Best Beaches in Thailand

 

• Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Ley

This small stretch of sand is the quintessential Thailand beach and might just have the best scenery of any in the country. Part of a little island adjacent to Ko Phi Phi, the beach is nestled in a small bay and surrounded by tall limestone cliffs. Maya Bay can only be visited on day trips by boat, since there are no accommodations here. Hordes of people visit during high season, but the beauty makes dealing with the crowds worth it.

 

• Railay Beach, Krabi

Though it’s technically on the mainland, Railey Beach is only accessible by boat and has a desert island feeling you won’t find on most of the country’s popular beach destinations. Clear blue waters, small islands on the horizon and majestic cliffs surround the small beach, which is generally not crowded except during peak season.

• Kata Beach, Phuket

 

 

Just a couple of miles away from the hustle and bustle of Patong Beach is this quieter, relaxed beach in Southern Phuket. Kata has everything that makes Phuket so popular – palm trees, warm water and nice scenery, but there are no high rise hotels or shopping malls in sight. During low season, waves at this beach can be intense, making it a great place to do some surfing but not the perfect spot for those with young children

 

•  Phra Nang Beach, Krabi

Phra Nang is a short walk from Railay – or rent a kayak and go by sea. Rock climbing near-by and some fun caves to explore.

• Tonsai Beach, Krabi

Tonsai is only reachable by boat or kayak (or during low tide you can walk to Railay). Beautiful beach. Rock climbing nearby.

• Karon Beach, Phuket

A great beach with lots of restaurants and nightlife – though not as wild (or seedy) as Patong.

• Khao Lak

Khao Lak is an hour north of Phuket. A great mix of small town charm and beautiful beaches.

• Kantiang Beach, Koh Lanta

Great beach for those wanting solitude and sand. Just a hanful of hotels and restaurants – enough to have some choices but not so many as to attract the crowds.

• Chaweng, Koh Samui

Chaweng is Koh Samui’s largest town and where you’ll find the most nightlife (and a Starbucks). The beach is great too.

• Bophut, Koh Samui

Evening dining is popular on many beaches and Bophut does it as well as any beach. Some consider the sand at Bophut to be a little too course but it’s still one of my very favorite beaches.

• Mae Nam, Koh Samui

Mae Nam is very popular with expats and long term travelers. The type of place you want to unpack your bags and hang out for a week (or a month).

• Choeng Mon, Koh Samui

One of the most kid-friendly beaches on Koh Samui. A relaxing vibe is the rule here but Chaweng is 10 minutes away if you need some nightlife or more choice of restaurants.

• Thongtakian Beach, Koh Samui

Thong Takian Beach (also Silver Beach) is a small cove between Lamai and Chaweng on Koh Samui. Secluded yet an easy taxi ride to nightlife and restaurants.

• Haad Rin, Koh Phangan

Haad Rin is home to the famous full moon parties. Of course, it gets crazy here around the full moon party but the beach itself is surprisingly nice. Visit away from the full moon dates for a good mix of nightlife and beach bumming.

• Haad Yao, Koh Phangan

Known for its sunsets and coral reef. A great stretch of beach that is getting busier every year.

 

• Bottle Beach, Koh Phangan

Reachable only by boat and thus very quiet. A beautiful beach surrounded by mountains is perfect for those looking for some solitude. It’s very popular with long-term travelers.

• Haad Salad, Koh Phangan

Haad Salad is a quiet and secluded beach far from the party scene at Haad Rin.

 

• Thong Nai Pan, Koh Phangan

Wonderful beach which is home to some of Koh Phangan’s best resorts. A quiet peaceful paradise.

• Koh Samet

The nicest beaches near Bangkok. Koh Samet is a 4 hour bus and ferry trip from Bangkok. An added bonus: during the wet season Koh Samet has some of the country’s driest weather.

• Bang Bao, Koh Chang

Koh Chang is in the far east of the country. An off the beaten track island with fantastic beaches.