ANDAMAN SEA
Similan Islands
The Similan Islands, declared a national park on September 1, 1982, consist of nine picturesque islands, stretching from north to south. These islands include Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang (two adjoining islands), Ko Payan, Ko Payang, and Ko Huyong.
Located 70 kilometers from Phang-nga town, is renowned for its stunning onshore and underwater beauty. T
he best time to visit is from November to April.
Ko Similan, the largest island, features a horseshoe-shaped bay and an average water depth of 60 feet. The underwater landscape is adorned with various coral formations, including deer, leaf, brain, and mushroom corals, with the latter being among the most pristine in the country.
The soft sandy beach is perfect for swimming and diving, offering vibrant marine life. In the north, you’ll find striking rock formations with unique shapes like a boot and Donald Duck’s head, along with an ideal lookout point resembling a sailing boat rock.
Ko Huyong boasts the longest and whitest beach among the nine islands.
The Similan Islands offer diverse diving spots suitable for snorkeling and scuba diving, including renowned locations like the western rock formations of Ko Tachai where whale sharks are often spotted, Ko Bon, Christmas Point, Fantasy rock formation, and Ao Kwang En to the east of Ko Paet. Additionally, there are numerous snorkeling spots around the islands, with highlights near the sailing boat rock, Ao Kwang En, and behind Miang Island.
Krabi
Krabi: Known for its stunning limestone cliffs and numerous fantastic islands and beaches, can be easily reached by plane from Bangkok or by air and boat from Phuket. The best time to visit is from November to April.
The tourist hub of Krabi is Ao Nang Beach, which is a 15-minute drive from the airport. It offers a relaxing atmosphere with a waterfront promenade lined with hotels, shops, restaurants, and local bars. While Ao Nang Bay is beautiful, the best beaches in Krabi are accessible by boat.
This is something to keep in mind when choosing Krabi as a destination to avoid any misconceptions. Krabi is a province in southern Thailand (4,707 square kilometers), home to dreamy beaches and islands like Phi-Phi Island. Krabi Town serves as the provincial capital, and the tourist center within Krabi Town is Ao Nang.
If you choose Krabi as your destination and head to Ao Nang, you have the option to stay in a charming seaside town where you’ll find evening entertainment. However, to enjoy beaches like the ones you’ve seen in postcards, you’ll need to take a boat.
On the waterfront, there’s a long-tail boat service that can take you to the beaches of your choice at reasonable prices.
If this suits your plans, then choosing Ao Nang makes sense.
Krabi’s best beaches are only accessible by boat and are an excellent choice for those seeking a beach and relaxation vacation without a focus on nightlife.
South of Ao Nang Beach:
Ao Phra Nang (not to be confused with Ao Nang) is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mainland beaches in Krabi. What’s remarkable and intriguing here is the walk leading to Tham Phra Nang, the Princess Cave, adorned with phallic offerings made by fishermen for good luck, and featuring beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. This place is also suitable for rock climbing. The beach is about a 15-minute boat ride from Ao Nang Beach and is well worth the trip from Italy.
Railay West (or Rai Leh) is an excellent beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning cliffs and renowned for its colorful sunsets. There are various beachfront resorts with bungalows and clean, casual eateries. Railay West and Ao Phra Nang are the two beaches that have made the Krabi coast famous. Tonsai can be reached in 10 minutes by boat from Railay West. It offers budget accommodations and is famous for rock climbing. The area isn’t particularly suitable for swimming, and during low tide, the seabed is too rocky.
Railay East is a beach with many mangroves and is not suitable for swimming.
North of Ao Nang Beach:
Hat Nopparat Thara is about 3 km long and lined with casuarina and coconut palm trees. It’s a beach frequently visited by Thais and is part of the homonymous marine park.
Klong Muang is very exclusive and peaceful, with numerous luxury hotels like Nakamanda, Sofitel, and Sheraton.
Krabi Province boasts a diverse jurisdiction that encompasses not only mainland districts and sub-districts but also over 130 enchanting islands, including the renowned Phi Phi Islands.
