Best Islands to Visit in Thailand for Amazing Beaches
Best islands to visit in Thailand for amazing beaches
If you're searching for the best beach destination in the world, Thailand is definitely a top contender. This Southeast Asian country is a paradise for beach lovers, and it's easy to see why. With a staggering 1,430 islands, many of Thailand's beaches feature powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque palm trees.
But with so many Thai islands to choose from, where should you begin?
Don't worry; I've got you covered. Having travelled to Thailand six times, here is my guide to the best islands in Thailand that boast fabulous beaches, each offering its own unique reasons to visit.
Koh Kood: For Serene, Quiet Beaches
So many people assume Thailand is an overrated tourist trap, but it's not true. It is a beautiful country with plenty of natural beauty. These days, you certainly have to look a bit harder if you want to find the genuinely unspoilt islands in Thailand, but they are there.
If you're craving peace and quiet, Koh Kood (or Koh Kut, depending on who you ask) is the island for you. Located near the Cambodian border, it's one of Thailand's lesser-visited islands, thanks to minimal development.
I prefer to travel to new places, but I recently went to Koh Kood and booked another trip there just a few weeks after returning; that is how much I loved this island.
Think soft, sandy beaches without the crowds, where you can lay and listen to the gentle lapping of waves and the rustling of palm trees blowing in the sea breeze.
Koh Kood is quiet, but it's a decent size, so it offers an array of excellent beaches to visit, some small, some long, some with hotels, some completely isolated, and this is what makes it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand, especially if you want a relaxing beach break.
You can read more about Koh Kood here in my review, alternatively, check out my article on how to get to Koh Kood.
Best beaches in Koh Kood
Bang Bao Beach
Located on the west coast of Koh Kood, Bang Bao Beach is one of the best beaches in Thailand.
The beach is influenced by tidal patterns and is lined with charming rustic bungalows. It also features a small, lively beach bar and restaurant.
A jetty extends into the water, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding area. Low-hanging palm trees stretch along the length of the beach, and the soft, powdery sand feels wonderful beneath your feet.
You could easily spend the entire day enjoying this beautiful setting.
Klong Chao beach
Popular with the resorts in Koh Kood, Klong Chao Beach is also on the west coast so dominated by changing tidal patterns.
However, at low tide, there is plenty of space on the beach for families and travellers. The water here is shallow, you have to walk a fair way out to swim, but this makes it partocicularly good for those seeking family-friendly beaches in Thailand as it is very safe for young children who wish to paddle and play in the sea.
Perfect especially at sunset, I recommend visiting the beach bar at the High Season Resort for sundowner cocktails.
Klong Hin Beach
Klong Hin Beach is one of the two popular beaches on the south coast of Koh Kood, tucked away behind a beautiful palm tree plantation, making it feel secluded from the rest of civilisation.
Similar to Bang Bao Beach, Klong Hin Beach offers a range of beach bungalow accommodations, making it an excellent choice for budget travellers or anyone who wants to step out onto a stunning beach each morning.
Renowned for its unspoilt beauty, this secluded beach features soft white sands and warm, clear waters, perfect for swimming.
With rocky outcrops framing the shoreline, it is a photographer's paradise and a fantastic spot to watch the gentle waves roll in.
This was by far one of my favourite beaches in Koh Kood and next time I visit I would definitely consider a night in one of the beachfront bungalows.
Best beach hotels in Koh Kood
High Season Pool Villas
Checkout High Season Pool Villas if you are looking for a family-friendly 5* all villa resort location. With a huge pool centered in the resort, High Seasons is located on Klong Chao Beach and offers the best beach bar in Koh Kood to watch the sunset.
Book here
The Beach Natural Resort Koh Kood
The Beach Natural Resort in Koh Kood is a charming 4* beachfront hotel that benefits from being steps away from the popular Bang Bao Beach. A little slice of heaven and feeling off the beaten track, the Beach Natural Resort is an unspoilt tropical haven with friendly staff, amazing beach access, and beautiful views.
Book here
Rim Lay
If you are travelling to Koh Kood on a budget, don't overlook Rim Lay on Ao Jark Beach. This collection of beach bungalows are some of the highest rated on the island. Simple but charming, each bungalow offers their own balcony, air conditioning, private bathroom, and fully plumbed in shower.
Book here
Koh Tao: For Amazing Beaches and Diving
Koh Tao, also known as Turtle Island, is a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. While the beaches are stunning, the real magic lies beneath the waves. Whether you are an experienced diver or trying it for the first time, the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life will amaze you. Dive spots such as Chumphon Pinnacle and Shark Bay are truly world-class.
However, away from the diving and snorkelling opportunities, Koh Tao is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. My favourites are below!
Best beaches in Koh Tao
Koh Nang Yuan
Take a short longtail boat ride from Koh Tao to Koh Nang Yuan, a small private island that feels like something out of a postcard.
Koh Nang Yuan is famous for its unique sandbar that connects three lush islets, making it a snorkeler’s paradise with incredible coral reefs just a few meters from the shore.
Visitors can hike to the viewpoint for stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea.
