Greetings, Lykkers! If you're a beach lover or just looking to escape to stunning coastal destinations, Thailand is calling your name.
Known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and breathtaking sunsets, Thailand's beaches are not just visually stunning, but also rich in culture and exciting activities.
Whether it’s for a relaxing getaway, adventurous explorations, or a lively beach party, Thailand’s beaches have something for everyone. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the best of what this paradise has to offer.
1. Railay Beach
Located in Krabi Province, Railay Beach is a hidden gem that can only be accessed by boat due to its stunning limestone cliffs that surround it. While it’s somewhat isolated, this seclusion is exactly what makes Railay so special. The serene environment, free from the hustle and bustle of city life, allows visitors to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Entrance Fee
Accessing Railay Beach typically requires a boat ride from Ao Nang or Krabi, costing around $5-10 USD. No entrance fee is required for the beach itself, though some of the nearby caves or lagoon access may involve a small fee.
2. Phi Phi Island
Located between Phuket Island and the western coast of Thailand, Phi Phi Island is a stunning archipelago that attracts thousands of visitors each year. It can be reached by ferry from Phuket, Krabi, or Ao Nang, with travel times ranging from 1 to 2 hours. Boats depart regularly from all main coastal areas.
Entrance Fee
The ferry ride to Phi Phi Island usually costs around $10-20 USD depending on your departure location. Entrance to the island itself is free, but some areas, such as the National Marine Park, charge an entrance fee of approximately $10 USD per person.
3. Patong Beach
Located on the island of Phuket, Patong Beach is one of the most famous and visited beaches in Thailand. It’s easily accessible via taxi or tuk-tuk from anywhere in Phuket, with the ride costing around $10 USD from the Phuket International Airport.
Entrance Fee
There is no entry fee for Patong Beach. However, you may find it necessary to rent lounge chairs or umbrellas on the beach, which usually costs around $5 USD per day.
4. Maya Bay
Famous for being the setting of the film The Beach, Maya Bay is located on Phi Phi Leh Island, part of the Phi Phi archipelago. To reach Maya Bay, travelers must take a boat ride from Phi Phi Don, which takes about 30 minutes. Several boat tours operate daily from Phi Phi Don, with prices ranging from $15-25 USD depending on the tour package.
Entrance Fee
Access to Maya Bay is part of a tour package, with boat rides to the island costing approximately $15-25 USD per person. There is also a small fee to enter the National Park, which is about $5 USD per person.
5. Similan Island
Similan Islands, a group of nine islands located in the Andaman Sea, are famous for being one of the top diving destinations in the world. The islands can be reached by a boat tour departing from Khao Lak or Phuket, with a journey time of about 1.5 to 2 hours. Boat tours depart regularly during the high season, from November to April.
Entrance Fee
Similan Islands are a protected marine park, and visitors must pay an entrance fee of about $10 USD per person. Boat tours to the islands typically cost around $50-75 USD, including snorkeling equipment, park fees, and lunch.
Thailand’s beaches are truly a paradise, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. Whether you are looking to relax on the shore, dive into the ocean, or enjoy a lively beach party, these destinations will provide unforgettable memories.
With so much to explore, it’s no wonder that Thailand is considered one of the world’s top beach destinations. So, grab your sunscreen, pack your bags, and prepare for a trip to remember!
