Your local guide to 16 of the Best Beaches in Thailand
Thailand ranks among the world’s top beach destinations, offering the perfect vacay after the vibrant streets of Bangkok and the historic temples of Chiang Mai. Whether you’re seeking hidden gems or famous shores, the best beaches in Thailand, especially those in Phuket, provide breathtaking coastal escapes with turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and swaying palm trees.
Flanked by the Andaman Sea to the west and the Gulf of Thailand to the east, the country boasts a coastline dotted with breathtaking islands. To make your beach holiday perfect, here are the best spots on both the mainland and islands, each offering its own unique charm and beauty.
Thailand’s beaches offer the perfect stay for couples, or families as well. Couples can enjoy romantic sunset strolls on Phi Phi Islands, while families can relax on Phuket’s kid-friendly shores. Meanwhile, Koh Samui’s luxury resorts provide privacy, and Krabi’s stunning limestone cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable adventures by the sea.
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Here are the 16 of the best beaches in Thailand we could recommend for your next vacation, let’s dive into it…
Best Beaches Thailand: Explore Phuket’s Stunning Coastline
Talking about beach and sure, Phuket would probably be the first to mention. This is Thailand’s largest island, attracts visitors with its stunning coastline, featuring long sandy beaches and striking rock formations. Over the years, it has grown into a top tourist destination. With countless accommodations, diverse restaurants, and a lively nightlife, Phuket offers everything from relaxation to vibrant entertainment, making it a must-visit destination.
Here are the 4 beaches we absolutely recommend to check them out when in Phuket:
Kata beach
Located in southern Phuket, Kata Beach provides a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to the island’s busier resort areas. However, it still delivers everything that makes Phuket a top destination, from golden sands to warm, inviting waters and breathtaking scenery. During the low season, surfers can catch great waves, while the high season offers ideal conditions for sunbathing and snorkeling.
Karon beach
Karon Beach offers incredibly fine and soft sands that squeak underfoot with every step. Nestled between two headlands, this stunning 3.3-kilometer stretch runs almost perfectly straight. The southern end features volleyball nets for active beachgoers, while the northern side is lined with beachfront restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. Just a short walk away, Karon Temple Market provides a great opportunity to explore local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.
Nai Harn
Nai Harn Beach offers a peaceful escape with fewer tourists and less crowded shores, making it perfect for soaking up the sun. Despite its popularity, the beach has kept its quiet charm. The small bay and nearby freshwater lagoon have prevented overdevelopment, preserving its natural beauty. With soft sands, a gently sloping seabed, and lifeguards on duty, Nai Harn is an excellent choice for families looking for a safe and relaxing beach experience.
Laem Singh
Very hidden… tucked away on the west coast, Laem Singh sits in a steep-sided bay, creating a secluded and peaceful escape. Since the only way to reach it is by boat, the beach remains quiet and unspoiled. Swaying palm trees line the shore, while giant rocks add to its natural charm. Swimming and snorkeling here offer an incredible experience, especially around the rocky headland that separates it from Kamala Bay.
With plenty of colorful fish to discover, this spot is well worth exploring for anyone seeking a serene beach adventure.
Koh Samui Beaches
Very popular, very touristy, Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, offers stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters that make it a tropical paradise. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, this island looks like it came straight from a travel magazine. With soft, pristine sands and lush palm trees, it creates the perfect setting for relaxation. Whether you’re seeking luxury resorts with world-class amenities or budget-friendly hostels with a laid-back vibe, Koh Samui has something for every traveler. Plus, the island’s vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and adventure activities make it a well-rounded destination for beach lovers.
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Lamai Beach
Lamai Beach blends a lively vibe with a laid-back charm, creating an exotic paradise perfect for any traveler. Soft, golden sands and clear waters stretch between rocky headlands, offering both scenic beauty and a peaceful escape. Toward the southern end, bars and restaurants line the shore, making it easy to enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks with an ocean view. If you rise early enough, you’ll catch one of Lamai Beach’s breathtaking sunrises, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or soak in the scenery, this beach delivers an unforgettable experience.
Maenam
Stretching for five kilometers, Maenam Beach offers a peaceful retreat with its narrow, palm-fringed sands. Budget travelers and long-term visitors love its laid-back vibe, making it an ideal spot to unwind. Unlike busier beaches, resorts here sit farther back, accessible by long pathways, creating a more private and secluded atmosphere.
The beach provides stunning views of Koh Phangan, just 12 kilometers away, adding to its scenic charm. Whether you want to relax under the swaying palms or enjoy a quiet sunset stroll, Maenam Beach delivers a serene escape from the island’s busier hotspots.
Chaweng
With Koh Samui’s largest town right behind it, Chaweng Beach thrives with energy and excitement. Its vibrant nightlife scene, packed with bars and restaurants catering to all tastes, creates a buzzing atmosphere that attracts a younger crowd. However, it’s not just about the party scene—Chaweng’s stunning golden sands curve gracefully along the shoreline, offering breathtaking views and a perfect spot to relax. Whether you’re here for the nightlife, the beach, or both, Chaweng Beach delivers an unforgettable island experience.
Lipa Noi beach
Away from Koh Samui’s busy tourist hubs, Lipa Noi stretches along three kilometers of fine sand on the island’s west coast. The shallow waters, free of rocks and corals, create a safe and inviting spot for families to enjoy swimming and beach activities. With a peaceful, village-like atmosphere, this area offers a relaxing escape from the crowds. As the day winds down, breathtaking sunsets paint the sky in vibrant colors, making evenings here truly magical.
