Sun, Sea, and Sand: 26 Best Beaches in Thailand

Author: Marjolein DilvenEdited by: Maria Ana Santiago
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Wondering which Thai beach to visit first? You will indeed be hard-pressed to make a choice. There simply are too many excellent options among the best beaches in Thailand.

Surrounded by the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, Thailand has over 1,430 tropical islands and a coastline of 1,839 miles (2,960 kilometers). 

One of the reasons why Thailand is considered a top tourist destination is because of its pristine tropical shores. From the vivid green waters and white sands to the water sports and underwater worlds, there is something for everyone on Thai beaches.

The jury is still out as to whether Thailand has the best beaches in the world. Regardless of the verdict of tourists and experts, the country is indeed blessed with awesome beaches that would make certified beach lovers sigh in contentment.

We spent two months in Thailand, and we didn’t even get to all the beaches. That’s how many there are. This article will take you on a virtual tour of Thailand’s best beaches. Now, close your eyes and imagine a gentle breeze making the palm leaves sway as you sip your drink on your dream beach. 

Best Thai Beaches – Beaches in Phuket

Mai Khao Beach Stock
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1. Mai Khao Beach

If you need a beach to escape from the crowd, consider Mai Khao Beach. It is located in northern Phuket and extends about 7 mi (11 km). With its length, it will be easier to find an uncrowded spot. Here are some places to stay in Mai Khao Beach, depending on your budget.

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2. Kata Noi

Kata Noi is a silky, soft beach in Phuket with some great spots for surfing. Snorkelers also can enjoy the spot but should watch the rocky headlands on both sides of the bay. With its beautiful strand of sand and clear blue water, the beach was once voted as the most beautiful beach in the world. Since it’s out of the way, it’s calm, and many people don’t know about it.

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3. Freedom Beach

With some incredible soft sands and clear blue waters, Freedom Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket. It’s located next to the more crowded Patong Beach but a bit more calm. Freedom Beach can only be accessed by boat during high seasons or from a hilltop with a very deep slope.

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4. Patong Beach

Patong Beach Stock
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If you are visiting the west coast of Phuket, Patong is the main beach to visit. The town is full of shops, markets, restaurants, and bars. While the center of the beach can get very busy, it’s still beautiful and a bit calm.

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5. Karon Beach

The second biggest beach in Phuket islands is also among the most popular. Karon Beach has clear blue waters and a long stretch of beautiful white sand. Despite its popularity, it’s so vast that it never feels crowded. Many small shops, restaurants, bazaars, and even a temple market exist.

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6. Nai Harn

Nai Harn is a beautiful, top-rated beach in Phuket surrounded by green hills and small islands. It has some soft sand and bright blue water between November and April. There are lots of Thai restaurants and street foods, creating a local experience.

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7. Laem Singh Beaches

Another beach that is a favorite for many people around Phuket is Laem Singh. With its palm trees that lean over the sands, it creates the atmosphere of a Robinson Cruise hideaway. However, you should note that public access was closed in 2017, even though you can still get there.

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8. Ya Nui Beach

Even though Ya Nui is a bit small, it’s charmingly tucked in a cove. Nestled between a Windmill viewpoint and the popular Promthep cape in Phuket, Ya Nui looks like a secret beach. It is among the favorite spots for snorkeling and beach diving.

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9. Bangtao Beach

Located on Phuket’s west coast, Bangtao is halfway between Patong and the airport. It has beautiful sand stretches and is among Phuket’s longest beaches. One of the most popular features of the beach is the Angsana Laguna Phuket resort complex. The beach is also among the most trendy and lively beach destinations, with many beach clubs and dining options.

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10. Kata Beach

Located on southern Phuket’s west coast, Kata Beach extends to almost a mile (1.5 km) of soft sand and clear turquoise waters. Food, entertainment, accommodation, and diving facilities abound along and near the beach. It is one of the three major beaches of Phuket, along with Patong and Karon. 

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Best Thai Beaches – Best Beaches in Krabi

11. Ao Nang Beach

With its electric blue waters, Ao Nang Beach boasts electric blue waters, steep cliffs, and a wide range of hotels and resorts. It’s among the most popular beaches in Thailand partly because of its nightlife. Being located in a small town also makes Ao Nang more charming.

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12. Railay Beach 

Thai traditional wooden longtail boat Stock
Image Credit: Preto_perola /Depositphotos

An isolated, tranquil beach that will lure you away from the bustling mainland and give you more than a sea, sand, and surf respite. You will love the lush jungles and limestone cliffs, especially if you are adventurous. You can also engage in many activities on this beach, from rock climbing, diving, snorkeling, elephant trekking, sea kayaking, jungle trekking, and more.

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13. Phra Nang Beach

If you are a seeker of adventure, Phra Nang Beach is one of the hidden gems in Krabi. You will love the lone cliff that stands out in the water, providing a unique stage for rock climbing activities. There is also a cave below a cliff, a religious site for the locals.

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14. TubKaek Beach

If you are searching for a beach in Krabi, Tubkaek is one of the best places. The beach features world-class resorts hidden among the natural green paradise on the shore. This beach is located in the Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park and has several hiking tracks that offer visitors a glimpse of the flora and fauna.

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15. Ton Sai Beach

Ton Sai Beach Stock
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If you are searching for a beach with a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere and great street food, you should go to Ton Sai. It has casual beach bars and is great for meeting new friends. Ton Sai is also one of the beaches with the most affordable accommodations.

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16. Klong Muang Beach

If you are a couple wondering where to stay during your honeymoon, we recommend Klong Muang Beach. It has numerous comfortable hotels, fun beach bars, and restaurants. Klong Muang will give you a better view of the calm waters, making it perfect for beach hopping.

