With over 1,000 islands, Thailand is a paradise for beach lovers.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, these islands attract millions of visitors every year: from January to July 2023, Thailand welcomed over 15 million visitors, an increase of 384% compared to the same period in 2022(5).
This guide is designed to help you navigate this vast world of idyllic islands and pristine beaches typical of the Land of Smiles.
From Bangkok: gateway to paradise
A trip to Thailand often begins in Bangkok, with an arrival in a city teeming with life and traffic! Exploring Thailand’s islands and beaches from Bangkok is an adventure that’s an integral part of your travel experience. Let’s see what modes of transport are available to get you to your piece of paradise:
Flight to the Islands
Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport is a major hub offering daily flights to all major island destinations such as Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui and many others. These short and often economical flights are the fastest and most comfortable way to get to your destination.
Adventure by train and ferry
For those who prefer to travel at a slower pace, taking a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station to coastal provinces like Surat Thani, then continuing by bus and ferry to islands like Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, offers a more immersive experience.
On the road
Renting a car or taking a bus from Bangkok can be a great way to get to seaside destinations like Pattaya, Hua Hin, or even as far as Chumphon, from where ferries leave for Koh Tao.
Further afield: Remote islands
For more remote islands like Koh Lipe, trips often start with a flight to Hat Yai, followed by a bus or minivan transfer to Pak Bara, and finally, a ferry to the island of your dreams. This journey, though a little longer, is part of the adventure, rewarded by secluded beaches, coral reefs and coconut palms.
Discovering the world’s most beautiful islands
The peaceful adventure of Koh Lanta, a paradise location
Koh Lanta is an island that immediately evokes adventure, but an adventure tinged with tranquillity. Less crowded than its more famous cousins, Koh Lanta seduces with its relaxing atmosphere and unspoilt natural landscapes.
Families, couples and solo travelers will find it a haven of peace, where days are spent exploring mangroves by kayak, snorkeling around nearby islands and relaxing on almost deserted beaches.
Long Beach (Pra-Ae) is one of these gems, with its fine sand stretching as far as the eye can see, bordered by turquoise water gently undulating in the breeze.
At the end of the day, the beach restaurants come alive, offering tasty seafood barbecues as the sun sets. Koh Lanta is that magical place where you can truly disconnect, refocus and enjoy the simplicity of island life.
Discover Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand: the island of many facets
In Koh Samui, there’s something for everyone, from idyllic beaches to hidden nooks and crannies – the only imponderable: always under coconut palms. From the white sandy beaches of Chaweng to the tranquil retreats of Lamai, Samui offers a range of choices for travellers of all backgrounds, including scuba diving areas close to coral reefs.
Koh Tao’s rustic charm and heavenly beaches
Koh Tao, or “Turtle Island”, is a dream spot for divers and snorkelers. But it’s also a perfect spot for lounging on picture-postcard beaches like Sai Nuan, a real hideaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Koh Phi Phi: the cinematic icon
It’s impossible to talk about Koh Phi Phi without mentioning “The Beach”. Maya Bay, made famous by the film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. It’s the quintessential beach paradise.
The quiet exoticism of Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe, often called the “Maldives of Thailand”, is that little pearl where time seems to stand still. Pattaya Beach is the ideal place to admire breathtaking sunsets, cocktail in hand.
Off-the-beaten-track adventure on Koh Chang
If you’re looking for a getaway from the crowds, Koh Chang is your island. Its beaches, like White Sand Beach, offer a more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for reading that book you’ve been keeping on your bedside table for months.
The little-known jewels of the Similan Islands
The Similan Islands, a group of islands in the Andaman Sea, are a well-kept secret for diving and snorkeling. Koh Similan, the main island, is a diver’s paradise. However, it’s also a magical place for those who just want to enjoy the natural beauty of the place.
Koh Samet’s family atmosphere
Just a few hours’ drive from Bangkok, Koh Samet is the perfect weekend getaway. Its beaches, such as Sai Kaew, are perfect for families or groups of friends looking to soak up the sun without straying too far from the capital.
Koh Nang Yuan & Koh Wua Ta Lap: neighboring beauties of Koh Tao
Just off Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan is famous for its incredible views and unique beaches. Koh Wua Ta Lap, in Angthong Marine National Park, offers breathtaking panoramas and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling.
Top 10 of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches
1. Railay Beach, Krabi:
Accessible only by boat, this beach is a veritable sanctuary of calm.
2. Sunrise Beach, Koh Lipe:
For sunrises that redefine your concept of beauty.
3. Bottle Beach, Koh Phangan:
A well-kept secret, accessible by hike or boat.
4. Kata Noi, Phuket:
A small beach with big waves and lots of charm!
5. Ao Thong, Koh Kood:
For those looking to get away from it all, this is your retreat.
6. Klong Prao, Koh Chang:
The ideal spot for a sunset kayak trip.
7. Sairee Beach, Koh Tao:
The perfect blend of nightlife and waterside relaxation.
8. Haad Rin, Koh Phangan:
Famous for its Full Moon Party, but magnificent 24/7.
9. Long Beach, Koh Lanta:
Miles of sand for you and maybe a few lucky others.
10. Patong Beach, Phuket:
For those who like to walk in fine sand and love to party.
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to recharge your batteries and discover Thailand, we hope this guide has given you a few ideas… 😉