Lunch is available at Nangyuan Island Dive Resort, the only hotel on Koh Nang Yuan, ensuring that day-trippers won’t go hungry.
Although the island is private, visitors can enter for a fee: 100 Baht for foreigners and 30 Baht for Thai nationals.
Ao Hin Wong
Tucked away on the northeastern side of Koh Tao, Ao Hin Wong is a lovely bay that's perfect for those looking to unwind and explore nature. With its rocky coastline, gorgeous beach, and fantastic snorkeling, it’s a great spot for adventure seekers!
Unlike the sandy beaches you might find elsewhere, Ao Hin Wong boasts impressive boulders and a rugged beauty that makes it truly unique.
Getting to the bay is part of the fun, whether you choose to zip there on a scooter or taxi along the steep road, or opt for a more adventurous hike through the jungle trails, you’re in for a treat and some stunning views!
Just keep in mind that there aren't any major restaurants or bars right on the beach. But don’t worry, some nearby accommodations do offer basic amenities. It’s a good idea to pack your own supplies, like water and snacks, to make the most of your visit.
Haad Tien Beach
Haad Tien Beach is one of Koh Tao's most stunning beaches thanks to its beautiful warm waters, white sand and fantastic array of marine life including blacktip reef sharks.
Located on the southern coast of the island, Haad Tien Beach on Shark Bay is accessible by scooter or taxi.
Whilst it is a public beach, most visitors enter through the resorts for a small fee, which often includes amenities like parking or the use of sunbeds.
There is a popular hotel here, home to Haad Tien Beach Club. The beach club isn't quite as developed as those on bigger islands such as Phuket and Koh Samui, but that's the charm.
I recommend heading to the beach to enjoy the morning sun, before booking lunch at the restaurant and purchasing a pool pass at the gorgeous swimming pool surrounded by towering palm trees.
Haad Tien is an idyllic spot for snorkelling and relaxation, making it a must-visit during your stay on Koh Tao.
Best beach hotels in Koh Tao
Lücke Boutique Hotel
Situated on the beachfront at Mae Haad, just 10 minutes walk from the popular Sairee Beach, adult-only Lücke Boutique Hotel is ideal for those wanting to be in the thick of it. The property is new with a beautiful design, guest rooms are right on the beachfront, offering a patio of balcony to each room. Make sure you request a ground floor room if you want to walk straight out onto the beach in the mornings.
Book here
Coral View Resort
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Koh Tao Relax Freedom Beach Resort
Tucked between two beautiful beaches, Freedom Beach Resort has been built right on the water's edge, just 2-minutes walk from Freedom Beach. A quick 10 minute taxi or scooter to town, the Freedom Beach Resort offers peace and seclusion with the opportunity to enjoya ll that Koh Tao has to offer. Individual villas are perched don the hillside, some with their own pools.
Please note due to its hillside location, there are a lot of steps within the resort.
Book here
Koh Lipe: Small but Beautiful with the Bluest Sea
Tiny but certainly mighty, Koh Lipe is often dubbed the "Maldives of Thailand," and it’s no surprise why.
Nestled in the gorgeous Andaman Sea, close to the Malaysian border, this charming little island boasts some of the most stunningly blue and clear waters you’ll ever come across.
Koh Lipe is just the place for those who want to soak up relaxed island vibes while still having a taste of nightlife fun!
Don't forget to check out my full Koh Lipe Travel Guide here.
Best beaches in Koh Lipe
Sunrise Beach
Sunrise Beach is one of the three main beaches located on Koh Lipe.
Positioned along the east coast, Sunrise Beach is generally less crowded than Pattaya Beach. Visitors can experience gorgeous sunrises in the mornings.
The beach benefits from a gentle breeze from November to February, whilst its sheltered location offers a pleasant environment during the rainy season.
This beach is ideal for swimming in the warm, calm sea. Adventurous swimmers can explore the colourful coral reefs and marine life by venturing further out. Additionally, there are numerous long-tail boats available for those interested in circumnavigating the island or taking a day trip another island.
Sunrise Beach is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing yet beautiful location, with plenty of activities, dining options, and places to relax with a book.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach, or Hat Pramong, is the smallest of Koh Lipe’s three main beaches, and whilst it isn't the perfect beach, it offers its own charm that feels quite captivating.
Hidden on the western side of the island, this 200-metre stretch of beach is great to to kick back, relax, and watch the spectacular sunsets that Koh Lipe offers.
Sunset Beach is much quieter than both Pattaya Beach and Sunrise Beach, even at sunset! For those visiting during the day, there are plenty of trees which create an ideal environment for lounging with a good book or enjoying a peaceful swim.
The lagoon is framed by large boulders, whilst just offshore is a beautiful coral reef.
Despite feeling off the beaten path, Walking Street is just a 10-15 minute walk away (or a quick 50-baht ride in a Tuk Tuk), so it remains easy to access.
The Bay View Sunset Resort serves up legendary fresh, young coconut shakes, alongside delicious mojitos during happy hour (just 100 baht from 3 to 7 pm), the perfect way to spend the most beautiful time of day.