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Best Thai Beaches – Best Beaches in Koh Tao

Koh Tao is located above Koh Samui and Koh Phanang, which are all home to some incredible beaches. 

17. Koh Nang Yuan

If you are a fan of snorkeling, you can engage in the activity in Koh Nang Yuan. This beach also has many tropical fish and a great Japanese garden.

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18. Ao Sai Daeng Beach

With some clear waters and a nearby shark island, Ao Sai Daeng Beach is one of the best beaches in Koh Tao for snorkeling. But if chilling out is your thing, you will also love the tranquil and spotless beach. The beach is also a great place to get your open-water diving certificate.

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19. Laem Thian 

Laem Thian, situated on the east coast of Koh Tao, Thailand, is a well-loved snorkeling spot that caters to divers of all skill levels. The bay is cradled amidst granite boulders and features crystal-clear waters and a small sandy beach. Access to Laem Thian is primarily on foot, as it’s not easily reachable by taxi or bike. 

Alternatively, visitors can also reach Laem Thian by boat or kayak from Tanote Bay, located south of Laem Thian.

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20. Sai Daeng

When driving to Sai Daeng, you will love nature as much as the stunning beach. The road winds up over the Southern Koh Tao hills and through some old palm plantations. When you get to Sai Daeng, you will find a fleet of kayaks that will enable you to paddle to Shark Island. You can also visit the desolate volcanic mountains or simply laze on the sand.

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Best Thai Beaches – Best Beaches in Ko Samet

21. Ao Prao Beach

One of the best beaches along Koh Samet Island, Ao Prao is completely private and has limited accommodation options. Still, it’s a nice beach to visit. If you don’t mind your budget, this beach has some of the most luxurious hotels. Located in the northwestern part of Koh Samet, it’s a good choice for those searching for a luxury and quiet holiday.

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22. Sai Kaew Beach

Fire Show in Koh Samet Stock
Image Credit: sirichaiDeposit/Depositphotos

One of the longest and most popular beaches in Koh Samet is Sai Kaew. It is usually very lively in northeastern Phuket, especially in the evenings when bars and restaurants set tables along the beach and light candles.

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23. Ao Wai Beach

Located on the picturesque island of Koh Samet in the Gulf of Thailand, Ao Wai Beach offers a tranquil and unspoiled paradise for beach lovers. The beach remains relatively uncrowded compared to some of Thailand’s more popular destinations, offering a sense of exclusivity and tranquility.

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24. Wong Duean Beach

A nice spot for kayaking and motorbike rentals, Wong Duean will make it easy for you to move around the island. The beach is a bit lively and not so busy.

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25. Ao Thian Beach

Ao Thian Beach is located in the southern part of Wong Duean Beach on the island of Koh Samet. Wong Duean Beach is one of the more popular and accessible beaches on Koh Samet, and Ao Thian Beach is situated at its southern end. This area offers a quieter and more secluded atmosphere than the central part of Wong Duean Beach, making it a great spot for those looking for a peaceful beach experience on Koh Samet.

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26. Ao Phai

Also referred to as Bamboo Bay, Ao Phai is a sandy beach in Ko Samet with a breathtaking view. You can rent a kayak to paddle or enjoy a drink in one of the cozy beach bars.

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For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Best Time To Hit the Beach

There are seasonal fluctuations when you want to hit the beach in Thailand; therefore, the best time for a beach visit depends on your needs. However, December to April is generally the best time to visit Thai beaches, as it is not rainy and the sky is clear.

The days are usually warmer, making them perfect for a beach outing or visiting different heritage sites. From April onwards, the heat increases while the rainy season starts in June.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Best Beaches in Thailand

What Is the Best Thailand Island to Visit?

The best Thailand island to visit can vary depending on your preferences and what you want in a vacation. Thailand offers a wide range of stunning islands with unique charm and attractions.

One of the most popular islands is Phuket. It has soft sandy beaches and lots of activities to engage in.

What Is the Most Beautiful Island in Thailand?

Thailand boasts a multitude of breathtaking islands, each showcasing its distinct charm. Among them, Krabi stands out with its captivating azure waters and pristine sandy shores, all embraced by lush limestone cliffs and verdant jungles. Beyond its picturesque coastline, Krabi is celebrated for its lively nightlife and many thrilling outdoor adventures.

How Many Islands Does Thailand Have?

Thailand comprises approximately 1,430 islands scattered across its coastal regions in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. These islands vary in size, popularity, and accessibility, with some of the most well-known ones being Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi.

Conclusion – Best Beaches in Thailand

You can find your own corner of paradise in one of Thailand’s singular beaches. With this article, we hope you’ll get a better idea of your beachcombing options, which can narrow down your choices depending on your time and budget.

As you experience Thailand’s best beaches, you will understand why the country ranks high on the bucket list of every beach lover. Snap a few beach pictures for the gram, especially for the special memories spent on one of the planet’s most relaxing and awe-inspiring destinations. 

No matter which unique beach you visit, you will surely have an awesome experience with the sun, sand, and surf. Travel safely and have fun in Thailand!

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

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12Go Asia is my ultimate travel companion in Asia, offering the best budget service platform for seamless booking of trains, buses, ferries, and flights, ensuring every adventure unfolds smoothly and effortlessly.

Booking.com is my ultimate lodging partner. It offers many accommodations worldwide and simplifies my travel experiences with its user-friendly platform and unbeatable deals.

Get Your Guide is my go-to for personalized travel experiences, enriching my journeys with unique tours and activities curated to my interests, making every adventure unforgettable and tailored to my preferences.

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LifeStraw Go Bottle is my trusted hydration companion for outdoor adventures, filtering water on-the-go to keep me safe and hydrated, ensuring every hike or travel experience is worry-free and enjoyable.

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