Koh Phi Phi
Phi Phi Islands is an archipelago of six islands in the Krabi Province, located just a few kilometers from Phuket and Krabi, reachable by boat in under two hours. The largest islands are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, with only the former being inhabited and offering a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to simple guesthouses.
The commercial and nightlife hub of Phi Phi Don is Baan Tonsai, a bustling area filled with bars, bungalows, clubs, and guesthouses, making it ideal for nightlife enthusiasts and those who enjoy a lively atmosphere.
Less than 300 meters away, across the isthmus, is Ao Loh Dalum Beach. This beach has the advantage of being less crowded by boats compared to Tonsai Beach. Long Beach on Phi Phi Don and the nearby Hin Phae Islet, accessible by swimming, offer excellent snorkeling opportunities with one of the best coral reefs in the area.
Starting from Long Beach, all the beaches provide various levels of accommodation for a relaxed stay.
Phi Phi Leh, easily reached by boat from Phi Phi Don, is the island with the stunning Maya Bay, famous for being the filming location of “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio. This bay is surrounded by hundred-meter-high cliffs and features a dazzling white beach, making it one of Thailand’s paradises that justifies the journey from Italy.
Phi Phi Leh is a natural park, and there’s an entrance fee of 400 baht for adults and 200 baht for children. In the southern part of the island, Loh Sama Bay is excellent for snorkeling due to its beautiful coral and tropical fish.
To the north of Phi Phi Leh is the Viking Cave, known for its ship drawings (which are more likely Chinese junks) and famous for collecting swallow nests from February to April. These nests are used in Chinese cuisine and can fetch over $2,000 per kilogram in the Eastern caviar market.
The ideal time to explore the Phi Phi Islands is between November and April, as this period boasts calm seas and perfect weather for an enjoyable visit.
Koh Kradan
Koh Kradan is an atoll in the Andaman Sea known for having two of the most beautiful beaches in the South, along with pristine coral reefs.
This small island, approximately 4 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide, is part of Hat Chao Mai National Park in the Trang archipelago.
You can reach it in about 40 minutes by boat from the mainland.
Koh Kradan is the perfect destination for those seeking a beach-focused, relaxing vacation away from noise and crowds.
There are very few resorts on the island, and there is no village, roads, ATMs, or stores. Therefore, choosing a resort that suits your needs becomes especially important.
Despite the limited number of resorts, they cover a range of budgets, from the 5-star Sevenseas to straw or bamboo bungalows.
Mu Koh Surin National Park
Mu Koh Surin is a stunning archipelago located in the Andaman Sea, off the western coast of Thailand. It consists of five main islands, with the largest being Koh Surin Nuea and Koh Surin Tai. These islands are known for their remarkable natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making them a paradise for nature enthusiasts, snorkelers, and divers.
The Surin Islands are part of the Mu Koh Surin National Park, which was established to protect their unique ecosystems. Visitors to the park can expect to encounter lush tropical forests, pristine beaches, and an abundance of wildlife both on land and beneath the waves.
One of the main highlights of Mu Koh Surin is its exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities. The coral reefs surrounding the islands are among the best-preserved in Thailand and are teeming with colorful fish, rays, and even the occasional shark or turtle. The park is a haven for underwater photography and marine exploration.
In addition to its natural beauty, Mu Koh Surin also offers a peaceful and remote escape from the bustling tourist areas of Thailand. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the islands, explore hiking trails, and immerse themselves in the serene environment.
Mu Koh Surin is truly a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic and unspoiled island experience in Thailand, with its breathtaking landscapes and thriving marine ecosystems. It’s a destination that appeals to both adventure-seekers and those looking to unwind in a pristine natural setting.
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is a serene haven away from the bustling crowds. Its untouched beaches, lush tropical scenery, and tranquil atmosphere beckon those in search of relaxation and natural beauty. Here, you can bask in stunning sunsets, encounter diverse marine life, and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine.
