Where life’s a Beach

Thailand’s beaches are thrilling in beauty and an amazing sight to behold. Their tranquil and serene settings attract holidaymakers from all over the world. Whether you are a watersport enthusiast or simply want to relax and soak in the warmth and tranquility around you, some of these handpicked beaches in Thailand will fascinate you. 

Thailand has more beaches than any other Southeast Asian country. So which beach is best to explore? This may largely depend on your preference and taste.

Thailand’s top beach destinations include Phuket, Krabi, and Phi Phi island. Then off the coast of the Thai peninsular lies Samui, a laid-back beach destination that caters to high-end travellers. Not too far from the capital city of Bangkok, around an hour’s drive you will come across Hua Hin popular with weekend vacationers. 

Towards the east coast, less than two hours by car from Bangkok, is Pattaya, a popular hotspot for those seeking a weekend break from Bangkok’s bustling city life. Finally, Koh Samet and Koh Chang are considered small island beach destinations gaining increasing popularity with backpackers and teenagers alike.

Very few islands compete with Phuket’s abundant beaches and crystalline waters; located on the Andaman, Phuket is one of the best islands in the archipelago that boasts more than 30 beach hotspots to explore. At every twist and turn, you are surrounded by the Andaman sea; many can’t seem to get enough of the warmth of the sun-soaked beaches and stunning views of the limestone karsts along with the coral and marine life. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing enthusiasts bask in the warmth and glory of all that’s offered by the clear waters of the Andaman.

If you are seeking seclusion and a family-oriented experience, head to Kamala beach, offering a quiet and laid-back experience. The two-kilometer beach stretch is captivating, to say the least; considered a popular fishing village, Kamala now competes with Patong for its less crowded atmosphere and family-oriented experience. The beach is surrounded by luxury hotels and guesthouses, along with apartments. A number of luxury villa developments can be seen with great views of Kamala bay and beyond. The renowned and acclaimed Phuket FantaSea entertainment complex is also close.

Kata
Kata is one of the most charming and attractive beach destinations in Phuket. Smaller than the other major beaches, Kata is distinctive in both style and appearance compared to others like Patong or Karon. Its family-oriented setting, along with its spectacular palm-lined trees, great restaurants, and bustling atmosphere, has made it an all-time favorite for families. Its clear waters, along with the wide variety of coral reef and tropical fish, makes it ideal for snorkeling. 

Surin
For holidaymakers seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience, Surin provides the perfect setting. The beach’s one kilometer stretch of golden sand has all the amenities and luxuries of Patong without being too crowded. The steep incline of the beach, along with its big waves, is ideal for surfers. Surin is also home to two well-known spas attached to local resorts, i.e., Twin Palms Phuket hotel and Ayara Hilltops. A luxurious spa experience might not be part of your vacation plan, but this is certainly worth a try.

Explore Krabi; this island beckons with an itinerary of a memorable trip worth exploring. From lush green jungles to limestone cliffs and idyllic sights of the Andaman, there is a lot to see and do on this striking island. Catch a long-tail boat to the best scuba diving locations or test your skills at a rock-climbing expedition in one of the many venues surrounded by the crystalline waters of the Andaman. 

Ao Nang
First-time visitors are stunned by the breathtaking scenes of Ao Nang Beach. This spectacular beach attracts many tourists. The beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs along with a wide stretch of sand at the sea’s edge, making it ideal for long beach strolls. Ao Nang is also the starting point for island boat tours which are a popular feature with many tourists. You will notice several long-tail boats anchored offshore. Travelling by road will take you 20 minutes to get to the heart of Krabi town. Nevertheless, Ao Nang is surrounded by several shops, bars, and restaurants.

Rai Lay
Rai Lay is a tranquil and charming beach located just south of Ao Nang beach. This beach is unique in its own right; there are no cars, buses, or roads, only footpaths. To get to Rai Lay you must catch a long-tail boat, which means your only access to this beach is by sea. Rai Lay is divided into two sections Rai lay East and Rai lay West; a narrow strip unites the limestone karsts with the mainland. 

Boats coming in from Ao Nang navigate their way through the rocks to drop you by the shore. Popular with many rock climbers and sun seekers, Rai Lay is certainly spectacular; the beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs, caves, and lagoons. Many come to relax after a strenuous steep rock climbing expedition, while others specifically come here to experience its picturesque beauty. 

Venture to the heart of the Andaman, situated between the popular tourist beach destinations of Phuket and Krabi, is Koh Phi Phi, a pristine island that has gained increasing popularity because of its laidback atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Andaman sea. The island has distinctive beaches worth exploring that are not on the typical tourist’s agenda. 

