Best Beaches in Thailand
Thailand guarantees beach bliss whether you’re searching for an isolated escape, family-friendly fun or a busy beach-bar vibe. With powder-white sands and clear waters at most beaches, the options are as endless as the ocean views. Blue Bay Travel brings you the inside scoop on the best beaches in Thailand and the top places to stay just steps from the sand. From romantic luxury retreats to activity-focused resorts and safe spots for little ones to play, we’ve listed the perfect Thailand beach resorts for every kind of beach lover.
Family fun: Bang Tao Beach
Bang Tao Beach, on Phuket’s relaxed west coast, extends over 6 km of soft sand and clear, shallow waters – ideal for families with young children. Quiet and laid-back, it is lined with rustic eateries and sun loungers, with long-tail boats offering excursions to nearby bays. It is also a popular spot for watching Phuket’s spectacular sunsets. Stay right on the beach at the four-star Sunwing Bangtao Beach hotel, a family-friendly resort with six outdoor pools, a kids’ club and everything required for a stress-free holiday. Although the atmosphere here is peaceful, the lively energy of Patong and the cultural charm of Phuket Town are only about 20 minutes away. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Phuket Laguna course.
Mother Nature’s masterpiece: Klong Muang Beach
With its silky white sand, turquoise water and backdrop of tangled forest, Krabi’s Klong Muang Beach feels like a true castaway escape. Spacious and uncrowded, it offers just a few cafes, beach massage spots and a SUP club, which leaves plenty of space to lay down your beach towel in peace. Set right on the shore, the four-star Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort is perfect for couples and families. Whether you’re after quiet beach days with a good book to read or active adventures, the choice is yours. Just steps from the sea, the resort’s Mandara Spa invites you to relax with a range of indulgent treatments in a tropical setting.
Local culture: Maenam Beach
On Koh Samui’s less-known north coast, this scenic arc of sand offers the laid-back luxury of exquisite Thailand beach resorts while maintaining a rugged, untouched vibe. Sheltered by swaying coconut palms, it’s easy to find a quiet shaded spot to unwind. Just a few paces from the shore, the boutique four-star Paradise Beach Resort Koh Samui offers a tranquil base with kayaking, diving, bike hire and guided hikes. For a more up-tempo evening, Chaweng’s nightlife is roughly just a 20-minute drive away. Nearby, explore postcard-worthy Maenam Village, about a 10-minute walk, or visit the charming Fisherman’s Village in Bophut.
Buzzing bay: Patong Beach
Phuket’s Patong Beach is Thailand’s famed spot for boisterous nightlife and party-til-dawn culture. By day, the shallow waters are family-friendly and beach activities are many: try jet skis, banana boats or paragliding. Wander the night market for tasty street food, browse souvenir shops or simply people-watch as the sun sets. As darkness falls, the energy ramps up and social butterflies emerge – Patong’s party gets started. For a peaceful base nearby, the award-winning Patong Merlin Beach Hotel offers a tranquil haven set in acres of blossom-filled gardens with lofty coconut palms. It has six pools, a spa and a fitness centre. Just a short walk from the revelry of Patong Beach, it’s ideal for both couples and families.
Secret and secluded: Nang Thong Beach
In a hidden pocket on Thailand’s tranquil southwest coast lies Nang Thong Beach. Known for its golden sands and untouched charm, it’s backed by tropical jungle and lapped by clear waters. It’s perfect for swimming in the dry season or enjoying lazy sunset strolls. Midway along the beach, a few low-key and authentic Thai street food stalls offer tasty dishes without disrupting the calm atmosphere. Stay at the five-star Moracea by Khao Lak Resort at the foot of green hills and just steps from the sea. Nearby, explore Lam Ru National Park or kayak through serene mangroves.
Elegant escape: Natai Beach
A vast stretch of powder-soft sand, Natai Beach offers peaceful swims, fiery sunsets and a genuine sense of escape. Local fishermen cast their lines from the pier, and a few humble stalls near the entrance serve snacks and drinks. The nearby five-star Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa in Phang Nga sets the bar high among Thailand’s beach resorts, with luxurious, stylish suites and villas featuring private pools. Guests can enjoy watersports, a fitness centre and an exciting menu of cultural, scenic or activity-focused excursions. Looking for a special wedding location? Aleenta also hosts beautifully tailored Thai and Western-style wedding ceremonies by the sea.
Conclusion. When to go and what to know
Thailand’s tropical and humid climate means warm weather year-round. The hottest months are April and May (averaging 35 °C). During the low season, the southwest monsoon brings intermittent rain from May to October to the north, central and southwest areas, while Koh Samui and Koh Phangan see their wettest weather around November. For dry, sunny days, visit between November and February, when temperatures average between 27 °C and 31 °C.
A beach holiday in Thailand never disappoints. To find the best beach in Thailand for your perfect escape, speak to one of our experts.
FAQs
Which part of Thailand has the best beaches?
The best beaches in Thailand are mostly in the south. Head for Phuket, Krabi or the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phi Phi. You’ll find secluded bays, family-friendly spots and lively stretches of sand – all bordered by breathtaking scenery. Superb for diving.
Which beach in Thailand has the clearest water?
Some of the clearest water on Thailand beaches is around Koh Similan, Koh Lipe and Koh Tao. Head here for swimming, snorkelling and diving – the varied marine life and soft sandy shores make for Instagrammable settings.
Is Bangkok or Phuket better for beaches?
Phuket beats Bangkok for beaches. Bangkok is best for cultural experiences, temples, palaces and city life, while Phuket is home to some of Thailand’s best beach resorts.
Which part of Thailand is the most scenic?
To truly entrench yourself in nature, travel to southern Thailand beach resorts in Krabi, Phang Nga or Koh Lanta. The scenery is made of dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald seas with lush jungle backdrops.