Koh Lanta invites you to uncover its hidden gems and experience the warmth of its people—a peaceful retreat waiting for you to explore.
Koh Lanta is home to a captivating national park. This park encompasses a variety of islands, some of which are encircled by magnificent coral reefs, such as Ko Ha, Ko Rok, and Ko Hai.
The ideal time to explore Koh Lanta is during the period from November to April.
Koh Lipe
This tiny island, located at the southernmost tip of Thailand in the province of Satun, bordering Malaysia, has all the attractions to be adored and to make your vacation unforgettable.
It boasts incredibly white sandy beaches (in total, there are four beaches), crystal-clear blue waters, and groves of coconut palms.
Koh Lipe is part of the Adang-Rawi Archipelago, located 70 km from the mainland, and it offers an ideal destination for couples and families seeking complete relaxation, as well as for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Excursions to the nearby islands of Koh Adang and Koh Rawi for snorkeling are organized daily during the high season (November to April).
Hua Hin
Hua Hin, often referred to as “stone head” in Thai, is Thailand’s oldest and enduring beach resort, cherished for its pristine white sands, clear waters, and serene ambiance, making it a sought-after destination for tranquil getaways. Originally known as Ban Samoe Rieng or Ban Laem Hin (Stony Point Village), its transformation began with the construction of a railway station during King Rama VI’s reign.
Subsequently, the establishment of King Rama VII’s Summer Palace and the iconic Railway Hotel (now Sofitel Central Hotel) elevated the village into a high-society resort town, frequented by royalty.
The growth of Hua Hin continued with the introduction of Thailand’s first standard golf course and an array of upscale residences, ultimately shaping it into the nation’s premier seaside destination.
Today, Hua Hin offers world-class amenities and maintains its historical charm, remaining content with its unique identity, making it a haven for those seeking relaxation amidst a picturesque setting.
Phuket
Phuket, with its vast 810 square kilometers, is the largest island in Thailand. Located in the Andaman Sea, just off the Phang-nga province (see interactive map below), it is connected to the mainland by a short elevated road. Known worldwide for its white sandy beaches, stunning bays, and tropical vegetation, Phuket can be reached by direct flight from Italy. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer to minimize transfers and travel, whether due to time constraints or when traveling with children.
Best Time to Visit: The optimal period for Phuket is from November through February, with favorable weather extending into October and April. Choosing the right beach is crucial to getting exactly what you seek from your vacation. On such a large island, you can find both tranquil locations and lively nightlife spots. Phuket’s beautiful beaches are primarily located in the south and western parts, facing the open sea.
Here’s a list of Phuket’s beaches with our concise personal assessments.
As for hotels, the options are virtually limitless, catering to various needs and budgets.
Patong: This island boasts a beautiful beach with over 3 kilometers of white sand. It’s an ideal destination for nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. However, the beach can be crowded with sunbeds, umbrella vendors, jet skis, parasailing, and a bustling tourist scene, so it may not be the best choice for those seeking a peaceful tropical beach experience, especially with young children. Patong is perfect for active vacationers, people who enjoy mingling with others, and those seeking nightlife adventures. The nightlife hub centers on Bangla Road, filled with nightclubs, go-go bars, beer pubs, and open-air bars.
Tritrang Beach: Located just south of Patong, this beach offers tranquility and stunning beauty. It’s ideal for those who want to escape Patong’s crowds yet remain close for nightlife.
Karon Beach: Situated 8 kilometers south of Patong, Karon boasts a beautiful white sand beach, the second-largest on Phuket, stretching about 3 kilometers. Numerous hotels line the road, offering restaurants, bars, and active nightlife without excessive chaos. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented on the beach at reasonable prices.
Kata Beach: This beach, located just south of Karon, is a peaceful location with a 1-kilometer beach ideal for families due to its safe, shallow waters. Kata has the atmosphere of a small seaside village with restaurants, shops, and bars. Further south in Kata Noi, you’ll find Kata Thani, a well-known resort highly regarded by Italian tourists.
