Unspoilt coves, fine, white sand, crystal-clear waters to lose yourself in, lush vegetation. There are even idyllic islands to discover. Bathing in such a calm, uncontaminated sea will be just wonderful: you will have the sensation of being in a huge swimming pool. This is Thailand, the place that, with its archipelagoes and coral reefs, offers so many different solutions for a wonderful, tropical holiday by the sea. A true treasure of a location with 2,500 kilometres of coastline, let's discover the best beaches.

• Khao Phing Kan Island beaches
• Patong Beach, Phuket
• Phang Nga Bay, Phuket
• Phi Phi Don Beach, Phi Phi Island
• Ton Sai Bay, Krabi
• Rang Yai Beach, Phuket
• The beaches in the Ang Thong Marine Park
• Thong Nai Pan Bay Beach
• Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan
• Lamai Beach, Koh Samui
• Pattaya Beach, Bangkok
• Maya Bay, Phi Phi Island
• Railay Beach, Krabi
• Phra Ae Beach, Krabi
• Ko Nang Yuang Beach, Koh Tao
• Kai Bae Beach, Trat
• Lonely Beach, Trat
• Bottle Beach, Surat
• Aow Leuk Beach, Surat
• Sunset Beach, Koh Lipe
• White Sand Beach, Koh Chang
• Bamboo Bay, Koh Lanta
• Hat Sai Kaew, Koh Samet Beach    

There is a marine park, one of the attractions in the province of Pang-nga, that is one of the most loved in Thailand. And there is an island, Khao Phing Kan, that is becoming increasingly popular, also due to its unique shape, which is a kind of large nail. Picture big, majestic rocks, balancing over the sea. The island, which is part of an archipelago with about another ten atolls, is filled with lush, flourishing vegetation. It is in the north-west part of Phang-nga Bay. It is also known by the name of James Bond Island, thanks to the cinema and the film The man with the golden gun, one of the 007 series of films, which was filmed here.

The island can be easily reached, starting out from Khao Lak, Phuket, Krabi. Once you have arrived, you can choose to do several things, including a tour on the traditional wooden boats. You can travel through the mangrove forests, or go out on a speed boat. The caves and coves on the island can all be reached from the sea and can also be explored by canoe.

Phuket is a well-known island and its beaches are worthy of note. Unspoilt sea and a soft, light-sand beach are the characteristics that you will find anywhere, together with lush vegetation. The main tourist district on the island is Patong, which has a surface area of about 17 square kilometres: it was rebuilt after the terrible tsunami in 2004.

Patong Beach is a successful mix of white soft sand, bright blue sea and a never-ending row of houses, shops, restaurants and bars. A crescent shape that stretches for 3 kilometres. There are places to stop and rest, kiosks and restaurants, but also places to hire a pedalo, a boat, and snorkelling equipment. Patong is also the best scuba diving centre on the island, and has numerous specialised structures for this purpose. 

Patong Bay protects the entire area: here there are pretty coves, with spectacular views and calm waters. Tri Trang is the longest bay, and also the easiest to reach; its sand is white and soft and it looks directly onto Patong. 

Paradise Beach is absolutely stunning.  It has two bays that vary in size, but which are both beautiful with amazing rock formations. Freedom Beach is a unique strip of sand, included on all the trips to this area. It is about one hundred metres long, has all the necessary facilities and is also a sight to behold, with beach chairs disappearing amidst the palm trees. It is an ideal place to rest and spend a day among friends.

One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Phang-nga Bay National Park. The area, which has been open since 1981, extends for about 500 kilometres. It is a very well-known national marine park in this country, comprising islands, various mountains and forests. The bay is one of the most beautiful places in South East Asia.

It is a particular place, with small rocky islands that jut out of the crystal-clear, uncontaminated waters.  Nature also favours the fauna: Over the years, the environment has become the habitat of many species of reptiles and birds. Some of the most interesting and rare examples are the white-tailed eagle and the Asian water monitor.

Gorgeous, famous and recognisable: The Phi Phi islands are two of the must beautiful islands in southern Thailand. The main bay of Koh Phi Phi Don is a true spectacle of nature. Imagine limestone cliffs covered by tropical forest. The bay is “protected” in this way and is thus a safe, natural harbour, sheltered from the winds. From here, a strip of white sand, bordered by palm trees, begins, which breaks into small, pretty coves. Both islands offer unbelievable landscapes, calm waters, sandy beaches and lush vegetation.

