| 4 mins read
A vibrant capital city, golden-peaked temples, world famous cuisine, ultra-friendly locals and economical tourist options; a fantastic mix that explaons why Thailand is one of the most enjoyable places in the world. But beyond the culture, history and contemporary pleasures, the biggest attraction of this popular destination lies in its beaches. Crystal clear waters and white sandy shores fringed with stunning surrounding landscapes and laid-back appeal, Thailand’s beaches are some of the best in the world! So where should you go for the country’s absolute best beach spots?
Sairee Beach
Situated on the western coast of Thailand’s island of Koh Tao, this mile-long stretch of beach is one of the country’s most relaxed. You won’t find dozens of resorts or noisy, wild parties polluting the scene on this Koh Tao favorite, which gains its appeal from being rugged and less developed. A favorite spot for divers, backpackers and travelers looking for a more secluded getaway, Sairee Beach is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and basic retreats.
Patong Beach
Kata Beach
Visiting Phuket but don’t want to deal with all the noise and craziness? Kata Beach is an excellent alternative. Located on the southern end of the island, this idyllic destination has the same draws and attractions as Patong (palm trees, beautiful waters and sands) but without the commercialism. Only a few miles away from Patong, you can have the entertainment and nightlife when you want it, and peace and solitude when you don’t.
Railay Beach
Located on a small peninsula between Thailand’s southern towns of Krabi and Ao Nang, Railay Beach is one of the country’s most visually stunning. Accessible only by boat, gorgeous limestone peaks and cliffs surround this secluded paradise, making your vacation feel like one giant postcard. What to Do on Railay Beach? Thanks to the surrounding limestone crags, Railay is one of southern Thailand’s best rock climbing destinations.
However, many a Thailand guide will warn that if you’re looking for a secluded Railay experience, don’t visit during peak season.
Maya Bay
Located on the island of Koh Phi Phi Ley, this popular getaway was made famous by the Hollywood film The Beach. An exceptional diving location and another of Thailand’s most visually stunning beaches, Maya Bay is surrounded by limestone islets, bright blue waters, traditional Long-tail boats and beautiful coral. As the beach has been made (more) famous by the movie, the number of visitors at Maya Bay is on the rise each year.
Haad Rin Beach
Located on the island of Koh Pha Ngan, there’s one thing that attractions most visitors to this specific beach: full moon parties. One of Thailand’s most famous events and top things to do (for the party-minded traveler), full moon parties go from dusk til dawn with blaring music, beer, cocktail buckets and non stop dancing. Haad Rin is the most famous full moon party destination, and is at its peak craziness during the New Year holiday.
Koh Samui’s Best Beach: Taling Ngam
Situated off southern Thailand’s eastern coast, Koh Samui is one of the country’s most naturally stunning islands. Still trying to hang on to its traditional fishing village charm, a number of its beautiful beaches have (unfortunately) become a bit too commercialized. On the island’s southwestern coast however, there’s one beach that still hangs on to its quiet, paradise appeal: Taling Ngam. Dense jungles surround this flawless strip of white, sandy beachfront, with immaculate waters reaching out to tiny limestone islets. With no crowds to battle through and fewer tourist traps lining the beach, Taling Ngam is one of Thailand, and Koh Samui’s ultimate beach retreats.
Image Details and Licenses: https://flic.kr/p/8f1Zwf (Jeffery Wong, CC BY-SA 2.0); https://flic.kr/p/nkyV1x (Luke Ma, CC BY 2.0); https://flic.kr/p/5RoTPK (Robert, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0); https://flic.kr/p/999jXt (Alessia, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0); https://flic.kr/p/BpRvz (ccdoh1, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0); https://flic.kr/p/cMzQQ (iko, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0); https://flic.kr/p/7yCv8j (Pekka Nikrus, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)