Rawai Beach: Found between Chalong Bay and Promthep Cape, this beach isn’t recommended for sunbathing but is an interesting place to visit. Frequented by locals, you can dine on seafood at low tables directly on the beach and explore the fish market at the eastern end, where there’s a sea gypsy village. The Chao Leh (sea people in Thai) residing in Phuket, Koh Lanta, and the Tarutao Archipelago are an indigenous ethnic group with origins in Sumatra or the Malaysian island of Langkawi. Rawai Beach serves as a starting point for excursions to islands like Koh Lon, Koh Kaew, Koh Aeo, Coral Island, and Koh Racha. You can rent long-tail boats and speedboats here.
Surin Beach: Located north of Kamala Beach, Surin Beach is perfect for a relaxed vacation. It resembles a serene, small village away from the mass tourism circuit. Surin Beach offers excellent 5-star facilities, and we recommend a hotel with a lovely private beach, ideal for couples seeking an intimate getaway. During the low season, Surin Beach experiences rather strong currents, so it may not be suitable for families with children.
Kamala Beach: Just 8 kilometers north of Patong Beach, Kamala Beach is a beautiful, green-hilled beach, a good choice for families with children. It’s tranquil, and the water’s color is even more beautiful towards the northern end, lined with casuarina trees.
In Kamala, you can treat your children to the island’s most renowned cultural show, Phuket Fantasea (which has received numerous awards from the Thai Tourism Authority), featuring trapeze acts, ballet, elephant parades, fireworks, and illusionism.
GULF OF THAILAND
Koh Samui
Koh Samui, known as the “Coconut Island,” is the third-largest island in Thailand after Phuket and Koh Chang. Covering 247 square kilometers, Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, within the province of Surat Thani, approximately 700 kilometers south of Bangkok.
This island, celebrated for its beautiful beaches, began experiencing tourist development in the 1970s.
A convenient 55-kilometer road encircles the island, providing easy access to all its locations and beaches.
You can easily reach the island by air, and the airport is one of the most exotic you’ll ever encounter.
Resorts on Samui typically do not exceed the height of the coconut palms, and many are located right on the beach, making your vacation exceptionally relaxing.
Best Beaches on Koh Samui: Choosing Your Ideal Spot
Hat Chaweng: This 6-kilometer-long beach boasts white sands and is one of the most beautiful on the island. It’s suitable for couples and singles looking for a lively nightlife scene. However, it may not be the best choice for families, especially in the central part of the area, which can become crowded and noisy during peak season. The southern part of the bay offers a quieter alternative with beautiful sea, tranquility, and good water conditions. The northern zone, although beautiful, is less recommended due to its proximity to Mat Lang Island, which can obstruct the view and create muddy shallows during low tide. Accommodation options range from super budget to 5-star resorts, catering to all budgets.
Chaweng Noi: Meaning “Little Chaweng,” this beach is located south of Hat Chaweng, past some cliffs. It features a beautiful, secluded beach with turquoise waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and swimming. We recommend a boutique resort with a spa in this area.
Lamai Beach: Lamai is the second most developed tourist area after Hat Chaweng. While it has a smaller beach, it is equally beautiful and offers a quieter and more relaxing atmosphere compared to Chaweng. With palm-fringed shores and clear waters, Lamai is a great and less crowded alternative to Chaweng. The town has all the conveniences of shopping, restaurants, bars, and banks, but it’s more like a small village in size. We recommend a beachfront resort, conveniently located near the town center.
Mae Nam Beach: Located away from the mass tourism crowd, this beautiful beach offers views of Koh Phangan island. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful beach experience away from water sports and nightlife hustle and bustle. While the water may not be as turquoise as in other areas, Mae Nam offers good value for your money. We suggest a resort with charming wooden bungalows, beachfront location, and Thai management. There’s also an Italian restaurant with excellent cuisine within walking distance.