The most popular beach on the islands is Maya Beach. This location is fascinating, with its enormous, winding cliffs, and its unbridled nature: a combination that creates an unspoilt, wild attraction. Add to this the clear waters, fine sand and picture-perfect scenery. The Thai beach that became all too famous with the film  “The Beach” with Leonardo Di Caprio, has has to close to tourists to protect its ecosystem.

A difficult situation that had been clear for some time and that could not continue without some suitable countermeasures, given the huge influx of tourists: last year, the authorities had already imposed an initial seasonal stop so that nature had a chance to regenerate. That was not enough, however, and led to the announcement of a “permanent” closure, until the area's ecosystem has returned to a normal situation.  And thus, as the authorities officially explained, the beach will  remain closed until the first half of 2021. The situation will be assessed every three months regarding a possible reopening.

Tonsai Beach is one of four on the Railay peninsula. It preserves the magic of the past and has a picturesque air, given that it comprises a number of bamboo huts that are very popular with tourists. It is a popular, picturesque place in Krabi. Nature is its main attraction, thanks to the thick forest and majestic rocks.

Rang Yai is a wonderful island, just over 5 kilometres east of Boat Lagoon. Here, a wild, “Robinson Crusoe” style life awaits you: the island can offer bamboo huts and camp sites, as part of its facilities.  You won’t have time to be bored, as you can go kayaking, learn how a pearl factory operates or even go cycling. The beaches are famous for their white sand and the amazing colours of its waters.

This is a marine park in the south of Thailand, in the province of Surat Thani: we are talking about Mu Koh Ang Thong, made up of 42 islands. Officialized in 1980, the park is 102 square kilometres, only one-fifth of which is on land. The islands have limestone mountains that stand at 500 metres above sea level.

The islands inside the park are known for the rock walls rising over the sea, opening up to a still unspoilt, natural scenario. Here you will have the chance to see some special flora and fauna. 

As well as the unique views, this park also offers several activities, including kayaking and snorkelling. The sea is a clear green colour and the beach is surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation.

The beauty and wide variety of landscapes, how easy it is to reach it, and its excellent facilities make Koh Phangan a place worthy of note during your Thailand cruise. The bay is spectacular and is well protected from winds and waves. Its name means “the bay of Pan”. According to local legend, the name refers to a man who had been loyal to his king, and, as a reward, received the lands around the bay. 

In addition to the peace and quiet of the place, the best thing is the beauty of the scenario, which is just perfect for excursions. Its waters are calm and crystal-clear. There is no coral reef, but the lack of currents allows visitors to swim in a calm sea, which is excellent for snorkelling.  

There are two beaches in the area, Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai. Both enjoy fine, white sand and are bordered by palm trees that provide shade and a cool spot. To the north, there is a pretty cove, where you find another beach.

The beaches in Koh Phangan are extremely pretty: a tropical beach setting, with coconut palm trees, turquoise blue waters and white-sand beaches. Since the 1970s, Haad Rin Beach has become extremely popular, as it is easy to reach from the nearby island of Koh Samui and because it is the one with most facilities. There is also a great night life.

The Full Moon Party was created at the end of the 1980s: a party that is held at full moon, once a month, on Haad Rin beach, and where over ten thousand people attend. There are two beaches in Haad Rin. The first is known as Sunset Beach (Haad Rin Noi). The second is Sunrise Beach, (Haad Rin Nok), which is extremely attractive. The sand is white and the sea is bright blue. The water is clear, and it is a pure please to bathe in it.

Fine, white sand, lush vegetation and crystal-clear water. These are the beaches in Koh Samui, one of the most famous places in the country.  Here, you will find several different beaches that have attracted increasing numbers of tourists over the years. Lamai Beach takes its name from the village of the same name, and is a quiet beach, albeit one with many facilities. It is an excellent solution for those wanting relaxation, being able to count on bars and restaurants close by. 

The beach is a large one, the sea has many hues in its crystal-clear waters and a suntan is guaranteed. The night life offers several alternatives including bars, restaurants and parties on the beach: the food is good and there are several types of accommodation nearby to meet all budgets. Chaweng Beach is even larger, and has more amenities. It is 7 kilometres long and this coast includes shops, bars and restaurants, where you can try out the local specialities.

