. For a long time it was a simple town where mainly fishermen lived until 1961, when a group of American soldiers, involved in the Vietnam conflict, came to the city in search of rest and entertainment. Pattaya quickly became a popular waterfront area, ready to welcome tourists. The fishing shacks have been replaced by hotels, resorts and shops, including a huge shopping mall – the Central Festival Pattaya Beach Mall. Pattaya offers many opportunities to have fun between attractions and nightlife. Pattaya’s beaches are the most popular, and are just 150 km southeast of Bangkok. Today, visitors come here for windsurfing, diving, and sailing. Others, however, prefer excursions to nearby islands. Hat Pattaya Beach is a concentration of charm, thanks to the vegetation and the palm trees that reach the promenade. There is no shortage of services, hotels, restaurants and numerous shops. The most striking beach is Jomtien, which stretches for about 6 kilometers. On this beach the water is crystal clear and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Another gem is Naklua Beach, which is further north, and has the right pace for a vacation.
Railay Beach, Krabi
A classic tropical paradise: we are talking about the southern coast of Thailand. The cliffs can offer incredibly beautiful beaches, including Railay Beach. Here you will find the sea, but also majestic rocks and an exuberant tropical jungle. There are many activities you can do, such as kayaking, diving or snorkeling. Another area not to be missed is Rai Leh, a small peninsula that can only be reached by boat. It is famous for its cliffs, which attract professional climbers, but above all for the beauty of its beaches and the calm and relaxed atmosphere. A beach where you can continue to see the spectacle of nature is Ao Nang : its waters are also suitable for children, since they are shallow and there are shadows created by the large rocks. Another beach full of beauty is Nopparat Thara, a 3 kilometer long, long and little frequented sandy beach. Its main features are the wonderful colors of the water and the sand covered with tiny shells. The locals called it ” Klong Haeng Beach “, name of the river that divides it and whose literal translation is “dry river”: it refers to the distance that its waters recede when the tide goes out, turning it back into a single beach.
Phra Ae Beach, Krabi
Koh Lanta is one of the jewels of the wonderful province of Krabi. The area is a set of bays and coves that have been a refuge for pirates in ancient times. In this area, the beaches are accessible and reserved. The most famous beach on Koh Lanta is called Phra Ae or Long Beach and it stretches for 5 kilometres: it is a characteristic strip of sand washed by a calm and nuanced sea. On this beach, very crowded during the summer, there are many resorts. There are several restaurants and places where you can enjoy fish specialties. Klong Dao Beach, on the other hand, is a stretch of soft sand that stretches for 3 kilometers. Beautiful sunsets and white sand, as well as enchanting natural landscapes. It is ideal for swimming and for families with children: the water is calm and a great place to relax. As it is very large, everyone can find their own space.
Koh Nang Yuang Beach, Koh Tao
Koh Nang Yuan is described as one of the ten most beautiful islands in the world and one of the paradises that you cannot miss. To get to the island of Koh Nang Yuan, which itself consists of 3 small islands, you have to travel to the south of the Gulf of Thailand. Forget the noise, the cars, and get ready to enjoy only nature and the gentle waves of the sea. A small dream come true in which you get up in the morning to go out and meet nature, among colorful birds and exuberant palm trees. You will find yourself in front of a free beach with clear water, where you can see the fish and the seabed. Here time passes slowly and dilates. Don’t be in a hurry.
Kai Bae Beach, Ko Chang
Fine sand, palm trees and a unique view of the nearby islands await you at Kai Bae Beach. There is no place only for beauty, it is in fact one of the privileged points for excursions on the island, such as sailing or diving. For those looking for a little social life or want a tasty break, the town offers restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs. The atmosphere becomes full of life after sunset. There is also a viewpoint to the south of Kai Bae, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding bays and islands. Among them, the closest island is Koh Man Nai. whose beaches attract an increasing number of visitors every year. They are a unique mix of rustic and wild landscapes, with a very relaxed atmosphere, as there is not much tourist development yet. The location is also good, given the proximity to Bangkok and the choice of a wide range of seaside resorts.
Lonely Beach, Ko Chang
Don’t be fooled by the name, it may have been a lonely beach in the past, but Lonely Beach is not so intimate anymore. The small town has become a point of reference where diving centers, shops and stores have sprung up. Its beach, however, is the added value, like the things that do not lose their charm over time: its waters suitable for bathing, its white sand and its relaxing vegetation.
Bottle Beach, Surat Thani
To get to this island, you have to go by boat along a very picturesque part of the coast to the northernmost point of the island, about 20 minutes from Thong Nai Pan. Bottle Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Phangan and one of the most picturesque in Thailand. Everything is perfect : the weather is ideal, the sand is white and the waters are perfect for swimming. In short: the bay is magnificent. In the afternoon, when the last boats or fishing boats disappear on the horizon and silence sets in, the tranquility is absolute. The promenade is wide, with palm trees as a natural setting, and you can breathe in the sea. At sunset, all you have to do is relax, have a cocktail or dine in a restaurant overlooking the beach.
Aow Leuk Beach, Surat Thani
Snorkeling, beauty and opportunities galore – this is Ao Leuk Beach, a lovely place to swim or relax on the beach and spend a day with friends. Here you can find fish in the coral reefs and even small sharks. Its fine white sand makes it one of the most beautiful on Koh Tao. The path leading to the bay is quite wild and offers rugged scenery and is very popular with hikers.
Sunset Beach, Koh Lipe
The best place to watch sunsets is located here, a small bay: Sunset Beach (Hat Pramong) is located on the west coast of Koh Lipe. It is a beach with a relaxed atmosphere where the characteristic wooden rooms are located. Here you can take a break in a small kiosk where they serve cold beers and cocktails, a way to enjoy an aperitif and wait for the sunset in a magical atmosphere. The beach has the islets of Butang in front.
White Sand Beach, Koh Chang
White Sand Beach is a wide, very white sand beach and is suitable for those who want to swim or for families with children. It is an ideal place to relax and offers a wide selection of accommodation. Here you will find restaurants and nightclubs, without having to give up the charming nature, because you are on a beach surrounded by palm trees and calm waters. The venues are very famous for their fish specialties, but you can also enjoy the night with cocktails, wine and a bit of music.
Bamboo Bay, Koh Lanta
Bamboo Bay has crystal clear waters and a white sand beach. It is surrounded by mountains covered with tropical forests. There are several resorts along the bay where you can stay . Peace, relaxation and untouched nature is what visitors will find. Until recently there wasn’t even a road to get to the beach. A tourist says: ” An enchanted place, where you can recharge your batteries and enjoy nature. It seems that time stopped 20 years ago.” If you go to Koh Lanta, you have to visit it.
Hat Sai Kaew Beach, Koh Samet
Hat Sai Kaew, the so-called ” diamond beach ” on the island of Koh Samet shines by itself. It is one of the most popular and extensive beaches, which lights up at sunset with the lights of the restaurants and bars. The water is blue-green, the sand is white and fine. Here you can enjoy one of the best seafood cuisines and spend wonderful evenings with friends. Do you like adventure? You can practice windsurfing, jet-sky or snorkel. The beach is located on Koh Samet Island, also called Koh Kaew Phitsadan, (literally “jewel island”). Its name comes from a particular type of tree that grows abundantly in the area and is used as material to build typical boats. It is a small island, 150 kilometers from the capital, Bangkok. Koh Samet was discovered in the 1980s and became a highly sought after destination, becoming a tourist destination. It is not difficult to understand why: it is a quiet place, capable of offering some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. It is also part of a National Park established in 1981, along with Laem Ya and other surrounding islands.