If you are planning your dream vacation, Thailand may be the destination that turns your dream into reality.
The country has so much to offer, including an ancient rich culture, and of course, breathtaking beaches.
Let’s take a look at the # best beaches in Thailand.
Best Beaches in Thailand
Thailand has more than 1,500 miles of coastline, as well as more than 1,400 islands.
You’ll find beaches that are secluded and plenty that are bustling with tourists and vendors.
1. Maenam Beach, Koh Samui
Maenam Beach is located in Samui.
You’ll find caramel-colored sands and deep waters.
If you have kids, keep them close.
You can quickly go from a few feet of water to deep ocean depths.
However, the beach is certainly family-friendly and has a calm atmosphere.
The other concern with Maenam is the water itself.
Most tropical beaches have crystal-clear water.
Because the seafloor of Maenam is made of sand, the water is often cloudy.
In addition to detracting from the attractiveness, this makes it difficult to spot jellyfish and other risky sea creatures.
Locals typically stay close to the shore, which makes this less of a concern.
The beach is peaceful and rarely crowded.
It’s also studded with palm trees, which can provide a bit of shade.
2. Ko Lanta Yai, Krabi
The Krabi province is made up of 52 gorgeous islands, with Ko Lanta Yai being the largest.
You’ll find a 2-mile crescent-shaped beach on the Northern coast of the island.
It’s a great area for children.
It features sandy shores that are free of rocks, with plenty of shallow waters so little ones can splash and play safely.
The beach also has plenty of restaurants, shops, and accommodations, so you can find everything you need without straying from the striking beach.
3. Thong Nai Pan Noi, Koh Phangan
You’ll find Thong Nai Pan Noi on the northeast corner of Koh Phangan island.
It’s remote, and far away from the bustling port city of Thong Sala.
Thong Nai Pan Noi has a beautiful backdrop of lush mountains.
The bright blue water is crystal clear, and the sand is pearly white.
Near the beach, there are two villages within walking distance.
These are charming, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and beach resorts.
However, there aren’t any developments on the beach itself, which adds to the seclusion you’ll feel there.
4. Donald Duck Bay, Similan
Donald Duck Bay is one of the Similan islands.
The beach is famous for its interesting rock formations.
One formation looks like the head of Donald Duck.
Another interesting formation is Sail Rock.
This massive boulder looks like it should have rolled away long ago because it’s perched at a precarious angle.
The beach also features white sand and dark blue waters that offer a perfect contrast.
It’s also a great place for snorkeling or scuba diving.
The water in the area isn’t particularly deep, which makes it a good choice for new scuba divers.
You may also see Hawksbill and Green turtles, which are common island visitors.
Don’t feed the turtles!
5. Phra Nang Cave Beach, Krabi
Phra Nang Cave Beach is also off the beaten path.
In fact, you’ll have to take a boat from Ao Nang or Krabi Town to reach the beach.
It’s well worth the trip, however.
It’s considered one of the most beautiful places in Thailand.
You’ll find stunning rock formations, jungles complete with monkeys, and bright blue water at the beach.
The sand is soft and fine, which makes it perfect for a beachside stroll.
The most impressive part of Phra Nang Cave Beach is, as the name suggests, a cave.
Phra Nang Cave, also known as Princess Cave, is very special to locals.
It’s a fertility shrine, with lots of “male-inspired” items left as offerings.
While at the beach, you can go snorkeling, swim, grab a bite from a food boat, and even get a massage.
6. Sairee Beach, Koh Tao
Sairee Beach is the longest beach on the island of Koh Tao.
If you dream of white sand, crystal clear waters, and unique palm trees, this is the place for you.
The palm trees are often bent at a 90-degree angle, which is likely a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
Sairee Beach essentially has two personalities.
During the day, it’s busy but relaxed.
It’s great for children because the water is shallow.
If you want to relax, this is the beach for you.
You’ll also find lots of restaurants and shops to enjoy if you need a break from the beach or just a meal.
However, when the sun goes down, the bars lining the beach come to life.
Nights have a fun party atmosphere.
You can even catch a fire show after dark.
7. Chaweng, Koh Samui
Chaweng happens to be the most popular beach on Koh Samui island.
This beach has everything you need to enjoy your day.
The southern end of the beach features deep water.
If you want to surf or engage in other water activities, this is the area to head to.
The northern end has shallow waters, making it the perfect choice for families with young children.
The reef just offshore is also a great snorkeling spot.
There are several hotels and resorts on the beach.
You can also find lots of vendors.
Pick up some ice cream, drinks, local cuisine, and jewelry while you enjoy the sun and the sand.
To truly revel in luxury, get a pedicure or a massage while looking out at the ocean.
8. Long Beach, Koh Lanta
Long Beach is a bit different than other beaches in Thailand.
Instead of tropical palm trees, you’ll find pine trees bordering the beach.
There are more than 2 miles of beach for you to enjoy.
Although there are plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and bars, they keep a good distance from the beach itself.
This makes the beach feel undeveloped, even though modern conveniences are close by.
The seas are calm and the atmosphere here is relaxed.
If you want a tranquil spot of sand, you can find it here.
9. Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan
Hua Hin is located on the mainland, a few hours away from Bangkok.
It features the country’s oldest beach resort.
It’s also home to the summer palace of King Rama VII.
You’ll find white sand and clear waters here.
It’s less expensive than Thailand’s southern beaches and has a slower pace that appeals to laid-back travelers.
The Town Center area is the most crowded and popular.
You’ll find plenty of beach chairs, seafood, and traditional Thai cuisine.
If you stroll to the north, you’ll find a quieter area of the beach.
You won’t see vendors here, but there are some charming resorts perfect for a quiet, relaxing getaway.
10. Sichon, Nakhon Si Thammarat
If you want to experience traditional Thailand rather than tourist areas, Sichon is the place to be.
It’s located in Southern Thailand.
You’ll likely meet local fishermen when visiting the beach.
You may also spot the pink dolphins the region is known for.
It’s thought that these marine mammals are a subspecies of the Chinese white dolphin, although no one knows for sure.
You should definitely check out the Sichon cuisine as well.
Eels, steamed clams, and mackerel are always on the menu at the small restaurants on the beach.
Thailand Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Thailand Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: HIGH
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What part of Thailand has the best beaches?
The West Coast is well known for its beautiful beaches.
This area, known as the Andaman Coast, also includes national parks and stunning islands.
However, you can find stunning coasts throughout Thailand.
Is it safe to swim at beaches in Thailand?
It’s generally safe, but there are some risks.
Large jellyfish and other dangerous marine life can pose a threat.
The currents are the biggest risk, however.
Keep an eye on current conditions, and watch for any red flags on the beach.
The tides can quickly go from calm to strong.
Why is swimming not allowed at Maya Beach?
Maya Beach is one of the few beaches that didn’t make the list because swimming is banned.
Maya offers a beautiful beach, but swimming isn’t allowed to protect the local shark population.
Motorboats are also banned from the area.
When is the best time to go to Thailand?
November through March is the winter season for Thailand.
It’s still quite warm, which makes this the prime time for tourists.
You can avoid the crowds by visiting in the off-season.
April through June are the hottest months for Thailand.
While this is considered the off-season, you can enjoy a trip during this time if you are willing to brave the temperatures.
The rainy season begins in June and lasts through October.
This is the worst time to visit because torrential downpours are common.
Maenam Beach’s calm atmosphere and palm-studded shoreline make it a peaceful retreat, though the cloudy water due to sandy seafloor can be off-putting for some.