Bophut Beach: Known as the Fisherman’s Village, Bophut is likely the first settlement on Samui and is located in the northeast near Mae Nam Beach and the Big Buddha. It’s one of the most picturesque spots on the island, featuring wooden Chinese shop-houses, quality restaurants, and 5-star resorts. While the beach may not be the best for swimming, the bay is calm and beautiful. Bophut is a destination for those looking for high-end resorts and quality establishments. Oriental and Beyond offers a luxury resort, ideal for honeymooners.
Best Time to Visit Koh Samui: from December to September
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan, located just 15 km from Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand, is famous worldwide for its Full Moon Party, which takes place every month on the night of the full moon at Haad Rin Beach. The island boasts beautiful white sandy beaches lined with coconut trees and has an exceptionally pristine appearance.
You can reach Koh Phangan by flying to Koh Samui and then taking a boat, or by taking a bus and then a boat. The island covers an area of 168 square kilometers.
Every month, on the night of the full moon, thousands of people flock to the island and gather on Haad Rin Beach for the famous Full Moon Party. The party lasts all night and is concentrated exclusively on this long stretch of white sandy beach. Haad Rin Beach is primarily recommended for young travelers because it offers the most nightlife and entertainment.
However, Koh Phangan, aside from Haad Rin Beach, is one of the most untouched, green, and relaxing islands you can imagine. It’s an excellent alternative in many ways to the nearby and more touristy Koh Samui. The natural landscapes, tranquility, and the feeling of being away from it all make Koh Phangan a great destination for families and couples seeking relaxation and a beautiful seaside experience.
The island is also renowned for meditation and yoga, adding to its appeal for those seeking a more serene and spiritually enriching vacation.
Here are some tips on the beaches of Koh Phangan:
1. Hat Rin (or Haad Rin): This beach in the south of the island is ideal for young people and offers beautiful resorts with wooden bungalows right on the beach. It is famous for the Full Moon Party.
2. Ao Baan Tai: A not very large but charming beach, with trendy resorts, chill-out music, and a relaxing atmosphere. It is ideal for young couples.
3. Haad Yao Beach: This beach offers a variety of accommodations, from resorts to traditional hotels. It’s a good option for a quiet vacation.
4. Haad Son: A small and charming beach with fine sand and crystal-clear waters.
5. Mae Haad: This beach is perfect for families, with fine and clean sand. You will find a range of accommodations, from elegant beachfront bungalows to luxury resorts. It is considered one of the best choices on the island.
6. Haad Kuat (Bottle Beach): This beach offers crystal-clear waters and is easily accessible by boat.
7. Thong Nai Pan Noi: A large white sand beach with fine grains, which is one of the best choices on the island.
8. Thong Nai Pan Yai: Close to the previous beach, it offers good value for money options.
9. Haad Yuan: A good beach, although the sand has a slightly coarser texture.
10. Haad Tian (east side): Here you will find “The Sanctuary” resort, known for offering meditation and healthy cuisine.
Choosing the beach depends on your interests and personal preferences.
Koh Phangan offers a wide range of options, from lively beaches to quiet places for relaxation and meditation.
The best time to visit Koh Phangan is typically from December to September.
During this period, the weather is generally pleasant with lower rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful beaches.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a 21-square-kilometer island in the Gulf of Thailand, located 70 kilometers east of the coast between Surat Thani and Chumphon. In just a few years, it has become one of the most important diving destinations in Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Despite being primarily known for divers and diving enthusiasts, Koh Tao is a great destination for tourists of all ages and budgets. From the semi-isolated beaches of Shark Bay to simple bungalow accommodations on Sairee Beach, to beautiful 5-star hotels with breathtaking views of the emerald waters, the island caters to a wide range of travelers. It’s also suitable for a relaxing vacation with meditation courses and massages available at certified centers.
Koh Nang Yuan consists of three interconnected islands with a sandy isthmus, just a 15-minute boat ride from Koh Tao.
It’s an ideal destination for those looking for an “all-sea” getaway.
Best time to visit: From December to September, inclusive.