Pattaya Beach
Pattaya Beach in Koh Lipe is a stunning crescent-shaped bay with soft, silky sand and sparkling blue waters that look just like Lucozade!
Spanning nearly a kilometer, this beach is the vibrant heart of Koh Lipe, where you can find shady palm trees, lively beach bars, and charming Thai longtail boats bobbing in the water.
During the day, it’s a favourite spot for families, snorkellers, and anyone wanting to soak up some sun.
Imagine lounging on a cosy bean bag with a refreshing coconut in hand, simply watching the world go by, sounds perfect right?
As the sun sets, the beach transforms. People gather for happy hour, enjoying the breathtaking orange glow of the sky.
The atmosphere gets busier as restaurants fill up, and if you’re looking for some evening excitement, bars like Reggae Bar and Lipe Bar put on fantastic fire shows every night!
Best beach hotels in Koh Lipe
Irene Resort
Right on the beach, Irene Resort is one of the best positioned hotels on the island, taking up a wide stretch of sand on Sunrise Beach. The hotel offers beach and tree villas, making you feel like you could be somewhere in the Maldives.
Rooms are spacious and luxurious, and whilst it's not cheap, it is the best 5* hotel in Koh Lipe and worth every penny thanks to its spacious rooms, upstairs living areas, and gorgeous freestanding baths. Read my full Irene Resort hotel review here.
Book here
Serendipity Beach Resort
One of the most popular hotels in Koh Lipe, Serendipity Beach Resort is located at the southern end of Sunrise Beach. Hillside villas cascade don towards the small cove beneath it, all with far stretching sea views. The onsite restaurant, On the Rocks, is one of the most popular restaurants on the island, and just next door is the beautiful Ten Moons Bar.
Book here
The Cliff Lipe
Great if you love nature, the Cliff Resort is in a secluded corner of Koh Lipe, a quick walk away from Sunset Beach. The views are idyllic, with many rooms offering expansive terraces, some with Jacuzzis and others with a private infinity pool.I loved the beach here, it was small but quiet, you can swim directly from the beach without being worried about the number of longtail boats nipping around.
The downside? There are monkeys that often come for a visit! This is great for animal lovers but less so for those with a fear of them.
Book here
Koh Phi Phi: Small but mighty
Twenty years ago, the Phi Phi Islands were devastated by the Indian Ocean Tsunami. However, the island was rebuilt and it continues to be one of the most popular beach destinations in Thailand.
Busy and lively, Koh Phi Phi is great for those travelling solo or with friends; it's laid back but has great energy.
Whilst some describe it as a tourist trap, I loved it. The scenery is absolutely stunning, with a double bay framed by impressive limestone karsts.
Best beaches in Phi Phi
Maya Bay
Did you know, the Phi Phi Islands are more than just Phi Phi Don (the largest)?
Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh is its own island and became so popular, it was closed for years.
The Thai government have reopened Maya Beach with certain restrictions. Unfortunately, its beauty continues to be its downfall as hoards of tourists arrive each day.
Maya Bay is said to be one of the most beaches in Thailand, and it is, but it can be a struggle to see that when you are standing on the beach with so many others.
For this reason, I recommend taking a private tour early in the morning, arriving before the larger boats and giving you an hour of solitude before hundreds more people arrive.
Long Beach
Laem Tong Beach
Escape the crowds at Laem Tong Beach on the north eastern point of Phi Phi Don.
This long, powder white sand beach is the perfect place to grab a deck chair and soak up some vitamin D before relaxing in the shade of a palm tree.
There are several resorts and bungalows along this sandy stretch of coastline. The surrounding coral reefs offer a diverse underwater ecosystem, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.
Whilst quiet, there are places to eat and drink along the beach so you can easily spend the day here.
It is a 40 minute walk into town, but it is also accessible by scooter, and a lot of people enjoy a visit to the beach via longtail boat.
Beach hotels in Phi Phi
Zeavola Resort
Zeavola Resort on Laem Tong Beach is the most luxurious hotel in Phi Phi. Offering spacious wooden villas, Zeavola offers a little slice of serenity on an otherwise busy island.
Wellness lovers will enjoy the spa with 6 treatment rooms and an array of massages and facials to choose from. Candlelit meals on the beach are on offer for those chasing a bit of romance, whilst the hotel's onsite restaurant is one of the best on the island.
Book here
Saii Phi Phi Island Village
A great option for resort lovers and families, Saii Phi Phi Island Village is slowly undergoing updates and renovations, making it a popular choice on the island here much of the accommodation is quite tired.
The hotel is in a quite village, still with restaurants and cocktail bars to enjoy, but avoiding any noisy nights. I highly recommend booking the Beachfront Junior Suite for the full beach experience!
So there you have it, my take on the best islands to visit in Thailand for beach lovers!
Whilst there are so many gorgeous Thai islands, these are just the standout ones for me. But if these don't tickle your fancy, take a look at my Koh Chang guide, an island near Koh Kood that offers hiking, water sports, night markets, and plenty to do.
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I really loved reasing this
I'm so pleased! 🙂
Me personally I would love to go on one of these islands because they look so tropical
Thailand is just heavenly!