Thailand’s southern coast is every beachgoer’s dream destination. From popular resorts to hidden gems, there’s a beach out there for everyone. See which patch of sand suits you in our list of the best beach towns in Thailand. Whether remote or mainland, any of these will be a great addition to your vacation to Thailand!
1. Koh Samui
A lesser-known yet favorite summer retreat destination in Thailand among tourists is the beach town of Koh Samui. It’s the second biggest island in the country, next to Phuket. Despite this, it quickly grew in popularity among locals and tourists alike. As a result, the growing tourism industry has given the town more commodities.
This beach town has everything you need, from modern hospitals, restaurants to homes! You can rent out luxury villas in the area if you don’t mind splurging. On the other, there are plenty of huts and bungalows you can rent out on a budget.
This place is connected to the mainland via ferry, but you can also get here by plane. After all, the modest island has its very own airport.
The only downside of Koh Samui is that it still lacks places that may liven up its night scene. It doesn’t have as many bars, nightclubs, and markets as other beach towns. But thanks to this, the second biggest island became a popular spot among families.
So if you’re looking to stay long-term, Koh Samui is your place!
2. Pattaya
A few hours away from Bangkok is Pattaya, a beachfront town with some beaches around. It’s famous among tourists and ex-pats due to its mix of tranquility and modern facilities. So regardless of your age, you’re bound to appreciate Pattaya.
Aside from scenic beaches, the place is full of bars, nightclubs, malls, and restaurants. Also, the city allows anyone to live an exotic and easy-going lifestyle. As a result, Pattaya has become one of the most popular beach towns to socialize in!
You can also reach other islands offshore from the city by boat. Some trips last less than 20 minutes, while others take a whole day. If you’re interested, you can rent out boats from Pattaya’s shorelines.
Moreover, like Phuket, the city has an extensive work and recreation network. So not only is this beach town great for beachgoers, but it’s also a great place to jump-start a career.
Overall, Pattaya is a vibrant beachfront town with amenities and activities everyone’s bound to enjoy! Just make sure you bring extra money since the cost of living here is higher than in other beach towns in Thailand.
3. Phuket
When it comes to beach towns in Thailand, Phuket reigns over them all. Known as the biggest island in the country, expect to see some of the most scenic beaches here. It’s a popular tourist spot, offering both remote and mainland beaches.
What makes this place stand out among the rest is its gorgeous location. Surrounded by clear waters and mountains, no wonder the beaches here are amazing.
Also, you’ll find numerous ex-pats settling in the famous beach town, and for good reasons. It offers a modern lifestyle minus the hustle and bustle of the city. Not to mention, the island has its very own airport, making it easier to travel across Thailand.
Aside from that, this beach town is the perfect pick for you if you like being easy-going. After all, besides scenic beaches, the place is also prominent in the party scene. From bars, nightclubs to busy night markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Overall, Phuket is a flexible beach town filled with beautiful waters, sand, and opportunities!
4. Prachuap Khiri Khan
A hidden gem nestled in southern Thailand is Prachuap Khiri Khan. Famous for its coconut and pineapple industries, this small town is a favorite among locals. And recently, it’s become more well-known among ex-pats, thanks to its growing tourism.
Also, this beach town is quaint, boasting stunning attractions minus the crowds. As a result, the cost of living here is significantly lower. So if you’re looking to break free from crowds and noise, visit Prachuap Khiri Khan.
However, since the area is small and remote, living here, long-term, isn’t the best choice. Work options here are limited, and it isn’t as convenient as other beach towns. Also, the beaches here might be gorgeous, but they’re not the best for swimming.
Nonetheless, this place is a great secluded getaway.
You can find this along the coasts belonging to the narrowest areas in Thailand.
Overall, if an unspoiled and serene beach is what you’re looking for, visit Prachuap Khiri Khan.
5. Hua Hin
If water sports and adventure are what you want in a beach town, look no further than Hua Hin. This high-end town quickly became one of the most popular residencies among ex-pats. After all, with its golf courses, hiking trails, and gorgeous beaches, who wouldn’t want to stay?
From kayaking to jet skiing, Hua Hin is the place where you want to be if you’re physically active. Aside from that, there are many historical sights and natural attractions.
Meanwhile, if you’re in the mood for some nightlife, there are a few bars in the area. However, you won’t find a lot compared to other beach towns like Pattaya. So at Hua Hin, nightlife might be at a slower pace. After all, the royal palace is in the area, so it only makes sense.
