Best Beaches in Thailand
Thailand, the land of smiles and a paradise destination, is a must-visit on your sailing vacation. Turquoise waters, powdery white sands and palm trees are the picture-postcard images Thailand and its beaches are known for – and they deliver time and time again.
Thailand has over 1430 islands and 1500 miles of coastline, where it can seem impossible to choose from the endless panoramic and serene beaches. On your sailing vacation, whether you’re seeking a dream sunbathing spot, snorkelling and diving destination or immersing yourself in Thai culture, many of these sandy areas feature a variety of activities that suit each sailor.
On your Exotics yacht charter, you can see as many of Thailand’s relaxed shores as you wish, sailing around the gorgeous deep blue of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Considering the many beaches on offer, we’ve shared a variety, showcasing the best beaches in Thailand with its limestone landscapes and sandy shores.
Which beaches in Thailand have the clearest waters?
The clearest waters in Thailand can be found in Koh Lipe, Phuket, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi.
Thailand’s beaches are a paradise renowned for soft sands and clear waters, providing breathtakingly stunning vistas across the region.. Many of the spots we’ve featured in our list of the best beaches in Thailand have crystalline waters.
Which beaches in Thailand have the clearest waters?
The clearest waters in Thailand can be found in Koh Lipe, Phuket, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi.
Thailand’s beaches are a paradise for soft sands and clear waters, so you’ll find stunning water across most of the region. Many of the spots we’ve featured in our list of the best beaches in Thailand have crystalline waters.
Where are the Best Beaches in Thailand?
Railay Beach, Krabi
Picture a scene of sheer, towering limestone cliffs and dense rainforest; that’s the backdrop of the beautiful Railay Beach in Krabi. Railay is accessible by boat and a brilliant day excursion to snorkel its crystal clear waters, jump off cliffs or explore hidden gems.
With a unique backdrop and landscape, Railay Beach doubles up as a relaxed hotspot to an adventurer’s paradise where you can rock climb, cliff jump and hike designated routes, ideal for adrenaline lovers. It’s a beach showcasing the beauty of nature, allowing you to enjoy the awe-inspiring views and fall in love with Krabi.
Sunset and Sunrise Beach, Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a small island with an unparalleled relaxation feel to it. The gorgeous beaches, aptly named ‘Sunrise’ and ‘Sunset’, make up for the island’s tiny radius. Sunset Beach, surrounded by large boulders, is a secluded paradise and a secret spot to appreciate the deep blue waters and sunset hour.
Sunrise Beach is the breathtaking view you’d love to see every morning as the sun fills the beach. This beach boasts a tranquil environment with translucent waters, suitable for snorkelers and divers to explore the colorful and diverse marine life hugging Thailand’s coast.
Lamai Beach, Koh Samui
Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s largest islands, offering a beach for every type of vacationer, from party-happy to a more relaxed counterpart. Lamai Beach is where serenity lies as a sandy paradise ideal to appreciate a moment of quiet and sea views you’ll fall in love with. Its quiet appeal comes alive in the evening with the classic Lamai Night market.
Lamai Beach boasts the deepest water found at the southernmost section of the beach, suitable for snorkelers and divers to see beyond the water’s edge, especially the native box jellyfish of Koh Samui. Enjoy ultra-fine sand and a picturesque backdrop and experience the quiet side of large island life on Lamai Beach.
Fallen in love with the sound of Lamai Beach? Incorporate it into your bespoke Thailand sailing itinerary.
Surin Beach, Phuket
Phuket may be the island for partygoers, but Surin Beach boasts the quieter appeal and natural side of the island. Spend your days roaming along the fine white sand and swimming in the vista of turquoise paradise for a perfect day in the sunshine. On the west side of Phuket, Surin Beach features unforgettable sunsets and a small number of tourists, allowing privacy and serenity on your vacation.
Surin Beach is a hub for sunbathing, snorkelling and kayaking in the Andaman Sea’s translucent waters. For those who adore watersports, boogie boarding and surfing are popular with visitors.
Bottle Beach, Ko Pha Ngan
Privacy and seclusion are the biggest draws to Bottle Beach in Ko Pha Ngan. Surrounded by lush jungle, Bottle Beach is only accessible via boat or challenging trek, ensuring its tranquil nature and fewer tourists. Bottle Beach is worlds away from Ko Pha-Ngan’s famous full moon parties with pristine sands, shallow waters and quiet coves to enjoy the glorious sunshine.
Bottle Beach, also known as Hat Khuat, gained its name after a nearby protected cove resembling the shape of a bottle. Spend your time here swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters, take a day hike, lounge on the beach or enjoy a picnic as you lap up the breathtaking views.
White Sand Beach, Koh Chang
Next on our list of the best beaches in Thailand is White Sand Beach. If soft, white sands are your idea of heaven, White Sand Beach in Koh Chang boasts just that. As an idyllic spot for unwinding under palm trees and indulging in sunset views and good food, White Sand Beach is a chilled landscape.
Quiet in the day to enjoy relaxation, nearby markets and shops, the beach features opportunities for watersports. From banana boat rides and parasailing to jet skiing, water fans can tick off their itinerary, whilst the chilled vacationers can relax on a sun lounger.
The soft-sand paradise comes alive at night with fire dancers, rasta musicians, happy hour and candle-lit tables for a taste of Thailand nightlife and seeing the ocean glimmer under the moonlight.
Long Beach, Koh Lanta
One island not to be missed on your Thailand trip is Koh Lanta. Famous for the 2.5 miles of sand across Long Beach, it’s a favourite beach for locals and visitors alike. Long Beach offers gentle-sloping sand and large pines, with endless bars and restaurants dotted far behind the sand, allowing you to enjoy the beach’s natural beauty without disruption.
Long Beach is predominately underdeveloped, with picture-perfect sunsets, beautiful waters and endless stretches of sand to enjoy what a good beach day entails: serenity, swimming and sunsets.
Uncover the best beaches in Thailand with The Moorings
Which of our top beaches in Thailand is your favorite? Whether you prefer secluded coves or sandy shores, each of these beaches offers something unique for families, friends and couples alike.
All that’s left to do is start planning your Thailand sailing itinerary. Contact our team today to book a sailing vacation to Thailand and build your quote, suiting your vacation requirements. Whether planning to sail independently with a bareboat charter or enjoy a stress-free experience with a crewed charter, we’re here to help organise your dream sailing vacation.
Contributor
isabelcoltham
You may also like
Step Aboard Here
Start your experience with The Moorings on land and sign up to receive e-mails from us about yachts, offers and destinations.
By clicking 'Sign up' you confirm that you have read and understood our Privacy Policy and consent to our use of your information.