7 Incredible Beaches
Thailand is a beautiful country with some of the best beaches in the world. Whether you’re vacationing with family or looking for a romantic getaway, there’s a beach for you. The country offers countless choices of islands and islets and miles of picturesque coastline for sightseeing, adventure, or solitude. The ideal climate, food, entertainment, and unique experiences available in Thailand makes it a popular choice for tourists, especially beach lovers. The beaches feature crystal clear waters and clean, white sand. You can hire long tail boat vendors for exploring or venturing into some of the less-traveled areas. Some of the best beaches in Thailand are described in a bit more detail below.
1. Phra Nang Beach – Krabi
Phra Nang Beach is considered one of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s located in Krabi, which is about 20 minutes away from Ao Hang by boat. It’s not accessible by road. Longtail boat vendors are usually available to transport you to this tropical paradise. The breathtaking views include a stretch of gorgeous white sand beach and tall limestone cliffs that rise out of the water. The area has coral reefs and a variety of caves for sightseeing. A few vendors are usually present to provide food and refreshments to visitors.
2. Railay Beach – Krabi
Railay is another fantastic beach in Krabi. It’s surrounded by limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat. Longtail boats and ferries are available for trips to and from this beach from various locations, including Phuket. Railay’s pristine beach offers a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and rock climbing. You can also relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere on the beach or go exploring the many hidden coves. A few shops, bars, and restaurants are available for shopping, dining, and cocktails.
3. Kata Beach – Phuket
Kata Beach is a great location for couples or families who are looking for a relaxed atmosphere with quality dining options and a bit of entertainment. It’s a short distance from Karon Beach, which is known for its boisterous nightlife. Kata Beach is more laid back and offers the same amazing white sand beach and clear water. Visitors who choose to spend the day unwinding on the shore can find plenty of shade underneath its line of palm trees. The beach offers a variety of great restaurants and nightlife for those looking for a fun time.
4. Kantiang Beach – Koh Lanta
Kantiang Beach offers seclusion within a national park located in Koh Lanta. It’s considered the most beautiful beach in Koh Lanta, which is chock full of outstanding beaches. Kantiang Beach features soft gold sand and gorgeous turquoise water. You have to walk through the park to access this beach because there’s no road that leads to it. The experience offers some sights and sounds of jungle life because the beach is located within a national park. You may spot a monkey or two on your trek, but they’re usually not in the beach area. Spend your day enjoying the solitude or climb the adjacent cliff to visit the abandoned lighthouse or get some awesome views of the beach and park.
5. Maya Bay – Koh Phi Phi
Maya Bay is located on a tiny islet in Koh Phi Phi, and was made famous by a film called “The Beach.” The area has been commercialized and is often crowded with tourists, but it’s still worth a visit because of its astonishing beauty. This area is one of many that’s only accessible by boat, so it’s necessary to reserve a good part of a day for the visit. You can indulge in water activities and many others that are geared towards young adults. The beach, surrounding cliffs, and jungle backdrops are absolutely breathtaking. The soft white sand, colorful marine life, underwater coral, and clear water all contribute to the stunning imagery offered by Maya Bay. The best time to visit this area is between November and April because of the unpredictable weather.
6. Thongtakian Beach – Koh Samui
Thongtakian (tong-ta-kian) Beach is one of the many pristine beaches in Thailand, but it’s especially gorgeous because its natural beauty is completely untouched and unspoiled. Also known as Silver Beach, this small beach on Koh Samui is surrounded by hills and a few picturesque rock formations and coconut trees. White powdery sand and clean, clear water welcome you for a day trip or longer stays if you’re vacationing in the area. Accommodations include resorts, and the area features many restaurants and bars for dining and cocktails.
7. Haad Yao – Krabi
Haad Yao Beach offers a variety of activities for active people, but also provides a peaceful experience for visitors who need to relax in a quiet environment. Palm trees provide shade on one side of the beach and the warm, clear waters are perfect for wading or swimming. The white sand is soft and inviting for a nice walk along the beach, and it also adds to the stunning views. Many locals and visitors describe Haad Yao as a perfect beach setting. The beach also features a coral reef for snorkeling, and diving is popular in the area.
Abby Drexler is a contributing writer and media specialist for Barefoot Luxury Villas. She regularly produces content for a variety of travel blogs.