Also, the beach town might be popular among tourists and ex-pats, but it is mainly a business district. But despite this, living costs here are inexpensive, making it a great place to retire!
Overall, visit Hua Hin if you’re looking for more active things to do on the beach.
6. Krabi
Krabi is a province in Thailand that’s becoming one of the most popular spots for beachgoers. Its gorgeous beaches and cliffsides make it stand out among other beach towns. You can find monolithic limestone cliff edges, perfect for climbing! So not only will you enjoy swimming around the town’s waters, but you’ll also be able to explore your adventurous side and climb!
You can find the best spots in this beach town around its quietest corners, ideal for summer getaways. Here, you’ll be able to explore more of the less-visited attractions in the area. With this, you get to experience several attractions by yourself most of the time.
Also, you can rent a longtail boat to see the different limestone islands in the area. One of the less famous yet stunning beaches in Krabi is Tubkaak. It’s nestled on the edges of gardens merging into the province’s surrounding jungles.
To conclude, Krabi is an excellent getaway spot if you’re looking for less crowded beaches. Not to mention, if you love climbing, this beach town is for you!
7. Khao Lak
An hour’s drive from Phuket is one of the few unspoiled beach towns in Thailand, Khao Lak. Although it isn’t as well-known as other places like Krabi and Koh Samui, it’s worth visiting. It’s a fishing village with a heavy Thai identity, making it the perfect place to meet locals!
This place is more remote and spread out than other beach towns, so there’s plenty for you to explore. And what makes this rarely visited beach town an excellent spot is that it gives you more alone time. Here, you get to enjoy quaint beaches by yourself most of the time.
Its coastlines might be less countered, and its waters may not be as clear as other places like Phuket. Despite this, it’s still an ideal beach town for those who want a peaceful summer retreat. And what’s more, the area has a vast range of accommodations, so you don’t need to worry about that!
Finally, visit the nearby Similan Islands to get the most out of your visit. You can get here by boat, where you’ll get to see the marine national, which is among the most sought-after diving sites in the world.
8. Koh Samet
One of the more secluded beach towns you can visit is Koh Samet. It’s a T-shaped island famous for being the driest in Thailand, yet it’s the most accessible quality beach from the capital of Bangkok. So, if you want to stray from the city life for a while, go to Koh Samet.
You can visit this quaint beach town two hours from Bangkok by car then boat. Although there are a handful of resorts in the area, there aren’t that many hotels. So when you’re in Koh Samet, it genuinely feels like you’re visiting a private island.
Resorts here are underdeveloped as they tried to make the area as natural as possible. For this reason, if you’re looking for luxury accommodation, this might not be the beach town for you. It’s only ideal for adults as Koh Samet only offers a few activities. Also, it might get packed quickly with only 40 villas on site.
Overall, if you’re craving some vitamin sea while in Bangkok, go to Koh Samet for a private beach experience.
9. Rayong
For those who want a more secluded beach town to enjoy, visit Rayong. This quiet beach town is perfect for a relaxing getaway, and it’s just a few hours away from Pattaya and Bangkok! It’s excellent for families, couples, and solo beachgoers alike.
There are plenty of scenic beaches to choose from in the area, but the most popular one is Mae Pim Beach. It features many water sports and activities, safe for children. So if you’re looking to have some fun with the family, Rayong is an excellent beach town destination.
Meanwhile, there are plenty of seafood markets and restaurants in the area regarding food. So you don’t need to think about these necessities and have fun.
Also, because Rayong is a regional transportation hub, the province is just a bus ride away from Bangkok or Pattaya. At most, the journey will be around 3 hours. So it’s not too far off.
In short, Rayong is a fantastic beach town spot if you’re looking to take a break from crowds. Enjoy a more intimate beach experience here at Rayong.
10. Trang
Trang is a quaint beach town mixing antique and tranquil elements. Think vintage wooden swings swaying back-and-forth along the shorelines of a scenic beach. Here, you get to enjoy clear azure waters and a majestic view of its surrounding limestone cliffs. It’s the perfect summer getaway for people looking for a secluded patch of sand.
From backpackers, friend groups to photographers, there’s something for everyone in Trang! But gorgeous beaches aren’t all that the place has to offer. It also has a marine park, namely the Haad Chao Mai National Park. Here, you can see protected marine animals.
Additionally, Haad Yong Ling is one of the beaches in the area you need to visit. It’s a bronzed beach covered in lush forests and limestone caves.
To get here, you need to take a flight from Bangkok or other places in Thailand. However, if you’re sticking to a budget, overnight trains and buses are also available.
