Thailand has some of the best beaches in the world. Deciding which one to visit can be difficult — but that’s a good problem to have!

Whether island or mainland beach, any of Thailand’s top beach destinations will be a great addition to your vacation in the Land of Smiles.

1. Patong Beach, Phuket

Address

Patong Beach, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

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Phuket (pronounced “poo-ket”) is the largest of the islands in Thailand. Patong, the largest beach on the island, is Thailand’s most popular beach.

With a wide coastline, soft white sand, warm water, and plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shopping within walking distance, it’s impossible to get bored here.

The vibrant nightlife attracts a partying crowd, and the jet skis keep the volume cranked high during the day; thus, those looking for peace and quiet might want to head elsewhere. Patong Beach isn’t an idyllic island paradise for travelers looking to recharge.

Although Patong is busy, it’s also very social. If you’re seeking action among Thailand’s top beaches, you’ll find it here.

2. Railay Beach, Krabi

Address

Railay Beach, Ao Nang, Krabi, Thailand

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Though it’s technically on the mainland, Railay Beach in Krabi is only accessible by boat and has an isolated island feel you won’t find at most popular beach destinations in Thailand.

Clear blue water, small islands on the horizon, and majestic limestone cliffs surround the small beaches which tend to be crowded only during Thailand’s peak season.

Railay is renowned as a rock climber’s haven in Thailand. Several climbing schools teach the basics of sport climbing and belaying. For climbers with some experience, take advantage of the excellent bouldering right on the beach and an opportunity to deep-water solo—climb as high as you dare without protection and then jump into the sea!

Aside from rock climbing, options for swimming and snorkeling abound, yet there’s not much else to do here but admire the gorgeous scenery—so come prepared to relax!

Although Railay Beach is still much quieter and less developed than most popular Thailand beaches, development continues each year, and during high season it can feel crowded.

3. Long Beach, Koh Lanta

Address

Unnamed Rd, Tambon Sala Dan, Amphoe Ko Lanta, Chang Wat Krabi 81150, Thailand

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Long Beach on the island of Koh Lanta is indeed long. It likely ranks as one of the best, widest beaches in Thailand. Restaurants right on the beach and views of Koh Phi Phi’s unique shape on the horizon enhance the “exotic” ambiance.

Unlike many other beaches on Koh Lanta, Long Beach has minimal sharp rocks and swimming hazards such as sea urchins. A soft-sand bottom slopes gently, providing ideal swimming conditions at any time.

Though Long Beach once attracted mostly backpackers with beach bungalows and cheap eats, the scene is now considerably more family-oriented. Nonetheless, good deals on accommodations, especially on the northern side of Long Beach, still exist.

Evenings on Long Beach offer a perfect amount of social interaction. Parties (some on the beach, others at venues along the road) can be easily avoided—or enjoyed—depending on your preference.

Koh Lanta is distinct from its nearby neighbor, Phuket. The absence of an airport and the requirement to take a short ferry have stymied rapid development on the island. So far, golf courses (aside from mini-golf) and chain cafes or restaurants have yet to establish themselves on Koh Lanta.

Tip: Storms often cause Long Beach to practically shut down completely each year in May or June. While a handful of businesses may remain open, most close until the season reopens in November. The beach can be messy, even taking on an apocalyptic feel with broken furniture and destroyed thatch roofs during the peak of the off-season.

4. Hua Hin Beach, Hua Hin

Address

Hua Hin Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand

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Regarded by many as one of the nicest beaches near Bangkok, Hua Hin enjoys immense popularity among locals and international visitors. This popularity stems mainly from the flat stretches of beach, ample activities, and ease of travel from Bangkok.

The beach slopes gently into the gulf, making it less ideal for serious swimming but a great choice for families with young children.

Alongside beach activities and water sports, Hua Hin boasts a renowned spa and wellness scene, as well as world-class golf courses. For a moment in nature, Khao Sam Roi Yot national park is nearby.

The main strip in Hua Hin stays busy, providing plentiful opportunities for nightlife and dining. If traffic begins to disrupt your tranquility, consider heading just a bit farther south to the peaceful beach strip at Pranburi.

5. Kata Beach, Phuket

Address

Kata Beach, Karon, Phuket 83100, Thailand

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Situated just a couple of miles away from the hustle and bustle of Patong Beach and south of Karon Beach is Kata Beach—a quieter, more relaxed stretch of sand in Southern Phuket.

Kata has everything that makes Phuket popular: palm trees, warm water, and stunning scenery—but high-rise hotels or shopping malls are less prominent. Gorgeous resorts line the coast.

Snorkeling is available at the northern end of Kata Beach; gear can be rented from dive shops or purchased at local mini-marts. For a great picture or cocktail with a view, driving up to the viewpoint between Kata Beach and Nai Harn is recommended.

During low season, Kata Beach can experience intense waves, making it a prime area for surfing or boogie boarding, though not ideal for travelers with young children.

