Guide to the Best Beaches in Thailand: Perfect for a Secluded Getaway

Thailand’s beaches are undoubtedly the country’s biggest attraction and it is not hard to see why. With a little over 1700 miles of coastline and an endless selection of islands, it has all the ingredients for a perfect beach vacation: sun-kissed white sands, azure waters, great watersports options, and a wide range of luxury accommodations. While some of the best beaches of Thailand throb with a party vibe, others attract with a relaxed air. 

Given their overwhelming popularity, Thailand’s beaches can get a bit crowded, especially the more well-known ones. But if you are in the mood for a seaside vacation sans the crowd, we have curated a list of beaches that serve as the ideal secluded retreats. Lie back on the sand, go swimming, snorkeling and kayaking, or lazily swing on a hammock as you savor seafood from a nearby shack, with a chilled beer in hand, in a tranquil and serene ambiance.

Chaweng Noi

South of Chaweng, Koh Samui’s busiest and most popular beach, lies a little oasis of tranquility: Chaweng Noi beach. Fringed by swaying palms, this stretch of Koh Samui’s coastline has only a few luxury properties within the vicinity of the beach, further heightening its exclusive appeal.

Soak up the sun as you unwind on the white sand, between relaxing dips in the blue waters. Go snorkeling and wind your day down with a lazy evening stroll as you watch a romantic sunset

And if you want a change of pace, Chaweng Beach, with its multitude of shopping, dining, entertainment and nightlife options is only a 15-minute drive away. 

Stay: The Fair House Beach Resort

Mai Khao

Stretching from south of Phuket International Airport to the island’s northern point is Phuket’s longest beach – Mai Khao. It is part of Sirinat National Park and as a result, remains largely free from the trappings of development. One of Thailand’s less-frequented areas, you may often find that you are the only one on the beach for miles around! This deserted appeal is in direct contrast to the often overwhelming nature of Phuket’s more popular beaches.

Enjoy being one with nature as you embark on long walks. If you are here between November to February, you can witness the unique sea turtle hatching phenomenon that takes place on the beach. 

Stay:  Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas

Koh Yao Noi

Revel in the untouched natural beauty of the beaches of Koh Yao Noi, part of the Ko Yao archipelago in Phang Nga Bay. The island is accessible only by boat and ferry (a 30-minute speedboat ride from Phuket) and retains a traditional rustic air with wooden houses and rubber plantations aplenty. While the west coast is dotted with mangroves and rice fields, the east coast boasts of tranquil beaches such as Hat Pasai and Hat Paradise.

Experience the raw appeal of the island by taking a longtail boat ride to view the stunning karst formations around it, such as those off Koh Hong with its beautiful lagoon and rich marine life.

Stay: Six Senses Yao Noi

Koh Mook

Located off Thailand’s west coast, in the South Andaman Sea, Koh Mook is a 15-minute ferry ride from the Trang pier on the Thai mainland. On reaching here, you will be greeted with the sight of unending white sandy beaches fringed by blue waters teeming with marine life. 

The biggest attraction of the island is the Emerald Cave, which was accidentally discovered by locals a few decades ago when they were hunting for edible bird’s eggs. Swim or kayak through a long dark tunnel and discover a little slice of paradise at the end: a beach that is surrounded by soaring cliffs covered in lush greenery. 

The most popular beach on Koh Mook is Sivalai with its sand promontory that extends far into the ocean, making for a stunning view, especially during low tide. 

Stay:  Sivalai Beach Resort 

Koh Samet

If you are looking for a quick beach getaway from Bangkok, consider Koh Samet. The island paradise with its sandy beaches, lush forest teeming with exotic wildlife, and aquamarine waters, is around three hours from Bangkok (a two and a half-hour drive to Bang Phe pier, followed by a 30-minute speedboat ride to Koh Samet).

And while the beaches up north such as Hat Sai Kaew Beach are more developed and vibrant with a bustling nightlife and entertainment options, the beaches in the south such as Sai Kaew, Ao Phai, Ao Kiu Na Nok and Ao Phra retain a more rustic and unhurried air.

Stay:  Paradee Resort and Spa

Koh Phangan

Think Koh Phangan and think lively Full-Moon parties! Haad Rin’s Sunrise Beach is party central and filled with revelers during peak season. But there is more to the island, than the party culture it is so popular for.

Go trekking and walking in the island’s lush forests. Head to the island’s more secluded beaches, such as Hat Thong Nai Pan Noi in the north where you can enjoy a  range of watersports, as well as luxury spa options.

Stay: Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas

With their diverse offerings, head to the best beaches of Thailand for a truly memorable vacation!