11. Koh Yao
A small beach town between Phuket and Krabi is Koh Yao, an unspoiled destination. You can find many beaches in the area, giving you hidden retreats on the busier coast of Thailand.
Here, you can expect a secluded and luxurious beach experience. Not only are the waters here clear and calm, but there are plenty of high-end resorts in the area as well. You can request candlelit dinners by the beach or get a massage.
What’s more, the place offers many fun ways to spend your time more creatively. For instance, you can pick fresh eggs for breakfast or undergo Muay Thai boxing lessons.
You can reach Koh Yao by going to Phuket via plane. From there, you’ll need to take a short speedboat trip to reach the small beach town.
12. Koh Kood
For a private and luxurious trip, visit the beach town of Koh Kood. This place was made as the country’s challenge to be on par with high-end resorts in nations like the Maldives. And as far as beach towns go, Koh Kooh has succeeded.
Here you can visit the luxury resort of Soneva Kiri, giving you a one-of-a-kind beach experience. What’s more, the place is made from sustainable methods, using eco-friendly bamboo on its structures. All private villas in the town are more spacious than most hotels in the city and have their very own pool and garden.
So if you’re looking to splurge and spoil yourself, book a flight to Koh Kood on your next vacation!
Aside from that, there’s a massive list of activities for you to do in the area. From indulging in an all-you-can-eat chocolate room to marveling at a bamboo observatory, Koh Kooh has got you covered!
You can reach Koh Kood by taking a quick plane trip from Bangkok or Pattaya, giving you paradise just an hour away!
13. Songkhla
Among the most popular beach towns on Thailand’s western coast is Songkhla. Here, you can find the famous Samila Beach, surrounded by a stretch of white sand and clear waters. Most visitors celebrate this scenic location thanks to its Golden Mermaid statue. This honors a sorrowful yet romantic local Thai folk legend.
Aside from that, thanks to the town’s location, you’ll also be able to enjoy views of nearby Koh Nu and Koh Maeo. You can bask in the stunning oceanic views of Songkhla under wild pine groves.
Also, thanks to its clean sand and waters, this town has become the perfect destination for picnics, romantic strolls through the beach, and relaxed swimming.
However, this town is far off from the main tourist spots in Thailand. So if you’re traveling from Bangkok, it will take you around 12 hours via bus.
14. Pranburi
Along the coasts of Hua Hin is the smaller beach town of Pranburi. Popular among locals as a summer retreat, the place is often dubbed as ‘Thai Riviera.’ You can find this place along the southern coast of Hua Hin.
The area is famous for its stunning ocean views and unspoiled mangrove forests. As a result, it’s become a favorite among newlyweds or those looking for a peaceful retreat. With its white sands and tropical islands, there’s no wonder why Pranburi’s beaches are among the most scenic in Thailand.
Additionally, when in the area, don’t miss out on Dolphin Bay, the most popular beach in Pranburi. Here, you can witness bottlenose dolphins and porpoises.
You can get here from Bangkok by car, train, or bus. However, the drive is long as it takes around 4 hours to reach the sandy shores of Pranburi from Bangkok.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What beach town in Thailand has the bluest waters?
A: If clear azure waters are what you’re looking for in a beach town, Koh Samet is your best bet. Its Sai Kaew beach has some of the bluest waters in the country, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Q: Which island beach town is the most beautiful in Thailand?
A: According to many tourists and locals, the most scenic island beach town is Koh Lipe. From its white sands to turquoise waters, it’s a paradise that seems to have popped out from a postcard!
Q: What are the safest beach towns in Thailand?
A: If you’re traveling with kids, you’re likely looking for beaches with safer and calmer waters. Although most beach towns in the country are safe, Koh Samui, Koh Lipe, Krabi, and Koh Tao are the safest places.
Q: Does Thailand have white sand beaches?
A: Most beach towns in Thailand offer white sandy beaches, and it’s practically their specialty. From white sands to clear and calm waters, Thailand has undeniably some of the most scenic beaches worldwide.
Q: Is it safe to swim on Thailand beaches?
A: Most beaches in Thailand are safe for swimming, but they still have dangers. For instance, the sea still contains many dangerous creatures, like jellyfish, sea snakes, and stonefish. However, in Thailand, jellyfish are the only creatures you need to look out for.
Final Words
Thailand has some of the most stunning beaches worldwide, and visiting the best beach towns in Thailand gives you the chance to enjoy these paradises! Whether an islet or mainland beach, the places above will be a fantastic addition to your vacation. So what are you waiting for? Book a trip now!