Pattaya, in the province of Chonburi, is one of the liveliest places in the country. It was just a small village for many years, mostly inhabited by fishermen, until 1961. In that year, a group of American soldiers, who had been fighting in the Vietnam War, arrived here to search for rest and fun. Pattaya soon became a popular seaside resort, ready to welcome tourists.

The fishermen's huts have been replaced by hotels, resorts and shops, including a huge shopping mall, the Central Festival Pattaya Beach Mall. Pattaya offers a lot of opportunities for fun, with its attractions and night clubs: the beaches, just 150 kilometres south-east of Bangkok, are the most popular. Today, visitors come here  windsurfing, scuba diving, or sailing but there are also many who want to go and visit the nearby islands. 

Hat Pattaya Beach is filled with wonders, thanks to the vegetation and palm trees along the sea front. There are amenities, hotels restaurants and shops. The most impactful beach is Jomtien, which is about 6 kilometres long. The water is crystal-clear on this beach, and there is a relaxed atmosphere. The beach at Naklua is also beautiful. It is further north, and has the right vibe for a holiday.

A classic, tropical paradise: we are talking about Thailand’s south coast. The cliffs lend incredible beauty to the beaches:  One not to miss is Railay. Here you will find sea, huge rocks and thick jungle. There are so many activities to take part in: Sea kayaking, diving, snorkelling. 

Another area is Rai Leh, a small peninsula that can only be reached by boat. It is famous for its cliffs, that attract international climbers, but also for the beauty of its beaches and quiet, relaxed atmosphere.

To get a taste of this, just go to Ao Nang Beach. The waters on this beach are suitable for children too, as they are shallow and have the most wonderful hues thanks to the play of light and shade created by the limestone rocks that come out of the water. Another incredible beach is Nopparat Tara. This is a 3-kilometre long sandy beach. It is a quiet seashore.

The sea here offers some amazing hues and the sand is covered with tiny shells. The locals called it “Khlong Haeng beach”, which literally means “the dried up canal beach”. When that happens, at low tide, it is as though the area goes back to being a single beach.

Koh Lanta is a jewel in the crown of the province of Krabi, dotted with excellent beaches and is a place full of beautiful sights. It seems as if it is a suspended reality where the islands sometimes seem as though they come out of the sea. The area is a chaotic mix of bays and inlets, there were once refuge for pirates. Here, the beaches are accessible and reserved.

The most famous beach in Koh Lanta is Phra Ae or Long Beach, which lies south of Klong Dao, and continues for five kilometres: it is a characteristics strip of sand lapped by a calm, richly hued-sea. There are several resorts that stand along this beach, which is very crowded in the summer season. There are many restaurants and clubs, where you can taste the local fish-based dishes. Khlong Dao is, on the other hand, a strip of soft sand that runs for three kilometres.

One of its selling points are the stunning sunsets and its white sand, in addition to the beautiful natural landscape. It is perfect for swimming and for families with small children: the water is calm and it is just ideal for relaxation. It is extremely large, therefore there is room for everyone.

It is often described as one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world, and as a paradise not to be missed. To reach the island of Koh Nang Yuan, you must travel to the southern gulf of Thailand. The island is actually formed from three small islands. 

Forget noise, cars, and get ready to enjoy nature and the sweet sound of the waves. It is a dream place, where you can get up in the morning, go outside and find yourself amidst nature, with colourful birds and lush palm trees. There is a free beach in front of you, with clear waters, where you can see the fish swimming around and look at the sea bed. Time goes slowly in Koh Nang Yuan. Don’t rush.

You will find fine sand, palm trees and a unique view of the nearby islands from Kai Bae beach. It is not all about beauty, however, as it is also one of the favourite spots for excursions on the island. There are plenty of opportunities: Boat hire is possible and there are scuba-diving stores.

Anyone searching for a bit of social life or wants to try out some tasty food, the village has some restaurants, coffee shops, bars and pubs, and the atmosphere gets livelier after sunset. There is also a panoramic view point, south of Kai Bae. Here you will be able to enjoy a breath-taking panorama over the bays and surrounding islands.

One of these is the nearest island, Koh Man Nai. Its beaches attract more and more visitors each year. They are a unique mix of rugged, wild landscape, a relaxed atmosphere, as there is not must tourist life here. It is in an excellent position, as it is close to Bangkok, and there is a great range of resorts to choose from, directly on the beach.

