Thailand is known around the world for its beautiful beaches and exotic islands. With over 2,000 miles of coastline and thousands of islands, it's no wonder Thailand is such a popular beach destination. From world-famous beaches in Phuket and Koh Samui to secluded hideaways, Thailand offers something for every kind of beachgoer. Here is a guide to the best beaches in Thailand.
Main Beaches In Thailand
Some of the most stunning and famous beaches in Thailand include:
Railay Beach, Krabi
Railay Beach is only accessible by boat due to the high limestone cliffs cutting it off from the mainland. This helps keep the beaches here extra pristine while lending a feeling of tropical seclusion. The near vertical cliffs that come down to meet the emerald Andaman Sea are also popular for rock climbing. The main beaches of Railay West, Railay East, Phra Nang and Tonsai are connected by jungle trails dotted with beachside bars and seafood restaurants.
Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi
Made famous as the filming location for the movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the exquisite Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh island is widely considered one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches. It’s a classic tropical beach scene with crystal clear turquoise waters lapping against the white sandy shore, all framed by towering cliffs. Day trips to Maya Bay from Phuket or Krabi are popular. However, recent environmental damage from overtourism has led to the beach being closed periodically to allow its ecosystem time to recover.
White Sand Beach, Koh Chang
The most popular and longest beach on Koh Chang island is the aptly named White Sand Beach. Spanning over 2 miles of the island’s western shore, the beach is lined with resorts and restaurants, offering plenty of facilities along with easy access to the island’s lush tropical jungle interior just a short walk away. The beach itself is clean and wide, with soft white sand that shelves gently into the calm, clear waters that are shallow enough for swimming.
Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui
Located on Koh Samui’s east coast, Chaweng is the island’s largest and most popular beach. It combines natural beauty with a vibrant beach town atmosphere. Swaying coconut palms fringe the powdery white sand beach and clear blue waters, while just steps away is a lively strip lined with restaurants, shops, hotels and buzzing nightlife. The beach also offers convenient access to the island’s main attractions.
Hidden Gem Beaches
In addition to the major beaches, Thailand is filled with lesser-known small coves and beaches off the typical tourist trails. For those looking to get away from the crowds, here are some of Thailand’s hidden gem beaches.
Freedom Beach, Phuket
Freedom Beach is located just around a headland from the popular Patong Beach on Phuket island. But this secluded beach feels a world away from Patong’s frenetic bustle. Getting to Freedom Beach requires hiking over a jungle-topped hill from Patong which adds to the feeling of escape. The reward is having a beautiful and quiet beach largely to yourself to relax and swim in the clear Andaman Sea waters.
Koh Kradan, Trang Islands
Of Thailand’s hundreds of tropical islands, Koh Kradan remains a relatively under-the-radar paradise. Located in the Trang archipelago, Koh Kradan’s beaches have powdery white sand so soft it squeaks underfoot and gentle, crystal clear waters in shades of turquoise and aquamarine. The island is part of a national park with accommodation limited to small eco-friendly resorts, adding to the unspoiled, back-to-nature vibe. Activities include swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and jungle treks.
Hat Khlong Chak Beach, Koh Kood
The island of Koh Kood off Thailand’s eastern shore is dotted with pristine beaches and unspoiled tropical jungle. One of its standout beaches is Hat Khlong Chak on the southwest coast. Enclosed by forested hills tumbling down to the shore on both sides, the beach feels intimate and hidden away. Shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming while colorful coral reefs offshore teeming with marine life make for excellent snorkeling too.
FAQ about Best Beaches in Thailand
What are the best beaches in Thailand for families?
Some of the most family-friendly beaches in Thailand include Kata Beach and Nai Yang Beach in Phuket, Chaweng Beach in Koh Samui, and Lonely Beach in Koh Chang. These beaches have calm, clear waters for swimming, plenty of dining options, and amenities and activities catering to families.
What are the most beautiful, picturesque beaches in Thailand?
Some of Thailand's most photogenic beaches acclaimed for their beauty include Railay Beach in Krabi, Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi, White Sand Beach in Koh Chang, Hat Khlong Chak in Koh Kood, and Freedom Beach in Phuket. Their landscapes of limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and powdery white sands create quintessential tropical beach scenes.
What are the best party beaches in Thailand?
For those looking for vibrant nightlife alongside beachgoing fun, top party beaches in Thailand include Patong Beach in Phuket, Chaweng Beach in Koh Samui, and Haad Rin Beach on Koh Pha Ngan. These popular beaches have lines of bars, clubs, restaurants, and beach clubs with dancing and late-night revelry.
What are some quiet, secluded beaches in Thailand?
For getting away from the crowds, peaceful secluded beaches include Hat Pakarang and Hat Chao Mai national park beaches in Trang, Tanote Bay in Koh Tao, Mae Nam and Lipa Noi Beaches in Koh Samui, and Hat Nopharat Thara-Hat Nai Pan Noi on Koh Phi Phi. These offer relaxation amid natural beach beauty.
What are the best beaches in Thailand for snorkeling and diving?
Some of the top beaches for snorkeling and scuba diving include Koh Tao, Kata Beach and Shark Bay in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Railay Beach in Krabi, and the Trang Islands. These have abundant coral reefs and vibrant sea life just offshore in the clear waters.
Conclusion
With an abundance of stunning beaches to choose from, Thailand is truly a beach lover's paradise. From the world famous beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui to quiet coves awaiting discovery, this guide covers some of the many options that earn Thailand a reputation as one of the best beach destinations in the world. Whether you're looking for adventure, nightlife, nature or seclusion, Thailand's islands and coastlines offer the perfect beach experience.
