The Best Beaches in Thailand

Sparkling waters… Soft white sands… Fresh ocean breezes… and stunning sunsets… When it comes to finding some beach bum bliss, Thailand is hard to beat. And the great news is that the country is taking positive steps to protect its beautiful array of incredible beaches. A range of environmental initiatives are being put in place—such as a ban on single-use plastics at 154 of its national parks—to ensure that some of South East Asia’s finest beaches remain just as they should be: stunning, spotless and ready to be enjoyed. Here are a few of our favorite beach destinations for soaking up the sun, appreciating the natural beauty, and behaving like a beach bum in Thailand…

Phuket

Thailand’s biggest island languishes in the Andaman Sea and is home to some incredible beaches like Rawai, Patong, Karon, Kamala, Kata Yai, Kata Noi, and Mai Khao. The rule of thumb on Phuket is that if you’re looking for lively fun, head to the beaches in the south. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, make your way to the beaches in the north. And don’t miss the chance to take a trip to the Laem Phromthep Viewpoint, which is believed to provide some of the most beautiful sunsets in the whole of Thailand.

Phuket is doing its bit to keep Thailand’s beaches pristine and participating in the Thai Government’s ban on smoking on 24 of the country’s beaches. Those who smoke outside of the designated smoking areas on Phuket’s beaches face hefty fines, which is great news for those who treasure the environment and don’t want to see cigarette butts spoiling the natural beauty of the island.

Koh Samui

Located in Surat Thani Province, Koh Samui is the third-biggest island in Thailand. It’s also part of the largest archipelago in the country, featuring more than 80 islands. It’s a wonderland of white sand beaches, crystal clear seas, stunning waterfalls, breathtaking temples, and some truly spectacular viewpoints.

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a beach to laze around on in Koh Samui, and you can expect the beauty of beaches like Chaweng, Lamai, Taling Ngam, and Natien to take your breath away. Make sure you check out Bo Phut, which features converted, old Chinese shophouses and oozes quirky old-world charm.

And if you’d like to give a little back to this gorgeous island, take a little time out to join a voluntary beach or dive site clean-up with an organization like Samui Clean or Eco Koh Tao.

Ko Phi Phi

Ko Phi Phi is a truly idyllic retreat on a drop-dead-gorgeous archipelago. This is a place to lounge on the beach, admire the emerald ocean, dive alongside docile leopard sharks, and party late into the night.

But there’s no denying it, Ko Phi Phi is so popular that it’s under considerable environmental strain. Thankfully, the locals are working at a grassroots level to improve the situation, and the ‘Trash Hero’ organization has established a fascinating ‘Eco Bricks’ project there. The scheme uses plastic bottles that are filled with non-biodegradable waste to create reusable building blocks. They even build stand-up paddle boards with them!

Krabi

Located on the Andaman Coast, Krabi is literally overflowing with incredible natural attractions. It’s a magical place of archipelagos, secluded bays, hot springs, coral reefs, and rainbow-hued long-tail boats.

Check out Railay Beach, which is located on a large peninsula jutting out into the crystal blue Andaman. There you’re sure to find real seclusion, as the peninsula is cut off from the mainland by a row of steep cliffs, which means you can only access it by boat.

The area is actually made up of numerous beaches: Railay West, which is the longest and most popular; Ton Sai Bay, which is a great spot for rock climbing; Railay East, which is the best place to catch a stunning sunrise; and Phranang Beach, which is the best beach for swimming.

Krabi is also participating in the Thai Government’s ban on smoking, so smokers can face fines if they smoke outside of the designated areas.

THAILAND WITH INDUS TRAVELS

Do you dream of exploring the best beaches in Thailand? Of sailing into Railay Beach? Of diving with leopard sharks in Ko Phi Phi? Of partying the night away in Phuket? Yes? Then come with us to Thailand. Not only will you have the experience of a lifetime, but you will have a sophisticated itinerary that has been lovingly created by Indus’ Thailand experts. To find out more about our tours to Thailand, please feel free to contact us at any time.

About the Writer: Vickie Sam Paget

Vickie is a freelance writer and editor based in Vancouver, BC. When she’s not creating dynamic travel or tech content, globetrotting or gazing at the North Shore Mountains, you can usually find her curled up with a good book or sipping a pint of the good stuff in her local Irish bar.