Krabi Beaches
Located in southern Thailand, Krabi boasts towering karst formations, lush jungles, and stunning turquoise waters. With over 150 islands along its coast, this province offers some of the best beaches for an unforgettable vacation. Travelers can explore cheap hotels near the shore while enjoying island-hopping, sea kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and thrilling rock climbing adventures.
Railay Beach
Despite its name, Railay Beach isn’t just one beach but a stunning peninsula with four breathtaking white-sand shores. Known as one of Thailand’s top beach destinations, Railay offers more than just sun and sand. Visitors can explore scenic viewpoints, mysterious caves, and a beautiful lagoon shaped by the shifting tides. Since boats provide the only access, Railay feels like a secluded island paradise, perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
Ao Nang
As Krabi’s bustling tourist hub, Ao Nang stands out as the province’s most popular beach. A short stroll from its golden sands and striking limestone cliffs leads to a lively mix of bars and restaurants. Boat trips to nearby islands are easy to arrange, making island-hopping a breeze. For a more peaceful experience, visiting outside the high season ensures fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Maya Bay
Also, known for its stunning scenery and Hollywood fame from *The Beach* starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Maya Bay sits on Ko Phi Phi Leh. Towering 100-meter cliffs surround the bay, creating a breathtaking backdrop. Its beauty attracts large crowds, so arriving early in the day offers a more peaceful experience before the tourist rush begins.
Tubkaak
For the ultimate escape, Tubkaak delivers a serene retreat far from the crowds. Its long stretch of sand features only a few upscale resorts, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere. Just to the north, scenic trails wind through the lush rainforest of Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, leading to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Krabi’s stunning coastline. Truly a best beach around.
Koh Lanta: Thailand beaches for everyone
Just off Krabi’s coast, Koh Lanta features several small islands, with Koh Lanta Yai drawing the most visitors. This destination truly has something for everyone, from pristine beaches and lush nature reserves to charming fishing villages and lively beach bars. Koh Lanta’s relaxed atmosphere, fewer crowds, and welcoming local community make it a fantastic getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Snorkeling and diving fans can explore vibrant coral reefs, while adventurers can trek through dense jungles or kayak through mangrove forests. With affordable accommodations, delicious seafood, and stunning sunsets, Koh Lanta delivers a unique tropical vacation in Thailand.
Long Beach
Also called Phrae Ae, Long Beach stretches for 3.5 kilometers, offering some of the best beach experiences in Thailand. Resorts and restaurants line the shore, In addition to providing plenty of dining and accommodation options without feeling overcrowded. Facing south, the beach delivers stunning views of Koh Phi Phi in the distance and unforgettable sunsets in the evening.
The soft, gently sloping sands and warm, calm waters create an ideal setting for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to relax, take a leisurely swim, or enjoy beachfront dining, Long Beach remains one of Thailand’s must-visit coastal gems.
Kantiang Beach: Snorkeling, Diving, and Activities at Thailand’s Best Beaches
Located at Koh Lanta’s southern tip, Kantiang serves as the perfect starting point for some of Thailand’s best diving adventures. The vibrant reefs, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life make every dive an unforgettable experience. Just a short boat ride from shore, divers can explore underwater wonders teeming with colorful fish and coral formations.
Along the beachfront, also, visitors will find a mix of accommodations, from cozy family-run bungalows to upscale resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for all budgets. With its stunning scenery, laid-back atmosphere, and world-class diving, Kantiang offers an ideal retreat for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Klong Dao: Explore the Best Beaches in Thailand Alone
Klong Dao, one of Koh Lanta Yai’s most popular beaches, spans three kilometers along the island’s northern coast. Its wide stretch of soft sand provides ample space for sunbathing throughout the day, while calm, shallow waters make it a great spot for swimming. Just a short walk from the shoreline, visitors will find a variety of small shops, lively bars, and inviting restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
With numerous accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly bungalows to upscale resorts, Klong Dao remains a favorite among families and travelers seeking both relaxation and convenience in a tropical paradise.
Klong Khong Beach: Lesser-Known Beaches in Thailand Worth Visiting
Klong Khong attracts budget travelers with its laid-back vibe and affordable beach bungalows, making it a top choice for those looking to unwind without spending too much. Along the shoreline, a variety of beach bars create a lively yet relaxed nightlife scene, perfect for socializing and enjoying music under the stars.
Unlike Thailand’s famous full-moon parties, the atmosphere here feels more intimate and easygoing, ideal for travelers who prefer a more mellow beach experience. With its golden sands, stunning sunsets, and welcoming community, Klong Khong offers a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment on Koh Lanta.
Discover Thailand Best Beaches for Every Type of Traveler
In addition to white sand, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees attract nearly every traveler looking for the perfect Thailand vacation. With over 1,500 miles (2,414 km) of coastline and around 1,430 islands, the country offers an incredible selection of postcard-worthy beaches. But Thailand’s shores aren’t just for lounging—many beaches also provide fantastic opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and rock climbing. Plus, local seafood spots and beachside eateries serve up delicious Thai cuisine, adding to the experience.
With so many choices, deciding where to go can feel overwhelming. Should you stick to well-known, easily accessible beaches or venture to hidden gems that require a bit more effort? To help you plan, we’ve covered a range of options, from famous hotspots to secluded escapes.