Maya Beach
Koh Phi Phi still has several timeless beaches that are off the beaten track. However, before you explore some of them, stop by one of the most popular beaches in Hollywood, which was featured in Leonardo Di Caprio’s film The Beach. Maya beach, as it is commonly known, is popular with snorkelers. This beach is by all means a hotspot, and it draws crowds all year round. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds during peak tourist hours. Since Maya beach is part of Phi Phi’s National Park, there is an admission fee to enter the beach.

Nui Beach
This exotic beach is located in a tiny cove south of Lana bay. You can only get to Nui beach using three renowned methods. The first is by long-tail boat, by hiking through a steep trail through the jungle, or by kayak. There are no shops, roads, or showy tourist attractions; you simply have a long stretch of white powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. Coral reefs are abundant, which makes for some excellent snorkeling opportunities. Since there is no accommodation on the beach, it is advisable to stay for a few hours or spend a day trip and return.

Samui has an alluring seduction; this island in the south of Thailand has thrived over the last couple of years and is now Thailand’s trendiest tourist destination. Particularly popular for its nightly parties and state-of-the-art spas, Samui is known as the spa capital of the Andaman. There are several exotic beaches worth discovering in Samui. 

Chaweng
Chaweng is Samui’s most popular and most visited beach. Packed with a host of activities, you have a hard time getting bored here. There are many water sports activities, along with dining and accommodation options, all within reach. Although Chaweng is not Samui’s most secluded beach, many come here to enjoy the comfort of bathing in the sun and having everything within a stone’s throw. As an alternative, at the southern tip of Chaweng, there is another calmer, less crowded beach known as Chaweng Noi. This beach boasts deeper waters and is ideal for swimming and water sports.

Lamai
A far cry from the bustling atmosphere of Chaweng, Lamai is by all means less crowded. Lamai has several accommodation options, along with authentic spas and great tourist sites worth exploring. The facilities here are more affordable than in Chaweng, and there is a number of resorts and hotels within reach.

Maenam 
One of the most attractive features of Maenam is that you can catch a glimpse of Koh Phangan, which is 12 kilometers north. Unlike other beaches, Maenam is a tropical paradise worth exploring. Lined with coconut trees lapped by the crystalline waters of the Andaman, it provides you with the ideal setting to unwind. There are several affordable accommodation options nearby, along with luxury resorts catering to the high end taste Thailand is renowned for offering. 

Almost an hour’s drive from Bangkok on the gulf coast of Thailand lies Hua Hin, a small town beach destination renowned for its golfing venues and quiet and family oriented atmosphere. Hua Hin is by no means a palm-fringed getaway, but its lively markets, and superb accommodation options, including luxury hotels and resorts, along with its state-of-the-art golf courses, turned it into an ideal weekend hotspot for Bangkok’s inhabitants. 

Chaam
Chaam is packed with activities for people of all ages. The beach area is well kept and tidy; activities include waterskiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides. There are also pony rides for youngsters on the beach. You can enjoy a traditional Thai massage on the beach or opt for a special spa treatment in one of the many high-end resorts and hotels surrounding the beach.

Khao Takiab
An authentic cultural experience awaits you at Khao Takiab beach, popular with locals and tourists alike; Khao Takiab has a popular attraction at the tip of its shores, which is none other than its Monkey Mountain. Visitors are excited to explore the Monkey Mountain, which is home to hundreds of macaque monkeys. Also of interest is the striking Buddha temple overlooking the bay, with hundreds of statues and relics offering great photo opportunities for the young and old alike. 

Head to Pattaya, around 120 kilometers from Bangkok, you will find an array of beaches catering to every taste. Known as a quiet fishing village in the past, Pattaya has transitioned itself into an urban beach hotspot with an endless line of condominiums, pubs, nightclubs, hotels, and shopping areas. There are several beaches with jet skis and parasailing sites worth exploring. 

Jomtien
Jomtien beach is Pattaya’s most popular; it is also comparatively less crowded than the other shores of Pattaya. This beach provides you with the ideal setting for windsurfing, kiteboarding, jet-skiing, or a friendly volleyball match. Jomtien is not entirely secluded; there are lots of restaurants, cafes, shops, and stalls surrounding the beach. 

Naklua 
Naklua beach meaning salt field in Thai, is located in northern Pattaya. It is renowned for its fishing boat rentals and ideal surfing conditions. Sunbathers particularly enjoy relaxing under one of the many outdoor shacks, which are a popular feature. Naklua is gaining more popularity as five-star hotels and resorts are setting sights on the area and attracting tourists to the beach.

With all it has to offer, Thailand certainly provides a thrilling and captivating beach experience. So what are you waiting for? Take the plunge in one of its pristine beaches and discover Thailand’s magnificent beaches!