Each fall, Phuket becomes notably busy for at least 10 days during the chaotic-yet-fascinating Phuket Vegetarian Festival. It’s more than just a celebration of tofu!

6. Lamai Beach, Koh Samui

Address

Lamai Beach, Surat Thani, Thailand

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Although Koh Samui’s beaches can be crowded due to its proximity to Bangkok, Lamai Beach strikes an ideal balance for visitors seeking beautiful scenery, good swimming opportunities, and other activities when out of the water.

Clusters of palm trees and turquoise water make Lamai Beach an exotic paradise for travelers. The southern end of the beach is the most popular and busy, while the sand eventually transitions to rocks on the northern end. Unfortunately, a few go-go “girlie” bars have established along the road.

For a curious break from the sun, consider visiting Wat Khunaram, where an esteemed monk’s body is mummified and displayed (as per his last request) inside a glass case.

Renting a motorbike is perhaps the best way to explore the extensive island of Koh Samui; however, only do so if you’re experienced with driving in Asia. The nearby fishing village, while now catering to tourists, offers an interesting diversion.

At night, the plethora of bars and restaurants transforms Lamai Beach into a vibrant party scene that attracts both expatriates and travelers alike.

7. Sairee Beach, Koh Tao

Address

Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand

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Phone +66 87 045 8522

Once primarily a destination for divers, visitors are slowly discovering that Koh Tao has more to offer than just a place to eat and sleep between dives.

Interestingly, Sairee Beach on Koh Tao has developed into a party scene akin to Haad Rin on Koh Phangan—especially during the Full Moon Parties. Guidebooks that still categorize Koh Tao as an “island for divers that shuts down early” (which was accurate until a few years ago) are now outdated. Nightly pub crawls attract young travelers looking to make new connections and enjoy vibrant nightlife.

Sairee Beach is a one-mile stretch of sandy beach with stunning views of small islands on the horizon. It stands as Koh Tao’s most popular beach, featuring numerous affordable accommodations and restaurants. The nearest airport is on Koh Samui, so getting there entails a ferry trip, helping keep the beach relatively uncrowded.

8. White Sand Beach, Koh Chang

White Sand Beach represents yet another example of a stunning stretch of sand that was once dominated by backpackers but is now burgeoning with resort developments. Although numerous resorts and evening buffets have taken root on the beach, the northern end of White Sand Beach still retains some of its old bamboo bungalow charm.

As its name suggests, the sand is soft, white, and powdery. This beautiful beachfront on the west side of the island is lined with palm and coconut trees against a backdrop of gently sloping hills.

While Koh Chang is still viewed by some as a budget traveler island rather than a luxury destination, it boasts a broad range of accommodation options. It is also regarded as one of the finest islands within striking distance (5 to 6 hours) of Bangkok.

9. Sunrise Beach at Haad Rin, Koh Pha Ngan

Address

136, M3G8+MRJ Haad Rin Koh Phangan, Tambon Ban Tai, Amphoe Ko Pha-ngan, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84280, Thailand

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Phone +66 77 375 144

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As stunning as it is, Haad Rin is primarily recognized for its monthly full moon parties and dynamic nightlife.

By day, the golden sand and gently sloping shore make Sunrise Beach ideal for sunbathing, though some rocky areas require caution when swimming. Many visitors spend their days recovering from the excesses of the previous night’s celebrations.

In spite of the lively party culture, the beach at Haad Rin stands among the finest in Thailand. Between Full Moon Party dates, it isn’t overly crowded. However, remember that beach and accommodation fill to capacity up to a week before the big event. During busy seasons, over 15,000 revelers flock here to celebrate!

Sunrise Beach is situated on a small peninsula extending from the island, meaning while there are places to sleep and dine, it remains relatively undeveloped. A brief walk through town leads to the opposite side, providing access to sunsets on the more tranquil Sunset Beach.

Even though Haad Rin has gained a reputation that overshadows the entire island of Koh Pha Ngan, the island is vast! A short boat trip from Haad Rin takes you to Haad Yuan, an even better, more “grown up” beach. The Sanctuary, an isolated health-wellness resort, is located in a lovely bay not far from here. Rest assured, it’s much more affordable than it may sound.

10. Ao Nang

Address

Ao Nang Beach, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81180, Thailand

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Although the beach at Ao Nang in Krabi is narrow and tends to be overcrowded during high season, it continues to attract crowds primarily because of its breathtaking scenery.

The Krabi limestone formations are visible in every direction, alongside picturesque small islands on the horizon. Since Ao Nang is highly developed and readily accessible from Krabi Town without needing to take a boat, it remains a bustling hub.

Small shops line the beach road; however, major malls or outlets are absent in Ao Nang. Instead of shopping, there are various water sports, diving opportunities, and even a jungle zip line available. Rock climbing is also an option, but travelers keen on serious climbing should head directly to Railay via longtail boat.

A plethora of bars—some go-go style, some not—serve up Thailand’s three major beer brands along with imports to satisfy expatriate taste buds.