Don’t be fooled by the name, perhaps once upon a time it was a lonely beach, but Lonely Beach is no longer so intimate. The small village is now a reference point where there are diving centres, restaurants and shops. It is also a meeting place for those wanting to meet up and plan their evenings. Its beach is its added value, however, like those things that do not lose their attraction as time goes on. There are plenty of visitors and tourists thanks to its waters that are great for swimming,  white sand and relaxing vegetation.

To reach this beach, a boat ride to the northernmost point of the island, about 20 minutes from Thong Nai Pan, is necessary. Bottle Beach, however, is one of the best beaches in Koh Phangan and one of the most picturesque in the whole of  Thailand: you reach it by following a part of the beautiful coastline. Everything is perfect: the climate is perfect, the sand is white and the water is perfect for swimming, Basically, the bay is just amazing. 

In the afternoon, when the last boats and fishing boats have disappeared on the horizon, and there is silence all around, the tranquillity is boundless. You can walk forever with the palm trees as your natural setting. The sea breathes, and at sunset you can sit and have a cocktail or go to dinner in a restaurant with a sea view.

Snorkelling, beauty and opportunity: these are the key words in Ao Leuk Beach, a charming place where you can swim or where you can relax on the beach and spend a day with your friends. The bay offers ideas for spending your time: you can go and look for fish at the coral reef and even small sharks. Its fine, white sand makes it one of the best beaches in Koh Tao. The road leading to the bay, which is rather wild, offers a rugged landscape, and is often trodden by trekking lovers. 

This is the best spot to watch sunsets from: a small bay: Sunset Beach (Hat Pramong) can be found on the west coast of Koh Lipe. It is a relaxed beach where you find typical local bars made from wood. Here you can stop at a kiosk where they serve cold beers and cocktails: you can drink your aperitif and wait for sunset while embracing this magical atmosphere. The beach looks out onto the Butang islands. 

There is a road around the edge of Koh Chang island that allows you to see several bays. White Sand Beach is incredibly white and long, suitable for swimmers and for families with young children It is the perfect place to relax and has a wide choice of accommodation, for all needs. 

Here you will find restaurants, night clubs, while still being able to enjoy the gorgeous nature, as there is a beach surrounded by palm trees and calm waters.  The restaurants are famous for their fish dishes, but you can enjoy the evening just by sipping cold cocktails, wine and listening to music.

Bamboo Bay has crystal-clear waters and a white-sand beach. It is surrounded by mountains covered with rainforests.  There are many resorts along the bay, where you can find accommodation. Peace, relaxation and unspoilt nature: these are what tourists will find. Just think that until a short while ago, there wasn't even a road that led to the beach. “An enchanted place, where you can recharge your batteries and enjoy nature. It would seem that time stood still at 20 years ago”, is the comment from a tourist talking about how beautiful the place is. It is one of the must-see places in Koh Lanta.

Shiny and sought after, it is no coincidence that it is known as “the diamond beach” of the island of Koh Samet. Hat Sai Kaew is one of the larger, more popular beaches.  At sunset, the beach lights up with the lights from the local restaurants and bars. 

The water is an embrace joining green and blue, while the sand is fine and white. Here you can try one of the great fish dishes and enjoy great evenings with friends. There are great opportunities to try out water sports: windsurfing, jet-skiing or snorkelling.

The beach is on the island of Koh Samet, also known as Koh Kaew Phitsadan, literally “jewel island”. Its name comes from a particular type of tree that grows frequently in the area, and which provides material for building the local boats. It is a tiny island, 150 kilometres from the capital, Bangkok.

Koh Samet was discovered in the 1980s, and has become a much sought-after destination, with tourist development. It is not difficult to understand why: it is a quiet place, that can offer some of the most charming beaches in the country. It is also part of a national park established in 1981, together with Laem Ya and other surrounding islands.

 

It is natural to connect Thailand to the sea: its fortunate location, with seaside resorts and islands allows visitors to find the ideal climate and a place that is right for any type of holiday, and something to satisfy any visitor’s needs. Whether you want relaxation and nature, or whether you want to focus on picture-perfect landscapes or places with a great night life and entertainment. Thailand is varied and a great place to discover on Costa Cruises excursions.