Gulf of Thailand

The Gulf of Thailand is known for its relatively calm waters and abundant marine life. Even during the rainy season, it has plenty of appealing beach destinations:

Koktail’s Top Picks for Beaches in the Gulf of Thailand:

Koh Kood, Trat: The sixth-largest island in Thailand and renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, lush tropical forest, and tranquil atmosphere. Here you can enjoy beginner-friendly scuba diving (from 5,000 THB/person) and explore the mangrove forest near White Beach by kayak (from 300 THB/kayak/3 hours).

Hua Hin Beach, Prachuab Khiri Khan: Lively with a variety of attractions. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities including beach horse riding (from 600 THB/1 hour), sunset dinner cruises (from 2,000 THB/person), and local food and market tours from morning to evening (from 1,550 THB/person). 

Koh Phangan, Surat Thani: Famous for its full moon party at Haad Rin beach with an entry fee of 200 THB per person. The monthly event attracts visitors from around the world for beachside revelry under the moonlight. Besides the full moon party, visitors can enjoy snorkelling trips (from 2,000 THB/person), scuba diving (from 3,500 THB/person) and ATV island tours (from 2,500 THB/person).

Andaman Sea

The Andaman Sea, on Thailand’s southwestern side, is renowned for its clear waters, limestone cliffs, and lively and colourful marine ecosystems. 

Koktail's Recommended Beaches in the Andaman Sea:

Karon Beach, Phuket: Spanning 3 kilometres, ideal for sunbathing with its spacious coastline. The clear waters and white sands make it a favourite for relaxation and water activities. Karon Beach offers its visitors numerous choices of activities ranging from jet ski riding (from 1,500 THB/person/30 minutes) to parasailing (from 1,300 THB/person/ride).

Koh Lipe, Satun: Also known as the “Maldives of Thailand”, renowned for its clear turquoise waters, vibrant soft and hard coral reefs, and colourful marine ecosystem. Koh Lipe consisted of 3 main beaches: Sunrise, Sunset, and Pattaya Beach. Snorkelling (from 850 THB/person) and scuba diving (5,400 THB/person for a one-day trip)  will immerse you in the colourful marine life.

Railay Beach, Krabi: Known for its fine white sand, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful sunsets, offering a tranquil paradise. It's also a prime location for rock climbing year-round, with popular spots at East Railay, Tonsai Bay, and around Phra Nang Cave. Plentiful island tours are available, starting from the Four Islands tour by traditional big longtail boat (from 1,000 THB/person) or a private longtailed boat tour (from 4,000 THB/group up to 6 people). For the more physically adventurous try a half-day rock climbing course (from 1,450 THB/person).