There are many fun, adventurous activities to do and places to see in Thailand. The shopping is exquisite, Bangkok is bustling and the history is fascinating. However, none of these will top a visit to the luxurious, beautiful, glistening sandy beaches that can be found on the many Thai islands. Here are our top 5:
1. Thong Nai Pan Noi – Koh Pha-Ngan
Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yoi are two of the most popular beaches on the island of Koh Pha-Ngan. Both beaches offer year round swimming and some great waves for extreme sports including body boarding and surfing. Thong Nai Pan Noi is one of our favourite beaches with its small village housing trendy bars and top restaurants with a very Bohemian vibe.
Sports and activities are more likely to be found at Thong Nai Pan Yoi with a number of waterfalls to visit, walking trails and rocky cliffs and mountains for experienced climbers to explore.
2. Chaweng – Koh Samui
Koh Samui is one of Thailands most famously idyllical beautiful islands and because of this it is very popular with visitors. The island used to attract backpackers but over recent years the island has come to suit people with larger budgets. It is the countrys third largest island and has a great number of beaches which are worth a visit.
Chaweng is the largest town on the island and has the longest beach. Its attractions include a huge range of restaurants, cocktail bars and nightclubs to suit every taste, the most famous cabaret shows, or Muay Thai boxing matches.
As the island has taken to cater for the higher end market you will find a huge range of top class luxury villa accommodation on offer, providing you with a more private, personal experience as part of your visit.
3. Surin Beach – Phuket
Surin Beach is a very popular destination with the more wealthy Thai visitors, but those who wish for a more low-key destination. The nightlife is quieter and whilst there is plenty to do, Surin offers a laid back atmosphere.
Beachside restaurants, shops and activities draw people from all over the world. A number of water sport activities are on offer daily including boogie boarding, surfing and snorkelling. Kayaking can be found at the very exclusive private Pansea Beach section of Surin, though this is reserved for the mega stars who haunt the hotels surrounding the beach.
4. Ao Tapao – Koh Kood
Tapao beach is the gateway to Koh Kood, home to the island’s only port. The beach is renowned for its great opportunities to snorkel and swim. Tapao beach is close to the island’s centre, Ban Klong Mat, which features shops, a hospital and a police station. This area is a popular holiday destination for families as the island is very quiet and laid back. There are fishing ports where tourists can buy souvenirs, kayaking and snorkelling activities and walking nearby will take you to the Namtok Khlong Chao waterfall which is said to be the most beautiful waterfall on the island.
5. Koh Yao Islands
Whilst not only a beach the Koh Yao islands provide the perfect laid-back feel you may want from your Thai holiday. There are a number of beach resorts which provide kayaking equipment and you can hike, snorkel or just swim. The islands feature beautiful beaches and the views from them are breat-taking, especially of the Koh Hong rocks which face the island. There are also packages which allow you to do day trips to visit the rocks.
